The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for 2 years or beyond. While breastfeeding is natural, it does not always come easily. Understanding the basics and knowing where to get support can make a significant difference.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
For the Baby
- Optimal nutrition: Breast milk contains the perfect balance of nutrients for your baby's growth and development
- Immune protection: Contains antibodies (particularly IgA) that help protect against infections
- Reduced risk of illness: Lower rates of gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, and necrotising enterocolitis
- Long-term health benefits: Research shows associations with reduced risk of childhood obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Cognitive development: Multiple studies suggest breastfed children score slightly higher on cognitive tests
For the Mother
- Faster uterine recovery: Breastfeeding releases oxytocin, helping the uterus return to pre-pregnancy size
- Reduced bleeding after delivery
- Lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- Bonding: Skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding promote attachment
Getting Started: The First Days
First Hour After Birth
- Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth encourages the baby to breastfeed
- Most babies will latch within the first hour if given the opportunity
- This first feed of colostrum (thick, yellowish first milk) is rich in antibodies
Positioning and Latch
A good latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding:
- Baby's body should face yours (tummy to tummy)
- Nose to nipple - bring baby to the breast, not breast to baby
- Wait for a wide-open mouth before latching
- The baby should take a large mouthful of breast, not just the nipple
- Signs of a good latch: No pain after the first few seconds, baby's chin touching the breast, cheeks full (not sucked in), you can hear swallowing
How Often to Feed
- On demand - whenever the baby shows hunger cues (rooting, hand-to-mouth, fussing)
- Newborns typically feed 8-12 times in 24 hours
- Frequent feeding in the early days helps establish milk supply
- Avoid strict feeding schedules in the first weeks
Common Challenges and Solutions
Sore Nipples
- Cause: Usually due to incorrect latch
- Solution: Seek help from a lactation consultant or midwife to check positioning and latch. Express a drop of breast milk onto the nipple after feeds and let air dry. Use medical-grade lanolin cream.
Engorgement
- Cause: Breasts become overly full, usually when milk "comes in" (day 2-5)
- Solution: Feed frequently. Gently hand express before latching to soften the areola. Apply cold compresses between feeds for comfort.
Low Milk Supply (Perceived)
- Reality: True low milk supply is uncommon. Most mothers produce enough milk if breastfeeding is frequent and effective
- Signs baby is getting enough: At least 6 wet nappies per day after day 5, regular dirty nappies, steady weight gain after initial loss, appearing satisfied after feeds
- To increase supply: Feed more frequently, ensure effective latch, avoid unnecessary supplementation, consider pumping between feeds
Blocked Ducts
- A tender lump in the breast, often with redness
- Solution: Continue breastfeeding (it is safe). Feed from the affected side first. Apply warm compresses. Gentle massage towards the nipple during feeds.
Mastitis
- Infection of the breast tissue: pain, redness, swelling, flu-like symptoms, fever
- Action: Continue breastfeeding. See your doctor promptly - antibiotics are usually needed. Rest, fluids, and pain relief (paracetamol/ibuprofen are safe while breastfeeding)
- NICE recommends that untreated mastitis can lead to breast abscess, so early treatment is important
Breastfeeding and Returning to Work
- Begin expressing and storing milk 2-3 weeks before returning to work
- Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days (at 4°C or below) and in the freezer for up to 6 months
- Talk to your employer about facilities for expressing during working hours
- UAE Labour Law provides breastfeeding mothers with additional nursing breaks
When to Seek Help
- Pain that persists throughout feeds (beyond the initial seconds)
- Baby is not gaining weight or losing weight after the first week
- Baby has fewer than 6 wet nappies per day after day 5
- Breast lumps, redness, or fever
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure
Your paediatrician, midwife, or a lactation consultant can provide support.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalised guidance.