The First Feeding
It is one of the most emotionally charged moments you will have as a new mother when you and your newborn have the first feeding. Breastfeeding is a continuation of that intimate relationship you shared with your child when they were in your womb. If your birth was straightforward and little or no drugs were administered then you will most likely... [Read more...]
Will I lose calcium?
You may have heard that a woman can lose calcium when she breastfeeds and increase chances of getting osteoporosis. The truth is that during lactation the mother’s body takes calcium from her bones and uses it to make milk. This will happen regardless of calcium intake. Your body does all it can to increase calcium absorption from the food... [Read more...]
When is it time to stop breastfeeding?
Weaning your baby because of teething is one of the most common reasons to stop. Little teeth hurt, and little babies seem to bite harder and more often when they get a reaction out of mommy after inflicting a bite. You can wean your infant to a bottle and still furnish her breast milk by expressing it. This is an effective way of providing the... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Step-by-Step
The following steps outline and help explain the general flow of a breastfeeding session. Position yourself properly. Pillows are generally a must as your arms and back will get sore from trying to maintain the same position while your baby is feeding. Use the pillows behind your back, under your elbows, and on your lap. If you are trying a position... [Read more...]
Second latch
Again, just like in ‘First Latch’ this video is showing excellent practice in lactation support. Mother and baby are both comfortable, Dr Jack Newman is quiet and respectful of them both. No coercion is happening at all, and most importantly, no hands are on the back of baby’s head, trying to force matters. Notice that when the mother... [Read more...]
Three Things Everyone Thinks Dramatically Affect Milk Supply
There are three things you will find often repeated as ways to increase your milk supply, but in reality have little to no impact when the mother is already in good health. Drink more fluids - Although your fluid consumption will increase as you breastfeed keep in mind that you only are replacing the amount your child consumes, which is about four ounces... [Read more...]
Is Breast Reduction Surgery and Breastfeeding Compatible?
Breast reduction surgery will not prevent you from breastfeeding your child as most women who undergo the surgery can produce some amount of milk. However it is typical that you may not produce enough milk to offer your child an exclusively breastfed diet. You should investigate breast milk banking to help make up the difference. In some cases of... [Read more...]
Are there toxins in breast milk?
Because breast milk comes from your body it is composed from what can be found in your body. Despite any efforts you may find toxins in breast milk. This is not due to any negligence on your part, simply the fact that undesirable components are found everywhere in life, water, air, food, formula, breast milk etc. With healthy eating and informed... [Read more...]
Flailing Hands
For some mother’s their child’s flailing hands can present a challenge for latch. A hungry baby can sometimes be their own worst enemy by batting at and inadvertently pushing the breast away. There are several strategies you can try if flailing hands becomes a problem. First you might try giving your baby some time to massage and feel... [Read more...]
Diabetes and Breastfeeding
Although lactating can help you control your blood sugar as you transition from pregnancy to postpartum you’ll need to pay close attention to your diet. While you are breastfeeding keep water nearby and snacks within reach to help prevent becoming hypoglycemic while nursing. Although your normal insulin injections are generally safe to use while... [Read more...]
