BREASTFEEDING BABIES
Breastfeeding is the primary source of nutrition for babies. As the age advances, the breast milk is slowly transitioned to semi-solid foods to solid foods. The breast milk contains antibodies, that give immunity to the baby. It also has sugars, proteins and fat that are easily digested by the baby. For the baby to completely drink the milk, there should be sufficient contact between the mouth and the nipple. Ensure that the head of the baby is supported, lips wide open, lips touching the areola, and there is no obstruction. This leads to a proper mouth opening and feed is easy. Conditions when milk is not given - 1. Fissure in nipple - Give rest to nipple for about 4 days. Squeeze out the milk and give it to the baby. Avoid cleaning the nipple with alcohol or spirit as it causes irritation. 2. Breast abscess 3. Tuberculosis (mother) 4. Allergy to breast milk Lactation can be inhibited if drugs like stilbestrol is used. [Stilbestrol - 5 microgram OD x 4 days] Lactation is stimulat...