Breastfeeding Tips and Benefits

Breastfeeding Myth - Pain is Part of Breastfeeding - Truth - You CAN Enjoy Pain Free Breastfeeding

2011-01-25T21:28:00.000-08:00

Breastfeeding and Pain

Many women are led to believe that pain is part of the breastfeeding story and some new mothers experience excruciating pain in their breasts and nipples.

Because even many professionals believe that pain is par for the course when help is sought to support breastfeeding, pumping or just getting on with it is often the advice we get. As a result mothers continue to suffer while being concerned about weight-gain and bonding with their baby.

Breastfeeding Without Pain

The truth is that pain is not part and parcel of breastfeeding. Your body was designed specifically to feed your baby with your breasts. You baby was designed to be able to access your milk with his mouth.

Pain is your body's way of letting you know that something is not quite right. Oftentimes it is the nature of the latch that is off in some way. And establishing a deep latch is a skill that needs to be learned by baby and mom. Or it could be the angle at which you are bringing your baby to the breast.

Even though breastfeeding is natural, it is a skill with many different components. Thankfully we can learn them and teach them to our baby so that joy in breastfeeding becomes our experience.

Breastfeeding Support

In order to experience breastfeeding success without pain, it is necessary to have the support of people who believe this is possible and can show you step by step how to achieve a pain-free latch and a beautiful breastfeeding experience with ease and joy.

Breastfeeding Differences and Disparities Still Exist

2011-01-24T21:25:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, breastfeeding differences and disparities still exist. In fact, only a generation ago, many women in America would not breastfeed. It was not the "acceptable thing to do." Women were even warned that it was better to formula feed a baby...something we know is not true.

Now, as more and more women are learning the advantages of breastfeeding, more mothers are once again choosing to breastfeed their babies.

However, there are still some rather significant differences between women who nurse and those who choose not to.

What New Research Shows:

Differences by education:

Big improvements in overall breastfeeding rates have occurred over the last ten years among women with at least some college education. Anyone who graduated from college were much more likely than those with less education to nurse their babies. In fact, almost all breastfeeding studies show that educational achievement was the strongest predictor of a woman's choice to breastfeed.

Even if researchers took into account the differences in income and other factors that may affect breastfeeding rates, they find that a mother's education played the most important role in the likelihood that she will breastfeed her children.

Differences between income groups:

Women in the highest income groups are the most likely to breastfeed their babies. These breastfeeding mothers were significantly more likely to breastfeed than were moms in the lower income groups. However, the income differences in breastfeeding rates can be explained mostly by differences in educational levels.

Racial/ethnic Differences:

Although efforts have been made to attempt to close the gaps between Whites and both African Americans and U.S.-born Latinas who breastfeed...the gaps actually appear to be getting wider over the last ten years.

African American women and US-born Latina women are less likely than white mothers to choose to breastfeed.

However, when other factors were considered, the racial disparities in nursing remained significant but appear to be explained by differences in education and income.

The saddest part of these statistics is that we could save lives of so many little ones who die of illnesses that could have been prevented if their mothers would have exclusively breastfed their children for the first few months of life.

It is a shame, because we just need to educate new mothers so that they know these things!

How Can We Change This?

Three simple things: information, support and encouragement. Only when all breastfeeding moms have these things will we see these statistics change.

Baby, Birth & Breastfeeding - 7 Reasons To Consider Breastfeeding When Your Baby Is Born

2011-01-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

Is Breastfeeding For Me?

We tend to engage in the same behaviours as our peers or those with whom we spend most time. So unless others in your family or circle are breastfeeding or open to the idea, you may not even consider it as a possibility.

This has occurred in a climate during which the special and sacred gifts of women, nurturing and the power of love have been perceived as less important than intellect, rationale and logic.

As an empowered woman you may wish to be aware of the following benefits for you and baby of using your breasts to nourish this precious new addition to your family.

Breast-milk is Alive

Unlike formula that has been produced in a factory somewhere, travelled extensively and sat on a shelf for some time, your breast-milk is alive and oozing life force.

Breast-milk is Superior

Plain and simple, your breast-milk provides the very best food you can give to your baby. Your amazing breasts accommodate to the needs of your baby and depending on what has happened in the last feed, will provide exactly what your baby needs for optimum nourishment.

Each meal is tailor made for your baby's requirements. For example, the content of breast-milk for premature babies is different to that for full terms babies because premies have unique needs.

Breastfeeding Bonds

As your baby feeds, your body releases Oxytocin known as the 'love hormone' or the 'bonding hormone'. Oxytocin provides a sense of well being and calm for both mother and baby.

It also facilitates bonding and creates the desire for further contact between you both. So this hormone, produced while breastfeeding actually elicits those feelings of love and deep connection that support you in becoming the mother you really want to be....calm, relaxed, connected and happy.

Breastfeeding Inspires Love

Not only does the breastfeeding and release of oxytocin enhance the bond between mother and baby, it also lays the very foundations for the experience of love for your baby.

In the breastfeeding act, your baby learns to be very comfortable being close to mum. She learns about being fully present with another as she stares into your eyes and you joyfully return her gaze.

She learns that it is safe for her to receive love and that she is worthy of deep connection. Breastfeeding provides her cells with the experience of being cared for physically, emotionally and spiritually in a very intimate, healthy and satisfying way.

These skills not only help her to recognise and choose relationships that are nourishing for her as she develops, they also support her to nourish herself and others in an healthy way.

Breastfeeding Requires Less Work

From a purely practical perspective, breastfeeding is so much handier as you don't need to spend endless time shopping, preparing the bottles or cleaning up afterwards.

You Deserve To Breastfeed

As women in the western world, many of us have been conditioned to deny, conceal or suppress the full expression of our femininity.

Your breasts were designed to feed your baby. You have the right to experience the wonder of breastfeeding. You are worthy of creating and knowing first hand the beauty and magic of breastfeeding and realising the deep wisdom of your body in this process.

Breastfeeding Is Empowering

Breastfeeding allows you to come into your own power and embrace your sacred feminine energy.

We have been downloaded with the idea to aspire to a more male expression of ourselves. And while manhood and maleness is beautiful and sacred, so too is womanhood and matters uniquely female.

It is time for us to allow ourselves to rejoice in who we are, in the perfection of being a woman and give ourselves permission to experience that fully. In doing so, we also free men to be themselves fully and pave the way for a generation of babies comfortable in their own skin and honouring both the masculine and feminine within.

So just ask yourself what you truly desire. What would you love for your baby? If you thought that you could do it and felt supported around breastfeeding would you try? Because there is support available.

Breastfeeding Twins Can Be Made Into An Enjoyable Task!

2011-01-22T21:23:00.000-08:00

Having twins is double celebration! However, breastfeeding twins is double hard work! Twins means double tantrums. But, if you know how to handle two tiny tots simultaneously, they give you some of the most wonderful moments of life!

One of the challenges of having two babies is overcoming breastfeeding problems. Will they get hungry together? Will you have to feed them one by one? There are lots of breastfeeding questions lingering in the minds of new moms. Here are some ways to help you handle the task of breastfeeding twin babies.

Making A Breastfeeding Chart

Prepare a visual chart of breastfeeding. This will help you know the time to feed your baby, by just looking at her. In case of twins, you need to prepare two charts. You should talk to your doctor regarding chart preparation. In addition to this, you need to discuss about baby food and baby formula that is right for your baby. It is best to give your milk, instead of giving baby formula for the initial months.

Your chart consists of columns like feeing time, meals fed, amount fed, and other such important details. This way, you will get an idea of the frequency of meals and the time your babies are hungry.

Remember; as your baby reaches 7-12 months of age, she will develop her own taste in food. You have twins does not mean, both of them will develop the same taste. There are common cases where twin have contrasting tastes and behavior. One of them may suck more milk than the other, or have different meal timings. The chart will help you keep a track on your twins' feeding.

Handling Twins' Call Of Hunger

A smart mom will always prepare her baby food in advance. This way, your babies get food instantly when they call for hunger and need not wait and wail loudly. It's a good idea to prepare baby food at home. It's fresh and hygienic, plus loaded with nutrients. Besides this, the food is free of preservatives and is of good quality. If you don't want to create a hubbub in the house by two screaming babies, prepare baby food in advance!

Take the help of your doctor or midwife regarding positions for breastfeeding. You can buy breastfeeding tops as well as breastfeeding cover to ease in this task. Read articles and books on breastfeeding twins and enjoy the task!

The Menstrual Cycle and Breastfeeding

2011-01-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

Although every woman's body responds uniquely to the hormonal changes brought on by nursing their babies, there are certain constants that are associated with the monthly menstrual cycle and breastfeeding. Many women will experience irregular periods while nursing, while others will not menstruate at all until they stop breastfeeding their babies altogether.

As a general rule, breastfeeding causes a delay in the return of menstruation following pregnancy for most women. Also, the frequency of breastfeeding plays a large role as to how soon the menstrual cycle is regulated and once again normal. Women who nurse their babies exclusively may not have a period for as long as a year or more after their pregnancies and will soon discover that the menstrual cycle and breastfeeding seem to be directly related to one another.

Some new mothers will have their menstrual period after cutting down to nursing only two or three times per day, supplementing the other times with formula. Most women who start off formula-feeding their babies will usually begin menstruating anywhere from one to three months following delivery.

The absence of menstruation is actually considered to be a normal occurrence while breastfeeding provided the woman is doing the following:

- Breastfeeding exclusively without using formulas, cereals, or baby foods

- Nursing at least six times per day while alternating breasts

- Breastfeeding at least every four hours during the daytime hours

- Nursing at least every six hours during the nighttime hours

If you find that you aren't breastfeeding that often, or if several months have gone by and you still aren't having your usual menstrual cycle, consult with your healthcare provider for their assessment and evaluation.

The technical term for a lack of menstruation due to breastfeeding is known as lactational amenorrhea. Some women rely upon breastfeeding as a means of postponing ovulation in what's referred to as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) for as long as six months after giving birth. It's important to remember that you should consider yourself fertile once your monthly menstrual cycle has returned. However, since this isn't necessarily true for each and every woman, especially those with irregular periods, one should always make sure to use a safe means of birth control if they aren't interested in having another baby right away.

Consult with your own family doctor or gynecologist for their recommendations as to which method is best for you. Many mothers who are breastfeeding choose to use a barrier method, such as condoms or the diaphragm, until they are no longer nursing their babies to avoid the risk of passing on any of the hormones contained in the birth control pill.

Often times, menstruation will begin again once the baby is eating solid foods, or has been weaned from the breast, or is nursing from a bottle more frequently. Once baby begins sleeping throughout the night, or at least for four to six hours at a time, this may affect the menstrual cycle when breastfeeding.

Besides nursing, a woman's menstrual cycle may even be affected by factors such as a new mother sleeping with her baby, which is never a safe practice as babies can be accidentally suffocated, or fall from a bed risking serious injury. Also, if a mother wears her baby close to her body in a sling on a frequent basis, that may even alter the hormones responsible for causing menstruation as well.

Always remember that the menstrual cycle and breastfeeding are different for every woman, and also for every pregnancy. It's also not uncommon for women to report having an entirely different experience from one pregnancy to the next. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your doctor and make an appointment as soon as possible. Most new mothers faithfully take their babies to receive check-ups and immunizations when necessary, but often neglect their own health during the important months following childbirth.

Common Breastfeeding Myths

2011-01-20T21:21:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, many women actually avoid breastfeeding because they have heard myths about breastfeeding that are taken into account when they are making their decision. So, it is important that women learn the truth about breastfeeding so they can make the best possible choice for themselves and their babies.

The following are a few common myths about nursing that are commonly passed around and the real truth behind them.

Myth #1: If I Breastfeed My Breasts Will Sag

The Truth: Believe it or not, many women decide not to breastfeed because they think it will cause sagging. Actually this is not true. Pregnancy itself can cause some sagging, but not breastfeeding. So, if you have decided not to breastfeed for this reason alone - think again. It won't cause any more sagging and your baby really benefits from the nutrients. It is best for your body, too!

Myth #2 - I Can't Breastfeed Because I Have to Go Back to Work

The Truth: Yes you can! While at one time it may have been more difficult to nurse a baby on the job, there are actually many different companies today that have special lactation rooms that allow new moms to pump milk whenever they need to, which makes it easy and convenient to breastfeed, even if you do have a job. Breastfeeding is important, since statistics show that babies who are breastfeed actually are 35% less likely to deal with illness. So, even if you have to work, you can still breastfeed and give your baby the extra boost and avoid having to miss work for a sick baby later on.

Myth #3 - Breastfeeding is Going to Hurt

The Truth: There are many women who are told that breastfeeding is going to hurt for awhile; however, this too is a very common myth. While women can expect to experience a bit of tenderness when they first start breastfeeding, there should be no really bad pain. So, new mothers should not dread breastfeeding their babies because of this. If there is any pain that lasts for more than a few days, a woman should make sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible...and it can be fixed.

Myth #4 - Formulas Have the Same Nutrients as Breast Milk

The Truth: Some people try to say that today's formulas are just as good as breast milk, offering the same nutrients. This is just not true!

Actually formulas are in no way equivalent to breast milk and there are many things that they don't have that breast milk does, such as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies that are extremely important for a baby. Breast milk is actually made by a mothers' body to sustain her particular baby, while a formula could never replicate that individual design.

Myth #5 - You Need to Eat More While

The Truth: Actually, this is totally false. Even women who are on lower calorie diets and trying to lose weight will still make enough milk for their baby. Some women tend to worry that it they don't eat right for a couple days it will affect their milk; however, this does not usually affect the amount of milk that is produced.

Myth #6 - You Can't Breastfeed if You've had a Breast Reduction Done

The Truth: This is just another myth that has no substance behind it. While it can be a more difficult for mothers to produce milk when they have had a breast reduction surgery, most mothers who have had this surgery done still have plenty of milk to breastfeed. Even if you don't have enough milk to totally support your baby on breastfeeding, you can supplement your baby with a formula as well to make sure that they are getting enough to eat.

While breastfeeding myths will never go away, it is important that every mother know the truth so that she can make the best decision for her and her sweet new baby!

Myths On Breastfeeding Basics Busted

2011-01-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

For all the new moms-to-be, here is a collection of myths on breastfeeding basics that are broken to reveal the truth.
Myth 1: Breastfeeding Hurts
Wrong! In the beginning, you might feel some discomfort, as you and your baby are learning to co-operate with each other. However, as soon as your baby learns to latch on properly, you should not feel any pain or discomfort during feeding breast milk.
Myth 2: Working Moms Cannot Breastfeed
Working moms can breastfeed! Moreover, the law directs all employers to make provision for a private and comfortable space in the office, so that their employees can pump their milk. In case your workplace is nearby, you have the right to pay a visit to your home to feed your baby. Keep your feeding essentials handy. There are many moms who have continued provide breast milk to their child for more than one year.
Myth 3: Public Breastfeeding Is Impossible
It's possible! With a new range of nursing clothes available at the stores, you can easily feed your baby at a public place. Get a nursing shirt or use a blanket to cover up. Moms who are still struggling with breastfeeding basics may find this a little uncomfortable. However, with a little help and a clear understanding of basics, you can feed in public with confidence.
Myth 5: Breastfeeding Disturbs Mom's Sleep
Well, this might be true, if you are breastfeeding solely. But, as your baby grows, you can substitute one feeding during night with pumped milk of yours. And this time, let your partner feed the pumped milk! Your partner should also be aware of breastfeeding basics, so that he can lend a helping hand. Some moms find it comfortable co-sleeping with their newly born baby. Remember, a newborn will wake up at night whether you breastfeed her or not.
Myth 4: Breastfeeding Makes It Tough To Break With the Baby
What's wrong with that?! Feeding strengthens the bond between you and your baby. And this is priceless! In case you want to have a break for one night, you can pump your milk. This way, you can remain free and, at the same time, your baby receives your milk. Remember; do not avoid feeding, unless advised by your doctor, because it strengthens the immune system of your baby. This will be well worth its reward in the later stages of your child's life

Breastfeeding basics are vital for the mom to know for a smooth breastfeeding process. However, breastfeeding is surrounded with many myths. Do not believe them blindly. You can use breastfeeding help to know the truth.

Breastfeeding Alert - 7 Reasons Giving Bottles of Formula Can Cause Problems with Your Breastfeeding

2011-01-18T21:18:00.000-08:00

The majority of mothers trying to learn how to breastfeed their new babies will feel nervous about their milk supply. This is quite understandable as their breasts are not see-through. It can take days before they are producing milk in larger quantities. Everywhere these mothers turn they will be told that there are specific amounts that a baby should be feeding. Hospital staff, family and friends hover and tell them their baby is "starving". Especially in those early days, they will begin to worry whenever their baby cries and is fussy. Many of these moms will ultimately succumb to the pressure coming at them from all sides and will begin supplementing their feedings with artificial baby milk or formula.

What happens when a mother supplements a breastfeeding baby with formula in a bottle? It can change the course of her breastfeeding for these reasons:

1. It Changes the Mother's Confidence in her Milk Supply. She begins to believe that her body cannot produce what her baby needs.

2. It Changes how the Baby Acts. Formula is a dense, processed food that never changes. Human Milk is a much more easily digested, concentrated milk that packs a punch in small amounts; it may leave her baby not feeling as full.

3. It Can Make the Appetite of her Baby Get Ahead of Her Supply. The only way you get more calories with formula is to go up on the amount being served.

4. It Can Slow Down the Bowel Movements. The consistency of the stools and frequency can change depending upon what the baby is being fed. The amounts of formula taken in relative to the amounts of breastmilk, and the unique digestion of each baby, may alter the patterns. Unfortunately, if the number of stools differ greatly from what is thought to be the normal range, the discrepancy will be blamed on the breastfeeding.

5. It Can Skew the Analysis of Breastfeeding Success. If babies are weighed with formula added to their diet, it will change their rate of weight gain. Doctors begin to focus on the weight and forget that the formula may be unnaturally accelerating the growth patterns.

6. It Can Alter the Quality of Breastfeeding. Babies get used to the delivery system of bottles which is fast and furious. They may become fussy because the breasts deliver smaller amounts of a less dense milk.

7. It Can Cause Premature Weaning. The more the bottle and formula feedings are part of the mix, the sooner the baby will wean. The breasts will not have their milk production optimized. Weaning will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

In the majority of cases, formula is being added too soon and in larger amounts than necessary. Many Pediatricians suggest supplemental bottles of formula without ever fully assessing the quality of the breastfeeding being done. The baby is not viewed in the context of its actual feeding history, but rather the emphasis is too often on weights and measures. Unfortunately, when they suggest this "temporary fix" it has a negative impact upon the breastfeeding behavior of the baby which leaves the mom in a state of perpetual worry about her milk supply.

What can a mother do to prevent this downward spiral?

Knowledge is powerful. A prenatal class should lay the groundwork of understanding that breastfeeding is natural, but a learned skill. Choose a Pediatrician who is supportive of breastfeeding. Be mindful that most will say they are, but the proof is not in what they say, but rather what they do. Seek out help in the hospital, but realize that time constraints and shorter hospital stays lend themselves to formula being offered "just in case". Be suspicious of anyone be it a nurse, doctor or lactation consultant who pushes formula too readily. A little extra breastmilk should always be offered before unlimited amounts of formula.

The emphasis should always be on making direct breastfeeding be fully optimized. Mothers practicing "Conscious Breastfeeding" ensure that their baby is latched-on deeply and feeding well. Focusing on a great latch, they leave nothing to chance. This reduces the likelihood of needing supplementation as the baby will get a steady and increasing amount of milk over time.

Breastfeeding In Denmark

2011-01-17T19:23:00.001-08:00

Denmark is a relatively small Nordic country with 5.5 million habitants. It's a modern country with a high standard of living and a high level of education. Breastfeeding is seen as a necessity to newborns, yet hardly appropriate in public places.

The Danish Board of Health recommends that the infant is fed milk from the mother exclusively from the mother for the first six months. 98% of all new mothers that leave the maternity ward are breastfeeding, while only 60% continue breastfeeding after four months.
Up until 2002 The Danish Board of Health recommended mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding until the child's fourth month. While they have now changed their statement, following the trend of other leading health organizations, many mothers still in their daily lives, feel pressured into feeding their baby pap and porridge long before baby has lived a full six months.

The pressure stems from relatives, friends, misinformed health personnel and even mother-to-mother support groups. Many new mothers believe, that their milk is simply not enough to fill the tiny tummy of their infant, and others fear that a too dependent relationship to their child, will make it difficult if not impossible for them to enjoy other child-free activities. I have witnessed and witness these cultural and attitudes first hand as a new mother, and these opinions can easily be observed in current books in use about breastfeeding, and in internet forums mother-to-mother or health personnel-to-mother Q&A's.

Two bottle feeding mothers spurred a debate in the Danish media recently, when they on their website flaskebarn (bottlechild) for "women who can't, wont or can't cope with breastfeeding", started accusing the leading breastfeeding advocates in Denmark- Videncenter for Amning - for running a "campaign of fear" while encouraging breastfeeding through the Baby Friendly initiative presented by WHO and UNICEF in 1991, and for "pressuring (breastfeeding) mothers to endure long, painful course with starving children, painful breasts and massive stress".

This debate coincides with another debate about whether or not it is appropriate to breastfeed in public places. Many cafés in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, have recently prohibited breastfeeding on their premises, although this is against the law. Breastfeeding mothers often feel intimidated and humiliated and forced to stay at home in order to breastfeed their child appropriately.

A danish web forum - ammenet - for "you who loves breastfeeding", has written an online petition to members of the Danish Parliament to accept and install a law allowing mothers to breastfeed in all places where small children are allowed to be. So far only 2676 individuals have signed the petition.

Is Breastfeeding For You?

2011-01-17T19:22:00.001-08:00

The health benefits that a baby gets from breastfeeding are crucial to a child's development. So the question remains, is breastfeeding for you? Mother's milk contains the most perfect optimal mixture of antibodies and nutrients that a child needs for their growing and developing bodies while enabling it to keep pace with the changing nutritional needs of the child. While formula has come a long way and very nutritional it has yet been able to duplicate or replace what mother's milk gives to the child.

Breastfeeding is natural, it is by far the most nutritional but breastfeeding is also a choice that only a mother can make. There can be many reasons for not choosing to breastfeed you baby, they can range from physically or medically unable to breastfeed to more personal reasons for choosing to not breastfeed. More and more employers are accepting the fact that newly returning to work mothers are needing to take a few minutes to pump milk while at work to save for later use, some even allowing a mother to breastfeed at work when needed. Employers are working with both mothers and fathers so they can schedule their parenting duties around their work schedules. Is Breastfeeding For You? Make sure to check all of your options before you make the decision not to breastfeed.

Premature babies that are breastfeed in particular are finding it more beneficial for their development and overall health. In addition breastfeed babies that are critically ill have the best chance for survival and a healthier life. Breastfeeding is found to protect children against asthma, diabetes, allergies and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Breastfeeding affects every part of a growing babies body from brain development to body growth. Since babies seem to grow in kind of spurts around two weeks of age and six weeks of age and then again around three months of age and six months of age the proper and most beneficial nutrients are crucial for the baby.

For mothers that choose to breastfeed there are positives also, breastfeeding helps quicken the uterus to its normal size. Mothers that breastfeed for 6 months throughout their lifetime have a decreased risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and uterine cancer. It is not true however that breastfeeding will prevent pregnancy. It is best to take other measures to ensure against pregnancy during breastfeeding and while not taking the pill.

Breastfeeding will be or is one of the most important decisions you will make for your baby. It is a very personal selfless act that is made by mother for her child. It is a bonding experience like none other and it is complete nurturing love. So... Is Breastfeeding For You? Breastfeeding is a choice; the first of many you will have to make for your child, if you can I hope you choose to breastfeed. Whatever you decide enjoy every moment, they go by far to quickly.

Breastfeeding Drill Sergeants

2011-01-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

With their good intentions, some breastfeeding advocates have become like a drill sergeants. They begin every conversation lecturing about why everyone should breastfeed and never ever use formula.

Maybe they need to remember their first time as a mother again. Taking care of a brand-new (sometimes colicky) baby, new mothers can be tired from lack of sleep and just need a little encouragement and support. Sometimes this militant "breastfeed-or-else support" backfires and leaves new moms turned off to breastfeeding altogether.

There is a lesson to be learned here. While it is true that breastfeeding advocates don't have the deep pockets that the formula companies have to promote their position, there are many ways to teach and encourage a new mother to breastfeed and still be sensitive to a new mom's emotional needs.

Here are a few tips from Breastfeeding Magazine for experienced breastfeeding mothers and nursing advocates to more effectively spread the word about breastfeeding to new mothers:

1. Encourage and be supportive first. Remember what is was like to be a new mom. What they need most is support, support, support!

2. Be armed with information, but leave it with her. Don't force it. Leave material with the mom and she will look at it later. Too much information can be overwhelming.

3. Early support is good...continued support is better. Check back in. According to a new CDC report, even though seventy -five percent of women breastfeed at birth, only thirty percent are still nursing at three months.

4. Let then make their own informed decision. As long as you have provided the information, support and continued encouragement, don't be discouraged if some mothers stop breastfeeding before you think that they should. This is ultimately their choice to make.

It is honorable to want to let others know that breastfeeding is truly the best way to feed a baby and to inform and encourage other mothers. We just have to learn to spread the message with love and encouragement...because those are the two things that the formula pushers can't compete with.

Stop Breastfeeding Gradually

2011-01-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

Opinions vary throughout the world regarding when to stop breastfeeding. Different cultures and customs fix different times for weaning away the babies from breastfeeding and even different women have their own ideas regarding this matter. WHO advises mothers worldwide to keep on nursing their babies for at least two years but it should really be the decision of the mother and her ability to feed.
Babies Might Resist Weaning
According to experts, some babies would not like to get weaned away from breastfeeding till the age of 7 years but the average age for weaning is between 2 ½ and 7 years. If you attempt to wean the baby against its wishes, it will naturally retaliate as it enjoys the taste of mother's milk and it likes the warmth and emotional closeness of its mother. While drinking breast milk, your baby's blood pressure comes down, its heart rate reduces and its stress level drops. This is good for the baby's health.
Go Slow In Weaning Away Your Baby
There are far too many advantages of breastfeeding than attempting to stop breastfeeding unless you experience some problems that can also be tackled easily. At the end of the day, breast milk provides the much-needed immunity to a baby and until the baby acquires enough immunity towards all sorts of diseases, especially family allergies it is advisable not to stop breastfeeding. Moreover, the low cost of breastfeeding is also a big factor that must be considered. In any case, it is advisable to wean off your baby gradually. Slow weaning will also enable you to look out for any indications of allergic reactions to formula milk and it will enable you to avoid engorgement of the breasts.
How To Start Weaning Away Your Baby
The best way is to start slowly and give one formula feed either in the day or in the night and if you find that there is no reaction either to the baby or to your breasts, you can replace another nursing in a few days and so on. In the process of weaning, you should take care of your breasts, wear a supportive bra, and use ice packs to reduce swelling or engorgement of the breasts. You should allow your breasts to remain full and as such, you should express only the necessary amount of milk so that the suppressor peptides in the milk will act as inhibitors of further milk production. Drinking three cups of sage tea a day for three weeks will also inhibit milk supply.
You should watch the reactions of your baby when you start feeding formula milk exclusively and in the meantime, you should keep on expressing your milk. The common reactions of a baby who can't get used to formula milk are: spitting, vomiting, gas, crying sessions, rash on the body, redness on rectum, watery stools, wheezing and runny nose.
Although the breasts might feel full for a few days after full weaning, you need not be worried and some experts suggest that you should start taking birth control pills, which will reduce the milk supply and help to stop breastfeeding. However, please consult your doctor or lactation consultant before taking such pills.
Irrespective of what you do to stop breastfeeding, it is important to go slowly and gradually wean away your baby from your milk.

How to stop breastfeeding and the time to wean your baby away from breast milk is one question which most of the breastfeeding mothers ask. Visit the free online resource Breastfeeding for more information on this and other issues such as, cost of breastfeeding, tips to increase breast milk supply, engorgement, use of birth control pills and much more.

Healthy Breastfeeding Diet - Some Useful Hints

2011-01-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

The quality of breastfeeding that a nursing mother provides to her infant depends upon her breastfeeding diet. If she takes nutritious diet, she will be able to maintain her own health and the health of her baby through the breast milk that she would be feeding it. In order to produce the right amount of milk with at least 330 milligrams of calcium for every quart of milk, she would need a minimum of 500 extra calories intake every day. As such it is important that she strengthens her breastfeeding diet suitably so that the nutritional requirements of the baby are properly met.
Why Breastfeeding Diet Needs To Be Doubly Nutritious
The nutritional needs of a nursing mother are very high when she starts feeding her baby as apart from the amount of breast milk required by the baby, the mother's own needs too need to be taken care of. If the mother does not take sufficient nutrition during this period, the body will strive to keep up the milk production but at the cost of the health of the mother. The breastfeeding diet must, therefore, necessarily incorporate sufficient amounts of balanced food. Even during pregnancy, the fetus needs most of the nutrition before the mother can get the balance and after birth, the baby needs nearly 1000 calories from breast milk every day. This is the main reason why breastfeeding diet must have sufficient nutrition both for the mother and the baby.
Useful Tips For Nursing Mothers
A nursing mother must have a healthy diet that should include an optimum amount of water which should be about 2.5 to 3 quarts per day. Although mothers need more water to cater to the production of milk, they should not drink excessive amounts of it as this can actually bring down the milk production.
Breastfeeding diet should be able to provide at least 2,500 calories to the mother and if the period of breastfeeding is expected to be more than three months, the intake of calories should be at least 2,800. It's essential that the mother take 1 gram protein daily for each pound that she weighs.
The caloric intake of the nursing mother should be spread over equally throughout the day in the form of five meals. She should keep on drinking water and take pieces of fruits and a low-fat diary diet. This will ensure a constant production of milk.
If the breastfeeding mother is on birth control pills, she should take diet supplements that are rich in Vitamins B 9 and B 6 as the pills induce deficiencies of these vitamins. Moreover, nursing mothers need to take folic acid, which is essential for the baby's proper growth and development. Cabbage, spinach, corn, asparagus and chick-peas are rich sources of folic acid.
What Nursing Mothers Should Not Do
Smoking and consumption of alcohol are not advisable for mothers who are breastfeeding their babies. Nicotine and alcohol are both harmful to the baby, more so if the mother consumes them just before the feeding session. Moreover, medication, especially antibiotics, laxatives and medicines with iodine components, should only be taken if recommended by the doctor. Mothers should also avoid insecticides and pesticide residues that are present in aerosols or coils. Unsaturated fats are ideal for her and for the baby.
Each mother can devise her own breastfeeding diet that will give her the necessary nutrition and calories and keep both mother and baby healthy.
These are some general diet tips for breastfeeding mothers. For specific diet plan and detailed instructions, contact your doctor or lactation consultant.

Breastfeeding diet is one of the important rather it’s the most important aspects that the mother should be careful while breastfeeding. The nursing mother should maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to make sure that the breast milk takes care of all the nutritional requirements of the baby. Breastfeeding Tips provides answers to your breastfeeding questions besides providing valuable information related to all aspects of pregnancy and related subjects.

Breastfeeding - Health Benefits for the Baby and the Mother

2011-01-15T19:18:00.000-08:00

Breastfeeding is now accepted in our communities. The problem remains that most women who intend to breastfeed will give-up in the first six months. There are tangible measures we can take to help and support breastfeeding mothers.

Breastfeeding would be made easier for new mothers if there were more private areas where they could nurse their baby. Support groups and forums devoted to breastfeeding mothers have proven to encourage mothers to nurse longer.

More clinics solely devoted to breastfeeding mothers and their babies are needed countrywide.

Most women are convinced of the benefits of nursing their babies, they just give-up when faced with challenges they are not prepared or equipped to deal with. Among the many benefits for the baby to be nursed, there are: Breastfed babies are less sick, have fewer ear and pulmonary infections and are less hospitalized.

One of the greatest benefits of breastfeeding is the special bond it provides both the mother and the baby.

Breastfed babies have fewer allergies and are less prone to the dreaded sudden infant death syndrome. On the overall, breast milk provides the baby with the proper nutrients to its developing brain and is easily digested. It needs no preparation and is very economical.

For the nursing mother, there are also health benefits such as lowering their risk of post-partum hemorrhages, fewer risk of developing breast cancer later on in life and some types of ovarian cancers.

Our society needs to take tangible actions to facilitate breastfeeding and improve the long term persistence. Fathers can play a crucial role in supporting the breastfeeding mother by taking over the other tasks like preparing meals, changing the baby's diaper or giving the baby a bath, etc

A long term plan is well needed is governments really want to help new mothers continue breastfeeding for longer periods and diminish the important drop rate after a few months.

Support groups and complete information web sites on breastfeeding and solutions to the usual problem encountered by breastfeeding mothers are a must. Such information as what to do if baby seams not satisfied? How to deal with sensible skin in the first few weeks of breastfeeding? The proper positions while breastfeeding, etc would be of great help to nursing mothers.

The overall benefits of breastfeeding are tremendous for the baby and the mother. By encouraging and supporting breastfeeding mothers, society would insure a healthier and happier generation of developing babies.

Why You Should Wear a Nursing Bra When Breastfeeding

2011-01-14T19:17:00.000-08:00

There is no reason to wear a nursing bra, or any other type of bra for that matter. So, if you're happy not wearing one then go right ahead. But most women feel more comfortable wearing a bra and when breastfeeding, wearing the correct nursing is a definite must.

But why wear a nursing bra when breastfeeding? Won't a normal bra do instead? Well, the answer to that is, if you feel okay wearing a normal bra whilst breastfeeding, then it's probably okay too. However, a regular bra is not designed for breastfeeding whereas nursing bras are, and it makes sense to have a few nursing bras, whilst you're breastfeeding your baby.

Whatever nursing bra you buy, it is important that the bra fits correctly and is easy to use. A bra that doesn't fit correctly can block your milk ducts and cause milk production to decrease. Also, plugged milk ducts can become infected, leading to mastitis, so be sure that the nursing bra is right for you; all woman are different and therefore, what might be a good nursing bra for some, may not be the right nursing bra for others.

If possible, it is best to avoid under wire nursing bras, especially in the early postpartum weeks. However some women, especially those with plus size cups, prefer under wire nursing bras as they feel they get more support and avoid backache. If you do choose under wire, then it is vital that it fits correctly. The Medela Extended Size Classic bra comes in an under wire design and is a very good bra for the fuller figured woman. Playtex also make a good under wire nursing bra; the Fancy Me Underwire Lace Bra. Today, there are many excellent plus size nursing bras that give the required support without under wire. The Bravado Supreme Nursing bra is especially designed for the fuller-breasted woman; the bra also has a delicately embossed fabric, which is strong yet silky to the touch - clothing glides over it making breastfeeding very easy.

A good nursing bra makes breastfeeding easy. A nursing bra is designed to open at each cup. A good nursing bra should open at the cup but still provide plenty of support for the breast, making breastfeeding easier. Make sure you buy a nursing bra that you can open with one hand; you should also be able to close it one-handed as well. Most brands come with plastic clips - such as Medela and Elle Macpherson, or eye and hook - such the Goddess and Bravado maternity bras. Being able to open a nursing bra easily is important for discreet breastfeeding in public, so be sure to buy one that allows easy access and easy closing.

Another reason why you should use a nursing bra is because you'll almost certainly want to insert breast pads from time to time, especially when out and about and don't want to be seen with leaking breasts. All good makes of nursing bras come with cups especially designed to allow discrete insertion of breast pads.

When breastfeeding, the shape of a woman's breasts change over time; in fact the shape of the breasts change throughout the day. Nursing bras are very adjustable. Most good makes of nursing bras, such as Medela, Bravado, Playtex etc. are designed to allow adjustment at the strap and also at the cup.

As well as providing support and making breastfeeding easier, a nursing bra can also give a woman great confidence. As stated already, breastfeeding in public places is easier if the bra is easy to use. Today's nursing bras are also very stylish and make many women feel confident about the way the look and feel. If you can afford it, it is worth investing in one stylish nursing bra, such as the Elle Macpherson Maternelle Nursing Bra; just for those special occasions.

Finally, there is no such thing as the best nursing bra. Buy the bra that gives you the best support, is easy for you to use and gives you the greatest confidence.

Tips On How To Stop Breastfeeding

2011-01-14T19:16:00.000-08:00

Sooner or later breastfeeding must come to an end. But what if your baby simply refuses to stop breastfeeding? Many mothers face this problem but a few simple tips can help ease the pain of weaning for both mother and child.

For many mother and their children stopping breastfeeding occurs naturally. The baby starts taking an interest in the food being eaten by others around her and begins to eat solid foods for herself. As the baby eats more solids, the less she wants her mother's breastmilk. However some children simply refuse to voluntarily stop breastfeeding and many mothers can become upset, tired and at their wits-end as to how to stop breastfeeding altogether. If you're having problems stopping breastfeeding, then the following tips may be of help.

Avoid going cold turkey. This is usually very upsetting for the child, which in turn causes tantrums. Instead it is better to reduce the number of breastfeeds during the day, perhaps replacing the feed with a bottle or cup of mother's expressed milk. This gradual reduction of time spent sucking at the breast will ease the child sense of loss or discomfort, especially if bottle fed with her mother's breast milk. Eventually, breastmilk could be replaced with formula.

Many children cry when they wake up in the middle of the night. Usually it is the mother who tries to sooth the baby back to sleep. Unfortunately, this soothing process can mean breastfeeding the child. It might be better if the baby's father, or some other person, who the child feels secure with, takes care of her. Many mothers will instinctively go to their child if the child is crying, so it might also be a good idea to try to stay out of earshot. The child may take quite some time with this new regime but perseverance is the key. Eventually, when the child has been weaned off these nighttime feeds, the mother can go back to settling the back at night.

With an older child - who is able to talk and understand what is being said - you could begin by putting limits on where and when you breastfeed. Tell her, "We only breastfeed in at naptime and bedtime" or "We only breastfeed when it is dark outside".
When you are ready to stop entirely, you could simply tell her, "You are a big girl now, and big girls don't breastfeed". It is important to remember that with children of this age, the emotional stress caused by stopping breastfeeding can be great. Therefore replace the lack of breastfeeding with more cuddles; replace her emotional dependency on breastfeeding with other physical comforts.

It is also important to take care of your breasts during this time. Any distress or pain felt by the mother will be picked up by the child who will then also feel upset, thus aggravating an already delicate situation. By gradual reduction of breastfeeding you should help ease engorgement of your breasts. Your milk supply should gradually decrease. If it doesn't and your breasts feel uncomfortable, then express your breastmilk- this can be given to your baby in either bottle or cup. Cabbage leaves are known to help reduce engorgement. Crush the cabbage leaves with a rolling pin if the leaves do not accommodate to the shape of your breast. Wrap the cabbage leaves around the breast and leave on for about 20 minutes. Twice daily is enough. It is usual to use the cabbage leaf treatment two or three times or less. You can use the cabbage leaves after each feeding and leave them on until they wilt.

Breastfeeding - Helpful Tips

2011-01-13T00:03:00.002-08:00

Benefits

Breastfeeding has many benefits for your baby. If your baby can be breast-fed for at least 6 months then the risk of allergies, such as eczema, are reduced, ear infections and stomach upsets are also reduced. Mother's milk seems to boost your baby's immune system generally.

How does breast milk do this?

Well breast-milk, unlike formula milk, contains antibodies designed to prevent an immature immune system from becoming overwhelmed with the foreign proteins that challenge it. Research has shown that exclusive breastfeeding for six months is associated with a reduced incidence of allergy and reduced risk of gastro-intestinal illness, respiratory illness, ear infections, diabetes, obesity and respiratory wheeze. So there are lots of benefits for your baby if you breast-feed.

According to the NCT nine out of ten mothers did not know that breastfeeding for just one month has a lasting impact on health during the first 14 years of a baby's life. All the authoritative expert bodies that advise on parenting are still right behind the message they've always endorsed: breastfeeding is definitely still the best. The longer the breastfeeding continues, the greater the health gains for both mother and baby.

Benefits for mums too?

Mothers are encouraged to breast-feed, though some women find that it can be embarrassing to do so in public places. Embarrassment aside there are benefits to mothers as well. Breastfeeding can lead to a more rapid return to your pre-pregnancy weight and also reduces the risk to mothers of pre-menopausal breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

For some people breastfeeding can be a painful and upsetting experience.

Breastfeeding is a skill that both mothers and babies have to learn and it's not always easy to pick up. In fact, many women stop breastfeeding before they intended because it proves too difficult or because they are worried that their baby is not getting enough milk. New mums, in particular, can struggle with breastfeeding if they are not given the help and support they need.

The following are some of the common problems in breastfeeding and suggestions of how to help:

Painful breasts

There are three main causes of painful breasts.

1. A blocked milk tube can cause swelling and acute pain of the breast. It usually feels like a bruised lump and a red streak may radiate out from it.

2. Mastitis, an infection in the breast which causes pain and is usually accompanied by a fever and acute tenderness and redness of the breast. The infected breast may become hard, lumpy and swollen.

3. An oversupply of milk engorges the breast and usually causes some pain.

What can help these problems?

1. Blocked tube - If you have a blocked tube continue nursing as stopping can increase the discomfort and endanger the milk supply. Go carefully though and nurse or pump every hour - just enough to empty the breast. Get plenty of rest and the blockage will usually clear within a few hours or overnight.

2. Mastitis - Breast infections are almost always a sign of too little rest. It is important to nurse often, keeping the breasts empty to promote prompt healing. The infection itself will not make your baby sick. Take Echinacea to clear the infection.

3. Oversupply of milk - Drink sage tea. Sage is an anti-galactagogue which means that it decreases the supply of milk.

Sore nipples

The most common cause of sore nipples is of course from your baby tugging at the nipple.

If however your nipples are persistently or suddenly sore you might have a thrush infection. Other symptoms of thrush are pink, flaky skin and itchy nipples. Stopping breast-feeding will not help the infection or sore nipples, in fact they are more likely to be helped by frequent nursing.

What helps?

Try not to wear a bra day and night. Wear your nursing bra with flaps down whenever possible - expose your breasts to the air, this helps.

Rub sweet almond oil or lanolin into the nipples during the latter part of the pregnancy and the first few weeks of breastfeeding.

Also rubbing calendula cream on the nipple will soothe and heal, just be sure to wipe off before breastfeeding. Pure vitamin E oil applied after nursing is very helpful - use pure Vitamin E. Avoid washing your nipples in soap as soap removes natural oils and can cause cracking.

Eat healthily. Remember whatever you are eating and drinking will have an immediate effect on your milk and therefore your baby.

Feed often so your baby doesn't get hungry and tear at the breast.

Relax! Soothing music played while you are breastfeeding will relax both yourself and your baby. By relaxing the flow of milk is better and obviously if your baby is calm rather than stressed the whole process is going to be gentler.

The right position

When your baby is feeding make sure that the entire areola (dark area) is in your baby's mouth and that the nipple is centred. Hold your baby in such a position that his or her nose is roughly opposite your nipple, before the feed begins. If you support your baby across the shoulders with your forearm or the heel of your hand, so that his/her head is free to extend backwards slightly then your baby can approach the underside of the breast, rather than coming straight at it.

You want your baby to open as wide as possible - try not to push the breast into your baby's mouth, it needs to be the other way around. Your baby's mouth will widen as it brushes the breast, just make sure that the lower lip is latched around the aerola. You might need to support your breast slightly, so that the position remains the same.

How will you know when it's right?

Your baby's sucking changes to a longer, slower, more rhythmic pattern with lots of long pauses. He or she may even doze off sometimes. Your baby will be relaxed throughout the feed and remain so for some minutes afterwards. You can be lying down as well as sitting for this process. A feed should not last more than 40 minutes at a time.

Losing Weight While Breastfeeding Is Possible!

2011-01-13T00:03:00.000-08:00

If you've just had a baby and you're thinking about losing weight while breastfeeding, there are definitely some things you need to consider first. The good news is that losing weight while breastfeeding is possible and safe! The keys to losing weight while breastfeeding are moderation and patience. There are tons of resources available on the internet related to this topic, and there are just as many new mothers with the same goals and same difficulties as you. Find a forum and you'll be sure to run into more than a few people just like you!

For many women, losing weight while breastfeeding will come naturally. It's natural to put on weight during pregnancy and it's natural to lose it after. Breastfeeding burns calories, and if your diet does not exceed the amount of calories you need to maintain your current weight, the calories you burn while breastfeeding will naturally cause you to lose weight over time. You can burn about 20 calories per oz. of milk you produce and can burn about 500 calories a day feeding your baby! A pound of fat is 3500 calories, making losing a pound a week while breastfeeding perfectly possible without even trying!

Can you lose more? Yes, but not much. It is perfectly safe (and very healthy) to exercise after your pregnancy. This will not only get you back in shape and keep your mood positive, if you get creative you can find great ways to involve both you and your new baby. Exercising doesn't have to be in the gym with weights and a stationary cycle. Losing weight while breastfeeding doesn't have to be a cumbersome task. Have fun! Try going for a walk. Play with the dog or your kids (if you have more than one). Do housework to music and make it fun instead of a chore. There are lots of ways to get out or get moving without stepping foot into a gym. If you are going to more intense exercise, do so after feeding your baby so your breasts are not so full, and shower afterwards because the salt in our sweat has been known to turn some babies off.

However, intensely losing weight while breastfeeding is not a good idea. Toxins that we consume can be stored in fat, and released into the milk you produce if too much fat is broken down in a short period of time. This is unhealthy for your baby. Remember that if you're losing weight while breastfeeding you're going to have to balance a few different goals at once. Sure, you want to lose weight and cutting calories and doing fat burning exercise is the best way to do that. But, you also want to keep in mind that you're going to be tired. Taking care of a new baby is not an easy job, and exercise may take a back seat to pigging out on your favourite comfort foods. You're going to need to eat enough to keep a positive attitude and a healthy body, for you and for your baby. Although the quality of food has been proven to not affect the quality of milk you produce, it can easily affect how you feel and thus you and your babies relationship. This doesn't mean however that you have to give in to every craving. A balanced diet (with a few treats!) combined with light exercise can ensure that you'll be shedding a few pounds over the next few months.

Remember that losing weight while breastfeeding you just need a bit of moderation and patience. If this is something you're still unclear on as far as what you can and can't do or what is safe for your and your baby there are many experts and diet programs about losing weight while breastfeeding available on the internet. They're just a few clicks away. Compare sites, articles, and opinions and take action!

Breastfeeding Techniques - Get Started the Right Way

2011-01-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

How and when do you get started for ultimate breastfeeding success? There are a few breastfeeding techniques that can help you and your baby set the foundation for a positive breastfeeding experience.

When do you start?

The optimal time to start breastfeeding is immediately after birth. Newborns have a period of time after delivery when they are alert and eager to nurse. This is when their sucking reflex is the greatest, so it is the easiest time to get your baby to latch on and begin the nursing process. After the initial wakeful period, your baby will be very sleepy for the next 12 to 24 hours, during which time it will be more difficult to rouse him and get a successful latch.

In the beginning, skin-to-skin nursing is a wonderful way to bond with your baby while providing some great benefits. Request to hold your baby for a few minutes, skin-to-skin, immediately after delivery. This enforces the first bond between mom and baby. Studies also show that immediate skin-to-skin contact helps regulate baby's temperature and helps baby attain a more stable heart rate and breathing rate. Then after the baby has been evaluated and cleaned, you can nurse for the first time. Babies who are placed skin to skin to nurse immediately after birth are more likely to latch on properly, which is absolutely crucial to breastfeeding success. The successful latch will help baby get more milk and prevent soreness for you.

Breastfeeding Techniques for the Critical First Week

The first week after baby is born is a critical time for success at breastfeeding. By following a few simple tips, this initial time can go more smoothly and help set the stage for a great breastfeeding experience.

During the first few days you may only produce colostrum - a thick, sticky, yellow-ish liquid - in a small amount, but this is exactly what your baby needs, so be persistent about nursing without worrying that your baby is not getting enough. Colostrum is the perfect first food for your baby. It is high in nutrients, low in fat, and very easy for baby to digest. It works as a laxative for your baby, helping her pass the early stools that aid in expelling bilirubin to help prevent jaundice.

During the first week after you and baby go home, get as much help as you can with household duties, other children, and the baby since fatigue can make it more difficult to get breastfeeding established. If you can remain as well rested as possible, you will have more of the energy and patience required to help your baby nurse properly.

Set up a relaxing place to nurse your baby. A comfortable chair is essential and a footrest will help. Use something to support baby's weight while you are nursing - a nursing pillow is a great option, but regular pillows and throw pillows will also do the trick. If your baby is easily over-stimulated, try choosing a quiet, dim corner of a room away from distractions. Playing soft music may help you and baby both relax. A relaxed baby will latch on easier and if you are relaxed your milk will let down quicker.

If baby isn't already awake and hungry when it is time to feed, rouse him by changing is diaper, unwrapping him if he is swaddled, or by changing his clothes. Once baby is awake, bring him to your breast to latch on. Newborns may want to nurse often when they are awake - as often as every hour or two - but should not be allowed to go more than three hours between feedings. After the first week, your baby should be allowed to nurse on demand, which is typically every one to three hours.

While there are many other breastfeeding techniques that can assist you along the way, hopefully these few simple tips will help guide you through the often difficult first stages of breastfeeding and provide a good foundation for the nursing journey.

Breastfeeding Survival Tips - How to Overcome Breastfeeding Problems

2011-01-13T00:00:00.001-08:00

As a new mom, one of the first decisions you will have to make is whether to bottle- or breast-feed your new baby. As most people are aware, there are many benefits to breastfeeding. One benefit is that breast milk naturally contains the right nutrients and balance thereof. In addition, there are antibodies in breast milk that can help strengthen your baby's immune system. It is also easier for babies to digest than bottle formula. Another advantage to breastfeeding is that it can help new moms shed the weight they gained during pregnancy. Despite these benefits, you may have some apprehensions about breastfeeding because of the problems new moms may face during their breastfeeding trials. These breastfeeding survival tips can help assuage your fears.

The first of the breastfeeding survival tips is a really important one. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Not knowing how to breastfeed properly does not make you a bad mother or less of a mother, and nobody will judge you if you ask for help. Like diaper changing, it is something that you will need to learn and become adjusted to. Maternity nurses and doctors are there to guide you during the lactation process. The hospital may even have a lactation consultant who can assist you with this.

To make the process easier, you may want to make yourself feel more comfortable before you start breastfeeding by supporting yourself with several pillows. Then cradle your baby close to your chest, supporting your baby's head with one hand and your breast with the other. Tickle the baby's lower lip with your nipple so the baby will open his or her mouth and latch onto the dark area of your breast. When separating the baby from your breast, release the suction first by placing your finger in the corner of the baby's mouth. With these breastfeeding survival tips, the lactation process will hopefully feel more natural to you.

Breastfeeding might at first be painful. This may happen in the first couple of weeks, but the pain should subside as you adjust to breastfeeding. If it does not, then you should consult your doctor as your baby may not be latching on correctly. If you experience dryness or cracking of the nipples, applying lanolin to the area should help. Also, you should buy some breast pads to catch the milk because there might be some leaking in the first few weeks. Hopefully, these and other breastfeeding survival tips will help you overcome breastfeeding problems and help you survive breastfeeding.

Health Professionals Agree That Breast is Best - Here's What You Need to Know About Breastfeeding

2011-01-12T23:58:00.000-08:00

The World Health Organization (WHO), Health Canada, the Canadian Pediatric Society and Dietitians of Canada all recommend exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first six months of life. Exclusive breastfeeding means feeding an infant only human breast milk, without giving her water, formula, other liquids or solid foods in that time period.

But a 2003 Canadian Community Health Survey found that although approximately 85 per cent of mothers tried breastfeeding their babies, 27 per cent stopped after the first months and only 47 per cent were still breastfeeding after six months. On top of that, only half of that 47 per cent breastfed exclusively for six months.

"Breast is best"
Health professionals agree that breastfeeding is the optimal way to feed an infant. Breast milk is designed specifically for human babies. It contains the right amount of nutrients, in the right proportion, giving a baby everything he needs to not only survive but thrive. (The Canadian Pediatric Society, however, recommends giving breastfed babies a vitamin D supplement.)

Breast milk is easy for babies to digest, and it delivers important antibodies to help protect babies from infection. It's also specific to the changing needs of each baby. Not only does the nutrient content in breast milk change as the baby grows, it even changes throughout a feed. The milk at the beginning of a feed can be different from the end of the feed, and it can also change according to the time of day, the weather outside, and if the baby is getting sick.

Breastfed babies have fewer colds, fewer ear conditions and less diarrhea, and breast milk can help prevent allergies and asthma. That's not to say a breastfed baby won't get allergies, but breastfeeding can lessen their severity. It has also been found to reduce the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and some new studies even suggest it may help prevent heart disease and obesity when that breastfed infant reaches adulthood.

Breastfeeding can strengthen a baby's mouth and jaw muscles. With breastfeeding, it's an active mouthing or milking of the breast, so many, many more structures of baby's mouth are involved.

There are health benefits for mom as well. Breastfeeding can decrease the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis. It also burns an extra 500 to 600 calories per day, which could help mom kick-start that post-pregnancy weight loss. But beware thinking breastfeeding is going to turn you into a size one. If you're the kind of person that has always struggled with weight, you're not going to be suddenly skinny just because you're breastfeeding.

There is virtually no preparation time involved in breastfeeding, since a mother's body produces milk for the baby on demand. It is also low-cost, with no bottles, liners, nipples and formula to buy.

And there is no risk of overfeeding a breastfed baby. Newborn babies have stomachs the size of a cooked chickpea, and by the time they are a week old, it's only about the size of a cherry. That tiny tummy is easy to fill, and a breastfed baby will turn away from the breast as soon as she has had enough. Once that happens, it's pretty tough to force a baby back on the breast for more.

Breastfeeding blues
But all these benefits don't mean it's easy. There are some circumstances where mom or baby might not be able to breastfeed. Mothers with HIV, drug addicts and women on certain types of medication, particularly those for cancer treatment, would be ill-advised to breastfeed for risk of passing the virus, drugs or medication to the baby through the breast milk. Also, mothers who have had a breast reduction may find it more difficult to produce the amount of milk required.

Sometimes mothers of extremely premature babies are unable to produce enough milk. The baby might not have the proper suck reflex, and the mother might not be able to pump enough to establish a full milk supply. Similarly, babies born with a cleft lip and palate or who are "tongue-tied" (the connecting membrane that supports the tongue is too short) might have trouble with breastfeeding while they await surgery to rectify the condition. However, many of these children are still able to breastfeed, and mothers have the option of pumping milk until the situation is rectified.

Breastfeeding can be tough on new moms. If the baby isn't latched properly, it can cause sore, cracked or bleeding nipples, and, in some cases, mastitis, which is a breast infection.

Breastfeeding also means that mom is the only one who can feed the baby. Breastfed babies eat approximately every two hours, although this can vary greatly from baby to baby. Given the size of their tiny tummies, some babies may need to be fed even more often. When mothers breastfeed, they can't pass any of those frequent feeding duties off to dad or grandma.

Tips on Breastfeeding

2011-01-11T20:17:00.001-08:00

When I learned that I was pregnant, I knew I wanted to breastfeed my baby and I am very blessed that I did, can and still am! My daughter is almost two years old, she is thriving and yes, I'm still breastfeeding!

I have compiled some tips on breastfeeding that I have learned along 'our breastfeeding relationship'. I say, 'our' breastfeeding relationship because it is a relationship between you and your baby...BOTH parties need to be comfortable with the situation!

Luckily, being only two hours old and in the NICU, my daughter latched right on and we haven't looked back since. I really didn't know what I was doing, initially, but WE figured it out!

In my opinion, breastfeeding is the single best thing you can do for your baby. I am not a LC, Lactation Consultant or an RN, Registered Nurse, but I am a successful breastfeeding mom and proud of it!

In fact, the WHO, World Health Organization recommends you exclusively breastfeed your baby up to 6 months old, then compliment with solid food after that for at least two years of age.

The benefits of breastfeeding your baby will also last a lifetime!

Listed below are "some' of the tips that I have encountered during our breastfeeding journey:

1. The Latch! This, I believe, is one of the most important skills to master to become successful with breastfeeding and reduce the stress. If you have a 'good' latch, your baby will receive the right amount of milk and your body will continue to produce milk on an as needed basis. If you do not have a 'good' latch, your baby may not be getting quite enough milk, you may have pain, your baby may get frustrated as well as yourself and your body may not produce enough milk to fulfill your baby's needs.
** An empty breast will produce more milk than a breast that has not been emptied! **

2. Position. Good position for yourself and your baby will also account for your reduced stress level. Both of you need to be comfortable or you may find yourself in an uncomfortable position trying to get your baby to latch on...thus, creating a stressful situation.

3. Decrease stimulus. Your baby may be too distracted by touch, noise or movement. You need to tune in to what works for you and your baby. Some babies don't like the back of their head touched while breastfeeding, some don't like a lot of background noise and some may want to be still while breastfeeding. Finding out what works for you and your baby will help reduce the stress level.

There are 'many' more tips on breastfeeding available to you.

Why Some Moms Give Up on Breastfeeding

2011-01-11T20:16:00.001-08:00

Do you feel that you would love to breastfeed, but also feel really inadequate and as if you are doing something wrong? Here are some of the biggest reasons why some moms give up on breastfeeding...

1. Moms think they can't breastfeed. May moms feel inadequate. So many moms out there think that they are not capable of breastfeeding; most of them assume that they have a low milk supply.

2. Moms are not educated about breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is natural, but the process of breastfeeding doesn't always come naturally. You need to educate yourself before you breastfeed...read and read some more! It will really be worth it.

3. Lack of breastfeeding support. You need to surround yourself with individuals who are like minded and that support breastfeeding. Also it is always nice to have someone around who can help with a few things around the house.

4. Moms supplement with formula. The first few weeks are crucial for developing a good milk supply. When you supplement with formula you taking away that stimulation on the breast that is needed for milk production since milk supply works on a supply demand basis.

5. Mom thinks she can pump her breast milk instead of breastfeed. Some moms might think they are producing too little and try pumping to see how much is coming out. A breast pump can never extract milk like your baby and should never be used to estimate how much milk you are producing. Also a breast pump can never stimulate your breast like baby and therefore your milk supply will decrease if you replace normal breastfeeding with pumping.

6. Moms feel uncomfortable. Breastfeeding is a learnt skill, as time goes by it becomes easier and easier so don't expect it to be comfy the first few times. Try all the different breastfeeding positions like holding baby on your side (football hold breastfeeding position) or keep baby in an upright position on your knee (Australian breastfeeding hold)

7. Baby has some sucking problems that go undetected. Your baby might not be latching on properly and this can cause allot of frustration. You should get your baby checked out for things like tongue tie, tongue thrust etc.

8. Mom has terrible nipple pain. In the beginning some nipple sensitivity is normal but if it continues it can sometimes cause mom to stop breastfeeding. Nipple pain is usually connected to a bad latch. Mom should try get her nipple and part of her areola into baby's mouth so that your nipple is against his soft pallet. A shallow latch is when baby has your nipple on he's hard pallet which will definitely cause pain during breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a Commitment - 9 Wonderful Benefits of Choosing Breastfeeding

2011-01-11T20:15:00.001-08:00

Here are a few of the wonderful benefits of breastfeeding for your baby ... and You!

Breastfeeding is Eco-Friendly - Protects the Environment: Breastfeeding saves food resources, fuel, and energy - no chemicals or packaging required! It comes in attractive containers and the cat can't get it.

Breastfeeding can Save on Orthodontic Bills: The sucking motion/action, which is different to that of a bottle nipple, enhances mandible and facial development.

Breastfeeding usually Delays the Return of Menstruation after Childbirth: Meaning less discomfort, reduced expense of buying sanitary products, and the absence of premenstrual mood swings - for a while, at least.

Breastfeeding is like a Daily Vaccination: Breast milk is a living fluid containing healthy bacteria, antibodies, white blood cells, anti-microbials, and cell wall protectors. It also contains proteins that offer protection against bacteria and viruses. Proteins contain essential amino acids that assist in the repair and regeneration of tissues.

Breastfeeding Helps you Lose Fat Stored during Pregnancy more Quickly: Which means that you will regain your pre-pregnancy shape more quickly without stringent diets. Breastfeeding is also related to a reduced incidence of obesity later in life, and conveys protection against Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, ovarian cancer, and pre-menopausal breast cancer.

Breastfeeding Your Baby Girl: You can reduce her risk of developing breast cancer later in life by 25 percent. Since breastfeeding also lowers your own risk of breast cancer, you could be saving TWO lives!

Breastfeeding Your Baby For More Than Six Months: Children contract one-third the number of inner ear infections in the first three years of life than formula fed babies, the incidence of allergies is reduced sevenfold, and infants are also protected against bacterial meningitis in their first five years.

Breastfeeding Can Reduce the Risks of Serious Disorders: Such as insulin-dependent diabetes, childhood lymphoma, multiple sclerosis, and chronic liver diseases.

Breastfeeding is Good for Postpartum Recovery, Too: Hormones released while breastfeeding (prolactin and oxytocin) cause your uterus to contract and involute so it can return to pre-pregnancy size, which means you will also experience less postpartum bleeding/lochial flow.

Moms and Moms-To-Be ~ Give yourself a gigantic pat on the back if you have made the commitment to breastfeed!

Managing Sore Nipples From Breastfeeding

2011-01-11T20:13:00.000-08:00

There are a number of reasons for developing sore nipples during breastfeeding and each can be easily managed and treated. However, before treating the pain, it is important to determine the cause of the soreness and to treat the root of the problem first or the soreness will keep recurring.

Here are some reasons why your nipples might be sore from breastfeeding and what you can do about it. It is important to note that many of these reasons can overlap, for instance having a cracked nipple and a blocked duct at the same time.

1. When your baby hasn't latched on properly.

When you're new to breastfeeding, it can be difficult to tell what a proper latch should be like. To top it off, there are many other factors that can compound the problem, such as short nipples, inverted nipples, breast engorgement, etc.

The best thing you can do to identify whether your baby has correctly latched on is to check with a lactation consultant, a hospital nurse or another mother who is experienced in breastfeeding. Ask for advice and get them to check your technique when your baby is nursing.

One way to tell if your baby has a proper latch is to look and see how much of the areolar (the dark-skin area of your breast) is covered by your baby's mouth. Ideally, it should be most of the areolar, leaving only a thin ring of darkened skin visible. Another way (although I didn't find this particularly useful for me) is to check the shape of your nipple after a feed. It should still be relatively rounded after your baby comes off. A flattened nipple is potentially a sign of an incorrect latch.

To ensure your baby gets a correct latch on your breast, make sure that your baby's mouth is open wide with the tongue down before putting your baby on the breast. If the latch is incorrect, break the seal and try again. It is important to make sure your baby learns to latch on correctly because an incorrect latch will be the source of continued nipple soreness.

2. Cracked nipple

This is usually an indication of poor breastfeeding technique. In most cases, your baby isn't taking in enough of the areolar and is only suckling on the nipple. Sometimes it might be due to unusual anatomy within your baby's mouth, for instance a tied tongue. Getting someone experienced in breastfeeding to check will help you determine the exact cause if you aren't sure.

The first step is to correct the source of the problem, for instance, correcting your breastfeeding technique. To help your cracked nipples heal faster, applying a little breast milk onto the nipples after every feed can be helpful. Alternatively, you can apply a breastfeeding ointment like Bepanthen which promotes healing.

If nursing is too uncomfortable, try expressing the milk from the affected side until it heals sufficiently. You can also try nursing on the unaffected side first before switching your baby to the affected side as your baby usually suckles less vigorously on the second breast which shouldn't hurt as much.

Another option is to use nipple shields. These are plastic coverings that cover your nipples and provides a barrier against the friction of baby's tongue on raw nipples.

3. Blocked duct

This is usually due to your baby not "milking" your breasts effectively. Your milk is being produced faster than your baby is consuming it. As a result, the milk travels back along the milk ducts and is forced into the surrounding breast tissue causing swelling, tenderness and pain.

Blocked ducts usually affect only one side and are localised. There is a hardened lump in the area of the breast associated with the blocked duct. Aside from the tenderness you feel, the skin in the area is usually reddened and feels warm to the touch. Blocked ducts can appear similar to mastitis with the main difference being the absence of fever and the fact that usually only one side is affected.

Managing blocked ducts:

Keep feeding your baby frequently on the affected side even though it hurts as this is the fastest way to clear the blockage. This is also the most effective way to clear the blocked duct above and beyond all the other measures listed below. With frequent feeds, a block duct can be cleared within 24 hours.
Vary your feeding positions as this will help your baby clear the milk more effectively.
Taking ibuprofen can help to reduce the inflammation and manage the pain if you find it unbearable.
You can also try expressing the milk with a breast pump or by hand, although I believe that no pump will be quite as effective as your baby.
Applying warm or cold compresses directly onto your breast, taking warm baths and massages can also be helpful.

4. Mastitis

Similar to the symptoms of a blocked duct, mastitis usually affects both breasts and is accompanied by flu-like symptoms. There may be an infection present which will require antibiotic treatment, though not always. If you suspect you have mastitis, consult your doctor for the best course of treatment. Aside from antibiotics, there are additional things you should do which will help to resolve the condition more quickly. Most of these are similar to what you would do if you had blocked ducts.

Rest with your baby and continue nursing regularly and frequently, especially on the affected side. Do not stop nursing as it can increase your risk of developing a breast abscess.
Nursing at this point will be painful so taking ibuprofen can help to alleviate the pain. Ibuprofen also helps to manage the accompanying fever.
Vary your nursing position to help baby empty your breasts more effectively.
Sometimes, though rarely, your baby may object to nursing because of the increased sodium content to your milk resulting from the inflammation. In this case, you will have to express your milk. However, your baby is still the best breast pump you have on hand so it is best to try persisting with nursing. As the inflammation begins to clear, the taste of your milk will return to normal.
Applying warm and cold compresses to the affected areas, taking warm baths and gently massaging the affected area.

5. Infections

Infections such as thrush can also cause sore nipples. Thrush is a yeast infection (caused by Candida) that causes the nipples to become red and tender, and may be accompanied by a burning sensation. If your breasts are infected by Candida, you will also notice white plaques inside your baby's mouth. Thrush is not an indication to stop breast feeding, however, both you and baby will require antifungal treatment for it. Your doctor can prescribe the appropriate medications.

6. Initial breastfeeding soreness

During the first couple of weeks of breastfeeding, there will be some soreness of the nipples - this is due to the friction of your baby's tongue against your nipples which can leave them feeling raw. As long as you are breastfeeding with good technique, this tenderness will eventually fade on its own as your nipples toughen up. In the interim, applying a little breast milk or breastfeeding ointment after every feed can help your nipples to heal sufficiently between feeds to reduce the sensitivity during nursing.

7. Teething

When your baby begins teething, you may experience something similar to the initial soreness you felt when you first started breastfeeding. This only occurs with the eruption of the upper front teeth since the lower front teeth are covered by your baby's tongue during breastfeeding. The sensitivity usually goes away quickly as long as your baby isn't using your nipple as a teething ring.

At this point, it is important to educate your baby that biting is not acceptable. If your baby bites, simply put away your breast and stop the feed. Your baby will soon get the message. Usually when your baby starts biting your nipple, it is a good indication that the actual feeding part is over and that your baby is just nursing for comfort or playing. A baby that is still actively suckling will be biting his or her own tongue if he or she attempts to bite the nipple.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why your nipples may be sore during breastfeeding. It is important to identify the cause of the pain and treat the underlying problem before applying methods to relieve the pain and sensitivity. Without treating the underlying problem, the pain and soreness of your nipples will continue to persist.