Report Broken Link

Breastfeeding

Abstract:

When I was working 'inside', the emphasis was on labour and delivery. However, as a domiciliary midwife it didn't take too long to realise how important postnatal care is to the wellbeing of mothers and their babies. This is the time when women get to know their babies and adapt to the change in family dynamics - in-laws, siblings, who can be less than enthusiastic about the competition. It's the crucial time when breastfeeding is being established - while new mothers cope with sleepless nights, tender nipples (like putting your nipple in a mousetrap, according to one of my colleagues), engorged breasts and after pains. It is also the time to debrief from the labour. It is a time when a woman needs support and TLC if she is to parent effectively and breastfeed long term.

 view online article View Document

policies and legislation around breastfeeding, relationship between postnatal visits and breastfeeding rates