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Lactation from A to Z

Dear future mother,

The decision to breastfeed is one of the first, extremely important choices you face. It is a natural and beautiful way, but it can also raise many questions and even concerns. Will I be able to do it? Will I have enough milk? What to do when difficulties arise?

Part I: The foundations of lactation – why is breastfeeding so special?

Before we move on to practical tips, it is worth understanding what lactation really is and why mother’s milkis called “liquid gold”. It’s not just a way to satisfy your baby’s hunger, but a complicated biological process that benefits both of you.

What is lactation and how does it work?

Lactation is the process of producing and secreting milk by the mammary glands in a woman’s breasts. It is controlled by an intricate interplay of hormones, mainly prolactin and oxytocin.

• Prolactin: Called “hormone production”. Its level increases after each feeding, giving a signal to the breasts: “produce more breast milk for the next time!”. The more often and effectively the baby sucks, the more prolactin the body produces.
• Oxytocin: It is called the “love hormone” and the “effluent hormone”. It is released under the influence of nipple stimulation (baby’s sucking), but also at the sight, smell or even thought of the baby. Oxytocin causes the cells around the milk alveoli to contract, which “pushes” the milk outwards, straight into the baby’s mouth. It is responsible for the so-called oxytocin reflex, which you may feel as tingling in your breasts.

The unparalleled benefits of breastfeeding for your baby

Breast milk is a perfectly composed, living liquid that changes its composition depending on the needs of the growing baby and what lactation is.

• Ideal nutrition: It contains perfectly balanced proportions of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. It is easy to digest and perfectly digestible.
• Immunity Support: This is the first and most important vaccine. Mother’s milk is rich in antibodies (immunoglobulins) that protect the baby against bacterial and viral infections, allergies and respiratory and digestive diseases.
• Brain and vision development: It contains key fatty acids (DHA), which are essential for the proper development of the brain and retina.
• Future-proofing: Studies show that breastfed babies have a lower risk of future obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes and some autoimmune diseases.
• Building Bonds: Closeness, warmth and skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding build an extraordinary, deep emotional bond between mother and baby, giving it a sense of security.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother

Breastfeeding is not only good for your baby, but also for you!

• Faster recovery after childbirth: Oxytocin, released during breastfeeding, causes the uterus to contract, helping it to shrink faster to pre-pregnancy size and reducing postpartum bleeding.
• Healthcare: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease later in life.
• Natural contraception (with reservations): Exclusive breastfeeding on demand can delay the return of ovulation, which is a natural process associated with the mammary gland. lactation infertility), but this method is not 100% certain.
• Convenience and economy: Mother’s milk is always ready, at the perfect temperature, free and organic. No more washing bottles at 3 am!

Part II: Preparations for Lactation While Still Pregnant

Although lactation is a natural process, good preparation can save you a lot of stress. There are a few things you can do when you’re pregnant, to make breastfeeding as easy as possible.

Education and knowledge are the basis

The best investment is to gain reliable knowledge.

• Read, ask, learn: Reach for proven sources – books on lactation, reliable web portals, blogs of certified lactation advisors.
• Birthing school: Choose a school that places a strong emphasis on learning breastfeeding. Ask if the classes are conducted by a lactation consultant.
• Talking to a lactation consultant (IBCLC): Even when you’re pregnant, you can make an appointment to discuss any concerns you may have, check your breast structure and get individual guidance.

Lactation layette – what is really needed?

The market floods us with a lot of gadgets that may not be needed in the first days after childbirth. What is really useful for a start in the context of natural feeding?

Necessary:

• Comfortable nursing bras (2-3 pieces): Buy them at the end of pregnancy (about 36-38 weeks), when the breast size is already similar to that during lactation. They should be cotton, without underwire, with conveniently detachable cups.
• Breast pads (reusable or disposable): They protect underwear from dirt leaking milk.
• Ointment with pure lanolin: Irreplaceable in the first days for irritated nipples. It is safe for the baby, it does not need to be washed off before feeding.
• A comfortable nursing pillow can help newborns and infants latch on properly. It makes it easier to maintain the correct position, relieves the spine and shoulders.

It is worth considering, but not buying in stock:

• Breast pump: Many mothers don’t need it at the beginning. It is worth waiting with the decision to buy until a specific need arises (e.g. consult a midwife). return to work, willingness to express milk for the partner, problems with stimulating lactation). If anything, a simple manual breast pump is enough to start with.
• Breast shells, gel compresses: These are accessories helpful in specific problems (e.g. fullness, wounded nipples). You can buy them when the need arises, especially if you experience lactation problems.
• Bottles and teats: Hold off on buying them. Giving the bottle too early can disrupt the proper mechanism of sucking the breast.

Building a support network

Your mental attitude has a huge impact on lactation. Surround yourself with people who will support you.

• Talk to your partner: Explain to them how important breastfeeding is to you and how they can help you (e.g. by giving you water, making a sandwich, taking care of the house while you are breastfeeding).
• Find a support group: Look for local or online breastfeeding mom groups. Sharing experiences with other women is priceless.
• Write down the number to the lactation consultant: Keep it handy just in case. A quick advice in a crisis moment can save your lactation path.

Part III: The First Days – Golden Start and Milk Fullness

The first hours and days after childbirth are crucial for establishing proper lactation and feeding technique to avoid lactation problems. This is a time of intensive learning for you and your baby about natural feeding.

The golden hour – the first contact after childbirth

If the birth goes smoothly, ask for uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact with the baby for at least the first hour after birth. Placing a naked baby on your stomach or chest stabilizes its temperature, breathing and heart rate, and also instinctively stimulates it to look for the breast. This is the perfect time for the first breastfeeding is crucial for newborns and infants.

Colostrum – liquid gold for a newborn

In the first days after childbirth, your breasts produce colostrum. It’s a thick, yellowish liquid, produced in small amounts (a few milliliters per feed) – and that’s completely normal! A newborn’s stomach is as tiny as a cherry, so this amount is perfect for him. Colostrum is a super-concentrated dose of:

• Antibodies: They protect against infections.
• Proteins: important ingredients in breast milk that support the development of the baby. Easily digestible and uplifting.
• Growth factors: They stimulate the development of the intestines.
• Vitamins: Especially vitamin A.
• Laxative effect: It helps the child to expel meconium (the first poop).

How to properly latch a baby to the breast?

The correct latching technique is the key to success – it prevents nipple pain and ensures that the baby eats effectively.

1. Get into a comfortable position: Sit up straight, supported by cushions. Use a nursing pillow or a rolled up blanket to lift your baby to breast level. Do not lean towards the child – this child is to be attracted to you.
2. Child positioning: Your baby’s tummy should touch your belly. His head, back and bottom should form one line. The baby’s ear, shoulder and hip should be in one line.
3. Provoking the search reflex: Gently brush the nipple over the baby’s mouth. Wait for him to open his mouth wide as if he were yawning.
4. Quick and deep latch: When the mouth is wide open, with a firm but gentle movement, slide the baby over the breast, aiming the nipple towards the baby’s palate, not the middle of the mouth. The baby should grasp not only the nipple itself, but also as much of the areola as possible.

Signs of a good latch:

• The baby’s mouth is wide open.
• The lips are turned outwards (like a fish).
• The nose and chin touch the breasts, but the nose is slightly tilted, allowing you to breathe freely.
• You hear steady, deep swallowing (and not smacking or smacking).
• Feeding doesn’t hurt! Initial discomfort is normal, but a sharp, stabbing pain is a signal that something is wrong.

Feeding on demand – follow your baby

In the first few weeks, forget about the watch. Feed your child on demand, i.e. whenever he shows early signs of hunger:

• Fidgeting, shaking her head.
• Opening the mouth and sticking out the tongue.
• Putting his hands in his mouth, sucking his fists.

Crying is a late symptom of hunger that can indicate a need for breast milk. There should be at least 8-12 feedings per day, including at least 1-2 at night.

Fullness of milk – how to deal with it?

Between the 2nd and 6th day after childbirth, the so-called milk fullness occurs. Your breasts suddenly become full, hard, heavy and swollen. This is a sign that milk production has started in full swing. While this may be uncomfortable, it is a physiological phenomenon. How to help yourself?

• Feed as often as possible: This is the best way to empty your breasts and get relief.
• Before feeding, make sure you have access to a lactation science centre. Apply a warm compress (e.g. a hot water bottle) for a few minutes to facilitate the feeding technique. warm shower, hot water bottle) for a few minutes to facilitate the flow of breast milk. You can also express a little milk with a breast pump or by hand to soften the areola and make it easier for your baby to latch on to the breast.
• After feeding: Apply cold compresses (e.g. cabbage leaves cooled in the fridge, gel compresses) for 15-20 minutes. This will reduce swelling and provide relief.
• Gentle massage: Massage your breasts in circular motions towards the nipple.
• Wear a comfortable, non-constricting bra that supports the mammary gland.

The fullness usually stabilizes after 24-48 hours. If your breasts are very painful, hot, and you have a fever, contact your doctor or lactation consultant.

Part IV: Breastfeeding Positions – Find Your Favorite

There is no one perfect position. Experiment to find the ones that are most comfortable for you and your child.

• Classic (cradle) position: The most popular. The baby lies on your forearm, tummy to your belly. You support his head in the crook of your elbow.
• Cross Pose: Ideal for newborns and premature babies, because it gives great control over the baby’s head. If you feed from the left breast, you support the baby with your right forearm and support the breast with your left hand.
• Armpit position (football): Perfect for mothers after caesarean section (it does not burden the wound), mothers with large breasts or twins. Your baby is lying on a pillow along your side, and his legs are behind your back.
• Lying on the side: Beneficial during night feedings. You lie down with the child on your side, facing each other. Remember the rules of safe sleep!

Part V: Lactation Problems and Effective Solutions

The Milky Way is not always straight. Almost every mother encounters some difficulties. The key is to know how to respond to the baby’s needs in the context of natural feeding.

Painful, wounded nipples

This is the most common problem, usually caused by incorrect latching technique.

• What to do if you get infected? First of all, correct the position and way the baby latches on to the breast. Ask a lactation consultant for help.
• Treatment: After each feeding, lubricate the nipples with your own milk (it has healing properties) and let them air dry. Use lanolin ointment. Wear pads and bras made of natural, breathable materials.

Too little milk – lactation crisis

Many mothers worry that they don’t have enough milk. Most often, this fear is unjustified, and “lactation crises” are a natural part of adapting breast milk production to the needs of the growing baby. developmental leaps).

How to check if your child is full?

• Wet diaper indicator: In the first days, the number of wet diapers should be equal to a day of life. After stabilizing lactation, there should be 6-8 of them per day.
• Stools: Once the meconium has been expelled, the poops should be yellow, mushy/liquid, 3-4 (or more) per day, which is normal for newborns and infants.
• Weight gain: This is the most important indicator. Your baby should be weighed regularly at the clinic.
• The baby is active and happy after feeding.

How to increase the amount of milk?

Remember the “demand-supply” principle. The more milk is removed from the breast, the more milk is produced.

1. Feed as often as possible: Breastfeed your baby as often as he wants, including at night.
2. Make sure your baby sucks effectively: Correct the latching technique to ensure better milk extraction from the breast.
3. Empty your breasts: During one feeding, offer both breasts.
4. Skin-to-skin contact: It stimulates the secretion of prolactin and oxytocin.
5. Take care of yourself: Drink plenty of water (about 2-3 liters a day), eat healthy and rest whenever you can.
6. Avoid formula feeding and pacifier in the first weeks, as this can disrupt lactation.

Milk stasis and mastitis

Stasis (blocked milk duct): You feel a painful, hard lump in your chest. The skin above it may be reddened. You have no general symptoms (fever).

• What to do? Feed often, starting with the affected breast. Change positions so that the baby’s chin is facing the thickening. Apply warm compresses before feeding and cold compresses after feeding. Gently massage the lump towards the nipple.

Mastitis: Symptoms are similar to stasis, but additionally there is a high fever (>38.5°C), chills, muscle pain, a feeling of shattering.

• What to do? Proceed as if you were in a stasis, but contact your doctor immediately! Mastitis often requires analgesic, anti-inflammatory treatment, and sometimes antibiotics (safe for breastfeeding). Do not stop breastfeeding, as breast milk provides essential nutrients. This is crucial for recovery.

Part VI: Diet and Lifestyle of a Nursing Mother

Forget about restrictive diets and myths!

What to eat and drink while breastfeeding?

Your diet should be varied, healthy and based on unprocessed products. You don’t have to eat for two, but you do need extra calories (about 500 kcal a day).

• Drink plenty of water: Always have a bottle at hand.
• Eat regularly: 5-6 smaller meals a day.
• Include in your diet: Whole grain cereal products, vegetables, fruits, lean meat and fish, dairy products, healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil).
• Observe the child: Food allergies in breastfed infants are rare. If you suspect that a product is harmful to the baby (causes rash, colic, blood in the stool), stop it for 2-3 weeks and observe. It is most often allergic to cow’s milk protein.

What to avoid? Myths and facts

• Alcohol: The safest way is to avoid it. However, if you want to drink, do it right after feeding and wait at least 2-3 hours for each serving of alcohol before latching on your baby again.
• Caffeine: In moderate amounts (1-2 cups of coffee per day), it is considered safe.
• Medicines: Always tell your doctor that you are breastfeeding. Many drugs can be safely used in lactation, but some are contraindicated.
• “Elimination diet just in case” is a myth that can lead to unnecessary lactation problems! Do not give up bloating products (cabbage, beans) or potentially allergenic products as a preventive measure.

Part VII: Pumping and Storing Milk

A breast pump can be your ally.

When and how to express milk?

• To stimulate lactation (on the recommendation of an advisor).
• To stock up on milk while you’re away.
• To relieve yourself from a full-time or stagnant period.
• To feed your baby with your milk while he is in the hospital.

How to store breast milk safely?

Use special containers or bags to store milk. Always sign them with the date.

• Room temperature: up to 4-6 hours.
• Refrigerator (back wall): up to 3-5 days.
• Freezer compartment (-18°C or lower): ideal place to store breast milk. 3-6 months (in a freestanding freezer up to 12 months).

Important: Once thawed, do not freeze milk again. Heat the milk in a water bath, never in a microwave.

Your unique Milky Way

Dear Mom, breastfeeding is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be easier and more difficult days. There will be moments of euphoria and moments of doubt. Remember that every drop of your milk is a priceless gift for your baby.

Listen to your instincts, follow your child and don’t be afraid to ask for help. No matter how long you breastfeed – a week, a month or two – you’re the best mom for your baby. Your love and closeness are the most important. Good luck on this beautiful road!