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Breastfeeding: natures design
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Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy start for the mother/child relationship. Bonding begins immediately after birth, so it’s no wonder that infants have the desire to nurse within the first hour of life. Nature has built in a “rooting reflex” that signals the mother her child is ready to eat. Lightly touch an infant’s cheek and she will turn her head in that direction. For mothers there is a “cry induced reflex” that causes milk to flow from the breast. Many mothers soon discover their own infant crying isn’t the only cry that can induce this reflex. Hearing another infant cry whether in the grocery store, or on television can also cause milk to flow.
Even though an infant is ready to nurse within the first hour of life, mothers rarely have milk until about the third day following birth. However, the breast produces a forerunner to milk called colostrum. This is a very concentrated, low-volume substance that delivers nutrients to the newborn, as well as producing a mild laxative effect that helps the baby’s system to rid itself of bilirubin and helps prevent jaundice.
The first few breastfeedings are an important time for mother and child. An excellent way for a new mother to bond with her child through skin to skin contact, it also allows the infant to continue hearing the mother’s heartbeat. This contact produces a sedative effect on the child, causing less fussiness and longer sleep periods, and begins contracting the uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size.
Beginning breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth is an excellent start, as the nursing staff at the hospital will able to guide the new mother in her efforts. Beginning any new adventure can be stressful the first few times, but persistence is the key to success. In Oklahoma City there are several places a new mother can continue receiving breastfeeding support, even after leaving the hospital.
Lactation consultants are available at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center to provide an initial assessment, latch-on evaluation and breastfeeding education by a lactation consultant at no cost to mothers who deliver their babies at this facility. Breastfeeding supplies are available for purchase through the clinic.
Lactation follow-up services and a Breastfeeding Hotline are available for breastfeeding mothers by calling (405) 949-6052.
To reach Le Leche League leaders in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, you can call toll free (866) 293-6206.
Integris Breastfeeding Support
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