Pregnant women are advised to allow their husbands to suck their breasts to prepare them for breastfeeding after delivery.
A Nigerian Chief Nursing Sister, Roseline Oladimeji, gave the advice at the sensitisation programme that marked the 2021 World Breastfeeding Week organised by Amuwo Odofin Maternal and Child Centre, Festac Town, Lagos, on Thursday, August 5.
“Allow your husband to suck your breasts during pregnancy. Apart from bonding, it will help the nipples to be out and make it easier for your baby to latch on. You can also rub vaseline on your nipples at night before going to sleep. It helps to soften it” the nursing sister said.
The Nursing officer urged pregnant women to prepare their breasts during pregnancy to avoid lactation problems after delivery.
According to Oladimeji, the colostrum- the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands of mammals (including humans) immediately following delivery of the newborn – contains nutrients that help boost the baby’s immunity.
“It is still breast milk,” she added.
She cautioned that certain food, herbs and medications could hurt babies if they cross into the breast milk.
Oladimeji particularly noted that drinking palm wine to improve lactation could introduce alcohol into the baby’s system during breastfeeding.
The nursing officer further cautioned mothers seeking advice from people who are not qualified to take care of babies to avoid causing harm to their children.
