Give only breastmilk during your baby’s first 6 months. Give nothing else, not even water.
Exclusive breastfeeding means feeding your baby ONLY breastmilk for the first 6 months.
Breastmilk provides all the food and water that your baby needs during the first 6 months of life.
Even during very hot weather, breastmilk will satisfy your baby’s thirst.
Giving your baby anything else will cause him/her to suckle less often and will reduce the amount of breastmilk that you produce.
Water, other liquids, and foods can make the baby sick.
You can give medicines if they are recommended by your health provider.
Note for community worker:
There may be a period of 24 hours in the first day or two when the baby feeds only two to three times. After the first few days, frequent breastfeeding is important for establishing a good supply.
