Updated Date: 07.07.2024
BREAST MILK
How is Breast Milk Formed ?
During pregnancy, the mother's breasts become ready to produce and use the most suitable milk for the baby to be born .
During birth, the breasts are ready to secrete the milk we know as “first milk ” or “oral milk”, which will be the first food for the baby .
The substance that ensures milk production in the breast is a hormone called "PROLACTIN " , secreted from the mother's brain .
Blood vessels carry the substances needed for milk production to the milk cells in the breast , and the breasts become warm and hard. As the milk begins to flow and the baby learns to suckle, the tension in the breast decreases and the mother becomes more relaxed.
During this period , the mother and the baby may encounter difficulties . In the first days , the mother and the baby may need help and support.
Placing the baby on the mother's chest immediately after birth provides skin - to - skin contact , making it easier for the milk to come .
What is Colostrum ( First Milk )? Why is it Important ?
The first food that the baby will receive from the breast is called “first milk”, “mouth milk ” or “colostrum”. The appearance of “first milk” varies from mother to mother , but it is usually yellow in color and thick. This “first milk” is particularly nutritious and protects the baby from many diseases, and is your baby’s first vaccine. Although the amount of “ first milk ” is small , it is sufficient for the baby ’s nutrition and good bowel function in the first days . The important thing is for the mother to start breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth . The baby should be breastfed every time it cries . By breastfeeding at frequent intervals, the baby should be encouraged to take as much of this “ first milk ” as possible .
Does Breast Milk Protect My Baby From Diseases ?
Breast milk protects your baby from all kinds of diseases such as middle ear infections , upper and lower respiratory tract infections , colds , all kinds of viruses and diabetes that may occur in the future , obesity, and some types of cancer .
Why Should I Give My Baby Only Breast Milk Without Any Additional Food?
Breast milk is a unique food that contains all the nutrients that babies need for growth , development and nutrition .
Does a Baby Need Water Along with Breast Milk in Hot Weather ?
Breast milk is 88% water. Therefore, the water needs of a baby who breastfeeds his/her mother sufficiently will be met by the milk he/ she receives . Scientific studies have shown that even in African countries, the water needs of babies who are exclusively breastfed are met by breast milk . If a baby is given water before 6 months, this water will replace breast milk and cause the baby to suckle less , the baby will receive less nutrition , and most importantly, water or other supplementary nutrients can carry an infection and cause the baby to get sick. For these reasons, give your baby only breast milk for the first 6 months .
How to ensure continuity of milk production ?
THE MORE OFTEN YOU BREASTFEED , THE MORE MILK YOU WILL HAVE !
How Do I Know If My Milk Is Enough ?
Every mother wants to be sure that her milk is enough for her baby. If her baby cries a lot , sleeps little , is restless, she thinks that her breast milk is not enough and becomes worried . However , these symptoms can also be caused by other reasons . There is never a need to measure the amount of milk a mother produces . There is no scientific study that supports this . The main thing is to monitor the growth and development of babies and to continue breastfeeding .
Are There Special Foods That Increase Milk ?
The most important factor that increases the amount of milk is frequent breastfeeding . It is also important for the mother to meet her fluid needs sufficiently and drink plenty of water. There are foods that are said to increase milk , such as tahini halva , bulgur , spring onion , etc. , which are frequently used among our people. If the mother believes that they increase milk , she can consume these foods , but it should not be forgotten that the main factor that increases milk is frequent breastfeeding .
