Maternal-Newborn
Breastfeeding Fundamentals
Evidence-based practices to support successful initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding.
Latch and Positioning
- Ensure wide gape, lips flanged outward
- Asymmetric latch: more areola visible above the upper lip than below
- Mother's nipple should be well back in the infant's mouth
Signs of Effective Feeding
- Audible swallowing
- Infant appears relaxed and satisfied after feeding
- Evidence of milk on the infant's lips or tongue
Common Complications
- Engorgement: warm compresses before feeding, cold after
- Sore nipples: check latch, apply breast milk to nipples, use lanolin
- Mastitis: symptoms include fever, chills, localized redness and pain
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