Breastfeeding in Singapore is not as common as we may think. According to a publication by the Health Promotion Board regarding breastfeeding in Singapore, 99% of the new mothers attempted to breastfeed their babies. Although breastfeeding initiation rate was high, subsequent continuation rates were not sustainable. [space]

Breastfeeding, why so difficult?

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96% of the new mothers left the hospital breastfeeding, with 50% of infants being exclusively breastfed. After 2 months, 80% of the mothers were still breastfeeding and slightly over a quarter (28%) were exclusively breastfeeding. At 6 months of age, less than half (42%) of the infants were receiving any breast milk and only 1% were exclusively breastfed.[space]

Lauren is indeed blessed to be the 1%, exclusively breastfed until 2.5 years old! Yikes! That was pretty much until I nearly sold my kidney just to get a full night of sleep. I figured she must be comfort nursing and I ain’t no pacifier my darling. It worked, I still have my kidney and I’m nursing my second baby.[space]

When it comes to breastfeeding, I thank God for a truly smooth journey. Lauren was born 3.24kg after a 22-hour drug-free labour. Yes, my first labour deserves a post of its own. She was absolutely alert when she arrived, just look at her, already pondering how to take over the world.[space]

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She was alert and yet it took her 13 hours before she first latched on. I didn’t panic. Well, the nurses at Thomson Medical Centre told me it was normal and newborns could go a few days without feeding! Thanks for the assurance! Her first wet diaper was nearly 24 hours after she was born. I didn’t panic. At least she peed! I just made sure to latch her on every 3 hours, or whenever she fussed. She would only latch on for a few minutes and I had no idea if I had any milk for her at all. I didn’t panic. I was too tired la![space]

We didn’t even buy milk powder. Nobody questioned me if Lauren was still hungry or if I was starving her. Thank God. I’m not sure how I would have reacted if people around me didn’t support my breastfeeding efforts. I just kept her close to me and whenever she cried, I’d put her to my breast. It was painful of course. I’m not an Earth Goddess and I get sore nipples too. And so very cranky. But at least Lauren was natural at suckling and she thrived.[space]

There are important markers for a thriving baby, including wet diapers and weight gain/loss. As long as there are many wet diapers and weight gain, baby is thriving; there is no need to pressure a new mom into supplementing, as that WILL cause her milk supply to tank and result in more stress! If in doubt, always consult baby’s doctor, not your mother-in-law! Hah![space]

I think it’s important we recognize the reality of breastfeeding, for a new mother and her baby. I’ve heard many stories of family members (and now, husbands don’t you even dare try!) questioning a new mother on how she’s not providing sufficient milk for her baby. It is uncalled for. A newborn will definitely feel hungry very often because of their small tummies! Just look how teeny weeny their lil tummies are![space]

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A new mother should be given the freedom and affirmation of being close to her baby 24/7 right after giving birth. For all husbands and family, do support a new mummy and do not interfere with her efforts to provide the best source of nourishment for a newborn baby. A mummy knows best!