Signs your baby is effectively breastfeeding
Once your baby has latched on the next thing you should watch for are signs your baby is effectively breastfeeding. Initially you should feel a more rapid and intense sucking sensation, this will in turn stimulate your let-down reflex. Once your milk flow is increased you should notice you baby slowing the rhythm, swallowing every two or three sucks.... [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...]
Colostrum, the wonder food
Colostrum is the name of the first milk a woman produces after delivery of her baby. It is very concentrated, and there is not very much of it. A newborn baby’s stomach is only about the size of a marble, so not very much volume is needed. Colostrum acts as a laxative, to help the baby pass her first stool, known as meconium, which in turn lowers... [Read more...]
Can I Breastfeed while diagnosed with Tuberculosis?
Mothers with untreated and active tuberculosis should not breastfeed their babies. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease most commonly spread by adults who have active tuberculosis. According to the CDC, if you are being treated with the first line anti-tuberculosis drug then you most often can continue breastfeeding. This is due to the fact that... [Read more...]
Twelve fabulous foods to eat while breastfeeding
While you breastfeed it is important that you keep up your nutrition. While part of that plan can be supplements take a look at these twelve fabulous foods and all they offer to help keep you healthy while you breastfeed. Avocado – thiamin, niacin, folic acid, fiber, protein, riboflavin, vitamin B6, zinc Chickpeas (especially as hummus) –... [Read more...]
HIV and Breastfeeding
Some studies have found that the breast milk of an HIV infected woman can contain the HIV virus, but there is uncertainty regarding whether the virus is contagious. At the present level of research it is hard to know what to do. Couple that with the fact that the number of HIV positive mothers birthing an HIV negative child and you have the makings... [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...]
Breastfeeding Benifits
Saves Lives. Currently there are 9 million infant deaths a year. Breastfeeding saves an estimated 6 million additional deaths from infectious disease alone. Provides Initial Immunization. Breastmilk, especially the first milk (colostrum), contains anti-bacterial and anti-viral agents that protect the infant against disease, especially diarrhoea. These... [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...]
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...]
