2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
Working with a lactation consultant is definitely the best way to get all the help you need. Because yes, breastfeeding can be learned and it is always possible to refine your technique.
If you have difficulty with breastfeeding, latching, sore nipples or low milk supply - or just want reassurance that everything is fine and that you are "doing it right", a lactation consultant is the best person to contact.
Here are the answers to the 3 most common questions new moms ask lactation consultants.
How often should I breastfeed? How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Many women worry about whether their breastfeeding experience is “normal”. The truth is that women have been breastfeeding for millions of years and there is no average or normal; each baby and each mother is unique.
According to Medela's research, infants can breastfeed between 4 and 13 times a day, with the duration varying from 12 to 67minutes per feeding session. The "norm" for milk consumption per breastfeeding session ranges from 54 to 234 ml. The number of daily feedings usually decreases to 5, 6, or 8 times a day as baby grows and their stomach expands to hold more milk.
Babies have unique feeding habits too; some infants (30%) are always single breastfed, a minority (13%) always breastfeed from both breasts, while the majority (57%) are single and sometimes both breastfed. 64% of babies feed during the day and at night. For most moms and babies, breastfeeding can present a wide range of experiences, challenges and wonderful moments of connection – enjoy each one! A lactation consultant will assure you that this wide range of "average" is perfectly normal.
The best way to make sure your baby gets enough milk is to watch out for soiled baby diapers. At first, baby will wet between six to eight cloth diapers a day, or five or six disposables. During the first month, your baby will produce at least three stools a day. If your baby looks satisfied, is gaining weight (150g and more per week on average) and soils enough nappies, you can be reassured.
How can I prevent sore nipples?
During the first few days of breastfeeding, most moms experience sore nipples as they get used to the new strong sucking sensation of thebaby. Some mothers experience nipple pain or even cracked nipples - some babies suck harder than others, or may have a poor latch creating friction, pulling and discomfort. Your lactation consultant might suggest that one way to prevent sore nipples is to express some extra milk after breastfeeding and apply it to the nipple and areola, then let them air dry. Breast milk has healing powers!
It is also important to have a good latch - the baby is tummy to tummy with mom and her mouth is at chest height. If the baby latches correctly, he will not only have the nipple but also the areola in his mouth. Sucking is instinctive - but latching isn't - so baby has to learn with you, which often takes practice. A lactation consultant can help you experiment with different ways of holding baby or lying with him to find the position that works best for both of you. Learning how to latch on is very important, as breastfeeding is a matter of demand and supply - so if the baby does not latch on properly, your milk could dry up.
If you have sore nipples, attachment issues, you might consider using nipple shields and other breastfeeding accessories for sore nipples or to ease breastfeeding issues. If you experience pain in your nipples ordiscomfort while breastfeeding, contact your lactation consultant or lactation professional.
Can I continue breastfeeding if my breasts hurt or I have a cold or the flu?
If you have a cold, flu or stomach virus, even if you have a fever, it is good to breastfeed. Since your body produces antibodies to fight your illness, you pass those same antibodies on to your baby. If you happen to have a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics, be sure to ask your doctor for an antibiotic that is safe for breastfeeding.
In rare cases, if your only choice is to take a medication that is not compatible with breastfeeding, pump and discard your milk while on the medication to maintain your milk supply. This is a good reason to have breast milk or formula stored away for use in the meantime.
Another breastfeeding tip if you feel unwell: always wash your hands before picking up your baby and before breastfeeding. Even if your baby receives your antibodies through breast milk, you should still try to minimize the risk of passing germs on - and hand washing is one of the best ways to do that.
You will likely have a lot of questions on your breastfeeding journey and having a lactation consultant by your side can make all the difference in the world.
