Why Breastfeeding Matters
Breastfeeding is the optimal nutrition for infants. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, then continued breastfeeding with complementary foods up to 2 years or beyond. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, our paediatric team supports breastfeeding mothers with evidence-based guidance.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
For Baby
- Perfect nutrition – changes as baby grows
- Immunity – antibodies and immune cells
- Reduced risk of infections (ear, respiratory, gut)
- Lower risk of SIDS, obesity, diabetes, allergies
- Optimal brain development
For Mother
- Faster uterus involution and return to pre-pregnancy weight
- Reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer
- Natural contraception (LAM)
- Reduced risk of postnatal depression
Correct Positioning and Latch
- Baby’s body facing mother (tummy to tummy)
- Wide mouth gape before attaching
- Baby takes most of the areola, not just nipple
- No pain during feeding indicates correct latch
- Common positions: cradle hold, cross-cradle, football hold, laid-back position
Common Breastfeeding Problems
Sore/Cracked Nipples
Usually due to poor latch. Fix the latch first. Apply expressed breast milk to nipples after feeds. Lanolin cream can help.
Engorgement
Breasts become very full and painful. Feed frequently, hand express for relief, warm compress before feeding, cold compress after.
Mastitis
Breast infection – red, hot, tender breast area with fever. Continue breastfeeding (clears the infection). Antibiotics (flucloxacillin) needed. Rest, fluids, NSAIDs.
Blocked Ducts
Hard, tender lump. Frequent feeding, massage towards nipple, warm compress.
Perceived Low Milk Supply
Most common reason for stopping breastfeeding. Usually not true – check wet nappies (6+/day) and weight gain. Feed on demand, no formula top-ups.
Breastfeeding support at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
