Implementing lactation management since pregnancy is important to do. The goal is that the mother can meet the needs of mother's milk (ASI) that is needed by the little one well.
Lactation management is an effort made to achieve success in breastfeeding. Lactation management should be carried out from the beginning of pregnancy, until during breastfeeding.
Preparation for Breastfeeding Since Pregnancy
Naturally, lactation management begins early in pregnancy. This is characterized by breasts that begin to enlarge, areolas that look darker, and nipples that become erect.
In addition to physical changes in the breasts, hormonal changes as a series of preparations for breastfeeding will also occur. Levels of the hormones prolactin and oxytocin which play a role in preparing for lactation will increase during pregnancy.
Increased levels of the hormone prolactin are useful in supporting milk production. While the hormone oxytocin, is responsible for the release of milk. The effects of these two hormones also make the mother stay calm, relaxed, and ready to take care of and breastfeed the baby.
nowIn addition to hormonal changes, in the fourth month of pregnancy, colostrum has also begun to be produced. The production of milk and the release of milk is naturally regulated until the time of delivery arrives.
When to Start Breastfeeding
The next stage in lactation management is the breastfeeding stage. The process of breastfeeding can be done immediately since a few minutes after the baby is born.
The first milk that comes out is colostrum. Colostrum contains the best nutrition for newborns, so it is important to give it.
At the beginning of breastfeeding, the baby can instinctively suck on the mother's nipple. However, it is important to train the baby to suckle on the breast with a good attachment position, so that the breastfeeding process can run smoothly.
Training a baby to suckle is not an easy thing. In order for the process to run smoothly, create a more relaxed atmosphere and make sure you are in a comfortable position.
After that, place the little one between the breasts until the skin is attached to the mother's skin. When she feels comfortable, then the process of breastfeeding the first time can begin.
In this lactation management process, let the baby take the initiative to suckle at the breast. If the baby is not hungry, then by itself he will still sleep on the mother's chest.
But if the baby is hungry, he will start to move his head. If the baby's eyes begin to open and he puts his fist to his mouth, then this is the right time for the baby to suckle.
Things to Pay Attention to while Breastfeeding
After the baby is able to suckle, the following things need to be considered so that lactation management can continue to run smoothly:
1. Frequency of breastfeeding
It is recommended to pay attention to the frequency of breastfeeding, which is about 8-12 times in 24 hours. The goal is not only to meet the nutritional needs of the baby, but also to help maintain the production of breast milk so that it continues to increase.
A few days after birth, generally babies will feed every 1-2 hours during the day and only a few times at night. The average duration of breastfeeding is 15-20 minutes for each breast.
2. Signs of adequacy of breast milk given
Also understand the signs that your baby has had enough milk or not. If the intake of milk is adequate, the baby's urine will be clear yellow. After the baby has fed enough and is full, the mother's breasts will feel softer, and the baby will look satisfied.
In addition to these signs, pay attention to your little one's weight gain. Healthy babies tend to gain about 18-28 grams of weight each day, during the first three months of life.
3. Intake of food consumed by mother
Several types of food are thought to trigger negative reactions in babies, namely chocolate, spices, oranges, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. However, not all babies have the same reaction.
Breastfeeding mothers need to limit the consumption of caffeinated foods and drinks. In addition, avoid consuming drinks or foods that contain alcohol, to prevent the entry of alcohol into breast milk.
4. Problems with breastfeeding
Be aware of various problems that often arise when breastfeeding, such as breast tenderness, sore nipples, blockage of milk, mastitis, and breast abscess. Mothers are advised to check with a gynecologist regularly, so that this problem can be prevented and treated early.
5. Mother's health condition
In order for the lactation process to run smoothly, you need to maintain good health. The trick is to adopt a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced nutritious diet, resting and drinking enough water, and managing stress.
If you are sick, breastfeeding can actually be done. However, if you have an infectious disease, such as the flu, avoid being near your little one for a while, so that he doesn't get infected. At least, use a mask covering the nose and mouth, and always wash your hands before breastfeeding your little one.
Breastfeeding mothers who need to undergo special treatment, especially long-term treatment, for example with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, antianxiety drugs, or anti-migraine drugs, should consult a doctor to find out the side effects on the baby.
Some of the ways above are ways of lactation management that can be started early in pregnancy. Mothers who have problems with lactation management can consult a lactation consultant or doctor to get the right solution.
