Tandem Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding more than one child at a time can be quite a challenge. On one hand it is a great way to keep older child connected with their mother and also introduce them to the concept of sharing. Tandem does not necessarily mean simultaneously nursing more than one child. Usually it refers to nursing the new born baby first and then the older... [Read more...]
One Breast or Two?
One of the most common questions new mothers ask is whether they should give both breasts at each feeding or just one. Ideally your baby will make this decision. When a baby is healthy and breastfeeding normally they are capable of determining when it is time to switch breasts. Babies need a good mixture of foremilk (lower fat) and hind-milk (higher... [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...]
Breastfeeding while lying down
If you find yourself feeling tired then breastfeeding while lying down is a great technique to master. It not only will help your baby drift off to sleep, but it places you in a safe place to get a little extra rest as well. Make yourself comfortable by lying on your side with a pillow under your lower back. It may be helpful to try out this position... [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...]
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...]
How will my breasts change during pregnancy?
The first changes you may notice in your breasts is a feeling of fullness early on in your pregnancy and can occur as early as your first missed period. One of the most noticeable early changes in your breasts during pregnancy is that the little bumps around your areole, the Montgomery’s tubercles, become more raised and pronounced. They... [Read more...]
First Latch
This is an excellent video, by the wonderful Dr Jack Newman, showing a classic cross-cradle hold, and a baby latching well. Notice how gentle and respectful of the baby Dr Newman, and the mother, are. Only two interventions happen – one to pull the baby’s hand gently out of the camera view – so you can see what’s happening,... [Read more...]
How often should I breastfeed my baby?
Before your milk supply is established, breastfeeding should be “on demand” (or as often as when your baby is hungry), which is generally every 1½ to 3 hours. As newborns get older, they’ll need to nurse less frequently, and may develop a more reliable schedule. Some may feed every hour and a half, whereas others may go 2 or 3... [Read more...]
Galactosemia and Breastfeeding
Babies suffering from galactosemia are unable to process galactose, one of the simple sugars formed by the digestion of breast milk. Galactosemia is a rare inherited disorder that affects about 1 in 60,000 newborns. Galactosemia and Breastfeeding are an incompatible combination. There may be no initial indication when your child first begins to breastfeed... [Read more...]
