{"id":5021,"date":"2026-08-03T04:29:48","date_gmt":"2026-08-03T04:29:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lumeamara.online\/?p=5021"},"modified":"2026-08-03T04:29:50","modified_gmt":"2026-08-03T04:29:50","slug":"parenting-breastfeeding-signs-your-baby-feeds-well-and-how-to-support-your-body","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lumeamara.online\/?p=5021","title":{"rendered":"PARENTING | Breastfeeding: Signs your baby feeds well and how to support your body"},"content":{"rendered":"

Story audio is generated using AI<\/p>\n

From steady weight gain to regular wet nappies and your breasts feeling softer<\/p>\n

These are some of the things breastfeeding moms should look out for to tell if your baby is feeding well<\/p>\n

This week marks World Breastfeeding Week, and specialist dietitian Mbali Mapholi has encouraged mothers to ensure that they are well hydrated, adding that breastfeeding requires more calories and nutrients to support your bodies<\/p>\n

Mapholi says breastfeeding places significant nutritional and hydration requirements on mothers<\/p>\n

\u201c[They] require additional calories, nutrients, and fluids to support their own health<\/a> and their baby\u2019s development. It is a big job for your body. When you are nursing, your body needs an extra 500 to 700 calories a day, more vitamins and minerals, and plenty of hydration to keep things running smoothly,\u201d says Mapholi, who is also a Laager Rooibos partner<\/p>\n

\u201cWhile many mothers look to specialised supplements and herbs to support breastfeeding, one simple addition can offer better benefits. There are many ways to support your milk supply and help your body recover after birth. One of the recommendations I give breastfeeding moms is to add rooibos tea to their daily routine as a natural, caffeine-free and healthy way to support hydration and boost nutrition.\u201d<\/p>\n

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged countries to \u201cstrengthen breastfeeding support and health systems to give every child a healthy start in life\u201d<\/p>\n

The world health body says: \u201cBreastfeeding is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to protect a child\u2019s health, [yet] too many mothers and families around the world still lack access to services and interventions that enable and support breastfeeding<\/p>\n

\u201cIt provides infants and young children<\/a> with essential nutrition, increases immunity, helps protect against serious illness, and supports cognitive development. For mothers, breastfeeding brings important health benefits too, helping reduce the risk of noncommunicable diseases such as breast and ovarian cancers and type 2 diabetes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\n\"Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding may be natural, but it is far from easy for most new moms. (123RF)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

WHO highlights that breastfeeding rates across the world are rising. \u201cExclusive breastfeeding<\/a> in the first six months rose from around 37% in 2012 to over 47% today. In the past five years, the prevalence of breastfeeding up to two years of age rose from 38% to 50% … Scaling up breastfeeding could prevent almost 400,000 child deaths and around 140,000 maternal deaths each year.\u201d<\/p>\n

Despite these gains, WHO notes that many countries were lagging behind on global targets<\/p>\n

Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO, says while breastfeeding is natural, new mothers must be supported. \u201cWorld Breastfeeding Week [August 1-7] highlights the importance of supporting mothers throughout their breastfeeding journey and raising awareness about common challenges many women face,\u201d says Hewlett<\/p>\n

\u201cMany women feel disappointed when breastfeeding turns out to be harder than expected. Social media and parenting advice often present breastfeeding as something that should happen automatically, but the reality can be very different<\/p>\n

\u201cPain, exhaustion, poor sleep, stress, hormonal changes, and concerns about low milk supply can all affect a mother\u2019s confidence. Some babies latch immediately, while others take time to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hewlett says among the most common breastfeeding issues is a poor latch. \u201cThis happens when the baby is not attached properly to the breast, which can lead to nipple pain, cracking, bleeding, or ineffective feeding. A proper latch should not feel sharply painful. Mothers may notice gentle pulling or tugging, but ongoing pain usually signals that something needs adjustment,\u201d he says<\/p>\n

\u201cEngorgement is another common problem. Breasts may become swollen, firm, and uncomfortable when milk production increases. Feeding regularly, applying warm compresses before feeds, and expressing small amounts of milk may help relieve discomfort<\/p>\n

\u201cBlocked milk ducts can also develop, causing painful lumps or tenderness in the breasts. Continuing to feed, gentle massage, and rest often helps. However, if symptoms include fever, chills, redness, or flu-like symptoms, medical attention is important, as this may indicate mastitis, a breast infection.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hewlett says signs that your baby may be feeding well include regular wet and dirty nappies, steady weight gain after the first few days, swallowing sounds during feeding, the baby appearing calm or sleepy after some feeds, and breasts feeling softer after feeding<\/p>\n

\u201cIf the baby seems constantly unsettled, struggles to latch, has fewer wet nappies, or is not gaining weight properly, professional advice should be sought,\u201d advises Hewlett<\/p>\n

Hewlett shares tips for breastfeeding moms:<\/b><\/p>\n