Alternative feeding methods
Situations may arise that require you to use an alternative feeding method for a short time to help build your milk supply. With the goal of exclusively breastfeeding you should practice any of the following methods only under the guidance of your doctor or lactation consultant. These methods should only be used on a temporary basis to correct breastfeeding... [Read more...]
Increasing milk production
If you and your doctor have determined that your baby is not getting enough milk there area some things you can try for increasing milk production. Some of the strategies to help increase the levels of prolactin and then more milk are to: Increase breastfeeding frequency Feed from both breasts at every breastfeeding session Express your milk with a... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding on Demand
You may find yourself on the receiving end of comments that confuse your attentiveness of your baby’s hunger with spoiling them. Your baby has a genuine need for frequent routine feedings. This is due to their initially having a very small stomach and secondarily that breast milk is very easily digested compared to other foods and formulas. By... [Read more...]
Co-bedding and breastfeeding
Although a cultural practice in most of the world, co-bedding isn’t for everyone. Some breastfeeding moms swear by it feeling that it helps then get in sync with their co-bedded infants. As sleep cycles are shared these mothers report feeling more rested as a result. It is also easier for a co-bedded infant to breastfeed and return to sleep. ... [Read more...]
Middle of the Night Feedings
One of the most dramatic adjustments you will make as a new parent is a loss of control on your sleep schedule. Gone are the days (at least for now) of staying up as late as you want and sleeping as late as you want. Now the amount of sleep you get will depend on your child. Newborns don’t have a schedule as they are adjusting to the world... [Read more...]
Waking your Sleepy Baby
It may seem a little counter intuitive to wake your baby, but in the first few weeks your baby does not yet know to eat when they are hungry. Frequent feedings also help you establish your milk supply and avoid or reduce the discomfort of engorgement. So here are some tips and tricks to gently wake your baby and get them feeding: Change their diaper Wipe... [Read more...]
Baby Stimulation
It may seem that your new baby has no more energy than it takes to eat and sleep, but they are soaking up everything around them in their environment. The time while you are breastfeeding is a great opportunity to begin introducing your baby to the larger world. Begin with small steps and changes, use different positions when breastfeeding. Rock... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Techniques Fine-Tuned
Once you have the basics down and your baby is eating and you are happy here are some fine tuning techniques to help make your breastfeeding experience all the better: Burping Cloths – keep some close when you breastfeed, especially in the early weeks. You may notice that you use several after a feeding so it is a good idea to keep 10-12 close... [Read more...]
Teething and Biting
If you experience your baby biting your nipple you should talk to them and reprimand them. The best way is to tell them “NO” and break the latch, then look them in the eye and say “No Biting”. Be serious but not angry for your baby may already be in tears from your surprise reaction. Offer your breast again, but if biting... [Read more...]
Nipple Confusion
When your baby does not know how to suckle the breast properly due to use of a pacifier or bottle it is called nipple confusion. To avoid nipple confusion simply try to stay away from giving your baby pacifiers or bottles for the first six weeks of life. Nipple confusion impairs breast feeding success by compromising your milk production. Your infant’s... [Read more...]
