BREAST MILK FOR HEALTHY GENERATIONS AND A HEALTHY FUTURE
DEAR EXPECTANT MOTHERS AND MOTHERS: If you don’t want your baby to suffer from obesity—a significant public health issue in our country—or chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease that diminish quality of life, and if you want them to succeed in school, start breastfeeding immediately after birth. For the first 6 months, give them only breast milk—not even a drop of water—and after 6 months, continue breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to 2 years and beyond!
THE MOST IMPORTANT KEY TO SUCCESSFUL BREASTFEEDING IS THE MOTHER’S SELF-CONFIDENCE.
Successful breastfeeding begins with a mother believing she can nurse her baby and trusting she will succeed. A mother who knows how to breastfeed gains confidence.
THE BEST START IN LIFE IS BREAST MILK.
WHY SHOULD I BREASTFEED?
Every mother’s milk is uniquely tailored to her baby, perfectly formulated for their needs.
It’s very easy to digest.
Breastfeeding strengthens the mother-baby bond, helping the mother embrace her baby and the baby develop a healthy personality.
Breast milk contains the perfect blend of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates.
Antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and hormones in breast milk protect your baby from infections and diseases.
It’s known that breastfed babies have higher intelligence levels.
Breastfeeding mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
Breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as postmenopausal osteoporosis and hip fractures.
Breastfeeding simplifies life for the mother and family, saving time and money.
It boosts the mother’s confidence and strengthens her bond with her baby.
Breastfeeding reduces healthcare costs for both the family and the state.
Breastfeeding women are more productive at work. Since their babies are less often sick, they take fewer days off.
Breastfeeding protects the environment by reducing the use of plastic waste that lingers in nature.
Breast milk is a complex biological fluid that provides energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients for a newborn’s growth and development. With its unique composition—including bioactive enzymes, hormones, growth factors, and immune components—it’s an unparalleled food.
PLACING THE BABY ON THE MOTHER’S CHEST IMMEDIATELY AFTER BIRTH FACILITATES SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT AND HELPS MILK COME IN.
DO BREASTS CHANGE DURING PREGNANCY?
Throughout pregnancy, a mother’s breasts transform into a factory that produces and prepares the most suitable milk for her baby.
The skin around the nipple begins secreting a fatty substance. This natural substance protects the breastfeeding mother’s nipple from cracking. Therefore, there’s no need to apply baking soda water, soapy water, or creams to prevent cracks or clean the nipple. In fact, using these can remove this natural protective layer, making cracks more likely.
No special care is needed for the breasts or nipples during pregnancy. However, as the breasts grow, using a larger bra size can be beneficial.
During birth, the breasts are ready to secrete the “first milk” or “colostrum,” the baby’s initial food.
HOW DOES MILK PRODUCTION BEGIN?
Milk production in the breast is driven by a hormone called prolactin, secreted by the mother’s brain.
Blood vessels carry the necessary components to the milk-producing cells in the breast, making the breasts warm and firm. Once milk starts flowing and the baby learns to nurse, the tension in the breasts decreases, and the mother feels relief.
During this time, the mother and baby may face challenges. In the first days, they may need help and support.
THE BEST MILK-PRODUCING FACTORY FOR A HUMAN BABY IS THEIR OWN MOTHER’S BREAST.
WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES OF BREAST MILK?
The first food a baby receives from the breast is called “first milk,” “mouth milk,” or colostrum.
The appearance of colostrum varies from mother to mother but is typically yellow and thick.
This “first milk” is specially nutrient-rich and protects the baby from many diseases—it’s your baby’s first vaccine.
Though small in quantity, colostrum is sufficient in the early days for the baby’s nutrition and proper bowel function.
The key is for the mother to start breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth.
The baby should be nursed every time they cry.
Frequent nursing ensures the baby gets as much colostrum as possible.
Frequent feeding in the first days speeds up the production of “mature milk,” which is more watery and abundant.
Some newborns sleep a lot and don’t nurse frequently enough. If these babies haven’t woken up after 3-4 hours in the early days, they should be offered to the mother, and if needed, gently stimulated (e.g., by stroking their cheek) to encourage nursing.
WHAT DOES BREAST MILK LOOK LIKE?
The “first milk” or colostrum is thicker and more yellowish, while mature milk is white, thinner than cow’s milk, and may even have a bluish tint.
As the baby grows, the milk’s color may change. This is because the milk’s composition adjusts to meet the baby’s evolving needs.
HOW DOES MILK FLOW FROM THE BREAST?
Milk isn’t released from the breast as soon as it’s produced—it requires the baby’s sucking to trigger the flow.
Proper latching and a good grasp of the breast are crucial for effective sucking.
When the baby sucks, milk flows out through 10-15 tiny openings in the nipple. Both breasts work simultaneously, so milk may drip from the other breast while the baby nurses from one.
At the start of a feed, the baby first takes the milk pooled in the sinuses behind the areola (the dark area around the nipple).
As this milk is depleted, more is released.
HOW IS MILK PRODUCTION SUSTAINED?
During breastfeeding, the baby’s mouth compresses the areola around the nipple.
This pressure stimulates nerves that send signals to the brain’s prolactin-producing region.
These signals trigger prolactin release.
The more signals sent, the more prolactin is produced.
Due to prolactin, “More Sucking Equals More Milk.”
Prolactin production is higher at night.
Prolactin also ensures the mother doesn’t feel overly tired, even if she wakes up at night to nurse.
REMEMBER: THE MORE FREQUENTLY YOU BREASTFEED, THE MORE MILK YOU’LL PRODUCE.
HOW LONG (UNTIL WHAT AGE) SHOULD I BREASTFEED MY BABY?
All scientists, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and our Ministry of Health recommend:
“Babies should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months without even water, and breastfeeding should continue with appropriate complementary feeding from 6 months onward up to 2 years and beyond.”
Breastfeeding isn’t limited to 6 months. Its benefits persist even during the complementary feeding period.
One of the most misunderstood topics in our country is this: breastfeeding should not stop after complementary feeding begins at 6 months—it should continue up to 2 years and beyond.
DO I NEED TO WAIT TO START BREASTFEEDING AFTER BIRTH?
Whether it’s a vaginal birth or C-section, the mother should breastfeed as soon as she recovers after delivery, without delay.
In the delivery room, right after birth, a healthcare provider should help place the baby at the breast. The mother should nurse frequently, stay in the same room as the baby, and maintain skin-to-skin contact.
The more often the baby nurses, the easier it is for milk to come in. Waiting to breastfeed delays milk production.
DO I NEED TO GIVE MY BABY SUGAR WATER AFTER BIRTH?
The only food a baby needs right after birth is breast milk.
Giving sugar water prevents the baby from getting colostrum and increases the risk of infections and other diseases. Babies don’t even need plain water, let alone sugar water. Breast milk contains all the water they need, no matter how hot the weather. For the first 6 months, their only need is their mother’s milk.
HOW SHOULD I HOLD MY BABY WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
The most important thing a breastfeeding mother needs to know is how to position her baby at the breast.
If the baby is well-positioned, the mother’s nipples won’t get sore while they both learn to breastfeed.
The mother can try different holds, but the correct positioning of the baby is what matters.
In any position, the baby’s shoulders and body should face the breast, with their nose aligned with the nipple.
The mother should support the baby’s entire body, not just their head.
HOW SHOULD I LATCH MY BABY ONTO MY BREAST?
In the early days, lying down to breastfeed may be more comfortable for the mother.
In this case, the baby is placed facing the mother, who is lying on her side.
The mother can use her free arm and hand to bring the baby to her breast.
Supporting the mother’s and baby’s backs with pillows helps with positioning.
If the mother is sitting, she should sit upright or lean slightly forward, keeping her lap level.
A stool under her feet can help if needed.
To hold the baby comfortably, the mother’s back or arms can be supported with pillows. A pillow on her lap can bring the baby closer.
FOR THE MOTHER TO PRODUCE ENOUGH MILK, THE BABY MUST NURSE FREQUENTLY AND CORRECTLY.
HOW SHOULD I SUPPORT MY BREAST WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
Your fingers should rest under the breast, against your chest.
Support the breast from below with your index finger.
Your thumb should be on top of the breast.
Keep your fingers away from the nipple, allowing the baby’s chin to touch the breast.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY BABY IS LATCHING ON CORRECTLY?
Their mouth should be wide open.
The baby’s chin should rest against the breast.
The lower lip should be turned outward.
The breast should fill the mouth as much as possible (not just the nipple, but also most of the areola, the brown area surrounding the nipple).
PROPER LATCHING PREVENTS PROBLEMS LIKE CRACKED NIPPLES, SORES, BLOCKAGES, ETC.
If you’re concerned that your baby isn’t breastfeeding well, consult your family physician or a Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning Center. Seek advice from a healthcare professional, and connect with other breastfeeding mothers for mutual support.
A BABY CANNOT BE NOURISHED BY SUCKING ONLY THE NIPPLE.
HOW DOES A BABY BREASTFEED?
If the baby isn’t held properly at the breast, they cannot feed effectively, and the mother’s nipples may become sore or damaged.
For effective breastfeeding, the baby needs to latch onto not just the nipple but also the surrounding areola.
When bringing the baby to the breast, their mouth should be as wide open as possible, with their chin touching the breast.
To encourage the baby to open their mouth wide, the mother should gently touch the nipple to the baby’s upper and lower lips.
Inside the mouth, not only the nipple but also the surrounding area should be present.
If the baby has latched on correctly, you’ll see their chin—and sometimes their ears—moving with each suck.
Babies don’t suck continuously. After strong sucking motions, they take short pauses to rest.
Hearing a smacking sound or seeing the cheeks pulled inward usually indicates that the baby is only sucking the nipple and hasn’t latched onto enough breast tissue.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF EFFECTIVE BREASTFEEDING?
With effective breastfeeding:
The nipple appears healthy.
The breast feels softer after feeding.
Breastfeeding is comfortable and enjoyable for the mother.
The baby releases the breast on their own.
The baby’s swallowing of milk can be heard or seen.
When latching is poor or breastfeeding is ineffective:
The mouth isn’t wide open, and the lips are pursed forward.
The lower lip isn’t turned outward.
The chin isn’t touching the mother’s breast.
The cheeks appear sunken.
From the outside, nearly all of the areola remains visible.
DOES BREAST MILK PROTECT AGAINST ILLNESSES?
Breast milk protects your baby from conditions such as otitis media (middle ear infections), upper and lower respiratory tract infections, colds, various viruses, and future risks like diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer.
CAN I GET PREGNANT WHILE BREASTFEEDING MY BABY?
Yes, you can get pregnant.
If you don’t want to conceive, consult your family physician about a suitable birth control method.
WHY SHOULD I GIVE MY BABY ONLY BREAST MILK WITHOUT SUPPLEMENTARY FOODS?
Breast milk is the best food, capable of providing all the nutrients a baby needs on its own for the first 6 months.
It’s easy to digest.
Babies fed breast milk don’t need additional food or water. Breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients and water in adequate amounts.
Even in very hot weather, breast milk meets a baby’s hydration needs.
In hot climates, babies receiving breast milk don’t need extra water.
If water is given, it fills the baby’s stomach, reducing their desire for breast milk.
As a result, the baby nurses less, and milk production decreases.
Introducing supplementary foods early carries risks, particularly allergies.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY MILK SUPPLY IS SUFFICIENT?
Every mother wants to be sure her milk is enough for her baby. If the baby cries a lot, sleeps little, or seems restless, the mother may worry her milk isn’t sufficient.
However, these signs could stem from other causes.
In such cases, many mothers start giving formula without consulting an expert, drifting away from exclusive breastfeeding.
If a healthy mother breastfeeds correctly, feeds frequently (including at night) in the early weeks, and stays hydrated, she can produce enough milk for her baby.
Milk supply may temporarily decrease.
If the baby urinates 6-8 times a day and gains at least 500 grams per month or 150-200 grams per week in the first 6 months, the mother’s milk is sufficient.
Newborns lose weight in the first week. They’re expected to regain their birth weight by 7-10 days.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BREASTFEED MY BABY?
Feeding frequency varies from baby to baby.
Breastfeed whenever the baby wants.
Babies signal hunger by opening their mouth, rooting, and eventually crying.
In the early months, a baby is usually hungry when they wake up and wants to nurse.
In the first weeks, feeding intervals may be as short as one or two hours.
With each feeding, milk production increases slightly, so intervals will gradually lengthen over time.
So, remember once again:
MORE BREASTFEEDING = MORE BREAST STIMULATION = MORE MILK PRODUCTION.
DO MY BREASTS REQUIRE SPECIAL CARE?
There’s no need to clean the breasts before each feeding.
Breasts should never be washed with soap or other cleansers; if needed, a shower with just water is sufficient.
Breast milk contains so many protective substances that there’s no need to fear germ transmission this way.
Germs are more likely to transfer to the baby via hands.
The key is HANDWASHING.
Hands carry germs from the body, home, hospital, or environment.
Mothers and caregivers must never forget this.
No special creams are needed for nipple care.
Flat, inverted, or large nipples aren’t a problem for breastfeeding. The baby doesn’t just suck the nipple but takes in a large portion of the areola and breast tissue.
MY BABY IS A FEW DAYS OLD, MY BREASTS HURT A LOT, THEY SEEM SWOLLEN AND SHINY, MY MILK ISN’T FLOWING, AND I HAVE A FEVER. BREASTFEEDING HAS BECOME DIFFICULT—WHAT SHOULD I DO?
This condition is called “ENGORGED BREASTS” or “BREAST ENGORGEMENT”. It typically occurs in the first days after birth due to insufficient breastfeeding, delayed initiation of breastfeeding, giving formula, poor latching, infrequent milk removal, or short feeding sessions.
Engorged breasts are painful, feel swollen, and may appear shiny or red, especially around the nipple. Milk doesn’t flow, and a fever may develop.
As a precaution, start breastfeeding immediately after birth, ensure proper latching, feed on demand, and avoid rigid schedules.
To resolve breast engorgement, breastfeed frequently in the correct position.
If the baby can’t nurse, express milk by hand or with a pump.
Before feeding, ease breastfeeding with warm, wet compresses, a warm shower, shoulder and back massages, gentle breast massage, light stimulation of the nipple skin, and relaxation techniques for the mother.
After feeding, apply a cold, wet compress with a towel to reduce swelling.
I’VE STARTED WORK, AND MY BABY IS ONLY 2 MONTHS OLD. I HAVE HARD LUMPS, SEVERE PAIN, AND WARMTH IN MY BREASTS—WHAT SHOULD I DO?
This may result from infrequent or insufficient breastfeeding, improper latching, poor breast grasp, nipple cracks, tight clothing or bras, or excessive pressure on milk ducts during feeding, leading to tissue damage and bacterial infection. This condition is called mastitis (or colloquially, an abscess).
Seeing a doctor is a great idea, as a healthcare professional should be consulted in this situation.
The key is identifying and addressing the cause.
Most importantly, know that breastfeeding can continue even with mastitis.
First, ensure milk flow resumes and address the reason for any blockage.
Common causes include poor latching, tight clothing (e.g., shirts, bras), or pressing on milk ducts with a scissor-like or cigarette-hold grip. Resolve whichever applies.
Then, try frequent breastfeeding, gentle massage toward the nipple, warm wet compresses with a clean towel, starting with the unaffected breast, and changing positions.
Rest and stress relief are essential.
For medication, consult your family physician, a Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning Center, or another healthcare facility. Continue breastfeeding alongside prescribed treatment.
If breastfeeding is painful, express milk but return to nursing soon after.
MY BABY IS REFUSING TO BREASTFEED—WHAT SHOULD I DO?
A baby’s refusal to nurse can manifest in various ways: not nursing at all, weak sucking, crying or fighting at the breast, nursing briefly then pulling away as if choking or crying, or preferring one breast over the other.
Reasons for refusal include illness, pain, sedative medications given to the mother during birth, breastfeeding technique issues, upsetting changes for the baby, or a false refusal.
When sick, babies may take the breast but suck weakly, which mothers might mistake for refusal.
Pain from oral thrush or teething can cause refusal.
A blocked nose may lead to refusal.
Certain medications given to the mother during birth or for psychological treatment can also cause the baby to refuse.
Breastfeeding technique problems—like pacifier use, bottle-feeding, poor positioning, engorged breasts, inadequate support (e.g., pushing the baby’s head), improper breast hold, restricted feeding, excessive milk buildup, or the mother’s inexperience after birth—can lead to refusal.
Sometimes a baby refuses only one breast, often due to the above issues being more pronounced on that side.
Upsetting changes include separation from the mother, the mother returning to work, a new caregiver, frequent caregiver changes, family disruptions, maternal illness or mastitis, menstruation, or changes in the mother’s scent.
In newborns, rooting behavior, or in 4-8-month-olds, distraction during feeding (suddenly looking elsewhere), may be mistaken for refusal. This is called a false refusal—wait for the baby to latch.
If the baby is sick, express and offer milk. Feed in a calm environment to avoid distractions.
If the baby is in pain, attend to the affected area.
Treat oral thrush, be patient with teething, and clear nasal congestion if present.
The mother may need to take leave if possible, avoid strong scents, and breastfeed correctly.
False refusal is normal—wait for the baby to latch.
Express milk into the baby’s mouth or try different positions.
Avoid pressing the baby’s head; if needed, express milk and offer it briefly with a cup or spoon—never a bottle or pacifier.
Promote skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby. The mother should frequently hold and cuddle the baby, feeding on demand.
For skin-to-skin contact, use the “kangaroo care” method (widely recognized internationally and sometimes practiced traditionally in Anatolia): tie the baby to the mother’s chest with a cloth around the waist, or lie together for a while.
Avoid foods whose smell or flavor might transfer to the milk.
Caffeine in cola, coffee, or tea can pass into milk and unsettle the baby—avoid these.
Never smoke in the baby’s environment, whether by the mother or others.
HOW CAN MY SPOUSE SUPPORT ME DURING BREASTFEEDING?
Babies crave physical touch. After breastfeeding, your spouse’s loving arms are one of the best places for your baby.
Place the baby on your spouse’s chest after feeding to foster their bond.
Your spouse’s support with breastfeeding is key to your success with breast milk.
Especially in the first weeks postpartum, when hormones and sleep deprivation may leave you feeling weak, your spouse’s help with breastfeeding strengthens the entire family dynamic.
HOW DO I BURP MY BABY AFTER BREASTFEEDING?
Holding the baby upright for 10-15 minutes after feeding helps them release gas.
If the baby falls asleep at the breast and seems comfortable, burping isn’t necessary.
If the baby is fussy, hold them upright in your arms and gently pat their back to assist with burping.
HOW IS MILK EXPRESSED?
Expressing milk is helpful in these situations:
To relieve engorged or swollen breasts.
To feed a baby learning to nurse from a flat or inverted nipple.
To feed a baby who refuses the breast until they enjoy nursing.
To nourish a low-birth-weight baby or one too weak to suck effectively.
To feed a sick baby who can’t nurse adequately.
To maintain milk flow when the mother or baby is ill.
To make a full breast easier for the baby to latch onto.
Hand expression is the best method for expressing milk.
It requires no tools, and the mother can do it anywhere, anytime.
Use a wide-mouthed cup or glass to collect the milk.
Wash the container with soap and water, then sterilize it by boiling or pouring boiling water into it, letting it sit for a few minutes, then emptying it.
During expression, use a rolling motion with your fingers—don’t rub the breast skin.
Rotate your hand around the breast, massaging all areas, including under the armpit.
Hand-expressing a breast takes about 20-30 minutes.
A warm wet towel, warm shower, or leaning forward and gently shaking the breasts can aid milk flow.
Leaning forward helps empty the lower parts of the breast.
Milk can also be expressed with a pump—manual (rubber-bulb or syringe-style) or electric. Pumps must be thoroughly cleaned, as germs can easily grow and pose a risk to the baby.
HOW IS EXPRESSED MILK STORED?
If hygiene is maintained, expressed breast milk can be stored:
At room temperature for 3 hours.
In the refrigerator (at +4°C) for 3 days.
In a deep freezer (below -18°C) for up to 3 months.
Store it in suitable containers or bags.
This is especially useful for working mothers.
The milk can be given when the mother is away.
The mother can express milk at work and bring it home, preventing milk from going to waste while she’s away.
HAND-EXPRESSING BREAST MILK IS THE MOST ECONOMICAL AND PRACTICAL METHOD.
HOW IS EXPRESSED MILK GIVEN TO THE BABY?
Frozen milk from the deep freezer should first be thawed in the refrigerator, not directly at room temperature.
Place the container of milk in a bowl of warm water to gently warm it before feeding.
Expressed milk is best given with a spoon, wide-mouthed cup, or glass rather than a bottle.
Using a bottle can lead to breast refusal or confusion. A baby accustomed to a bottle nipple may lose the ability to latch properly and suck only the nipple instead of the breast.
This can cause nipple cracks and, most importantly, insufficient milk intake.
Even small babies can drink from a cup or glass, lapping it up like a kitten.
WHERE CAN I GET HELP IF I HAVE A BREASTFEEDING PROBLEM?
New mothers, especially first-time moms, often need help and support with breastfeeding.
A family member or someone close with experience and knowledge can provide this support.
Seek help from an experienced midwife, nurse, member of a mother support group, or a mother who has successfully breastfed. They can answer questions, ease doubts, and boost confidence. They may also refer you to a nearby Mother Support Group (MSG).
If there’s an MSG in your area, connect with them to meet other breastfeeding mothers, hold breastfeeding meetings together, and support each other.
Mothers can seek help for breast milk or breastfeeding issues—starting from pregnancy—at nearby Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning Centers, family physician offices, or hospitals.
CAN I BREASTFEED IF MY BABY IS SICK?
Continue breastfeeding even when your baby is sick.
In fact, nurse more frequently than usual.
Illness may reduce the baby’s appetite and cause fussiness—breastfeeding can also calm them.
Breastfeeding isn’t just nutrition; it fosters emotional bonding and love between mother and baby, benefiting both. Don’t forget this.
During illnesses like diarrhea, breastfeeding speeds recovery.
CAN I BREASTFEED IF I’M SICK?
If the mother has a psychiatric condition requiring treatment or cancer needing chemotherapy, she shouldn’t breastfeed.
Otherwise, whether she has diabetes, high blood pressure, diarrhea, a cold, or similar illnesses, she can breastfeed.
If you need medication, remind your doctor that you’re breastfeeding.
IS IT SAFE TO TAKE MEDICATIONS WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
Generally, there are medication options safe for breastfeeding mothers or that don’t pass into milk.
If you need a drug, inform your doctor that you’re breastfeeding so they can prescribe accordingly.
Only mothers undergoing chemotherapy cannot breastfeed during treatment.
MY BABY CRIES CONSTANTLY AND WANTS TO BE HELD. IS THIS BECAUSE MY MILK ISN’T ENOUGH?
REASONS FOR A BABY’S CRYING
Discomfort (dirty diaper, hot or cold environment).
Fatigue (too many visitors).
Illness or pain (change in crying pattern).
Hunger (insufficient milk intake, growth spurts).
Maternal medications, foods, caffeine, or smoking (any food, sometimes cow’s milk).
Excessive milk in the breast.
Unexplained crying (colic).
Overheating (overdressing causing elevated body temperature).
Breast or nipple issues in the mother.
Latching or sucking difficulties in the baby.
Colic, poor weight gain, or fussiness.
Surgical procedures.
During growth spurts (e.g., 2nd week, 5th week, 3 months), unmet increased needs can cause crying. Frequent breastfeeding is the best solution.
Some babies cry more than others and crave being held or carried more.
Colic is a specific type of crying with no set pattern, often occurring at certain times (e.g., evenings). The baby may pull their legs to their belly as if in pain, seem eager to nurse but be hard to soothe, and have excessive gas or bowel activity. It typically starts around the 3rd week after birth and lessens after 3 months.
SUGGESTIONS FOR WHEN A BABY IS CRYING
Ensure proper latching.
If there’s too much milk, nurse from one breast per feeding.
Let the baby nurse until they release the breast.
Reduce caffeinated drinks (coffee, cola, etc.).
Avoid smoking.
Temporarily eliminate allergy- or gas-causing foods.
Provide practical help (holding, cuddling, burping).
Pick up the baby.
Gently pat their back.
Lightly rub or massage their belly.
Keep the baby close to you.
After breastfeeding, someone else can soothe the baby.
HOW SHOULD I EAT WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
Breastfeeding mothers shouldn’t overexert themselves or lack sleep.
A balanced diet with all food groups is sufficient.
Especially after nursing, thirst increases due to higher fluid needs.
Breastfeeding mothers should meet their fluid needs with water, non-caffeinated and non-acidic drinks, fresh seasonal fruit juices, milk, buttermilk, etc.
Milk production requires an extra 500 calories daily, which can be met with a balanced diet rich in fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits.
ARE THERE SPECIAL FOODS THAT INCREASE MILK SUPPLY?
The most important factor in increasing milk supply is frequent breastfeeding.
Adequate hydration, especially drinking plenty of water, is also key.
Foods like tahini halva, bulgur, or fresh onions are popularly believed to boost milk supply. If the mother believes they help, she can eat them, but the primary driver of milk production is frequent nursing.
SHOULD I GIVE MY BABY WATER OR OTHER FOODS ALONGSIDE BREAST MILK?
For the first 6 months, babies need only breast milk—no water, other drinks, or foods.
Supplementary foods should start after 6 months.
DOES MY BABY NEED WATER IN HOT WEATHER ALONGSIDE BREAST MILK?
Breast milk is 98% water.
Thus, a baby who nurses enough gets all their hydration from breast milk.
Scientific studies, even in African countries, show that exclusively breastfed babies’ water needs are met by breast milk.
Giving water before 6 months replaces breast milk, reducing nursing, leading to less nutrition, and potentially introducing infections via water or other foods.
CAN I GIVE MY BABY A PACIFIER?
Pacifiers and bottles are not recommended for breastfed babies.
Some mothers use bottles for water or other foods or pacifiers to calm or distract the baby.
However, this can cause “nipple confusion”, leading babies to reject the breast.
Sucking a breast differs from sucking a bottle or pacifier.
Therefore, bottles and pacifiers are not advised.
CAN I BREASTFEED AFTER RETURNING TO WORK?
Yes, breastfeeding is possible after returning to work.
Nurse in the morning and evening at home, and express milk at work (morning, noon, breaks) to store. Caregivers can give it to the baby with a spoon or cup.
This maintains your milk supply.
Expressing at work ensures milk production continues.
CAN I SMOKE OR DRINK ALCOHOL WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
Not only should breastfeeding mothers avoid smoking, but no one should smoke around the baby.
Studies suggest smoking may contribute to breast refusal.
Even small amounts of alcohol pass into breast milk, and given a baby’s low weight, even trace harmful substances can have significant effects.
CAN I BREASTFEED AN ADOPTED CHILD?
Since milk production is triggered by the brain, even a woman who hasn’t given birth can breastfeed an adopted child.
Frequent nursing, skin-to-skin contact, and sometimes medication can support this.
In our society, there are examples of grandmothers breastfeeding their grandchildren.
CAN I BREASTFEED IF MY BABY IS BORN WITH A DISABILITY?
If your baby is born with Down syndrome, cleft lip or palate, or heart issues, they need breast milk even more.
Hormones in breast milk comfort both you and your baby.
Its easy digestibility benefits babies with heart conditions or difficulty gaining weight.
For Down syndrome babies, it reduces risks of respiratory infections and constipation.
Seek support from experienced breastfeeding mothers, your family physician, healthcare providers, mother support groups, and family.
If breastfeeding isn’t possible, express and feed your milk to your baby—it’s the best for them.
DO CAFFEINE DRINKS LIKE COFFEE OR COLA AFFECT MY BABY WHILE BREASTFEEDING?
Caffeine can pass into breast milk.
It may cause fussiness, sleeplessness, or even breast refusal in the baby.
Thus, these drinks are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
IS BREASTFEEDING POSSIBLE AFTER A C-SECTION?
Whether by C-section or vaginal birth, breastfeeding is possible.
With a C-section, it might start slightly later, but this delay isn’t a significant issue.
WHY IS BREAST MILK IMPORTANT IN DISASTER SITUATIONS, AND SHOULD I CONTINUE?
In disasters, breast milk protects babies from diseases caused by contaminated water.
It guards against widespread, potentially fatal conditions like diarrhea and respiratory infections.
Its physical and psychological benefits lessen the impact of such hardships for both mother and baby.
Always ready and packed with all needed nutrients, breast milk is even more vital in these times.
Remember: frequent breastfeeding increases your supply.