Breastfeeding is a moment anticipated and greatly desired by many women. Breast milk is the essential source of vitamins and minerals for the baby and should be the exclusive food during the first six months.

For a long time, breastfeeding was neglected. Some time ago, there was a myth that breast milk was weak and that children who were exclusively breastfed would suffer issues such as poor weight gain. Misinformation was widespread, not only among mothers but also among health professionals of the time. Breastfeeding was not encouraged in any way—in fact, it was criticized by mothers and grandmothers, as it was believed to leave marks on a woman's body, such as 'sagging breasts.' Fortunately, today, the true importance of breast milk for babies is widely recognized.

Breastfeeding begins with just colostrum. This liquid is thin, but it is the baby's first milk. It lasts for about three to seven days. Colostrum contains a large amount of antibodies produced by the mother's body in response to diseases she has had and vaccines she has received throughout her life. With these first feedings, the baby gets a gift, as they become protected against a variety of diseases at a time when their immune system is not yet developed.

When breast milk finally comes in, the breasts become full and the milk appears whiter. At the beginning of a feeding, the milk is more watery, perfect for quenching the baby's thirst. The milk that comes from the back of the breast, produced later in the feeding, is what truly satisfies the baby and helps with weight gain. That’s why it’s best to offer one breast until it is completely emptied. Only if the baby is not yet satisfied should the other breast be offered. Until recently, the guidance given by doctors was to alternate breasts every 15 minutes. Breast hygiene should be done after each feeding with saline or with breast milk itself. Breast milk, in addition to helping with cleaning, also protects against nipple cracks and helps form a protective callus.

To make breastfeeding easier, there are some accessories that can certainly help both new and experienced mothers. Silicone nipples are not recommended by health professionals, unless the woman has problems with cracked nipples or insufficient nipple tissue for feeding. Nursing bras are a great choice, as they support breasts that are heavy from milk production, and they help avoid inconvenience when breastfeeding in public or at home. Nursing pillows provide support for the mother's arms and the baby. The right nursing chair also helps provide a comfortable and adequate position, preventing back pain and keeping the body from twisting awkwardly.

There are several positions that a mother can adopt to feed her child. The most traditional is tummy-to-tummy. There are also others, such as the inverted hold, lying down, upright sitting, and the football hold (ideal for mothers of multiples). The woman should select what works best for herself and her baby, whichever supports the most comfortable feeding for both.

Exclusive breastfeeding until the sixth month is the form of infant feeding recommended by the World Health Organization. However, there are cases where women cannot breastfeed their own children. In those situations, one of the major projects of maternity hospitals across Brazil comes into play: human milk donation from other women. Any healthy woman who is breastfeeding her child and has extra milk can become a donor at milk banks. Just contact the nearest milk bank or collection center for further instructions; if necessary, they can also provide guidance on correct breastfeeding.

Photos: operabug, Raíssa Ruschel