The practice of kangaroo mother care, where there is regular skin to skin contact between mother and child, helps naturally promote breastfeeding. The benefits of nursing are multiple, for both the new mother and her infant. You can increase your likelihood of successful nursing by using the kangaroo mother care technique, and see many other benefits as well.
Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy way to provide the nutrition your baby needs. It provides your newborn with the antibodies needed for a healthier life, and has been shown to reduce the risks of obesity and type II diabetes. Breast milk has been referred to as the perfect food for infants because it is easy to digest and contains the right combinations of nutrients for your baby. Babies who are born prematurely can also tremendously benefit from breast milk, and if natural feeding is not possible then manual expression can allow you to still provide breast milk for your preemie. This natural food source also helps create a loving bond between you and your child, and can even help new moms by reducing their own risks of certain breast and ovarian cancers.
This wonderful and healthy method of feeding your child can sometimes be difficult or awkward to begin, especially for new moms. There are several things that mothers can do to encourage their infants to nurse, and to help themselves feel more relaxed and confident about the choice. Nursing an infant takes patience and practice, and rarely does it happen instantly after birth and continue without issues.
The first step to take is to relax and enjoy the special bond with your newborn. Using the kangaroo mother care approach can help to provide a natural way to do this with your baby and be able to successfully nurse. Even if you are unsure about whether or not you will exclusively breastfeed or formula feed, taking time for skin to skin contact will help create that special connection between you and your child. It may even lead you to nurse when you see the reaction from your newborn.
As soon after birth as possible, have the baby placed on your chest, providing that important skin to skin contact. Your child will be comforted by your heartbeat, your warmth, and even your scent. It will create a natural and cozy environment for nursing. Kangaroo mother care will also help provide ways for you to learn hunger signals from your child, as most will naturally root around looking to suckle when cradled in this loving way.
If breastfeeding does not occur easily, don't give up. Continue to use the kangaroo mother care approach and bond with your baby, frequently placing her on your chest. If you have preemie or baby with a health concern, speak with your doctors and request that you still be allowed to use kangaroo mother care for all of the benefits it provides.
The benefits of breastfeeding are many, for both mother and child. Increase your chances of successfully using this natural feeding option by implanting kangaroo mother care. You and your child will have a healthier, happier connection.
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