Important Precautions for Breastfeeding
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Do not skip the first milk (colostrum).
Colostrum is rich in essential immune factors and nutrients needed by newborns.
If there is no medical reason, mothers should breastfeed colostrum instead of discarding it.
Skipping it makes breastfeeding harder, as the baby becomes hungrier and feeding becomes more difficult.
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During breastfeeding, avoid all food except what is necessary for the baby.
This includes refraining from alcohol, carbonated drinks, and high-sugar snacks, as these can affect milk quality.
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Do not stop breastfeeding due to jaundice.
Jaundice is common in newborns and usually resolves within 1–2 weeks.
Breastfeeding should be continued regularly, and if necessary, medical treatment should be given alongside feeding.
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It is extremely rare that breastfeeding must be stopped.
Most conditions do not require complete cessation of breastfeeding.
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If the mother is a hepatitis B carrier or vaccinated against hepatitis A or B, breastfeeding is still safe.
Even if the mother is a hepatitis carrier, breastfeeding does not cause problems for the baby.
Breastfeeding Tips and Misconceptions
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Do not replace breast milk with formula simply because milk supply is low.
Instead of switching to formula, mothers should actively try to increase breast milk production and feed frequently, as this helps stimulate milk supply.
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Crying does not always mean hunger.
Crying can also indicate discomfort, not just hunger. It is important to correctly understand the baby’s signals and not assume crying always means the baby needs milk.
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Babies do not necessarily cry because they are hungry, and crying does not mean they are lacking nutrition.
Babies may cry for various reasons, just like adults might crave sweets or desserts without being nutritionally deficient.
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Even a small amount of colostrum is enough for a newborn.
Colostrum is produced in small amounts but is highly nutritious, so it should not be replaced with formula.
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In the first 2–3 days after childbirth, it is normal for milk supply to be low.
Even if colostrum seems insufficient, frequent breastfeeding is essential. The more often the baby suckles, the more milk will be produced.
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