What are the optimal breastfeeding practices* that contribute to breastfeeding and LAM success?
• Breastfeed as soon as possible after birth, and remain with the newborn for at least several hours following delivery. • Breastfeed frequently both day and night. • Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months: no water, other liquids, or solid foods. • After the first six months when complementary foods are introduced, breastfeed before giving complementary foods. • Continue to breastfeed for up to two years and beyond. • Continue breastfeeding even if mother or baby is ill. • Avoid using bottles, pacifiers (dummies), or other artificial nipples. • Mothers who are breastfeeding should eat and drink sufficient quantities to satisfy their hunger and thirst. * Guidelines: Breastfeeding, Family Planning, and the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM). Institute for Reproductive Health, Georgetown University, 1994 (available in Arabic, English, French, Russian and Spanish). How many return visits are needed by LAM users? When counseling a new LAM acceptor, the health care provider should
