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Parent Resources

Breastfeeding: Your Baby and You

We understand that breastfeeding is a unique and intimate journey, one that nurtures both your baby’s growth and your bond with them. We’re here to provide you with supportive guidance that respects your choices and empowers you with valuable information. Remember, your well-being and comfort are paramount throughout this experience.

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Nutrition and Breastfeeding: Supporting Your Energy Needs

During breastfeeding, your body requires additional energy and nutrients to support both you and your baby. Prioritising a balanced and nourishing diet is essential. While there’s no need for a strict diet, focusing on wholesome foods ensures you receive the necessary vitamins and minerals. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins to supplement any potential nutrient gaps and speak to your health professional for advice on what is suitable for you to eat and drink while breastfeeding.
If you find that you're struggling with milk production, remember that every mother's journey is unique. Some mothers may need to express milk between feedings to stimulate production.
Recognising Baby's Hunger Cues
Your baby communicates their hunger in various ways. Watch for signs like sucking movements, fingers in the mouth, or even waking during sleep. If your baby wakes showing hunger signs, it’s best to fully awaken them before feeding. Crying is often the last cue.
Ensuring Baby Gets Enough Milk
Knowing your baby is getting enough nourishment is important. Look for these indicators:
  • They sleep a few hours after feeding.
  • They breastfeed every 2-3 hours, at least 8 times in 24 hours.
  • Feeding usually lasts 15 minutes or more per breast.
  • You hear a rhythmic suck/swallow/breathe pattern during feeds.
  • Breasts feel full before a feed and soft after.
  • Baby appears content after feeding.
Expressing Milk and Handling Insufficient Supply
If you find that you’re struggling with milk production, remember that every mother’s journey is unique. Some mothers may need to express milk between feedings to stimulate production. Expressing milk can also be helpful if you need to be separated from your baby for any reason. Our knowledgeable staff can provide guidance on proper expressing techniques and offer support.
Addressing Hunger After Feeding
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your baby may still appear hungry after feeding. This can happen due to growth spurts or variations in appetite. If your baby seems unsatisfied, offer additional feeding sessions, even if it’s sooner than expected. Remember, your baby’s needs can change, and your responsiveness is key in ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Introducing Solids and Weaning: Your Choice
Around 6 months, your baby can begin trying solid foods. If you’re considering weaning, this can be a good time as your baby becomes interested in other foods. Most babies start to self-wean when they show interest in solids, but this varies. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, continuing alongside solid foods for 2 years or more. Ultimately, the decision is yours, based on what’s best for you and your baby. If in doubt, speak to your Health Nurse or medical professional.
Breastfeeding in Public: Finding Comfort
Breastfeeding in public can be a new experience for many mothers. Remember that public areas often provide designated spaces for breastfeeding. These areas are designed to be calm, clean, and family-friendly, offering cozy corners for you to relax and bond with your baby. Our centre is breastfeeding friendly. If you would like to breastfeed at the centre, you are welcome to do so in the Babies Room using the comfortable chairs provided. Alternatively, if you would prefer privacy, please let one of our educators know and we can show you to a private area for you to comfortably nurse your baby.

If you have any questions or need guidance, our experienced staff are available to assist you. Your well-being and your baby’s health are our top priorities.
Bringing Expressed Milk to the Centre
If you choose to express milk, you can bring it to our centre for your child’s feedings. Make sure to store the expressed milk in clean, sterilised containers, and label them with the date of expression. Upon arrival, inform our staff, and we will store the milk in a refrigerator at the appropriate temperature.
Heating Expressed Milk
When it’s time for your baby’s feeding, our staff will ensure that the expressed milk is heated correctly. We use a programmable bottle warmer to heat the milk to the correct temperature while maintaining the milk’s nutrients. Once heated, the milk will be offered to your baby at the desired temperature.

Seeking Help and Support in Western Australia:

If you ever need additional guidance or support with breastfeeding, know that you’re not alone. There are resources available to assist you:

ABA offers information, counselling, and local support groups. Visit their website at www.breastfeeding.asn.au  to find valuable resources.

Ngala provides a range of services, including breastfeeding support and parenting advice. Visit ngala.com.au for more information.

Many child health centres offer breastfeeding support and information for new mothers. Visit Child and Adolescent Health Services for a list of local child health centres. 

Author

Luke Brook

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