Introduction to Breastfeeding

As we head into the first week of August we will be highlighting the ins and outs of breastfeeding. An essential part of early child development, breastfeeding provides babies with the proper nourishment, and health benefits for mothers.

What is Breastfeeding?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, breastfeeding is when the body produces milk for the baby to consume, thus giving them nutrients and antibodies needed to help them grow. Breastfeeding is just as beneficial to mothers because it decreases the risk of postpartum depression.

How do you breastfeed?

Breastfeeding consist of a few steps:

1. Find a comfortable position for both you and your baby. It’s important that both of you stay relaxed through the process to ensure the baby is getting all the nourishment they need.

2. Guide your baby’s mouth toward your nipple. Along the way, your baby may understand the routine and do it automatically, but for first-timers, it is highly recommended that you help your baby out.

3. Your baby will latch onto your breast thus starting the feeding process. You’ll know when your baby is full when they let go and slowly start to turn away from the breast.

   
   

4. Lastly, burp your baby to help relieve themself of any gas.

Some helpful tips to keep in mind while breastfeeding or preparing to breastfeed include watching what you consume. Stay away from nicotine (vaping and smoking), and drugs such as marijuana. You should also monitor your caffeine and alcohol intake. These avoidances can help you maintain a healthy body, which will produce healthy milk for your baby to drink.

At the Virginia Women and Family Support Center, we teach our moms about  maternal health through the classes we hold each week; these include Parenting Skills and Early Child Development, Maternal Mental Health, and more. With many individual donors like you we are able to support pregnant, homeless moms and their children by using your donations to provide them with proper housing, baby necessities, hygiene products, etc. To donate to VAWFSC, become a cycle breaker and donate as little as $20 a month, or attend our annual Every Baby Deserves a Home Gala on Saturday September 6, 2025.