An Expert’s Advice on How To Breastfeed & Bottle Feed Your Baby
“Imagine that the world had created a new ‘dream product’ to feed and immunize everyone born on earth. Imagine also that it was available everywhere, required no storage or delivery, and helped mothers plan their families and reduce the risk of cancer. Then imagine that the world refused to use it.”
–Frank Oski
From my own experience and background in helping many women learn to breastfeed, I have created a “go to” list for new and experienced mothers with the best tips on breastfeeding. This list includes all the information I wish I had been given prior to the birth of my children and has been very valuable to the patients I have worked with and my friends. Despite my background in medicine, when I had my children, I had a lot of unanswered questions, because it takes time and effort.
Below you will find information on breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, pumping, growth spurts, and how to handle your baby’s fussy periods. Breastfeeding is a sacred time that allows you to bond with your baby. It also provides the very best nutrients for your baby’s growth and immune system. If you are on the fence about breastfeeding, attempt it for as long as you possibly can to see how it feels, and then make your decision after researching both the pros and cons.
Breastfeeding in the first week: Frequent nursing in the first week is important. During this period your baby may eat up to eight to twelve times in twenty-four hours. Your milk should start to come in around days two to five; before this your baby is receiving nutrition and immunity from colostrum, which is a clear substance. Don’t worry, your baby is getting enough to eat as long as you are feeding on demand! Always drink fluid before and after breastfeeding; you may consume three to five liters of water daily.
As your milk comes in, you may feel engorged. Use warm compresses and hot showers before feedings and cold cabbage leaf pieces after to support you through the transition. To minimize engorgement, feed often and ensure you have a good latch. Always make sure you have enough pillows around for support, and try breastfeeding in different positions, such as lying on your side. Ensure that the baby does not turn the neck too much, which can hinder the suck and swallow. Make sure your baby’s spine is lined up with a straight neck and head, and always latch your baby on to the breast by opening his or her mouth wide; this can be done by gliding your nipple or finger across the child’s check gently. Health professionals call this “fish lips,” as a good latch is indicated by a suck and swallow sound and a wide-open mouth on the breast. When your baby has a good latch, keep your hand on the back of his or her head gently to keep the baby latched on. Babies tend to pull back, which causes many mothers confusion. Keep your baby in the latched position until the swallowing begins, and ensure there is space for breathing. If you are having problems, make sure to contact a lactation specialist.
Breastfeeding in weeks two to six: The baby will continue to nurse eight to twelve times daily. Nurse when the baby shows signs of hunger (stirring, rooting, hands in mouth). Nursing every two hours in the day and every four hours at night is normal. Sometimes the baby may cluster feed in the evenings during a fussy period. After about six to twelve weeks, babies tend to create more of a predictable routine, and nursing sessions are shorter as the baby becomes more efficient. The baby will eventually stretch time between feedings.
Feed your baby for a long period on one breast (up to fifteen minutes), and then transfer to the second breast. The long feedings on one side help your body produce more milk and bring in “hind milk” with increased fat content. Burp your baby in between and offer the next breast if possible. If the baby only feeds on that breast for a few minutes, make sure to start on that side with the next feeding. Some mothers use a little pin on their shirt to remember which side they left off on.
If you want to store a supply of breast milk for your baby, the best time to pump is in the morning. Pump in the early hours between feedings. It will only take your body a few days to adjust to this change. Check the website Kelly Mom for great tips on breastfeeding and how to store your milk.
Your baby will have growth spurts at approximately seven to ten days, two to three weeks, four to six weeks, three months, four months, six months, nine months, and beyond the first year. The growth spurt can last two to three days or often longer; the baby may act fussy during this time and may want to feed up to every hour. If you are breastfeeding, you may feel that you don’t have enough supply. Don’t worry! Follow your baby’s lead and feed on demand in order to increase it.
Is your baby acting fussy? Fussiness usually begins around two to three weeks, peaks at six weeks, and is gone by three to four months. This behavior will usually occur at the same time each day, often in the evenings. Use the five “S” method to soothe your baby: Swaddle, Shush, Swing (small rapid movements), Suck (provide a pacifier or finger to suck on), and place the baby in the Side or Stomach position (The infant can lie across your lap or shoulder, but must be on the back when sleeping.).
If you are breastfeeding: It is generally recommended to wait to introduce a pacifier until at least three weeks of age or older. A bottle is best introduced between weeks four through six. If you are having trouble, try different bottles with a slow flow and make sure that someone other than you attempts this. If you plan on breastfeeding exclusively but want to have the option of someone helping with a bottle, keep introducing it to the baby every day or at least every three days. You can pump milk and someone else can provide this. Know that many babies get smart and refuse the bottle from others if they aren’t consistently given it.
If you are bottle-feeding your baby and using formula, contact your pediatrician as to how much and how often to feed. Over time your baby will take less bottles with more formula in each bottle. In the early months, babies still need to feed on demand.
According to Anthony Williams, science is one hundred years behind and just barely catching up. Breast milk is made up of sugar, so it is vital to eat healthy carbohydrates and fruits while you are feeding your child. Eat foods such as white potatoes, bananas, all fruits, and quinoa. Most doctors encourage a lot of protein, but I encourage you to focus on fruit.
Postpartum can bring up a lot of emotional and body issues for women. Watch this video to better understand how to support yourself through these changes.
Tags: breastfeeding
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