How long should a feed last while breastfeeding?

Generally it is said not to exceed five minutes per breast, so as to reduce the risk of fissures, and who to let the baby decide.

Breastfeeding is essential for two reasons. First of all, breast milk is the ideal food for the newborn Furthermore, the gesture of eating from the mother's breast also satisfies some fundamental psychological needs of the newborn.The duration of the feeding must not be less than 15-20 minutes. It is important, however, not to be too rigid. In fact, there are children who are "faster" and others who need much more time. If both breasts are used at each feed, it is a good idea to start alternately with the right or left breast. On the other hand, when only one breast is used at a time, for obvious reasons it is necessary to alternate it from feeding to feeding. In both cases, a safety pin pinned to the bra strap helps to remember which breasts to start the next feed with.Many new mothers wonder if their milk is enough and if the baby feels full after feeding. It is good to remember that the baby's body is perfectly capable of regulating itself. This means that if it comes off it is because it is full, while if it continues to suck it may still be hungry or in need of some extra "cuddle". If the baby tends to fall asleep at the breast, it can be useful to stimulate it with the voice, caresses, changing the breast or position.

In the first few weeks, it is important to stimulate both breasts with each feed. Otherwise, the milk production does not calibrate well and may result in congestion or shortage of milk.

Before each feed.

• The mother should wash her breast before and after each feed; scrupulous hygiene with water is sufficient, while soaps, ointments, ointments and detergent and antiseptic solutions are generally not recommended. These substances, in fact, could irritate the skin and give the nipple an unpleasant smell and taste. Special wipes are available on the market for cleansing breastfeeding breasts, obviously without surfactants, perfumes or substances that require rinsing. Hands, of course, will also need to be washed carefully before starting breastfeeding.

• At the end of the feeding, the nipples should be dried and covered with a sterile compress; the newborn, in the meantime, will be kept in a vertical position for a few minutes, in order to favor the onset of any and characteristic burp.