5 Tricks To Breastfeeding Success

Breast milk is the best food for your premature baby because the antibodies help protect them against infection, and the rich colostrum stimulates their digestive system. Let's see 5 tricks to breastfeeding success

- Melany Bendix

1. Be prepared

Gone (thankfully) are the days when preparing nipples for breastfeeding meant roughing them up by rubbing them with a towel. “It has been found that doing so can remove the protective substances produced by the breast during pregnancy and afterward,” says Esme Nel Hough, professional liaison for La Leche League South Africa, a non-profit organisation providing information and support to breastfeeding women.

Lotions, too, aren’t really necessary, Esme says. “Your nipples are already producing what they need for their protection. Don’t use soap on your breasts, as this can dry them out. When you bathe or shower, rinsing with clear water is fine. If your nipples are very dry, you could apply a lubricant.”

Rub a bit of your colostrum (if you have any) into your nipples before birth and in the first few days of breastfeeding, adds Linda Britz, a nurse, midwife, and lactation consultant based in Johannesburg.

“Letting your breasts air and exposing them to sunlight is a good idea too.”

Sister Britz is a strong advocate for proper breast care, before and after birth, and emphasises that there is a difference between the nipple and breast care.

“I believe inadequate breast care is one of the biggest reasons for problems such as mastitis, which is another word for inflamed breasts,” she says.

She recommends gently massaging your breast tissue for a minute or so while in the shower each day.

“Start at the base and move upwards towards the nipple, almost as if you’re milking yourself, but do it gently. This will help prepare your breast for draining milk.”