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Education
Breastfeeding FAQs

Nursing Family EducationHow long should I breastfeed my baby?
As long as it is working for both mother and baby, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for the first 6 months. Continued breastfeeding, along with introducing appropriate complementary foods, is encouraged for up to 2 years of age or longer.

When should a baby start eating solid foods?
Breast milk is sufficient for your baby’s first 6 months. At 6 months, depending on the development and readiness of the infant, you can begin introducing solid foods as a complement to breast milk.

I have small breasts. Will I be able to produce enough milk for my baby?
Breast size has nothing to do with your ability to produce milk. The feeding process actually stimulates your breasts to produce more milk, so even if your baby hits a growth spurt and nurses more often, your breasts will keep up with the demand.

When should I start breastfeeding?
You can start nursing as soon as possible, preferably within an hour after the birth. To help your newborn get used to breastfeeding, try to feed every two to three hours, even overnight.

How do I know my baby is hungry?
Babies show they are getting hungry by:

  • moving their heads from side to side
  • opening their mouths
  • placing their hands to their mouths
  • puckering their lips
  • nuzzling against their mothers’ breasts
  • stretching

Try to nurse before your baby gets upset and begins to cry.

What if my baby wants to nurse constantly?
A newborn’s stomach is small, so many experts recommend feeding “on demand.” Your baby may want to nurse every two to three hours at first.

How can I tell if my baby is eating enough?
You can be assured your baby is getting enough to eat if your baby:

  • seems satisfied after eating
  • produces 6-8 wet diapers a day
  • has regular bowel movements
  • sleeps well
  • is gaining weight

If your baby doesn’t seem satisfied after feeding, is fussy or isn’t gaining weight, call Mrs. Riggins.

Will breastfeeding hurt?
Mild discomfort with your baby’s initial latch can be normal but dissipates quickly. Any pain throughout the feeding should be addressed by a lactation consultant.

What should I do if my child is not latching on?

  1. Support your breast, with your thumb on top and your fingers at the bottom.
  2. Open your baby’s mouth by gently gliding your nipple from your baby’s bottom lip to his or her chin. Your nipple should be directed towards your baby’s nose or roof of mouth. This will help your baby open his or her mouth widely to get a good, deep latch.
  3. When your baby opens his or her mouth, quickly bring your baby to your breast. Your baby should take as much of your areola into the mouth as possible. Your goal is belly-to-belly contact; your baby should be held snugly against your abdomen.
  4. Your baby’s nose should almost touch your breast, the lips should be turned out, and you should see and hear your baby swallowing. Do not worry if you cannot see your baby’s nose. If your baby cannot breathe, he or she will pull away from the breast. (This usually is not a problem.)
  5. Have your certified lactation consultant observe a nursing session.

If you have additional questions, please talk to Mrs. Riggins.

 

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