Early Engorgement
Engorgement is technically breast swelling. In reality, it is when your breasts feel like full, hard, hot, painful watermelons. Engorgement comes in two varieties, early onset and late onset. Late onset engorgement will be discussed in another article. Early onset engorgement happens when the colostrum shifts to mature milk, usually a few days after... [Read more...]
Is it OK to let my baby breastfeed for comfort?
So how do you know if your baby is breastfeeding for comfort instead of nutrition? First off if your baby seems to be getting enough milk, but your child continues to suck for an hour or more,they may be breastfeeding for comfort rather than for nourishment. Some indications to look for: Your child seems seems satisfied They stop sucking and swallowing Your... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding after a Cesarean Section
There is no reason to think that you will have problems breastfeeding after a cesarean section. While you and your baby may feel the after effects of the drugs administered during the procedure these feelings will soon pass. You may find that your milk does not come in right away but be patient for as soon as the medication leaves your system your... [Read more...]
How to create a supportive breastfeeding environment
Six suggestions for creating a supportive nursing environment Find a peaceful atmosphere for nursing. Before beginning the feeding, unplug the phone, turn on relaxing music and do deep breathing. (Take four or five deep abdominal breaths.) If breastfeeding in public makes you uncomfortable, insist on your privacy and/or drape a light cover over your... [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...]
Latch Evaluation
How can you tell if your baby has established good latch? Does your baby have your entire nipple and about one inch of the areola in their mouth? After you get the let-down feeling can you hear your baby swallow? Does your baby follow a “suck, suck, suck, swallow” pattern Can you see noticeable movement in the jaw that should also make... [Read more...]
What are some medicines to avoid when breastfeeding?
As with any medicine be sure to check with your doctor before taking, even over the counter medicines. Here is a partial list of some common and even over the counter medication and the reasons to avoid them Antibacterials – While some are safe others may cause diarrhea, thrush, rash, bloody stools, or other problems Antidepressants – drowsiness... [Read more...]
What are the different types of Breast Milk?
There are several different types of breast milk: Colostrum Mature Milk Foremilk Hind-milk Colostrum Colostrum is the initial milk made shortly after your child is born and is initially present in small amounts for the first three days to match the small size of your baby’s stomach Ideally you should begin breastfeeding as soon as possible... [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...]
Breastfeeding Techniques Fine-Tuned
Once you have the basics down and your baby is eating and you are happy here are some fine tuning techniques to help make your breastfeeding experience all the better: Burping Cloths – keep some close when you breastfeed, especially in the early weeks. You may notice that you use several after a feeding so it is a good idea to keep 10-12 close... [Read more...]
