Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Breastfeed?

Because you can! And it’s the natural way to feed your baby.

Will breast milk alone be good enough for my new baby?

Human milk is specifically designed for human babies. Colostrum, the first breast milk, is balanced perfectly for a healthy newborn's requirements and provides protections from infection. Colostrum is so unique that its properties can vary to help cope with the demands of a preterm baby. Breast milk is also perfectly balanced with nutrients and living cells, therefore is easily and fully digested. It also provides a high level of protection from infection. Your milk supply is regulated by the frequency of feeds and the degree to which the breast is emptied. Following your baby's cues, you can produce a good supply of milk to satisfy his needs.

Will I have sore nipples?

Most new mothers experience some soreness in the early days.  Be careful to make sure your baby correctly positioned and attached to the breast. Cracked nipples are NOT normal. Seek help as soon as you see any damage to your nipple or breast soreness.

What does feeding 'according to need' mean?

This is also called 'demand feeding' which means breastfeeding to suit both the baby's and mother's needs. Always offer both breasts at a feed. At times you may need to feed your baby more during hot weather. You may also need to feed your baby regularly when he/she isn't demanding, for example when too sleepy or jaundiced. Newborn babies usually feed up to 8 - 12 times in a 24 hr period.

What is an 'appetite increase'?

Sometimes called 'growth spurts', your baby may seem more hungry and unsatisfied for a few days and you may doubt your milk supply. This means your baby needs more breastfeeds for a few days. The common times for appetite increases are about 7-10 days, 4-6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months or age. If you can breastfeed more often, by following the baby's lead, then your baby will usually become less unsettled. Don’t be tempted to offer anything other that another breastfeed!

I can't measure the amount of breast milk, so how will I know if my baby is getting enough when breast milk is all he has?

Your baby is perfectly nourished if he is being fed regularly (don't be concerned if your baby feeds 8-12 times in 24 hours - this is normal for a newborn), is generally alert, appears healthy, with smooth skin, has 6-8 very wet nappies in 24 hours and has a continual weight gain. If your baby feeds for less than 8-12 times in 24 hours, check the number of nappies and weight gains. So long as he is still getting 6-8 very wet nappies and some bowel motions in 24 hours and is gaining some weight, then usually all is well.

I'm not sure when to introduce solids?

At 6 months of age. This is when babies may attempt to sit by themselves, lose the tongue-thrust reflex, try to put everything to their own mouths and show a great interest when you are eating. Solids before this age may increase the risks of choking, infections and allergies.