BREASTFEEDING PATTERNS
- Feeding patterns vary enormously
When you breastfeed for the first time, you may be concerned about your baby's feeding patterns, wondering if he or she feeds enough or if you will produce enough milk. You shouldn't worry; babies' feeding patterns vary enormously. In the first few weeks, the feeds may become very frequent, which is quite normal. Remember that each time your baby feeds, the milk supply is being built-up and messages are sent to your brain, which sends signals to your breast to produce more milk.
More feeding = More signals = More milk
Breastmilk contains all the food and water your baby needs for the first six months of his or her life. Giving other food or drink isn't necessary and may be inappropriate. It may also make baby less interested in breastfeeding. If your baby does not breastfeed often enough, you may not make enough milk to meet his future needs. So, whenever he or she seems hungry, just put him or her to the breast.
Your diet whilst breastfeeding need not change dramatically but it's important to ensure that, just like anybody else, you try to eat a balanced diet. It is not usually necessary to avoid particular foods, but do try to drink plenty of fluids.
