Breastfeeding is feeding a baby with milk from the breast. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, then continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods up to 2 years and beyond.
Key takeaways
- Newborns usually feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours.
- Breast milk adapts to the baby's needs and protects against infections.
- Many common problems, such as sore nipples or a poor latch, can be fixed with skilled support.
What you can do
- Feed your baby whenever they show hunger cues.
- Ask a midwife, health visitor or lactation consultant to check the latch if feeding hurts.
- Look after yourself: rest, eat well and drink water.
When to talk to your doctor
Seek help if your baby has few wet nappies, is very sleepy and hard to wake for feeds, or is not regaining birth weight by about 2 weeks; see your doctor if you have a painful, red, hot area in the breast with fever.
Frequently asked questions
Steady weight gain, plenty of wet and dirty nappies and a content baby after most feeds are good signs.