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Basic Tips for the Breastfeeding Mom
 
  1. Babies that are breastfeeding need between eight and twelve feedings in a 24 hour period. Feedings do not need to be strictly scheduled every two hours but do need to meet the nutritional requirements of the baby. Observing for feeding cues is very important—these include fidgeting, smacking lips, and rooting. This is the best time to feed—don’t wait until the baby is screaming
  2. If the baby appears sleepy during feedings, waking him up may be necessary by taking his clothes off and stimulating him (stroking his chin, back and feet).
  3. Length of feeding may vary from baby to baby. Feed as long as he continues to actively suck and swallow. Breastfeeding more stimulates your milk supply.
  4. If a supplement is recommended by your provider, supplement after nursing or attempting to nurse. It is very important to pump your breasts if giving a supplement. This will help increase your milk supply. A good electric double breast pump should be used.
    Pumping time: 10 minutes if pumping after feeding
    20 minutes if pumping instead of feeding.
  5. Make sure your baby has a good latch to ensure successful breastfeeding. Choose a position that is comfortable for you and your baby. With baby’s mouth wide open and tongue down, bring baby to the breast so he takes a good deep mouthful. His mouth should be covering the areola as well as the nipple. When the baby is latched correctly, the lips are flanged and the chin is tucked closely into the breast.

    COMMON CONCERNS:
    • Sore Nipples: To prevent sore nipples:
      • Ensure your baby is getting a good latch on the breast. If the latch is bad, break the suction and re-latch.
      • Provide frequent, unrestrictive feedings during the first few weeks (as long as baby is sucking and swallowing).
      • Feed your baby when feeding cues are observed, don’t wait until he/she’s frantic.
      • After feeding, massage nipple/areola with expressed milk.
    • To treat sore nipples:
      Air dry nipples
      • If cracked, may use hypoallergenic lanolin ointment.
      • For comfort, you can use Hydrogel packs (product names include Soothies and Ameda).
      • Analgesics (for discomfort) - this may include Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
      You need to be seen by a provider if your nipples are too painful to breastfeed, painful all the time, or you are having a lot of bleeding or discharge.
    • Engorgement: To prevent engorgement:
      • Try to feed your baby frequently and try to avoid supplementing.
      • If a feeding is missed, pump your breasts instead.
      • Do not limit the time at the breast if actively sucking and swallowing.\
    • To treat engorgement:
      • Apply warm moist heat a few minutes before breastfeeding (this could be done by taking a warm shower
      • Gently massage your breasts before/during breastfeeding.
      • Hand express or pump breast before feeding to soften areola and nipple.
      • If baby feeds from 1 breast, pump the other breast during the engorgement period.
      • After nursing, apply cold compresses or ice packs. This can help reduce discomfort/swelling.
      • Apply washed/chilled cabbage leaves to sore breast for 20 minutes. This has been shown to relieve soreness.

YOUR BABY NEEDS TO BE SEE IF:

  • Your baby is having fewer than four wet diapers per day by the fourth day.
  • Your baby is having two or less stools per day by the fourth day of age
  • Your baby is breastfeeding fewer than eight times per day.
  • Your milk is in but you don't hear gulping or swallowing frequently during breastfeeding.
  • Your nipples are painful throughout breastfeeding.
  • You don't feel like your milk has come in by the fifth day.
  • You have questions or concerns regarding breastfeeding.
  
 
 
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