Congratulations, you have a baby on the way! There is nothing more exciting than a growing family. Does it seem that there is so much to know and to learn? Do you feel that you have so many questions for you doctors, nurses and/or midwives? Its normal to have questions, so never be afraid to ask them! Below are some commonly asked questions regarding breastfeeding!
Why Breastfeed?
Breastfeeding is the best and most natural choice for feeding your infant. Nothing compares to breastmilk, it contains all the nutrients your baby needs to grow. It also has health benifits for mom, it reduces your risk for certain cancers, diabetis, can promote weight loss, and more.
How long should I breastfeed?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends to exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first 6 months of life, and continue to breastfeed throughtout the first year with some solid food introductions (for example, fruits, vegetables, infant cereals). Its really your choice to decide when you stop breastfeeding.
What should I expect/What's normal in the beginning?
We're not going to lie, breastfeeding can sometimes start off a little rough, but remember, you and your baby are learning a new skill! After a short few weeks, most women relax and find nursing enjoyable. *Always ask for assistance if you feel that breastfeeding isnt going as planned.
I have friends who couldnt breastfeed, so does that meat that I cant?
Every women is different. Just because you have heard horror stories from friends and family memebers who have had difficulty breastfeeding or who were not succesful breastfeeding, does not mean the same thing will happen to you. Learn all you can about breastfeeding before you have your baby and find a support person (LIKE US!) that you can rely on for help.
Will it hurt?
In the very beginning, your breasts and nipples may feel a bit tender, but breastfeeding your baby should not be painful. If you do end up having pain throughout a nursing session, it usually means that the baby is not in a good position or isnt latched on properly. *Always ask for assistance if you feel that breastfeeding isnt going as planned.
Do I have to be on a special diet?
No, there is not special diet associated with breastfeeding. Generally, eating a healthy diet rich in a variety of healthy foods is recommended, but the occasional treat is ok.
Can I have a glass of wine or a cocktail?
Yes, in moderation. Because alcohol does have the ability to pass through to your breastmilk it is best to limit the amount. Blood alcohol levels and breastmilk alcohol levels are very similar, once you feel the alcohol is out of your system it is safe to breastfeed. You DO NOT have to "pump and dump".
Feel free to post other questions or concerns that you have about feeding your baby! Visit us on our NEW facebook support page. www.facebook.com/mvbreastfeedingsupport
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Monday, February 18, 2013
Imagine..
“Imagine that the world had created a new dream product to feed and immunize everyone born on Earth. Imagine also that it was available everywhere, required no storage or delivery and helped mothers to plan their families and reduce the risk of cancer. Then, imagine the world refused to use it.”
This scenario sounds extraordinary; imagine having healthier mothers and babies, products available to everyone regardless of their economic status, ability to reduce your risk of certain diseases and cancers. WE DO, its breast milk. Breast milk is a superfood, available to every person at birth and yet we are still not utilizing it to its full potential.- UNICEF
Reasearch has shown that early initiation of breastfeeding (starting to breastfeed soon after birth) can prevent 22% of all deaths among babies below one month in developing countries.
SO LETS BREASTFEED! Please visit our new FACEBOOK PAGE! - We are hoping that this page will build awareness in our community for breastfeeding mother. Please feel free to share your breastfeeding success stories, thoughts or concerns related to breastfeeding with us! All babies are born to breastfeed and we are hoping that we can lend a helping hand to the mothers behind the blankets.
www.facebook.com/mvbreastfeedingsupport
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Licence to Breastfeed!
Breastfeeding your baby is the most beautiful and natural choice and where you choose to nurse is up to you!
In Massachusetts, you are welcome to breastfeed your baby in any public place and it is against the law for someone to harrass or tell you otherwise.
The Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition has done a great job outling the laws for mothers breastfeeding their babies in public places, and also workplace laws.
Check out their website and Get Your Licence to Breastfeeding by clicking the link.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Easier said than done!
Do you ever get one of those "I want to save the world" ideas? Well I think I get one at least once per week.
My most recent and ongoing idea is to initiate some breastfeeding and mothers support groups in my area. I already offer these support groups at my work, and at a few facilities in the area, but these groups although amazingly successful are limited to my clients and the patients of the specific facility where the groups are held.
There are many other places that you can get support in your community but the spaces are usually limited, classes are not offered on a consistent basis or they cost a lot of money. My idea would be to charge a minimum fee (likely to cover the cost of materials and snacks), to have a group on a biweekly basis at a time convenient for new moms, to have it at a comfortable meeting place, maybe a cafe or library where we can have snacks (yes I love snacks!), to facilitate a group which offers clear and need to know information and to provide professional and peer support.
Sounds amazing right...now how do we make this happen!?
Friday, May 11, 2012
Time Magazine...LOVE IT!
I have to admit, I love me some controversy!
Yesterday, TIME Magazine boldly shared a cover photo from their May 21st issue which features an article about tandem nursing (Breastfeeding 2 babies of different ages) and nursing toddlers and how it happens more often than we think. Unfortunately with society and taboo, people don't always share or admit that they are practicing attachment parenting.
I can't say that I am surprised by the negative press it has been getting since it was released but I am surprised on how negative people are in general about breastfeeding in public and the fact that some people are calling breastfeeding and this cover photo somewhat pornographic.
(stepping on my soap box)
If you look at this photo and think it is a little bit unusual or not for you..that's a normal feeling, but if you look at this photo and think of pornography..I think you are the one who needs some help :)! We need to stop thinking of breast and nipples as sexual objects, and start thinking of them for what they really are, milk makers and ways to nourish and nurture our children.
(stepping off my soap box)
Yesterday, TIME Magazine boldly shared a cover photo from their May 21st issue which features an article about tandem nursing (Breastfeeding 2 babies of different ages) and nursing toddlers and how it happens more often than we think. Unfortunately with society and taboo, people don't always share or admit that they are practicing attachment parenting.
I can't say that I am surprised by the negative press it has been getting since it was released but I am surprised on how negative people are in general about breastfeeding in public and the fact that some people are calling breastfeeding and this cover photo somewhat pornographic.
(stepping on my soap box)
If you look at this photo and think it is a little bit unusual or not for you..that's a normal feeling, but if you look at this photo and think of pornography..I think you are the one who needs some help :)! We need to stop thinking of breast and nipples as sexual objects, and start thinking of them for what they really are, milk makers and ways to nourish and nurture our children.
(stepping off my soap box)
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Breastfeeding..It Rocks!
I came across this picture below a few months ago as it was trending on Facebook. It made me giggle as I posted it on my wall and a few co-workers walls...(hehehe)
I wanted to share with you some shocking statistics that I came across when reading an article and another breastfeeding blog about some research done a few years back..
- 75% of new moms in the US attempt to breastfeed
- only about 33% of them continue to breastfeed until 3 months
- only about 13% continue to breastfeed for 6 months
- 50% of women felt pressured to stop breastfeeding before they wanted to (likely due to society, family, doctors)
- 1 in 4 women are uncomfortable seeing women breastfeed in public
- 18% of mom still believe that formula keeps a baby as healthy as breast milk
As an IBCLC these statistics kind of bothered me...I thought to myself, well why is this? Why is the breastfeeding initiation rate in the USA only 75%? Every Mom wants what's best for their baby right?
EDUCATION and SUPPORT are the 2 key words..here are my tips to all you new moms to increase these statistic rates!
- Take advantage of your meeting times with your doctors and nurses...ask questions
- Take advantage of IBCLC's and breastfeeding counselors at the hospital, doctors office or other health centers
- Find a free breastfeeding group near you - La Leche League http://www.llli.org/webus.html
- Don't be afraid to voice your concerns
- Educate yourself prenatally with good information
- Develop your birth plan and try to stick to it
- Don't worry about what society or what other people think of you! We were made to breastfeed out babies
- Send me a message..I'd love to help and answer your questions!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Dads Play an Important Role is Breastfeeding!
Over my years of practice as a breastfeeding specialist and lactation consultant one of the most common questions and concerns I hear from new dad or significant others is..."What can I do if Mommy is breastfeeding?". I think that this is a very legitimate concern as Dad/SO's most likely already feels left out by the process of pregnancy, feeling the baby kick, and the bond Mom instantly formed with baby when she found out she was expecting. After the baby is born breastfeeding is the most natural and amazing thing Mommy can offer to her newborn but that doesn't mean that Daddy doesn't get to participate as well. Here are some things that Dad/SO's can do that are just as special as feedings:
- Cuddle Your Baby (skin to skin contact)
- Watch for babies hunger cues - help Mom prepare to breastfeed
- Take your baby for a walk
- Give your baby a bath
- Infant massage (look for free classes on google)
- Learn how to soothe your baby in other ways (singing, bouncing, cuddling)
- Help with meals and chores around the house to reduce stress for family
- Keep Mom company while she is feeding the baby, kiss babies cheeks while they are feeding
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