“The Vegetarian and Vegan Mother and Baby Guideis an excellent source of information for pregnant women and parents. I recommend it most highly.” Professor Jane Plant, author of Your Life in Your Handsand other science-based popular health books and a patron of VVF
(such as the USA). Further, a review of the evidence on the effect of cows’ milk on bone health (published in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatricsin 2005) concluded that children and adolescents do not require cows’ milk but instead must exercise regularly; eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables; and avoid smoking, fizzy drinks and caffeine for strong bones and teeth. For more information see the VVF’s report on the effects of cows’ milk on human health, White Lies, and the great pocket-sized shopping and health guide, It’s Easy to be Dairy Free,at
www.vegetarian.org.uk. These are all good reasons why babies should
be breastfed wherever possible. Although breastfeeding is natural there is a knack to it and it is a good idea to prepare yourself before the birth by reading some of the very good books that are now available.
The practicalities of breastfeeding
Wash your breasts as usual when you bath or shower but don’t use soap as this can wash away the natural secretions that protect against soreness when the baby starts to suck. Get used to handling your breasts so that you don’t feel awkward or embarrassed about this when the time comes to start breastfeeding. The baby’s suckling reflex is at its strongest
in the first few hours after birth, so when your baby is handed to you it is a good idea to put her straight to your breast. If, however, for some reason you feel you can’t do this, don’t worry. Just try again quietly and gently a little later – perseverance and good support usually lead to success. Don’t wash your breasts before you feed.
It’s important to have your baby in the right position with the head slightly tipped back so that the chin is close to your breast and the lips are close to your nipple – ‘chest to chest, chin to breast.’ Brush her lips with your nipple until she opens her mouth really wide, almost as if she’s going to yawn. This may take several minutes so be patient. When it does happen, bring the baby’s head quickly towards your breast so that she takes not just your nipple but a good mouthful of breast too. If she is latched on properly you will see the
jaw bone move as she sucks. If not, slide your little finger into the corner of her mouth to
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