Colostrum is the light yellow, viscous milk secreted by the mother during the first week after delivery. It is rich in proteins and all the nutrients required by the infant, offering irreplaceable value to newborns. It is not only abundant in antibodies and white blood cells, which effectively defend against bacterial and viral infections, but also contains key trace elements like iron, copper, and zinc that promote organ development. The dual effect of colostrum—nutritional supplementation and immune enhancement—is equally important for helping infants expel meconium and cleanse their intestines. Studies suggest that timely intake of colostrum by newborns can significantly reduce the risk of mortality. Therefore, every mother should value and ensure the feeding of colostrum, even if the secretion amount is limited or if other feeding methods are planned.
Newborns should not be given sugar water or formula before breastfeeding, a practice known as “pre-lactation feeding,” which may lead to a series of adverse consequences. Firstly, it may cause newborns to prefer bottle feeding over breastfeeding, missing out on the precious colostrum and its infection-fighting properties, while also increasing the risk of diarrhea due to improper artificial feeding. Secondly, pre-lactation feeding reduces dependence on breast milk, leading mothers to mistakenly perceive insufficient milk supply, resulting in psychological stress and even potential breast issues.
Maintaining breastfeeding is crucial, as it serves as an emotional bond between mother and child, greatly benefiting the growth of infants and toddlers. When facing potential rejection of breastfeeding by the baby, one should consider whether it is caused by illness (such as vomiting or diarrhea), nasal congestion, oral infections, or weak sucking ability, and take appropriate measures, such as seeking medical treatment, clearing nasal passages, using topical medications, or employing cup and spoon feeding. For rejection due to separation, mothers need to patiently try encouraging the baby to regain interest in breastfeeding at different times and in various environments.
The recommended duration for normal breastfeeding is **10 minutes on each side, totaling 20 minutes. During the initial minutes, the infant can obtain most of the milk and important immune components. Although the amount sucked decreases in the subsequent time, it still benefits milk secretion, strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child, and satisfies the infant’s oral phase needs.
Emotional management is equally important for nursing mothers. Increased levels of norepinephrine and adrenaline during anger not only harm the mother’s health but may also affect milk quality; over time, this can weaken the infant’s immunity, digestion, and growth, and in severe cases, lead to health issues. Therefore, maintaining a pleasant mood while breastfeeding is crucial for ensuring the health of both mother and infant.
