FAQs
Why is breastfeeding in the first hour of life so important?
In the first hour of life, the baby is most alert and able to imprint the unique suckling movements necessary for successful breastfeeding. During this first hour of alertness it is important to keep the baby with the mother, preferably naked on the mothers bare chest and covered with a warm rug. Separation from the mother should be avoided, if possible until the first breastfeed.
What is skin to skin contact and why is it so important?
Skin to skin contact means that baby is naked on its mothers bare chest covered with a warm dry cover. This contact helps encourage breastfeeding and can be especially useful in for a sleepy baby. Skin to skin contact immediately following the birth helps maintain baby’s body temperature, reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia, and helps the mother and baby recover from the stress of labour.
Why should formula supplements be avoided?
The use of formula without a medical reason may interfere with the establishment and production of the mother’s milk supply. The more frequently the baby feeds, the more milk the mother will make, provided the baby is well latched and milk transfer is occurring.
My nipples are painful, what should I do?
Have baby’s chest facing your chest with your hand supporting baby’s shoulders. When baby opens his mouth widely bring him to the breast with his bottom lip is 2-3cm from the nipple and the top lip just over the nipples. This way the baby’s tongue will milk the breast and the tongue is away from the nipple reducing further damage to the nipple.
Are there any hazards to borrowing breastpumps?
Fungal infections, candidiasis (thrush) live on surfaces for long periods. Home sterilization methods are not always reliable to ensure safe destruction of all pathogens in the rubber parts. Some pumps have parts that cannot be removed. The other risk is that the borrowed pump may break whilst in use. There is then an obligation to purchase a replacement.
What region do you support?
We are located in the Hutt Valley and proudly serve the greater Wellington area of New Zealand.