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...]
Safe and comfortable exercising while you breastfeed
When your body belongs to both you and your baby there area some extra steps you should consider following. Get the milk out before the workout. Treat your baby and yourself to a long feed before beginning your exercise. This will not only help settle your baby but also make you more comfortable as your exercise. Support your breasts. Wear a well... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Acronym
Here is an acronym for breastfeeding that will help you remember some of the benefits of nursing your child. BREASTFEEDING Best for baby Reduces incidence of allergies Economical – no waste Antibodies – greater immunity to infections Stool inoffensive – never constipated Temperature always correct and constant Fresh milk –... [Read more...]
Build Your Breastfeeding Support Network
Some women who start out breastfeeding but within a few months or sometimes weeks get discouraged, ween their baby, and switch to formula. The list of reasons ranges from insufficient milk supply, infections, or sore nipples to criticism, or confusion about what they should be doing. Most of these problems can be avoided or at least minimized by... [Read more...]
Counterproductive Breastfeeding Strategies
Some strategies and suggestions you may encounter while breastfeeding may not actually help at all and overall may exasperate the very problem they seek to resolve. Letting your breasts refill before feeding - first your breasts create milk on demand and are always ready to provide your child with nourishment. Second as your breasts reach storage... [Read more...]
Breastfed Newborn Weight Gain
When comparing your breastfed newborn weight gain against that of formula fed children you may feel that your young one is not growing fast enough. Not to worry. Breastfed babies may not gain weight as quickly in the first few days when compared to formula fed infants but this disparity rapidly disappears. While formula and breast milk generally... [Read more...]
Thawing and Warming Breast Milk
The best way to thaw breast milk is to let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. It will thaw slowly and consistently over about a twelve hour period. If your child has an immediate need then you can also place the frozen milk in a pan of warm water and change the water frequently. If you need to warm your breast milk do so gently. Overheating and... [Read more...]
How to Store Breast Milk
If your breast milk is not immediately given to your baby, it can be stored at room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen. General Storage Time Guidelines Room Temperature – 6-10 hours Refrigerator – 5-8 days Freezer – 3-6 months Deep Freeze (below 0F) 6-12 months Defrosted or thawed milk can be stored for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. ... [Read more...]
What is in Breastmilk?
Breast milk contains everything that the growing body of your baby needs. But what exactly are you giving your baby? Breast milk is a living substance, similar in concept to blood, in that it changes based on the needs of your child and the environment that you experience. For example it has been discovered that mothers of prematurely born babies produce... [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...]
