My name is Chloe Gammad. I have had experience in being placed on a Mother/Baby Postpartum unit as a student nurse. I have gained valuable knowledge throughout this clinical placement to better inform my future care.

Breastfeeding seems very intuitive for most. However, from personal experience on the unit, many mothers had a deficit in knowledge regarding feeding frequency, feeding positions, and choosing between only using breast milk and topping off with formula. Breastfeeding without any supplementation of any type, e.g., formula, juice, or water, is recommended for any neonate's first 6 months of life (). During earlier weeks of breastfeeding, neonates should be fed every 2-3 hours to prevent dehydration or constipation in the neonate ().

There are many benefits to breastfeeding the mother, such as reduced risk of cancer or other chronic diseases. By solely breastfeeding in the early stages of pregnancy, the risk of the neonate developing conditions such as asthma, acute otitis media, and other infections will be greatly reduced ().

Within the first 24 hours of life, skin-to-skin contact is greatly encouraged as it can increase the likelihood of breastfeeding, as well as an increase in breastfeeding frequency and duration (). There are various breastfeeding positions that the mother can partake in, e.g., football hold, laid-back nursing position, cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position. It is an essential part of the healthcare provider's role to work with the patient in determining the best position for the feed and whatever is more comfortable for both the mother and the baby.

Breastfeeding is contraindicated in individuals who have an HIV infection, Hepatitis C, or those with herpes simplex lesions on their breast along with visible cracked/bleeding nipples. Any individuals who are actively using opioids are strongly advised not to breastfeed their neonates. The method of transmission in these cases involves the spread through bodily fluids, e.g., breast milk ().

DynaMed. (n.d.). Breastfeeding. https://www.dynamed.com/management/breastfeeding