Various formulas on the market with different flavor profiles are more likely to be accepted by breastfed infants. Human milk is sweet, so use a sweet formula if possible, but keep an eye on the sugar levels.

So which formula tastes like breast milk? My list comprises the most nutrient-dense and tasty formulas available on the market. Because each infant is unique, be prepared for a lot of trial and error. The following brands have been well-tolerated by nursing infants so you may use any of them.

10 Formula Tastes Like Breast Milk

The best infant milk formulas that taste like breast milk in terms of nutrition and flavor are as follows:

1. Gerber Good Start

One key ingredient that separates Gerber Good Start from other brands is A2 milk. According to some experts, A2 milk has health benefits and is easier for lactose intolerant people to digest.

What does this mean for your child? If you’re concerned about feeding your infant formula because of a delicate stomach or fears over the safety of formula, try Good Start. It is great for babies’ with gas and who spit up often. The probiotic L. reuteri in this formula aids in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. According to a 2011 study, taking this probiotic might help alleviate colic symptoms.

Gerber’s Good Start formula, also contains 2′-FL Human Milk Oligosaccharide (HMO), a prebiotic found in breast milk that is key for digestive health. Non-GMO Good Start also has DHA to enhance eye and brain development. Lastly, the product blends smoothly and doesn’t clump like some other brands.

2. Enfamil Enspire Infant Formula With MFGM & Lactoferrin

Enfamil Enspire is one of the most similar baby Formula to human milk, especially nutritionally. Although it often costs a little more than other options, it contains nutrients only found in mother’s milk, making it perfect for breastfed infants. First and foremost, it includes lactoferrin which is found in colostrum. Both colostrum and lactoferrin boost a child’s immune system and digestive function.

This formula also contains MFGM (aka milk fat globule membrane, choline, iron, and omega-3 DHA–all critical elements for cognitive development. If you’re looking for an infant formula that comes as close as possible to breast milk, give Enfamil Enspire a try!

3. Similac Pro-Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula with Iron

Similac’s Pro-Advance formula contains nutrients that have been shown to assist a baby’s health and development. Important ingredients like DHA, vitamin E, and lutein help support brain growth, eye health, and overall physical development.

Prebiotic 2′-FL HMO aids not only your child’s stomach but also their immune system. Unlike other formulas, this contains no growth hormones and is guaranteed not to clump. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic option, Alimentum or Nutramigen are both great choices.

I debated including Similac in this list. The Similac brand has struggled recently, with some products sadly being in 2022 recalled due to defective packaging. I decided to leave it in, because of I am hopeful that the brand can recover trust and get back to the high quality it always represented.

Read more: How much milk does your baby need.

4. Enfamil A2 Premium Infant Formula

Enfamil A2 premium formula is based on A2 milk, which is beneficial for digestive health. Consider this option if your infant has a sensitive tummy. It’s free of GMOs and includes DHA, which is better for a baby’s brain development.

Your baby is more satisfied and comfortable after every feed when there’s less gas. Because it’s simple to combine and tastes wonderful, breastfed babies will enjoy it.

5. Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Powder Formula with Iron

Earth’s Best is a well-known organic product brand. The infant formula is USDA-certified organic, and is made with non-GMO ingredients.

Earth’s Best combine a lot of great ingredients in their infant formula milk powder. Iron, essential for healthy growth and brain development. DHA and ARA help neuronal, ocular, and brain development. Lactose, whey protein concentrate, and corn syrup solids are other organic ingredients.

The organic, plant-based formula is perfect for infants who are sensitive to cow’s milk. This means that parents who use Earth’s Best formula don’t have to worry as much about gas, acid reflux, or yellow spit-up

6. Nestle Nan 1 Pro Infant Formula Powder

Nestle Nan is a great option for supplementing breastmilk with formula. This baby formula contains 2′-FL HMO and L. reuteri, which have been proven to aid digestion and help reduce infant gas or indigestion-related fussiness. One downside of the Nestle Nan 1 Pro is that it does sometimes clump up, which can be a hassle when compared to many alternatives on the market.

7. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula

Another organic choice is Happy Baby. The are USDA certified organic and GMO-free. Their products are free from rice, wheat, or corn-derived maltodextrin. The formula also contains galactooligosaccharides and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which nourish stomach microorganisms and aid digestion.

This product is complete with ARA, DHA, and other essential nutrients to promote growth in babies.

8. Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula

Enfamil NeuroPro also contains MFGM, which has been found to aid in newborns’ cognitive development and provide infection protection. A 2019 study showed that adding MFGM to formula positively affected babies’ cognition and well-being.

I have heard some moms worry that formula-fed babies are more susceptible to infection or illness. Hopefully this product helps reassure these moms that there are formula options available that might help.

Enfamil is a hypoallergenic and GMO-free cow’s milk replacement with prebiotics and DHA. Vitamin D3, calcium, and taurine are some of the other ingredients. If your kid has a fragile digestive system, try using Enfamil’s gentler formulation.

9. Baby’s Only Organic LactoRelief with DHA & ARA Toddler Formula

Baby’s Only Organic is a great choice if you’re thinking of formula options for your 12 to 36-month-old. It’s free of harmful pesticides, corn and glucose syrup, antibiotics, and other substances.

The firm does not use hexane, a hazardous chemical, to process DHA. This product will be pleasant to your baby’s taste buds and easy on her tummy, reducing fussiness and crying.

10. Pure Bliss by Similac

Similac is great for newborns. So great in fact that it is a staple in many hospital systems. Similac Pure Bliss includes everything your baby needs for the first year. It’s free of antibiotics and palm olein oil. Palm olein oil might contribute to constipation, which can be fatal to newborns.

Palm olein oil has also been shown to reduce bone density and calcium uptake, according to a study conducted in 2006. Pure Bliss includes DHA, ARA, lutein, and vitamin B12. Breastfed infants prefer pure Bliss’s flavor.

Conclusion

Which formula tastes like breast milk? Finding breast milk-tasting formulas might be tough, especially when purchasing online. Some babies are also more picky than others; if this is the case with your little one, be prepared to test different brands before finding one that works for you.

Breastfeeding is fantastic for babies, but it is not the only available path to ensuring baby is getting the right nutrition. When comparing components and brands, consider your baby’s digestive issues – for example, some parents have discovered that their babies prefer ready-to-feed formula to powdered infant food. The modern baby formula are better than ever, so you’ll still be giving your child the best possible start.

The post Which Formula Tastes Like Breast Milk? 10 Options appeared first on Breastfeeding Confidential.

10 Breastfeeding Essentials

When breastfeeding for the first time, there’s a lot of learning happening – for you and your baby. The last thing you need is discomfort and stress at this time. We selected these essentials because they remove some of the stress of breastfeeding, allowing you focus on what is most important – getting baby the nutrition she needs.

1. Supportive Nursing Bra

Nursing bras have cups that can be unhooked and pushed down, making it simpler to reach your breasts when breastfeeding. A decent nursing bra will give you support and comfort throughout the day. It’s not uncommon for mothers to feel like their breasts are heavy or full while breastfeeding, but this usually subsides after a few weeks as your milk starts to produce.

Choosing a properly supportive nursing bra that is not overly constricting will assist in minimizing pressure on your shoulders and back while supporting your breasts. Too-tight nursing bras can cause mastitis or blocked ducts, according to research published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine in 2012.

2. Breastfeeding Pillow

Support your infant with a comfortable nursing pillow that raises them to your breast level. Nursing pillows are super handy. There are useful for moms who have larger cup sizes, are recovering from C-sections, or are nursing twins. Nursing cushions can also assist you while you explore other breastfeeding postures, such as the side-lying position, which is a lifesaver for exhausted new mothers!

A nursing cushion should help relieve tension in your back, neck, shoulders, and arms – making feeding time a more pleasant experience for you.

3. Nursing Pads

Breast pads, commonly known as nursing pads, are soft, disc-shaped pieces of material that may be inserted into your bra to collect any milk that leaks out of your breasts. Leaking is fairly common during the first few months as your milk supply adjusts to baby’s needs. If you don’t leak, that’s okay – it does not imply you aren’t producing enough milk.

Breastfeeding is an important part of life and nothing to be embarrassed about, but accidents happen. And we know that leaks can lead to awkward situations and conversations. Avoid all that by getting some nursing pads. Really, it’s just one less thing to worry about.

4. Breastfeeding Clothes

When you’re on the go with your baby, you want nursing to be as easy as possible. In addition to a nursing cover, specialized clothing for breastfeeding can make all the difference. Breastfeeding tanks, blouses and dresses have flaps or openings in the front that keep your breasts easily accessible to your little one.

There have been great advances in the style and functionality of breastfeeding apparel in the last few years. Not only has breastfeeding apparel become more discreet, but it can also be very trendy. You can now find nursing attire in a style that fits any occasion, from formal to professional to casual events.

5. Milk Bags and Storage Containers

At some point many moms will need to pump and store milk. Whether its because of a long trip, preparing to go back to work, or just making it easier for your partner to feed baby while you get a good night’s sleep. Breast milk needs to be collected and stored in specially manufactured storage containers. These containers are constructed to endure repeated freezing and thawing and will keep your milk stash safe and accessible.

Depending on your storage demands, you may use breast milk trays, bags, plastic bottles, food-safe glass containers. Look for BPA-free plastic bags or other containers specifically designed with breast milk storage in mind when choosing storage solutions.

6. Breast Pump

A breast pump is used to extract breast milk from your breasts. They are designed to help extract and collect milk for storage, but speak to any mom who has lots of experience and you will find that there is a lot more to the lowly breast pump. They are used for a range of home remedies – to reduce engorgement, manage excessive milk production, or even boost your milk supply.

You’ll need a good breast pump if you want to return to work. In general, pumping allows you to provide your child the milk they need while they are away from you.

A manual pump may work well for you if you only need to pump occasionally. If you’re returning to work or intend to pump more often, an electric twin breast pump would be a better investment.

7. Nipple Creams, Lotions, and Ointments

Aching nipples are common among breastfeeding moms. Ointments and creams for your nipples may help to soothe, moisturize, and heal cracked, dry, or irritated nipples.

Nipple creams are a bit of an enigma. Several varieties are available, making it tough to decide which one to choose. Many new moms find that lotion with lanolin as its primary component is soothing. Some parents favor natural breast lotions. You may need to test many different ways to determine which works best for you.

8. Nipple Shields

Nipple shields are useful for breastfeeding babies with a weak suck (for example preemies), if you have flat or inverted nipples, or if you are having difficulty getting baby correctly latched.

Nipple shields come in a variety of sizes and need to be correctly fitted.

9. Breast Shells

Breast shells are circular discs that mothers wear between feedings inside their bras. They may be utilized for a variety of reasons. They can be used to improve and correct inverted or flat nipples.

Not to mention, breast shells can also prevent itchy nipples from coming into contact with your clothing. If you’re worried about leaking between feedings, there’s no need to fret; invest in some breast milk collecting shells.

10. Quick-drying wipes and steam cleaning bags for breast pumps

Keeping the breast pump and its parts clean takes a lot of work. Quick wipes allow you to clean the components without using soap or water, which is especially useful when you’re on the go. Steam bags are an easy way to disinfect your pump parts in a few minutes in the microwave.

Conclusion

Having a new baby is an amazing adventure, and breastfeeding can be a significant part of that journey for many mothers. However, it’s not always easy. Difficulties are very common in the early stages of breastfeeding. This can cause anxiety for some mothers who want to do everything they can to be prepared. One way you can prepare is by gathering supplies that can help support and ease your breastfeeding experience.

To give yourself and your baby the best chance for a breastfeeding relationship, take a prenatal breastfeeding class, consult with a lactation specialist pre-birth, and have all your tools and supplies ready to go. Aside from that, try not to worry too much. Every mom can achieve their nursing goals with appropriate care and tools, despite the difficulties they may face.

The post 10 Breastfeeding Essentials For New Moms appeared first on Breastfeeding Confidential.

Whether you are currently breastfeeding exclusively, formula feeding, or a mix of the two, you most definitely need a bottle at some point. This may be because you’re splitting night time feeds, getting back to work, or moving to formula feeding. Whatever the case, successfully introducing a bottle is key.

We’ve collected a list of the best baby bottles available today and answer some frequently asked questions about bottle feeding. Hopefully this is helpful for your bottle feeding journey..

Best Breastfeeding Bottles For Newborns

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which baby bottle is best for your child. However, some top-selling bottles are worth trying out. These include the best breastfeeding bottles or have a breast-like design to help with latching for breastfed infants, as well as anti-colic and self-sterilizing devices.

Chicco NaturalFeeling Bottle

First on our list of top breastfeeding bottles, is the Chicco NaturalFeeling Bottle. These bottles have a soft, nipple-like teat that gives your baby an exceptionally gentle flow. They are ideal for breastfeeding moms who want to make the transition to bottle feeding easier on their babies.

The Chicco SIP introduces another sophisticated feeding solution with a unique design. This bottle has a nipple on the side rather than in the middle, which Chicco claims increases comfort and ease of feeding while also emulating how a baby naturally feeds.

Sale

Chicco Natural Feeling Bottle Glass 0Mesi + 250ml

$27.99

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MAM Easy Start 260ml

The MAM self-sterilizing bottles are a game-changer because they make life simpler while traveling since your bottle is ready for anything. It just takes three minutes in the microwave to heat.

These reputable, anti-colic bottles are excellent – they include ventilation holes and are marketed as helping to reduce baby’s chances of developing colic by ensuring that your baby isn’t taking in too much air.

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Bottle, Baby Essentials, Medium Flow Bottles with Silicone Nipple, Unisex Baby Bottles, Designs May Vary, 9 oz (3-Count),

• ANTI-COLIC - Our vented base design releases liquid slowly, reducing colic symptoms in 80%* of babies by eliminating bubbles that cause gas and aggravate colic & reflux symptoms
• BREASTFED BABIES - The elongated nipple shape of our anti colic baby bottles feels just like mom so parents and newborns can easily switch between breastfeeding and bottle feeding
• EASY CLEAN - No need for a separate bottle sterilizer: MAM bottles self-sterilize in the microwave in 3 minutes, meaning fewer baby items to take on the go
• PRODUCT DETAILS - MAM Easy Start Anti Colic Baby Bottles 9 oz (3-Pack), 3 Baby Bottles with 3 Medium Flow Silicone Nipple, Newborn Essentials, Unisex

$21.99

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Comotomo Natural Feel Baby Bottle

The Comotomo Natural Baby Bottle will address all current problems with regular baby bottles and have a beautiful design. It imitates breastfeeding and is simple for tiny hands to grasp, which benefits newborns suffering from bottle rejection and nipple confusion. The leak-free bottle reduces colic since it allows milk to flow gently. It is not as expensive as other things on this list.

Sale

Comotomo Natural Feel Baby Bottle, Pink, 5 Oz (Pack of 1)

• Comotomo baby bottles are deisgned to most closely mimic breastfeeding to reduce bottle rejection
• Ultra wide neck design allows easy cleaning by hand without a brush. Unisex
• Safe in microwave, boiling water, dishwashers and sterilizers ; Nipple: Slow Flow 0-3 months, Medium flow 3-6 months
• Nipple and body is made of 100% safe hygienic medical grade silicone
• Dual anti colic vents prevent unwanted air intake and reduce colic

$12.99

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Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Feeding Bottles

The Tommee Tippee bottles are a top seller on Amazon from a respected manufacturer, so if your baby is having trouble latching, they’re an excellent choice to try. It is an excellent choice for breastfed babies because it has a teat that resembles a breast for an easy latch and a soft, natural feel. The anti-colic valves on the teat, which include a venting system that prevents excessive airflow while your baby eats, are notable features of these natural bottles.

Sale

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Anti-Colic Baby Bottle, 9oz, Slow-Flow Breast-Like Nipple for a Natural Latch, Anti-Colic Valve, Pack of 4

• Anti-colic: Closer to Nature nipples feature an innovative anti-colic valve which prevents excessive air from getting into your baby’s milk, helping to reduce the symptoms of colic
• Natural latch: Our bottle nipples are made from soft silicone and have a special breast-like shape that encourages a natural latch and prevents nipple confusion when switching between breast, bottle and back again
• Natural pace: The soft silicone nipple flexes and stretches like mom and allows your baby to feed comfortably at their own pace
• Most recommended baby bottle*: 95% of moms would recommend Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature bottles**
• 100% leakproof: When the screw ring, nipple and cap are all secured, your baby bottle is completely mess-free and leakproof, even if it’s turned upside down or shaken

$20.11

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Nuby Natural Touch Newborn Starter Set

The set includes four bottles, a soother, bottle brush, chewable teether, bib and more for those first few days you’re presenting your baby to the bottle. The refinements are very nice, and the pricing is reasonable. The Easy Latch teats in bottles replicate the form, feel, and organic flex of your breasts to make it easier for your baby to attach.

Sale

Nuby Natural Touch 3 Pack Bottles with Slow Flow Nipple & Bonus Ortho Pacifier- Boy

• Nuby’s Natural Touch 3 Pack Bottles with Slow Flow Soft Flex Nipples prepares parents for feeding new little ones. The bottles hold 6 oz/180 ml and are graduated in ounces and milliliters for easy measuring and mixing formula.
• Soft Flex nipple mimics mom’s natural breast shape. It’s designed to move and flex like a real nipple, encouraging latch on and making the transition between breastfeeding and bottle feeding easier on mom and baby.
• The slow-flow nipple is perfect for new babies, allowing them to drink at a slower pace that fits their needs. Built with valves on the nipple to help reduce air ingestion, which may cause colic.
• Our bottles are curved to fit easily in parent’s hand. Each bottle has grips to give parents a better hold for those half asleep, late-night feedings.
• Included ortho pacifier is made to fit baby's mouth. Its design helps to reduce issues when transitioning from breast to pacifier.

$13.49

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Medela Breastmilk Bottles

Themed bottles combine fun and function. They’re perfect for newborns who don’t take a bottle well because they allow you to use any Medela breast pump, as long as it uses the same type of caps or teats. The easy-to-read (no matter how exhausted you may be), microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe metric, and imperial measurements on the side are also pretty handy in a pinch.

Medela Breastmilk Bottle Set - 5 oz - 3 ct

• Medela Breastmilk Bottle Set - 5 oz - 3 ct by Medela

$23.99

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What To Look For In A Bottle For Breastfed Babies

After you’ve decided on the bottle you want, go through one more list to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Bottle Teat Design

A slow-flow teat is generally better since it mirrors how milk naturally flows from the breast. This will be more comfortable for your baby. If your infant has trouble wrapping their lips around a wide-neck nipple teat, then a narrow-neck nipple with a gentle slope might do the trick.

Material

Glass and plastic baby bottles are popular choices. Plastic bottles are less expensive, more readily available, and simpler to hold for your baby than glass ones, especially because they are lighter. If you want to use plastic, be sure it’s BPA-free.

Glass bottles are considerably more environmentally friendly than plastic bottles, and the heavier weight and occasionally higher cost make them more appealing. Plastic does not get stained or absorb odors as readily as glass. Furthermore, it is more long-lasting and simple to maintain.

Compatible Pumps

We’re all for convenience when it comes to bottles that can be linked straight to your breast pump because you won’t have to worry about transferring your milk.

Tips For Buying Bottles

Here are some guidelines you should abide by when purchasing your infant’s first bottle to ensure you don’t make a costly error.

Avoid Buying In Bulk

It would be a shame to purchase 20 bottles only to find out your kid hates them, so buy two or three types of viable candidates instead, and then decide which is best for your infant.

Consider Purchasing The Largest Size

The beautiful 4-ounce bottle is the perfect size for a newborn. On the other hand, the baby will grow fast and will be drinking 6 ounces of milk instead of 4 within a few weeks. Purchase the biggest size accessible; you may always use a set of slow-flow nipples with them until your kid is ready for faster-flow nipples.

Consider Your Breast Pump Brand

Being compatible is often a lifesaver – especially for busy mothers. You can save time using bottles that are compatible with your breast pump so that you can pump directly into them. Who wouldn’t want to save both time and effort?

If You Have A Second Child, Buy Fresh Bottles

I understand that it’s difficult shelling out more money, but if you’re still using bottles from when you had your first child, they might not be safe now. This is especially true if they contain the harmful chemical BPA.

Conclusion

We hope this article helped guide you to the best breastfeeding bottles for your newborn. Remember, it is important to do your research and to find a bottle that both you and your baby are comfortable with. Have fun trying out different bottles and finding the perfect one for you!

The post 7 Top Rated Breastfeeding Bottles For Newborns appeared first on Breastfeeding Confidential.

Why does breastfeeding make you tired? A surge of the feel-good hormone Oxytocin occurs in the brain of a mother who is breastfeeding. You might feel tired after an oxytocin rush. In this post, we’ll explore the solution and provide advice for overcoming fatigue.

Reasons Why Does Breastfeeding Make You Tired

We must first identify the type of tiredness we’re talking about. You might be wondering if breastfeeding causes temporary sleepiness or general weariness. Let’s begin by discussing prolactin and oxytocin, two chemicals involved.

Oxytocin And Prolactin

The hormones oxytocin and prolactin are essential for breastfeeding because they play a part in milk production and the letdown reflex. You’ll notice that that these chemicals do more than cause your milk to be produced. They may also help you relax, making you sleepy while breastfeeding.

Oxytocin, in particular, aids with milk letdown. However, this hormone rings a bell for you because it is also known as the bonding and love hormone. It helps you connect with your infant.

It feels fantastic as it helps unwind and relax while nursing your baby, but oxytocin is also likely to be making you feel drowsy while feeding.

Prolactin, on the other hand, is involved in milk production and maintenance. Prolactin, like our friend oxytocin, has an antidepressant effect by promoting calmness and relaxation.

Considering everything, it’s easy to see why breastfeeding may make you feel at ease, drowsy, or tired. Don’t get the impression that all of your new-mother tiredness is caused by breastfeeding or lack of sleep. That isn’t how it works.

New-Mom Fatigue

It’s no wonder you’re exhausted after giving birth. The postpartum period is tough, especially because you are still recovering from childbirth and breastfeeding can be very taxing on your body.

Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, you’re bound to be sleep-deprived. It’s just a natural part of having a new baby. Studies show that mothers who use bottles to feed their babies may not get more sleep than mothers who breastfeed.

Aside from the usual lack of sleep, does nursing make you feel more worn out? After all, keeping a healthy milk supply requires much effort from your body. Even though your body is working hard, there is no evidence that nursing by itself causes weariness. How you feed your kid is not directly related to how tired you are.

Benefits Of Breastfeeding

It is crucial to remember that breastfeeding is an intensely personal experience for every woman. There should be no pressure whatsoever in regards to determining whether nursing is the best possible option for you.

There are several reasons why you should breastfeed your infant. Firstly, it provides them with the best possible nutrition and helps protect them from diseases and viruses. Additionally, it encourages brain growth and may lower their risk of developing chronic illnesses later in life. And if that’s not enough incentive for you, nursing helps enhance your bond with your child .

The advantages of breast milk over formula feeding include being more cost-effective and lowering your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Your body’s oxytocin production also helps your uterus shrink back to its pre-baby dimensions. Breastfeeding may also have environmental benefits as well. Since it requires use of less paper and plastic packaging material, it can be the more environmentally friendly option.

Tips For Dealing When Breastfeeding Does Make You Tired

The following suggestions will help you cope with weariness and take care of your body, whether you’re experiencing the impacts of prolactin and oxytocin or struggling with new-mom fatigue. Remember to be patient with yourself; it’s normal to feel exhausted when you have so much going on.

1. Eat Healthy Food

What you put in your body greatly influences your general health, even if you are not breastfeeding. During the postpartum period, when you’re recovering and simultaneously nursing your baby, it’s critical to drink enough water and eat properly. Lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and various fruits and vegetables are all necessary components of nutritious eating while nursing.

2. Sleep

Get enough sleep! Your body needs cat naps during the day because you likely aren’t receiving a full night’s sleep. Put your legs up when your baby is sleeping, even if you can’t manage to “sleep when the baby sleeps.” A midday nap can be quite beneficial to your health.

3. Use Nipple Cream

Two commonly recommended sore nipple remedies for that common tenderness in the early days:

• Lanolin for breastfeeding – make sure it is approved for breastfeeding. Moms like Medela Tender Care Lanolin because it is a thin consistency. That makes it easier to apply.
• Breastfeeding gel pads. These were a game-changer when they first came out. There are several different brands. Andrea Tran, an experienced Lactation Consultant only recommends Ameda ComfortGels.
  • Secret tip: put gel pads in the fridge to amp up the soothing power.
  • Another tip is to get more than one pair. Keep one in the fridge while you are wearing another pair.
  • They need to be changed every few days so have some ready to go when yours get cloudy or have reached the time for replacement.

4. Make Yourself At Ease

While you’re nursing your kid, take a seat. If you can discover a posture that is pleasant for you, you may relax while nursing. This might make the whole process less demanding.

It’s vital to find a relaxed nursing position for you and your baby so that they can latch on properly. A good latch allows your baby to get the necessary milk and  makes sure your nipples are spared any distress.

5. Consult A Lactation Consultant

Sore or damaged nipples can be a sign of an improper latch. See a lactation expert if you have difficulty finding a comfortable breastfeeding posture. They are specialists and can help you choose the best position and evaluate your child’s latch. Please do not put it off! The last thing you want while dealing with nursing fatigue is to become irritable, exhausted, or achy from trying.

6. Ask for Help

Asking your friends and family for help with daily tasks is just as wise as seeking the advice of a breastfeeding expert. It really does take a village. The good news is that your loved ones want to help and are ready to do so – they may only need reminding of what needs to be done from time to time.

Requesting assistance from friends or family can be difficult, but delegating some tasks is important, making your workload more manageable. Whether you need help making dinner or cleaning the house, don’t hesitate to reach out to your loved ones.

Conclusion

Why does breastfeeding make you tired? When you’re nursing, prolactin and oxytocin can calm you and make you tired, as we’ve seen in this post. In addition, postpartum recovery and sleep deprivation contribute to fatigue.

Being a mother can be a full time job. You’re juggling 1,000 tasks with very little time for rest or relaxation. To help ward off exhaustion, taking care of yourself physically and mentally is important. Eat healthy, nutritious meals, get as much sleep as you can (take naps when possible), wear comfortable clothing while breastfeeding, and seek help from others when needed.

Your baby is precious, and no matter how weary and stressed out you are right now – fight the fatigue and remember that its all worthwhile.

The post Why Does Breastfeeding Make You Tired? appeared first on Breastfeeding Confidential.

What Is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an arrangement, commonly involving a legal agreement, wherein a woman agrees to carry a pregnancy to full term and deliver the baby on behalf of another person or people who will become the child’s legal parents after the birth. Surrogacy isn’t something that everyone feels capable of or inclined to do, but for the right woman can be a wonderful way to support another family. 

Surrogates are typically healthy women who tend to have positive pregnancy experiences—not everyone loves the sensation of being pregnant, but some women thrive in that state. The process of becoming a surrogate or selecting one is, of course, much more complex than that; surrogate FAQs can be found here if you need more information. Again, a legal agreement is commonly part of a surrogacy arrangement meaning the legal council might be part of a rounded understanding of the process.

Induced Lactation Is Possible

Foremost, when people are looking into surrogacy and breastfeeding options, it’s common to rule out the possibility of a woman breastfeeding the child that will legally be hers once the pregnancy is complete because she wasn’t the one carrying the child and, therefore, will not have milk to offer. This isn’t always the case. Lactation induction is possible in some cases, allowing women who have used a surrogate to still have the experience of breastfeeding their child. Given the vital role breastfeeding plays in acclimatizing a baby to its bacterial environment, this can be incredibly beneficial to a baby’s health. It can also assist in the stages of bonding that occur between a mother and her child.

Typically, inducing lactation requires hormonal supplements, herbal supplements, and pumping tools to help get the flow going. All of this usually takes place prior to the child’s birth.

Using Surrogate Breastmilk

Depending on the arrangement with the surrogate, it’s also common to use the surrogate’s breast milk. Many surrogates are open to pumping for up to six weeks after the baby is born. The pumped milk can then be fed to the baby using a bottle. Depending on how far apart the parents and surrogate live, this can become difficult to manage. Moreover, given that pumping typically requires the surrogate to stop every few hours—even during the night—and pump, it often comes with a financial cost as the surrogate will not be able to perform standard work without interruption or even sleep through the night.

Milk Donation

A third option, if breast milk is your focus, is to seek out local milk donation centers. There are wonderful women who donate their milk to assist those who are unable to breastfeed their infants for whatever reason. Parents might want to take a second to read up about circadian rhythms and breast milk, as this can influence their baby’s sleep habits. It turns out that milk pumped during the day encourages wakefulness in an infant, whereas milk pumped at night encourages fatigue. Mixing up day and night milk can result in mixing up your schedule.

The above information should have outlined a few common pathways to securing breastmilk for a child born via surrogacy. Of course, every family and their needs vary. It’s important to take stock of the emotional and mental energies of everyone involved and readjust if you need to.

The post Breastfeeding and Surrogacy: A Few Things You Should Know appeared first on Breastfeeding Confidential.

There are many reasons why you might be traveling while you are breastfeeding.

You might be breastfeeding and traveling for a fun family vacation. You may be a nursing mom who has to travel for a business trip. You may be making a long distance move.

For some parents, the thought of traveling with their baby strikes fear in their heart. But it doesn’t have to be scary.

If the thought of traveling while breastfeeding makes you break out in a cold sweat, keep reading for my most helpful tips. Being the mother of three breastfed babies I have experienced my share of travel as a nursing mom, including moving to another state, twice.

With some planning, you can have a memorable trip for all the good reasons, and not because it was remembered as “the time we went on vacation with the baby” as you cringe.

• Your baby’s food is always ready and at the perfect temperature.
• No need to be mixing formula or spend exorbitant prices for ready-to-feed formula.
• You won’t need to worry about finding a place to buy formula if you run out.
• No need to wash bottles and nipples in hotel sinks.
• Breastfeeding can make a plane ride more comfortable for a baby. As they suck and swallow it helps relieve the pressure in their ears.
• Breastfeeding makes falling asleep in a strange place easier for a baby.

We took a plane trip when my first baby was only four weeks old. We were going to be moving from Colorado to Arizona and needed to go on a house-hunting trip.

I held him on the plane and breastfed him, and all went well.

He was exclusively breastfed so I didn’t have to worry about purchasing or preparing formula or washing up bottles and nipples.

Breastfeeding made the entire trip was about as stress-free as you could get

When he was four months old we made that move and we drove. I was so thankful that he was exclusively breastfed because it made traveling so easy. I didn’t have to wash bottles in hotel sinks or take cans of formula and bottles of water to mix in the car.

A mom who is trying to follow the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for safe formula preparation will be truly challenged if she doesn’t have access to boiling water.

• Plan, Plan, Plan
• Take a sense of humor
• Expect the unexpected so be flexible
• Take a breast pump, even if you don’t expect to have to use it.

Expect to stop more often than when you travel without a baby. Your baby will need to breastfeed and have her diaper changed. You will also need to stretch your legs and use the restroom.

• Map out your route and check for safe places to stop along the way.
• If your baby is older pack snacks for those times when he gets hungry in the middle of a driving stretch.
• Pack snacks and plenty of water for yourself.
• Take some pumped milk for times when you have to go a longer stretch because there is no safe place to stop.
  • You may also need to take an alternate route to ensure that you have a safe place to stop.
• Take a pump if you can’t stop and your breasts start to feel uncomfortably full.

• Don’t take your baby out of the car seat to breastfeed while it is moving. The risk is just not worth the time saved or the convenience.
• It’s not safe to lean over and breastfeed a baby in a car seat, not to mention incredibly uncomfortable.
• Pulling over to the shoulder is not a good idea either.
• Map out your route and try to plan stops for breastfeeding and diaper changes every 2-3 hours.
• If you are traveling alone try to stop at places that have other people around.
• If you stop somewhere and someone makes you feel unsafe, leave.

• Breastfeeding or giving a bottle of breast milk on take-off and landing will help prevent any pressure build-up in your baby’s ears.
• Buying a seat on an airplane is the safest option.
• Many airports now have breastfeeding/pumping rooms or pods.
  • These are available on a first come, first serve basis
• If you are using a car seat and keeping your little one in it the entire time in the air and giving bottles, make sure you have a pump with you even if it’s a short trip and you don’t think you’ll need to pump.
  • Planes can sit on the runway for hours, adding to your time.
  • If you’re just sitting on the runway you, of course, can take your baby out of his car seat to breastfeed. However, sometimes they give very little warning before they say, “We’re taking off now.

If you are traveling internationally and are wondering about the safety of necessary vaccinations the United Stated Centers For Disease Control (CDC) has a list of vaccines that are safe while breastfeeding and those that are contraindicated.

The two that they list as contraindicated are Smallpox and Yellow Fever.

If you are traveling while breastfeeding without your baby you will need to pump to maintain your milk supply. If you come home and try to breastfeed your baby and there’s not enough milk, he will probably be pretty annoyed.

You want to try to pump as often as your baby normally breastfeeds. If you pump in addition to breastfeeding on a daily basis you will want to add those sessions when figuring out how often you need to pump.

I once did a consult for an exclusively pumping mama who went on a trip without her baby to a fun place. It was very hot. Her days were longer than usual and she wasn’t getting a lot of sleep. The adult beverages were flowing. She was not drinking as much water as she should have in such a hot climate. She only pumped half as often as she normally did.

Can you guess what happened?

Yup, her milk supply tanked. With the help of some supplements, he was able to get her supply back to normal when she resumed her normal pumping schedule.

If you are going to be traveling without baby while breastfeeding you will want to make sure you have a good pump. It’s a sad truth that electric pumps can fail so take a manual pump with you as back-up.

Decide if you will be saving your milk or discarding it. If you are saving it you need a place to safely store it.

Related Posts

5 Best Supplements To Increase Milk Supply

Everything You Need To Know About Pumping Breast Milk

You are allowed to take breast milk through security at the airport. Check TSA Traveling With Breast Milk Guidelines. 

I advise pulling that page up on your phone and if an uninformed TSA agent gives you any pushback, whip out your phone and say, “It says I can right here!” If they are having a bad day and are not cooperative, ask for their manager.

If you won’t be with your baby, will you be taking your breastmilk with you, discarding it or shipping it?

• Dry Ice is the best way to keep it cold if you are checking it with your bags.
  • Use a Styrofoam cooler if you can locate one.
• FedEx has Refrigerated and Cold Shipping where you can ship your breast milk.

In the US, you have a legal right to breastfeed wherever you have a legal right to be.

• Most other parts of the world don’t have the hang-ups with breastfeeding in public that we have in the US.
• If you are not comfortable breastfeeding in public, you can either find a private place or use a cover.
• There are nursing rooms at many, many places in the US
  • Nordstrom has a room just for moms and babies. It made me deliriously happy the first time I saw the sign on one of the breastfeeding symbol instead of a bottle.
  • Some Whole Foods have nursing rooms.
  • Disney has a Baby Center.

Breastfeeding Covers

Some moms are more comfortable being covered up during breastfeeding. You can just use a receiving blanket.

If you prefer a cover, I think the   Nursing Cover – Baby Nursing Breastfeeding Cover by KeaBabies – All-in-1 Soft Breathable Stretchy Car Seat Canopy – Infinity Nursing Cover up for Girls, Boys – Carseat Canopy Covers  is amazing because I love things that are multi-purpose.

This Infinity Shawl by Zalamoon is not specifically a nursing cover but you could use it as one. It is a fashionable item that you’d be able to wear long after you are finished with breastfeeding. It is available in 13 different colors and prints.

Related Post

A Fashionista’s Secrets To Dressing For Breastfeeding With Style

Traveling while breastfeeding does not need to be stressful. With careful planning and preparation you can have a memorable, stress-free trip.

 

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When I was enormously 9 months pregnant, I wanted two things. I wanted to hold my baby and I wanted to be able to tuck my shirt in again. I hadn’t given dressing for breastfeeding a single thought.

After my baby was born, I realized that tucking your shirt in is highly overrated. You may think wearing a shirt is overrated when you are pulling your breast out multiple times in a day to feed this ravenous little person.

Every woman wants to look her best. But let’s be real, it can be challenging looking put together when you are dressing for breastfeeding. Fashion choices can seem limited. And who has the time to think too much about it?

A few tips for dressing for breastfeeding will have you feeling stylish and put together.

Truth be told, it can be challenging getting your teeth brushed before you head out the door. Does chewing mint gum count? Asking for a friend.

Sure, there are all those cute nursing clothes. But many mamas don’t want to invest a whole lot of money in too many of those.

You may be asking yourself, “What special nursing clothes do I need and how can I make the most of the clothes in my closet?”

“Do I even need special nursing clothes?”

Keep reading and I’ll tell you the secrets to looking put together, even when you feel anything but. I’ll let you know what nursing clothes that only but the most creative women can live without.

Nursing Top DIY Tutorial

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This top is so cute and so easy to make with a t-shirt and some extra material.

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A nursing tank is the one specialized piece of nursing clothing I highly recommend.

The beauty of the nursing tank top is that you can layer them under anything. You pull up your shirt and your mummy tummy is still covered. Voila, you have a nursing top!

Kindred Bravely makes tank tops with a built-in nursing bra. Gotta love a two-for-one!

If it’s stretchy enough around the top, any tank can be a nursing tank top.

This Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands Free Pumping Tank allows you to do hands-free pumping. How fabulous is that?

You really need some nursing bras. You need quick and easy access to the girls. I’ve seen moms try pulling a regular bra up but that puts a lot of pressure on the breast. That is something that can lead to clogged ducts. So, you’ll definitely want to avoid that.

Related Post

How To Clear A Clogged Duct (Including A Little Known Way)

Comfort and convenience are the names of the game when choosing a nursing bra. They don’t have to look like they came out of your grandma’s closet either.

Nursing bras have come a long way. Some are so pretty that you may even want to wear it when you are finished nursing. While that might be a stretch you have to admit that these bras are pretty.

These made by Cakye are very nice and they come with a bra extender.

Curve Muse also has some very attractive options.

There are a number of multi-tasking bras that have hands-free pumping capabilities built right into the bra design.

You have so many that you can choose from. Whatever you choose, make sure they are easy to latch and unlatch. Practice doing it with your eyes closed. When your hands are full of baby you won’t be able to focus on that hook.

You’ll also want your nursing bras to be made of absorbent and breathable material. Leaky breasts are a fact of life for most breastfeeding moms. Nursing pads help but they aren’t foolproof. I can guarantee that some milk will end up on your bra.

I used to wonder why someone would need a sleep bra. Then I was trying to latch my bra in the middle of the night in the dark and said, “Yea, that’s why.”

A sleep bra is made of super-stretchy material so you can just pull it down. That way you don’t have to fumble with hooks or clips in your half-awake state.

This one is made by Kindred Bravely.

You may have noticed that I recommend a lot of Kindred Bravely items. That’s because their products are high quality and they have an awesome variety.

Even if you don’t normally wear a bra to bed, you’ll want to when you are breastfeeding. You need something to hold bra pads in place.

Leaking doesn’t stop just because you are sleeping. In fact, the middle of the night is when you make the most milk. That’s because of higher prolactin levels. But, I digress.

You can get nursing bras at so many places.

• Amazon
• Target
• Nordstrom
• Kindred Bravely
• Even Victoria Secrets!

The other thing that has come a long way are nursing clothes. Some of them are super cute! These are some items that do not scream “I’m a nursing clothing item.”

I would wear any of these things today, and my breastfeeding days are long over.

Undercover Mama is a favorite of stylish moms. When you check out all their cute clothes you’ll see why.

Brick and Mortar stores that carry nursing clothes are few and far between. There are a few places where you can shop in person when you are dressing for breastfeeding. But the real selection will be shopping online.

• Undercover Mama
• Nordstrom
• Macy’s
• PatPat
• H & M
• Belly Bandit
• Target
• Sweat and Milk

If you want to invest in some nursing clothing, these items are some good choices.

Nursing shirts. Look for things that you can envision wearing when you are no longer nursing. Depending on the climate that you live in you may want both short and long sleeves. They even make nursing hoodies!

This Breastfeeding Hoodie With Pockets by Bearsland comes in 24 different colors and prints. I love how it’s longer and would look perfect with leggings. It’s available in sizes small to XX-large.

If you wear dresses the options get into serious cute and fashionable territory.

This PrettyGarden Jumpsuit is not specifically made for nursing, but it has a snap at the neckline with make is breastfeeding-friendly, and it’s so adorable and looks so comfy.

This dress is another winner from Bearsland.

When thinking about what you can wear when you are dressing for breastfeeding you will definitely want to check out what you already own. Most mamas don’t have the budget to purchase an entire new nursing wardrobe.

This is when you need to take a look at what is in your closet. You may be packing some things away for a while. If your plan is to nurse into toddlerhood you may even want to make a visit to a consignment shop. It doesn’t hurt to make some cash off of those clothes you’ll need to say bye-bye to.

Deciding if an item of clothing is going to be breastfeeding friendly will depend on not only the item of clothing but the size of your breasts.

Breastfeeding friendly tops will be things you can pull up and are either loose or stretchy.

T-shirts, sweaters, knit tops, these will all do a great job of giving you good accessibility to your breasts when it’s mealtime. Practice before you need to feed. There are few things that are worse than trying to pull out your breast when you have a hungry baby and your shirt is too tight.

Button-down shirts may or may not work. If they are loose you are probably good to go. If they are very fitted you will either be uncomfortable or need to unbutton your shirt all the way.

The other thing to consider is the time it takes to unbutton, and the logistics of hanging on to your baby while you are buttoning. Especially if you are planning to go out, you should practice at home first.

Wrap and cross-over shirts and dresses tend to be very breastfeeding friendly.

Some of you mamas know your way around a sewing machine and can whip up some nursing clothes in no time.

If you are not an experienced seamstress but capable there are some easy peasy patterns out there. This is one of those times when Pinterest is your friend.

Nursing Top DIY Tutorial

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This top is so cute and so easy to make with a t-shirt and some extra material.

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I know you can’t wait to check out the Nursing Top Tutorial from the Breastfeeding Confidential Resource Library, but before that magic happens you need to check your inbox for your confirmation email.

Once you do that you’ll have access to all the fabulous freebies in the Breastfeeding Resource Library where you will find the link to the DIY Nursing Top Tutorial.

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If you sleep in a t-shirt then you can skip over this section.

If you like to sleep in pretty nightgowns you’ll want to think about how accessible it is. If it has buttons down the front it may be accessible, but let’s do a reality check. Who wants to be buttoning and unbuttoning in the middle of the night?

The Kindred Bravely Lucille has a pretty lace detail and comes in four different colors.

Some moms don’t want to invest in any nursing clothes or think too much about what they choose to wear. When they are out and about they just use a nursing cover. Or nothing at all. (More on that in a minute).

There are a variety of nursing covers. I can’t say I am very pro-nursing cover because to me they look like a neon sign pointing to what you are doing, inviting more looks or stares. Also, some babies find them very distracting or it makes them hot. If you use one and it works for you then you may want to skip over this part.

I do think these Infinity Nursing Scarves are pretty cool because I love that it can be worn as a piece of clothing you would wear anyway.

The Hicoco takes multi-tasking to a whole new level. It can be worn as an infinity scarf, used as a nursing cover, and as a car seat cover. It’s available in five fun colors and prints.

This is a super chic look. This nursing cover is made from modal which is so soft and breathable. It can be worn as a poncho or as a scarf when it’s not being used as a nursing cover.

A kimono makes a great nursing cover.

This Criss Cross Nursing Top is not really a scarf, but I think it is a super cute look, so I had to include it.

Related Post

DIY Nursing Top Tutorial

Some moms don’t cover up. Nursing is a natural thing so there really is no need to cover up. To these moms I say, you go mama! The more we see women breastfeed, the more it gets normalized.

IMO people who get bent out of shape when they see a nursing couplet just need to get over themselves.

I thought it was the best thing ever when this model breastfed her baby on the runway during a fashion show.

If you work in an environment where you have to wear a suit and you want to wear a nursing top for easy pumping access I recommend simple tee’s. Solid colors are going to give you the most professional look. However, patterns and prints will hide milk stains if you spring any leaks.

It’s a good idea to have a spare shirt on hand in a neutral color for any serious issues. The other lifesaver in case of milk stains on your shirt is a vest. If you wear a suit or just a jacket you can always button it.

A lot of the dresses I have shown you tend to the casual side. There are dressier, more business-appropriate options.

A dress that you have to pull over your head or that zips up the back. The problem with these is obvious.

Avoid wearing anything that is really tight and would be uncomfortable for you to get your breast out.

There are some quick and easy ways to not only be able to breastfeed easily, but to look really great when doing it.

Have several scarfs and throw one of those on. I don’t know what it is about scarfs, but they seem to instantly turn you into a fashionista.

Put on a jacket. Casual hoodies are for home. Anything from a denim jacket to a blazer will make you look more put together.

Cute shoes! There are a multitude of adorable flats if you are not into heels and it’s just a fact of life that cute shoes ups your fashion game.

When you are at home, you can rock your yoga pants to your heart’s content. But when you are going out or going to have company, remember my motto…”Life is a big event. Dress for it.” (And yes, I came up with that on my own.)

Although looking stylish and fashionable when you are a nursing mom may take some time, thought and maybe a little cash, today’s mom has plenty of options. Have fun with this special phase of your life!

 

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The first few days after a baby is born is a whirlwind. Moms are expected to learn all sorts of new things when they are running on little sleep and high levels of adrenaline. Establishing breastfeeding will be a priority.

If you give birth in a hospital, you will be asked how often your baby is breastfeeding. The nurses will want to know how long the feedings last. Is he swallowing?

If you are there long enough they will ask if your milk is coming in.

There will be questions about how many diapers and what’s in them.

It’s enough to make any new mom feel like she’s taking a test that she doesn’t want to fail.

Take a deep breath and focus on these things that will help you with establishing breastfeeding.

I tell moms that breastfeeding is established when the following criteria are met:

• Baby is back to birth weight.
• Baby is solely breastfeeding and gaining an average of one ounce a day.
• Mom is maintaining her supply by breastfeeding only.
• Mom has no nipple pain or trauma.
• Engorgement has resolved.
• Mom is breastfeeding without thinking about the details.

I want to elaborate on that last one.

In the very early days of breastfeeding, you are thinking about every little thing.

Is my baby hungry? Is my baby swallowing? Am I having any pain? Is my baby having enough diapers? Are my breasts sore from engorgement? Am I holding my baby the right way for a pain-free latch?

Then one day, you are just doing it. You don’t think about it. You just do it.

In this post, I will take you from, “I haven’t got a clue” to “I’ve got this!”

Let’s get started!

Breastfeeding Log

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Moms sometimes make the breastfeeding mistake of thinking they should only do skin to skin right after birth.

But you should do lots of skin-to-skin in those early days. You can’t do too much of it. But it is important to know how to do skin to skin safely.

Skin to skin is so valuable for so many reasons (Source).

• Helps baby stabilize their body temperature
• Helps a cold baby get warm
• Stabilizes heart rate and breathing
• Helps regulate blood sugar
• Babies cry less
• Provides pain relief
  • Do skin to skin if your baby needs a heel stick for a blood test
• Increased weight gain for premies

Skin to skin is also valuable for breastfeeding.

• Encourages baby to start breastfeeding
• Babies breastfeed sooner
• Babies exclusively breastfeed for longer (Source)
• Babies breastfeed more frequently
• More babies exclusively breastfeed (Source).

Sometimes it is not possible to do skin to skin right after birth because the baby or mom requires medical attention. That’s okay. Do skin to skin as soon as you can.

Do skin to skin:

• As soon as you can
• As long as you can
• As frequently as you can

Skin to skin will help your baby start breastfeeding. Rooming-in round the clock will help with breastfeeding frequently.

Frequent breastfeeding helps in establishing breastfeeding because of these many advantages:

• Your milk comes in sooner.
• Baby will lose less weight
• Baby will have fewer problems with jaundice.

Your baby will tell you when he wants to eat by showing feeding cues. Learn them and watch for them. Feed your baby whenever you see her feeding cues.

Another common breastfeeding mistake is to send the baby to the nursery. It’s better to room in all the time. The exception would be if you were going to take a shower and no family member or friend is there to watch her. In that case it is fine to have the nurses watch her for that short period of time.

Keeping your baby in your room all the time helps you to learn her feeding cues.

Babies are easier to latch when they are offered the breast when they first start showing signs of hunger.

If a baby is not offered the breast when she is showing early feeding cues, two things can happen.

• She may fall back to sleep and not be interested in eating again for a few hours.
  • Remember, more frequent feeding results in the milk coming in sooner, less weight loss, and fewer problems with jaundice.
• She may start crying. Crying is a late sign of hunger, and babies are harder to latch when they are crying.

How To Tell When Your Baby Is Hungry

You don’t want to make the breastfeeding mistake of waiting until your baby is crying to feed him. While crying is a sign of hunger, it is considered a late sign. Your baby will be easier to latch if you offer your breast when you see early signs. of hunger.

Your baby is hungry when you see him do these things.

How To Tell When Your Baby Is Full

Just as important as learning how to tell your baby is hungry is learning how to tell your baby is full.

When your baby first starts feeding, he will have his hands clenched by his face. As his tummy gets full, he will unclench his hands, and his arm will become relaxed.

COLOSTRUM – BABY’S FIRST MILK

Moms know that it takes a few days for their milk to come in. Many new moms worry that their baby will have nothing to eat before that happens.

A mom might make the breastfeeding mistake of supplementing with formula before her milk comes in because she thinks her baby isn’t getting anything when breastfeeding.

Don’t worry. Mother nature has provided well for your baby.

During pregnancy, your breasts start making a special milk called colostrum. It is full of antibodies. It has a lot of protein and carbohydrates and is low in fat.

Your colostrum is exactly what your baby needs in the first days of life in exactly the right amount.

Colostrum is made in tiny amounts because your baby’s tummy is tiny. It is about the size of a cherry when your baby is born. It will stretch in the first few days and be able to hold more each day.

If your baby needs to be supplemented with formula for a medical indication the health care team should explain what the problem is and why formula is needed.

Related Post

Breastfeeding and Formula – It’s Not The F-Word

The answer to this question will change often in the first few days.

Another breastfeeding mistake is thinking a newborn baby should eat eight times a day. They may not eat that frequently the first day. And they almost always eat much more frequently for a few days before your milk comes in.

In the first 24 hours, a baby may eat only a few times. It’s possible he may not eat at all. On the other hand, he may want to eat every couple of hours.

In the second 24 hours, a baby should be eating a minimum of eight times.

Because cluster feeding is common during a baby’s second night, there may be more than eight feedings. Many more. That is fine.

In the first 6-8 weeks, most babies will need to eat at least 8-10 times in 24 hours to gain an average amount of weight.

• This will be every two to three hours.
  • The frequency of feeding is measured from the beginning of one feeding to the beginning of the next feeding.
• Periods of cluster feeding are normal.
• One four hour stretch between feedings is okay.

Related Post

Breastfeeding Your Newborn the First Day – All You Need to Know

Feeding a Sleepy Baby

How to Safely Survive Second Night Syndrome

Yet another breastfeeding mistake is thinking a baby is eating for too long or not long enough.

The length of feedings is another thing that can vary a lot in the early days. A baby may feed for only a few minutes or a feeding can last an hour. If a baby breastfeeds for less than ten minutes, it shouldn’t be counted as a full feeding.

An average feeding is about 30-40 minutes of active feeding. Active feeding is when the baby is sucking vigorously and swallowing at least every 2-3 sucks. A baby can be on the breast and comfort sucking, but not really eating.

Comfort sucking is fine but should not be counted feeding.

If most feedings are taking longer than one hour you should have a visit with a lactation consultant. She may be able to help you make feedings more efficient. She can also determine if there is a problem that is causing feedings to be so long.

Related Post

Why Is My Baby Cluster Feeding? – All The Answers

This is a top concern for a new breastfeeding mom. You want to know that your baby is getting enough to eat from breastfeeding. The main answer to this question will come from your baby’s diapers and the scale.

In the first 2-4 days before your milk comes in, you will look for signs that your baby is staying well hydrated. Her mouth should be moist. A baby with a mouth that feels dry and sticky may be dehydrated. Don’t check your baby’s mouth for moistness after he has been crying because it will almost certainly feel dry.

This is something that will change every day for almost the first week. The number of both poops and pees are important.

Another potential breastfeeding mistake is thinking it is okay for your breastfed baby to not have lots of dirty diapers.

Once your milk is in your, your baby should have at least six wet diapers and four dirty diapers of moderate quantity. These are considered reassuring signs that your baby is getting enough to eat.

A bowel movement needs to be the size of a quarter (25¢) to count. Anything smaller than that doesn’t go toward the daily total.

It is normal for a baby to lose weight in the first few days after birth. This is true whether they are breastfed or formula-fed.

• Up to 10% of weight loss is considered normal.
• Once your milk comes in, your baby should start gaining an ounce a day.
• A breastfed baby needs to be seen for a weight check within 48 hours of leaving the hospital or at 3-5 days of age.
• A baby should be back to birth weight by two weeks of age.

Related Post

How To Quit Obsessing About Breastfed Baby Weight And Growth Charts

These are two things that are critical to your baby getting enough milk and your comfort.

Using the correct latching technique is key to breastfeeding going well.

Watch this video for a demo of how to properly position and latch baby for breastfeeding.

Important things to remember are:

• Support baby’s neck and shoulders
  • Keep your hand off the back of baby’s head
• Tummy to tummy
• Nose to nipple
• Wait for a wide root
• Quickly bring the baby to the breast.
  • Do not move your breast to the baby.

Related Post

13 Life Changing Breastfeeding Latch Tricks

For the vast majority of women, milk supply is going to depend on supply and demand. The more you tell your body to make milk by breastfeeding and/or pumping, the more milk you will make.

I often get asked by moms if they should pump to help the milk come in faster. Most moms should focus on breastfeeding in the early weeks. This will allow your baby to tell your breasts how much milk to make.

Pumping when you have a baby who is breastfeeding an average amount can result in an oversupply of breast milk. Too much milk can cause problems.

 There are times when a baby may not stimulate a good milk supply. In these cases, a mom should pump in addition to breastfeeding.

• Baby born before 38 weeks
• Baby weighs less than 6 ½ pounds
• Baby is not eating at least eight times a day

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A mom’s milk comes in between 48 to 72 hours after giving birth.

It can come in after that but we say that it is delayed.

If you are 72 hours past the birth and do not feel like your milk is coming in you should start pumping after feedings and call a lactation consultant.

In the first few weeks, most moms feel like they are making more milk than their baby needs. This usually gets better by the end of the third week.

Your milk supply is usually established by eight weeks. Before that, you should not miss any feedings. That means if your baby gets a bottle instead of you breastfeeding, then you should pump. This is true even if the bottle is your pumped milk.

Once your supply is established, many moms will say they don’t feel as full. That is normal. As long as your baby is gaining enough weight, you are making enough milk.

When your milk comes in, there will probably be a moment when you look in the mirror and say, “Whose breasts are those because mine have never looked like this before?”

Most women experience some degree of breast swelling when their milk comes in. This is called breast engorgement — the tissue around the milk-producing glands swell.

The most important thing to remember is to keep the milk moving. Breastfeed frequently when your breasts are engorged. If your baby does not nurse enough to soften your breasts, then you should pump.

It is a breastfeeding mistake to worry that pumping will make engorgement worse by creating an oversupply. If your breasts get and stay hard this can damage the milk producing cells and result in a decreased milk supply.

If you are careful about pumping for engorgement it should not cause an oversupply.

• You don’t need to pump if your baby can soften your breasts with breastfeeding.
• Pump only if you get milk out
• Pump only until your breasts are softer
  • Pumping frequently until your breasts are empty can cause an oversupply problem

Ice packs or chilled green cabbage leaves can help decrease swelling (Source).

Ice packs can be left on for up to twenty minutes. There should be at least a twenty-minute break before reapplying.

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HOW TO USE CABBAGE FOR BREAST ENGORGEMENT

I am not sure who the first person was that suggested cabbage for engorgement. But it does work to decrease swelling.

• Use green cabbage
• Chill the leaves
  • Make the treatment more effective
  • Cold leaves are soothing to the inflamed breast.
• Rinse the leaves thoroughly to minimize the risk of bacteria that is occasionally found on fresh produce.
• Crush the leaves to makes them easier to mold to the breast.
• Wear a bra or tank top to hold them in place.
• Cover the breast with the leaves.
• Leave the nipple exposed.
• Leave them on until they wilt, usually 20-30 minutes.
• Can reapply fresh leaves for up to one hour of continuous application.
  • More extended periods of continuous use have resulted in decreased milk supply for some moms.
• Take a break for at least a couple of hours before reapplying.

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Essential Steps to Have a Good Milk Supply

I like to say in the first week it is like you get a new baby every 12-24 hours because they change so much.

After the first week, most moms and babies start to settle into a breastfeeding routine.

To encourage your baby to sleep at night, do not let her sleep longer than two to three hours during the day.

Most babies will have their days and nights mixed up in the early weeks of breastfeeding. This tends to get better after three weeks.

Early sleep training can be a major breastfeeding mistake. The milk-making hormone, Prolactin is highest during the nighttime hours. Regular stimulation in the early months is important for a good milk supply.

Babies go through a growth spurt at three weeks. They will all of a sudden want to eat very frequently. Moms often worry that they are losing their milk. The frequent feeding is normal and lasts for 24-48 hours.

In the first week, your priorities should be:

• Feed your baby
• Feed yourself
• Rest as much as possible
• Limit visitors

I know your friends and family are going to want to see the baby. But a baby who is being held by someone other than mom or dad often will not show feeding cues. They get overstimulated and check out by sleeping through all the visitors. This can be counterproductive to getting breastfeeding established.

After the first week wearing your baby will allow you to keep her close while you get things done. My baby wrap was my favorite baby accessory when my kids were first born. It is something that I highly recommend to new moms.

The Baby K’Taan is a super easy to use baby wrap.

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Sore nipples are a very common complaint in the early days of breastfeeding. It is usually the worst between the second and fourth day after you start breastfeeding.

Gel pads were one of the best things invented. I have recommended Ameda ComfortGel for over twenty years. Have a couple of pairs so that you can wear one pair and put one pair in the fridge. That way, you will always have a cold pair ready.

A breastfeeding mistake moms can make is thinking that breastfeeding pain is normal, and even nipple damage is normal and they just have to tough it out.

I have seen some mamas with badly damaged nipples. When I asked them why they waited so long to get help they say they thought it was normal. It’s important to know what is normal and what you should call for help about.

Nipple pain is considered “okay” if the following things are true:

• Pain is with initial latch
• Goes away after 30 seconds
• The is no trauma (cracks, bruises, bleeding, blisters)
• Is much better by the end of the first week
• Is entirely gone by the end of the second week

If the pain is severe or there is trauma, then you should call a lactation consultant ASAP for a consult. If you do not have a lactation consultant nearby, you can have an online consult.

I want to emphasize that nipple damage is never normal.

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If you are struggling with any aspect of breastfeeding, contact a lactation consultant ASAP. Most problems are much easier to resolve when they first start to occur.

Breastfeeding will be a journey. There will be ups and downs. But the first few weeks is usually the most intense.

Following these tips will help you feel confident sooner. Before you know it, you will be “just doing it” and not thinking about the details.

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I love helping moms breastfeed. While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally.

Sometimes it comes easily.

Sometimes it can be challenging.

When breastfeeding is hard it can help to keep going when you know why breastfeeding is important.

Most moms don’t get enough support when breastfeeding is hard.

Moms get advice and information from family and friends, and Facebook groups. They may take their questions and concerns to Google.

All the different opinions can make your head spin.

After reading this you will know some of the most important reasons breastfeeding is important.

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Breast if best. How many times have you heard that?

What would you say if I told you that breastfeeding has no benefits? (Did I just hear you gasp in surprise?)

Stay with me on this one.

When someone talks about something having benefits, they are referencing it to what is the norm. In this case, that reference is usually to formula. However, formula is not the norm.

Think of some other things that are similar in terms of what is seen as best, or better or risky.

Smoking is risky. We don’t say, “Not smoking has benefits.”

Breastfeeding is normal.

Your baby’s body is born expecting to receive breast milk. Not receiving it is not normal.

Eating healthy is important. We don’t say, “Not eating fast food has benefits.”

Breathing air is normal. We don’t say, “Breathing air is best.”

Changing how we talk about breastfeeding is the first step in changing how we think about breastfeeding.

We need to start thinking of breastfeeding as normal.

It’s not simply a choice a mother makes about how to feed her baby. It is so much more than that.

If breast is best, does that make formula the worst?

The reality is that some babies will need formula, for a variety of reasons. Some babies will be fortunate enough to receive donor milk if they need to be supplemented.

Donor milk is a better option than formula. However, even when it is an option, for most parents it is going to be cost-prohibitive in the long term.

Commercial formula is required to meet certain guidelines for ingredients and safety. It’s not the worst. Not feeding a baby enough food would be the worst.

Breastfeeding has enormous value. It makes a difference in a baby’s health, both in the short term and long term.

Breastfeeding is worth working for, even when it is hard.

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In the United States more babies are starting out life being breastfed (Source).

While that is encouraging, most babies are not being exclusively breastfed or breastfed for as long as is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The AAP recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding with the addition of complementary foods (aka solids) until at least the first birthday (Source).

The WHO recommends breastfeeding for at least two years (Source).

There is a lot of speculation about why babies are not being breastfed for as long as is recommended.

Some of the most common reasons given for stopping breastfeeding before a mom intended to or it is recommended include:

• Nipple pain
• The belief or concern that they don’t have enough milk
• Fatigue and the belief that formula feeding will change that.
• Difficulty establishing direct breastfeeding (as opposed to breast milk feeding) and mom does not want to exclusively pump and bottle feed.
• Returning to work can present enormous challenges for some moms in their desire to continue breastfeeding.
•  
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Clearly, saying to a mom who is struggling with any of these issues, “breast is best”, or “breastfeeding is normal,” is probably not going to be enough to help her through those difficult times or a crisis of confidence.

These moms need help. They also need to know why it is important that they try to work through issues that may come up. Issues that make them think , “Is this worth it?” or, “Maybe I have done this long enough” or, “It’s just too hard and I’m ready to stop”.

How long a mom works at breastfeeding is a personal decision and one that should be respected and not judged.

If you are one of those mothers, these are some of the compelling reasons you should do what you need to do to get through those challenging times.

Breastfeeding makes a difference in the health of babies. Some outcomes are short-term, some are life long.

Some people love breastfeeding, some people can take it or leave it, and some people actually hate it. None of those feelings change the effect that breastfeeding has on a baby’s health.

Breastfeeding makes a difference in the outcomes of many diseases and disorders (Source).

• Respiratory tract infections and ear infections
• Gastrointestinal tract infections
• Allergic Diseases
• Celiac Disease
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Childhood Leukemia
• Childhood Lymphoma

And the big ones:

• SIDS
• Infant Mortality

The impact that breastfeeding has on these outcomes has been well studied.Don’t let anyone tell you differently.

A difference in the outcomes doesn’t mean these illnesses never happen to a breastfed baby. It means there is a difference in how often these things happen to breastfed babies as compared to formula or mixed-fed babies.

A difference in outcomes also means how severe these diseases and disorders can be.

The research has shown that formula fed and mixed-fed babies experience these dieseases and conditions more often and more severely than breastfed babies do.

Exclusive breastfeeding at the breast is going to result in the best outcomes.

It’s also important to know that any breastfeeding or breastmilk is better than none at all. The more, the better.

If you are experiencing breastfeedingdifficulties that are making you want to stop, the most important thing to do is get help. A lactation consultant is usually the best qualified to provide that help.

If you can’t get help soon enough, you can always talk to someone, and take a break and pump so that you continue to support your milk supply.

Breastfeeding is not just important for babies. It helps mom stay her healthiest as well.

Women who breastfeed experience many positive effects on their short-term and long-term health (Source).

• Less blood loss postpartum
• Uterus gets back to its pre-pregnant shape more quickly
• Can provide natural birth-control
• Decreased incidence of postpartum depression
• Helps with postpartum weight loss
• Lower rates of rheumatoid arthritis
• Decreased rates of cardiovascular disease
• Lower risk of breast cancer
• Lower risk of ovarian cancer

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One study showed that if 90% of moms in the US breastfed exclusively for six months it would result in a savings of $13 billion (Source). Yes, billion.

That study was done in 2010, so if you consider inflation it is certainly more today.

There are other things that are valuable about breastmilk and breastfeeding. I don’t want to give a long list though. I want to give you the really important ones. These are the ones that can make a difference in motivation to most people.

The other important thing to remember is that breastfeeding is not an “all or nothing” deal. Any amount of breastmilk is valuable.

Moms have taught me that no one can, or should tell a mother how much is enough to keep working on it.

However, even the most dedicated mother may sometimes have to stop breastfeeding. There may be a medical reason. Or, her breastfeeding difficulties may have taken her to a dark and scary place and her mental health is truly at risk. This sometimes happens. It’s important to get help if you feel that is happening to you.

Breastfeeding is important.

Breastfeeding matters.

Breastfeeding is normal.

 

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One of the most common questions I get from breastfeeding moms is what to do when one breast produces more milk than the other. Moms want to know if this is normal and if they should be concerned about it. 

Having an uneven breast milk supply is actually more common than both breasts producing the same amount of milk (Source).

Some women affectionately call their lower producing side their slacker boob or milk dud. 

I’ll go over the possible reasons for this common phenomenon and what, if anything, you should do about it.

There are two common reasons that one breast produces more milk than the other.

One explanation has to do with mom. The other reason is because of the baby. It’s also often probably a combination of the two.

Let’s dive a little deeper into both possible causes for why one breast makes more milk.

Uneven Milk Supply Due To Mom

• One breast might have more of the breast tissue that is responsible for making milk. Humans are not perfectly symmetrical. One foot is usually larger; one arm may be a bit longer. Most women start out with one breast that is slightly larger than the other. Some might have a significant difference in the size of their breasts. In addition to making bra sizing a challenge, it can affect how much milk each breast can make.
• Milk might flow faster on one side. 
  • This might be a natural occurrence due to having more nipple pores on one side.
  • A mom might have a difference in how forceful her let-down is on each side.
  • A history of having any kind of breast surgery potentially can impact milk flow. Some breast surgeries can cut milk ducts. Scar tissue can also affect flow.
  • Even a breast biopsy has the potential to alter milk flow.
  • An injury to the breast or having chest tubes at any point in a person’s life can affect flow.
• Radiation therapy for breast cancer can affect milk production (Source).
• Some women have nipples that are shaped differently from each other, or one is larger than the other, and a baby may find one is easier to latch onto, or they prefer the feel of it in their mouth. This is very common when one nipple is flat or inverted, and the other nipple is protuberant.
• Most women have one side that they feel more comfortable nursing on. They may unwittingly be offering that side first more often. 

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Uneven Milk supply Due To Baby

• Many babies show a preference for one breast over the other.
  • This may be because the milk flows at a rate more to their preference. 
  • If one side flows faster, they may prefer that. They also may like a slower flow. 
  • Your baby may feel more comfortable the way they are positioned on the preferred side.

Spending more time on one breast means more stimulation on the higher producing side. This is one of those things that becomes a cycle. The baby prefers one breast and spends more time on it. That breast gets more stimulation and may produce even more milk. The lower producing side gets less stimulation, and supply decreases. Baby gives the slacker boob even less time and stimulation.

It is hard to tell whether a baby causes a difference in milk production because they have a preferred breast or they end up preferring one breast because of the uneven milk supply.

There are two primary reasons why a mama worries about one breast taking on the lion’s share of milk production.

Usually, a mom’s primary concern is whether their baby is able to get enough milk to grow normally.

If your baby is getting what she needs, you don’t need to stress, even if one breast barely produces milk. 

If your baby is growing at an average rate, then she is getting the amount of milk that she needs. 

The other reason a mother frets over uneven supply is it can result in lopsided breasts. Some women won’t care, even if the difference is significant. Other moms might find the difference cosmetically unappealing.

One breast producing more that results in a much larger breast also could cause physical discomforts for a woman. Common complaints are neck, back, or shoulder pain.

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• When pumping, you consistently get more milk from one breast.
• Your baby nurses longer on one side compared to the other.
• Your baby shows a preference for one side.
• One breast feels fuller.
• The higher producing side is noticeably larger.

Mastitis can cause a decrease in milk supply. This is usually temporary. With regular stimulation and draining the breast as much as you can, the supply should come back to normal within a week.

A clogged duct is another temporary cause of an unequal supply.

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If having an uneven milk supply makes your breasts’ size noticeably different or you have an insufficient milk supply, you may want to try to even things out.

• First, make sure you are alternating which side you offer first. You can keep track of which side with an app. If you don’t want to be tied to your phone all the time, you can wear a nursing bracelet like the easy to use Which Side. On one side, it says Left and Right on the other side. You simply flip it over each time you nurse. 
• If you are alternating sides each time, then try offering the lower producing side first. If your baby gets frustrated, then do breast compression to keep him happy with the flow. This can help drain the breast more thoroughly. When a breast is well drained, it tells the breast to make more milk.
• Provide some extra stimulation by pumping on the side that produces less milk right after feedings. If you are comfortable with it, you can pump on that breast while you breastfeed on the other side. 
  • Do hands-on pumping.
  • Use the LaVie Lactation Massager to help empty your breast. Moms love how this gadget helps them get more milk out. It can be used during pumping or breastfeeding.
• You can use an electric breast pump or a wearable pump like the Willow. Another option is putting on a Haaka pump.
• Do a daily power pumping session on the breast you want to produce more milk.
• Try different nursing positions on the breast your baby doesn’t like as much. If you do the cradle hold, try football hold, or vice versa.
• Put a warm pack on your breast to increase the flow. The Milkease All Natural Breastfeeding Relief Pack was designed for this. Research has shown that warmth on the breasts during pumping helped moms pump more milk (Source). It makes sense that it can help with breastfeeding also.
•  

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Many women can make a full milk supply on one breast. Think of the moms who make enough milk for twins.

I worked with a mom once who’d had radiation to one breast, and that breast didn’t make any milk when she had her baby. She was able to make all the milk her baby needed on her one working breast.

A mama’s breast can’t make unlimited amounts of milk, though. It is possible if one side is very low producing the other breast may not be able to pick up the slack. At the end of the day, you provide as much breast milk as you can. 

Although having a difference in supply between breasts can be concerning, there is no need to worry if your baby is growing and you are not having any discomfort. 

There are also many different ways to encourage a slacker boob to do more of their share of the work. 

For most moms having a difference in how much milk each breast produces is common and can go on the list of interesting things to know.

 

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