How can I tell if my baby has latched properly?
To know if your baby is latched on properly, look, listen and feel. Look for alignment, position at the breast Listen for swallowing Feel uterine cramps, drowsy, tugging/pulling on nipple (not biting/pinching) Look Watch for cues baby is ready to nurse, then put him to your breast. Feed your baby before he cries. Hold baby close with his nose level... [Read more...]
What are the drawbacks of bottlefeeding?
When deciding if breastfeeding is the choice for you, consider some of the drawbacks to bottle feeding: Organization and preparation. When planning to feed formula to your newborn enough formula must be on hand at all times and bottles must be prepared. Bottles and nipples need an initial sterilization and a good washing after every use. Bottles and... [Read more...]
Nursing your Toddler
The benefits of breastfeeding your toddler are no different than they are for younger children. Some of the reasons mothers decide to continue breastfeeding their toddlers are: Breast milk continues to be a wonderful source of nutrition regardless of anything else your child eats Antibodies in your milk continue to protect your toddler, even if nursing... [Read more...]
Sore Nipples and Blisters
Most often cracked sore, or blistered nipples are a result from improper latch. When the baby feeds on only the nipple it can cause your nipples to crack and blister. Blistering can also be the result of your nipple being rubbed against the roof of your baby’s mouth or along your baby’s gums. The pain you experience from blisters and... [Read more...]
What are inverted nipples?
Nipples that do not protrude or poke out from the breast are called inverted nipples. During the hormonal influences of pregnancy the inversion can become more pronounced as your change and grow. Although inverted nipples are not a common occurrence you are still able to breastfeed your child, but it may be more challenging to learn the best way to... [Read more...]
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding provides ideal nourishment and a special bonding experience that many new mothers cherish. What are some of the advantages to breastfeeding: Infection-fighting. A mother who breastfeeds her baby passes antibodies to her child which can help lower the occurrence of many conditions, including: ear infections diarrhea respiratory infections meningitis Other... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding troubleshooting guide
Hopefully you will have a problem free time while breastfeeding. However here is a breastfeeding troubleshooting guide for some of the more common issues you may encounter. Be sure to keep your doctor or lactation consultant aware of any of your concerns. Sore nipples - most commonly the result of bad positioning. Check how your child is positioned... [Read more...]
A Brief History of Weaning
Looking at human society as a whole across history the average age of weaning a child fromt he breast has been between the ages of two to four. Until the twentieth century children in China and Japan breastfed until ages of four or five. In 1967 anthropologist Margaret Mead collaborated with breastfeeding researcher Niles newton to publish an article... [Read more...]
Should I donate my breast milk?
All babies can benefit from the nourishment in breast milk, but in babies born premature, before the 37th week of pregnancy , the benefit can be much more pronounced. These tiny infants can substantially benefit from human milk’s rich nutrients and disease-fighting protection. Breast milk is also beneficial for babies with failure to thrive,... [Read more...]
How do you prevent a clogged or plugged duct?
A clogged or plugged duct can be the cause if your breasts are very tender, milk is not squirting out of those 15-20 holes, and you have redness or a hard spot near the sore area. There area few things you can do to prevent a clogged or plugged duct: Limit the breastfeeding or breast pumping intervals. Check your bras for a bad fit, pulls tightly,... [Read more...]
