We're Parents

What do you REALLY need for breastfeeding?

by

If you’re pregnant and plan to breastfeed, you’ve likely asked yourself this question.

What do you REALLY need for breastfeeding?

It’s really quite simple.

  1. A baby
  2. A boob

That’s actually it. You don’t even need two boobs (though it helps). Just one will do.

However, I know you really want to know what will help your transition go more smoothly. I’m not going to lie, the first 4-6 weeks is tough as you adjust and anything that you can do to make your life easier, I highly recommend. I’m not going to sit here and say that those first few weeks are sunshine and rainbows, and that breastfeeding isn’t going to hurt.  Who actually ever said that never breastfed before. While I’m being honest in that it isn’t an easy transition, I will say that it’s 100% worth the tough days.  I nursed our firstborn until just over 4 years old and I’m currently nursing our 23 month old.  Those strenuous days are well behind me and most of the time, I can barely recall those moments.

4 Things I Highly Recommend to Everyone 

  1. Nipple Cream.
    • I personally tried half a dozen or more brands over the two children. My #1 preference is Motherlove, however, for money saving I typically just buy the 3 pack of Earth Mama Angel Baby Brand.
    • Looking for a cheaper option?  You can use coconut oil or even just expressed milk on your nipples after every feeding.
  2. Reusable Nursing Pads
    • Don’t waste your time on buying disposable ones.  Not only are reusable better for the environment, they are so much softer and stay in place better.
  3. Boppy/Nursing Pillow
    • Tip: Buy this early on in your third trimester and use to support your growing belly throughout the last trimester. The shape really helps support your belly and baby once here.
    • Need a cheaper option? Just use the pillows you have in your home.
  4. Breastmilk Storage Bags
      • You will likely need to hand express in those first few weeks just enough to relieve the engorgement. Having breastmilk storage milks handy, will allow you to save the milk in those early days.


4 Things I Think Able Helpful but not Necessary

  1. Breast Shells
    • I had never even heard of breast shells before I was about to leave the hospital after having our first. Our nurse gave them to us and they saved me. They stop your nipples from rubbing on your clothes. During those first few days of adjusting, especially with your first, it allows you to be comfortable.
    • Need a cheaper option?  Just stay topless as often as possible.
  2. Milk Savers
    • This is the one product I regret not getting for either pregnancy.  I didn’t know about it with my first, but did with my second. Milk Savers collects milk from one side while you nurse of the other side.  Typically, this milk would just be lost in your nursing pad, but with Milk Savers it’s saved inside. Then, you can transfer to a storage bag and save. I have friend’s who use them and swear by them.
  3. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding Book
    • The holy grail of breastfeeding books.  If you really want to read everything about breastfeeding this is the book for you.
    • Need a cheaper option? Almost all libraries carry this book.
    • Also check out KellyMom.com for a ton of breastfeeding information if you can’t afford the book
  4. Baby Carrier
      • I think every parent needs a baby carrier. It’s so much better for getting around, but it also makes breastfeeding a breeze.  I personally never used breastfeeding covers because our first daughter freaked out. However, using a carrier, allows me to nurse discretely and still keep going.


3 Things I Think Able Necessary Depending on Life

These last two things are either absolutely necessary or not depending on your life. If you are a mom who works in the home, then you don’t necessarily need a a breastpump or bottles. I personally never left for me than a few hours for the first 6 months of our girls life, and in those cases had a better outcome hand expressing; however, I know that’s not a realistic expectation for many.

  1. Manual Pump
    • I highly recommend if you are a working mom outside the home, you keep a manual pump inside your car.  You never know when you will forget a piece to an electric pump, but having a manual back up will always come in handy.
    • Standard Manual Pump like Medela is highly recommend.
    • New silicone pumps are taking over for easy use and storage purposes.
  2. Electric Pump
    • There’s so many options to have. We personally used a Lansinoh Double Electric.
    • Many moms love Freemies because you can discretely use them and keep working
  3. Bottles
      • Some kids are picky so you may have to try a few options.  We love the Kiinde system for storage and bottle usage.


Working Mom?

Check out our 25 Tips for Working Moms Who Want to Make Breastfeeding Work.

I personally never used nursing bras, tanks, or other clothes.  Instead, I opted for soft bras, regular tank tops, and regular shirts like v-necks that allowed for easy access. You can definitely grab all those if you like them more, but I chose to save money and not use them.

Here’s everything we mentioned in this post:


Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms

by

*Most* women love jewelry.  It’s true.  From the time we were little and playing dress up, we’ve been attracted to sparkly things that accessorize our outfits.  As we’ve gotten older, our jewelry has typically increased in value.  However, once we become moms, something changes for some of us. Some children grab more than other and due to the desire not to ruin our favorite pieces, we end up giving up jewelry all together. We’ll still wear our rings, but the necklaces, earrings, and fancy bracelets vanish for awhile.

Personally speaking, I know that my children were over two before I started trying to wear jewelry again. Even then, it’s a fine line walked to make sure that over-excited children don’t grab valuable pieces and tear them.

I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to sacrifice any longer.  Whether you are a mom reading this post and looking to buy yourself something, or you are a partner/grandparent/friend looking for something special for the nursing mom in your life, I’ve got you covered.  Our Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms post will give you affordable, stylish options. Jewelry options that are safe for babies to chew on anytime.  The jewelry is also extremely durable, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking. All the pieces showcased in this post also have more than one use.  All the jewelry doubles as toys for your littles while out or at home. The shawl and scarves can be used indefinitely, even after your littles are bigger.

10 Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms 

(scroll to the bottom for a bonus tip)


These are some of our favorite Amazon finds for breastfeeding accessories to gift moms, but we’ve got some even cooler news!  Right now, if you click on either of the Wee Likey bracelets (Number 1&2), you can save 40% off!  That mean’s you can get a 3 or 5 set of bracelets for just $14.99! And they double as toys when you are out and about! Use code: VIParent at checkout. 

Colostrum is Enough

by

colostrum is enoughColostrum is enough.  

If you don’t read anything else I write below, please tell yourself that colostrum is enough to nourish and feed your baby.

I was fortunate enough to have found an amazing support group of moms before having our first girl.  Not only were there experienced moms in my group, but there were L&D nurses, lactation consultants, doulas, midwives, and even an IBCLC with decades of experience.  I can’t say that I would have been as successful at breastfeeding without these groups and these amazing women standing by my side through every difficult moment, especially with my first.

It’s seem funny to think that I had times when I questioned myself or my milk as I’ve now breastfed for 1,500 consecutive days. However, there were absolutely times where I did. Most of those questions came in the first few weeks of having a child, but especially the first few days.

  • Why was my baby crying constantly?
  • Why was she sleeping so much?
  • Why did she nurse for 3 minutes, unlatch, and then cry again 5 minutes later?
  • Why did it seem like she was nursing every hour for an hour around the clock?
  • Why can I barely get anything out if I try to hand express? (or pump)

This and so many more questions filled my mind and that was only in the first 24 hours after birth. No one wants to starve their child, but our country also isn’t set up in a way that supports knowledge given out accurately either.  We seem to forget in our after-birth high that millions of women have done this before us in a time where formula wasn’t readily available.  Yet, in still, we allow formula reps to push sugar laden pre-made mixtures down the throats of this life we just created without question, because “they know best”.  Do they? Or is your body, the same body that created a new organ to nourish a new human being in a matter of months, actually know what it’s doing?

Please stop questioning your body’s ability to provide for your child.  

Colostrum is 100% enough to feed your baby until your milk comes in whether that’s day 1 or day 5. Whether you have a 5lb baby or a 10lb baby.

Colostrum is the yellowish, thick, milk that is extremely high in carbs, antibodies, and protein produce as the perfect first food for your baby. Colostrum also acts as a laxative to help pass stools in the early days, thus expelling meconium and bilirubin. While it’s low in volume, the more often you breastfeed those first few days, the faster your milk will come in.  Every time that you give formula instead of putting your baby at your breast, you are halting that process.

Your mature milk typically comes in around day three or four. For most moms, they are home by this time. Therefore, unless there is a medical emergency, there’s no reason why formula should be given to a breastfeeding mother in the hospital.

3 Goals for New Baby

  • Breastfeed 8-12 times every 24 hours after birth (the more the better).
    • Strictly breastfeeding mothers cannot overfeed their baby, but they can underfeed
  • Watch diaper output
    • Whether you can hand express or pump 1/2 teaspoon or 2 ounces doesn’t matter.  Every mother is different.  What matters is that your baby is peeing and pooping. Typically one wet and one dirty diaper for every day of life (1 diaper each on Day 1, 2 diapers each on day 2, etc).  Around day 4-5 when your milk starts to come in, you can expect at least 5-6 wet diapers a day.
  • Watch weight (the baby’s weight, not yours)
    • You will have a weight check at around 3 days, 1 week, 2 week.  If you received any fluids during your labor, this could inflate the baby’s weight loss and shouldn’t be counted towards birth weight.
    • Make sure they are using the same scale with the same amount of clothes every time (preferably naked)

Diaper output and weight are literally the only things you should be watching.  No matter how often the baby cries, no matter how often they unlatch and relatch, just nurse.

Grab a box of chocolates, a gallon of water, and hang out on the couch to binge watch your favorite Netflix series.

Remember, your baby’s stomach is the size of a marble on day one.  Not much needs to come out to fill that up!

size of newborn's stomach

Breastfeeding isn’t a cake walk, but your colostrum is enough. 

Disclosure: We are not a medical professional and the information offered here is our opinion based on our knowledge and education. If concerned, it’s best to seek out information on your own and speak with your own medical professionals that you trust. We always recommend seeing a lactation consultant for breastfeeding concerns. 


What Lactation Consultants Want You To Know Before Baby Comes

by

lactation consultants

 

As new moms, you likely are trying to learn as much as you can before the baby arrives.  For me, with my first, breastfeeding didn’t come as easy I had hoped and I had to learn a lot in a very short amount of time to make our breastfeeding dyad work.  Luckily, I met an amazing International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who helped me along the way.  Today, she sharing here 10 Things Lactation Consultants wish moms knew before the baby arrives.

1. Have as healthy a pregnancy and birth as you can

Have a pre-conception visit with you midwife or obstetric care provider Many moms are surprised by a pregnancy and have no time to plan. But if you are planning on getting pregnant, please stop smoking, eat as healthy as you can, add or increase exercise, and if you know you really need to lose weight then lose some before you are pregnant with your baby. If you have any bad habits or unhealthy lifestyle choices, limit or stop for your baby’s health and well being. Learn about gut health. Increase the good bacteria in your gut and increase fiber in your diet. Some moms have a chronic health situation, but then be as well as you can be with your chronic situation. Learn how your chronic situation affects pregnancy and breastfeeding. Healthy moms have less breastfeeding challenges.

2. Be an informed consumer

Please do as much research into pregnancy care, birth plan and breastfeeding as you would do to buy a new car or your new cell phone. Your pregnancy, birth, and lactation experience can greatly be altered by those who care and support you. Take an excellent birthing class, breastfeeding class, and read good books about these topics. One excellent choice would be The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. Attend La Leche League meetings or other support group meetings while you are pregnant to learn and see breastfeeding. Do your homework and research. Being a parent is a Big Task. Be prepared.

3. Make friends with your breasts

Yes, I really meant to say that. Our culture is kind of weird about breasts, but they are more than sex objects. Their primary purpose is baby feeding, nurturing, and comfort. Look at them in the mirror. Touch them. Massage them. Learn how to do hand expression. It is a great technique to have when you need it and to learn how to touch your breasts. Have you had a biopsy, breast reduction or augmentation or other breast surgery? All of those helping you with lactation need to know if there have been alterations to your breasts. Do your breasts look “normal”? Does Lefty look like Righty? Get to know what kind of nipples you have. Are you nipples “normal? Normal nipples are stretchy which helps with breastfeeding and latching. Inverted and non stretchy nipples may present some challenges but moms breastfeed with all kinds of nipples. If you have concerns ask your IBCLC or care provider to assess you nipples and breasts for breastfeeding concerns. There should be breast changes during you pregnancy.

Honestly, just like there are some thyroids and pancreases that do not work so well, there are some breasts that do not work optimally. Some moms just struggle and just barely make enough milk. But sadly there are some breasts that even with excellent lactation management they can only make drops. Some moms have insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) which may be identifiable as a low supply risk factor prenatally. The earlier mothers who have low supply risk factors are identified the quicker interventions can be used. Serious low supply which may affect 5-10% of moms is a real issue and needs much more research.

4. Breastfeeding is a learned art.

Breastfeeding is a dance between moms and baby. Mom’s job is to make the milk. Baby’s job is to take the milk from the breast. How do two new dance partners get good at the breastfeeding dance? …..Practice. Lots of it. Just as some new dance partners intuitively dance well with each other, there are other moms and babies that need much more guidance and instruction. Many moms need and want encouragement and support for their doubts in the early days. Having at opportunity to see other breastfeeding moms nurse their babies is helpful. So make opportunities to be around breastfeeding moms. If you can, go to a La Leche league meeting and learn or see if your local hospital has a breastfeeding support group. With good information and support most moms can have a positive and great lactation experience. Breastfeeding challenges can be overcome. Many moms are doing well by 4 to 6 weeks, especially if they have great information and support.

5. Establish your support systems.

My one wish for every mom is that she has excellent information and support. Ideally, your partner and the other women in your life are informed and supportive of your mothering choices and your infant feeding choice. It is very helpful for a new mom to identify who will really support her in her journey as a new mom. Making a meal, running an errand, doing her laundry, or helping you with whatever you need is essential for all new moms. Unfortunately, there seems to always be uniformed critics who have much to say but they are detrimental to your success. Learn to turn a deaf ear to those who do not support your breastfeeding. Support yourself with positive and encouraging friends. Find your village of help and support including an IBCLC and LLL leader to accompany you in your journey.

6. More than you could ever imagine you are going to fall madly love with your baby.

Even if you have dreamed of having a baby since you are a little girl, until that baby is in your arms you will not fully see how much you can love someone in a way only moms understand. For many moms their perspective as a human changes once they are MOM. You will not understand until it happens to you. From then on just about every thought and decision is filtered through your mom brain for the rest of your life. These loving hormones that your body is creating to make you fall in love with your baby is also helping you create milk. 

7. If you are returning to work take the most creative and longest maternity leave you can manage.

If I were president one of my highest priorities would be extending paid maternity leave for moms. Maternity leave in the USA is a joke. Alas, I am not going to be a 2016 presidential candidate so I urge you to gather your resources and be creative on how you can maximize you time home with your baby. Going back to work full time at 6 weeks as a pumping breastfeeding mom is very challenging. Some moms have done that and still have made to a year of breastfeeding. I applaud you for all your hard work. Returning to work at 3 or 4 months is less challenging than 6 weeks. Returning at 6 months is even more manageable. Starting part time helps many moms to ease into returning to work. Each mom has challenges to continue lactation while being a working, pumping mom. Many moms have done this but it takes effort and commitment. Kudos to all moms who celebrate a baby’s 1st birthday as a working pumping mom.

8. Set a breastfeeding goal 

Goal setting is a useful tool. When someone sets a goal to lose weight and is specific, then that person is more likely to approach that goal. Think about what you want for your breastfeeding goal. Some may decide they are going to try breastfeeding as they are very unsure about it. Others may decide a few weeks, a few months, a year or beyond. Now your breastfeeding goal may change but having a goal may help you though the bumps and challenges. Your goal should be your goal not your partner’s, friend’s or anyone else’s goal for your lactation.

9. Becoming a mom will change you.
I have been a mom for 40 years. I have been a grandmom for 14 years. I am a very different person for the better than I was before I was a mom. Honestly I can say being a mom has made me more patient, gentler, and more giving than I could have ever imagined 40 years ago. Becoming a mom makes you grow as a person. By definition a mom is less selfish and more concerned about her children than herself. You will grow and change as a human by becoming a MOM.

10. Breastfeeding is free but breast pumps, lactation consultant services, and accessories are not.
Yes, it is true that normal breasts with good lactation management can make plenty of free milk for your baby (babies). However, an excellent breastfeeding class, a lactation consultant home visit and support, breastfeeding aids and an excellent breast pump are not free. So moms may need to invest money in support of their lactation. That is certainly not as much money as if you did not breastfeed. The Affordable Care Act has mandated certain lactation support so some of your breastfeeding needs may be covered by your health insurance. Just be aware not all lactation consultants who do home visits may opt to deal with the insurance paperwork. So be prepared to invest in your lactation success. It will be worth it! 

 

 

This was a guest post written by Judy Schneider. Judy lives in Pittsgrove, NJ, with John, her husband of 46 years. They enjoy their large family which includes 4 daughters and 10 grandchildren. Judy has been a La Leche League Leader for 39 years and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)  for 30 years. In addition to her commitment to supporting breastfeeding moms, Judy enjoys scuba diving, kayaking , snorkeling and sail boating.

Beat the “Booby Traps” – 50+ Breastfeeding Myths Busted

by

breastfeeding myths

 

*Disclosure:  Affiliate links contained within this post.  This provides us with a small commission if you make a purchase which contains to allow up to run our site.

When I got pregnant with Skibbles, people immediately started asking me if I “planned to breastfeed”.  Once I said yes, I heard every single crazy rumor/old wives tales/fallacy that you could think of, from anyone and everyone.  Everyone had an opinion about what did or didn’t work for them or their brother’s sister’s best friend’s aunt-in-law twice removed. After more than two years of continuous breastfeeding, I’ve heard my fair share of breastfeeding myths, that I love to call “Booby Traps”. Here I share 50+ Breastfeeding Myths and why they aren’t true.

1. Put them on a schedule immediately

-WRONG! Breastfed babies should be allowed to nurse on demand. According to La Leche League babies need a minimum of 8-12 feedings per 24 hours.  During growth spurts they may need more feedings and as they get older they may space their feedings out more. Breastmilk also digests within 30-90 minutes, requiring frequent feedings. During growth spurts, they may also need to nurse more.

2. Pump and Dump after any alcohol consumption

-WRONG! Hale (2012) says, “mothers who ingest alcohol in moderate amounts can generally return to breastfeeding as soon as they feel neurologically normal.”  This means mothers who are sober enough to drive are sober enough to breastfeed.  Typically 1-2 drinks are perfectly safe for the average mother.  KellyMom also explains there is no need to pump and dump as this does nothing to speed up the elimination of milk.

3. If they eat more than every 2-3 hours they are manipulating you, using you as a pacifier, or you aren’t making enough

-WRONG! Although breastfeeding is a comfort mechanism for breastfeed babies, they are not using you as a pacifier and you are making enough milk. If a baby seems to be eating around the clock, especially as a newborn (every 30mins to an hour typically), it’s not because you are not making enough milk, the baby is trying to up your supply.  This happens during growth spurts that typically happen during 3s and 6s (3 day, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, etc).

4. Keep nursing through the pain, latch is fine

WRONG! Breastfeeding isn’t supposed to hurt.  Typically the first week, a mother may feel discomfort as the baby is pulling the breast tissue; however there are many causes of nipple pain that should diminish soon after.  Wrong positioning, tongue tie, and lip tie are the main concerns for continued pain and should be addressed with a Lactation Consultant. Breast shells may helps during the first few days of soreness.

5. You can’t nurse if you have inverted or flat nipples

-WRONG! If you are in the less than 10% of women with flat or inverted nipples, pumping to pull out the nipple or using a nipple shield can aid in transferring milk to your baby. It’s important to see a Lactation Consultant early to help establish a good routine

6. You have to supplement with formula until your milk comes in. Colostrum isn’t enough. 

WRONG WRONG WRONG! Colostrum IS enough. Breastmilk comes in until between days 2-5. During that time frequent feeding at the breast are needed to establish and bring in your milk supply.  If you were to supplement with formula, your baby would not be at the breast, reducing the chances for your milk to come in on time. During the first 24 hours a baby only need 30mL of breastmilk.  That’s the equivalent to just ONE ounce or 6 teaspoons.  It’s also important to note that it’s completely normal for a baby to loose up to 10% of it’s birth weight.  Colostrum is STILL enough.

7. Supplement with formula to make sure baby is getting vitamins/nutrients

-WRONG.  The average breastfed baby is getting adequate, sometimes even higher amounts of vitamins directly from breastmilk.  Premature babies may need additional vitamins, but should be discussed on a case by case basis.

8. Never let baby nurse longer than 15/20/30 mins on one side.

-WRONG!  Let your baby nurse on demand.  Some babies just take longer to transfer the milk they need.  This does not mean you have low supply.  You can time your baby following their lead and see what the average amount of time they need to feed.

9. You can’t breastfeed a baby with jaundice, you must supplement until the jaundice goes away.

-WRONG! Jaundice happens in up to 60% of newborns. That doesn’t mean automatic formula.  The best plan is to nurse as often as possible whether directly at the breast, via a syringe, or a cup.  Spending time in the sun, near a window, or with a billi blanket vs directly under billi lights to allow for skin to skin and on demand breastfeeding should be the first course of attention.

10. Start weaning the baby when he/she turns 6 months.

-WRONG!  Would you start weaning a formula baby just because they turned 6 months?  No.  Breastmilk should be the primary nutritional supply for the first full year of life. Both the AAP and WHO recommend starting solids around 6 months (not before), but breastmilk should still be offered first and be the main supply of nutrition.

11. Have to toughen up your nipples before baby is born

-WRONG!  OUCH! This is a very outdated wive’s tale.  You don’t need to do anything before the baby is born to your nipples except grab a jar of nipple cream to use after you start nursing.

12. You aren’t producing enough if baby not back to birth weight within a few days. You must supplement with formula.

-WRONG! First, it’s important that the baby be weighed on the SAME scale, preferably naked.  A 5-7% weight loss is normal, up to 10%, with the goal of regaining birth weight within 10-14 days.  Medical interventions at birth (i.e., lots of fluids given to mom) could skew birth weight and it’s important to take that into consideration.  Also, make sure that the pediatrician is using the WHO chart for breastfed babies, as they do not grow at the same rate as formula fed babies. A baby should gain roughly 5-7 ounces per week for the first four months of life.

13. Replace breastmilk with whole milk at 1 year

-WRONG!  There’s no need to ever introduce dairy.  Of course, you can.  But there’s no rule that breastmilk needs replaced at 1 year.  According to Dewey (2001), every 15oz of breastmilk during the second year of life provides 94% of B12 requirements, 43% of protein requirements, 75% of vitamin A requirements, 60% of vitamin C requirements and more. The benefits of breastfeeding a toddler far outweigh any recommendation to stop nursing.

14. You have to start cereal because breastmilk isn’t enough.

-WRONG! Breastmilk IS enough! Actually it’s cereals that are nutritionally void of nutrients and no longer recommended.  Also it’s commonly recommended that cereal be added to a bottle, which is actually a choking hazard. Instead, wait until at least 6 months and then introduce whole foods.

15. You have to start weaning when baby gets teeth.

-WRONG!  Did you know some baby’s are born with teeth?  Would you wean them from food? No.  There’s no rule that once a baby has teeth they need weaned. Babies still have nutritional needs that need to be met.

16. You have to wait X amount of time in between feedings to let your body reproduce more milk. 

-WRONG! Your body is constantly producing milk.  There is never a time that you aren’t making milk and no reason to wait in between feedings.  That’s just not how milk production works.

17. My breasts don’t feel full anymore/I don’t feel a letdown anymore, I must not be making enough milk.

-WRONG!  Somewhere around 3-4 months, as your body gets in a routine of how much milk to produce for your nursling(s), it’s common for you not to feel full or even a letdown.  Sometimes this happens earlier, sometimes later, depending on the mom.  Weight gain and diaper output are always the recommended ways for knowing if you are making enough milk.

18. You need to give formula to help baby Sleep Through The Night (STTN). 

-WRONG! There’s no evidence that formula or solids will help a baby sleep through the night. It’s also important to remember that breastmilk digests in 30-90 mins, so a breastfed baby may legitimately be hungry.  Additionally, the AAP defines STTN as ONE 5 hour stretch during the night, not 10-12 hours.

19.Can’t nurse if you have a C-Section

-WRONG! Moms who give birth via c-section are just as successful at breastfeeding as anyone else. It is important that you are able to see your baby as soon as possible, preferably immediate skin to skin contact.  With the help of nurses and your partner, breastfeeding can begin immediately.

20. Can’t nurse on medications/ There’s no alternative medicines available. I must pump and dump. 

-WRONG!  Many medications are in fact safe and for the few that are not, there are alternatives available that are safe.  Very, very rarely is something not safe.  Doctors/nurses often tell a mothers that she cannot breastfeed while on medication to “cover their butt”, when in fact they don’t truly know.  There’s an expansive list of resources available to help you determine what medications are safe, including the LactMed phone line.

21. You can’t relactate

-WRONG! Sometimes a mother needs to look into relactation and it’s completely possible.  Getting baby to the breast as often as possible is one of the best ways, but there are a lot of resources available for mothers wishing to relactate.

22. Baby not gaining enough. Must supplement. 

-WRONG!  (Usually). Again, referring back to #12, it’s important to make sure that the pediatrician is using the WHO chart for breastfed babies, as they do not grow at the same rate as formula fed babies. A baby should gain roughly 5-7 ounces per week for the first four months of life.  As a baby becomes mobile, they will gain less weight – typically 4-5 ounces during 4-6 months and 2-4 ounces during 6-12 months.  Just because they aren’t gaining the same amount, isn’t an automatic reason.

23. Can’t nurse because my mother, sister couldn’t nurse.

-WRONG!  There’s no evidence that shows that because your mother or any other family member wasn’t successful at breastfeeding that you won’t be.  Often times, culture and some of these same myths in this post, are the reason she wasn’t successful at breastfeeding.  Nursing your baby on demand is key to setting yourself up for a positive breastfeeding relationship.

24. I can’t breastfeed because my baby is in the NICU. 

-WRONG! Premature infants need breastmilk more than any other baby.  Working with a lactation consultant right away, getting a hospital grade pump, and establishing a pumping routine and supply as early as possible are keys to breastfeeding your baby in the NICU.  Every drop counts!

25. My breasts are too small or too large

-WRONG! Whether you have small breasts or large breasts, you have the ability to breastfeed.

26. I’m not making enough because I can only pump X ounces.

-WRONG!  First, pumping is NOT an indication of how much you are producing.  Pumps are NOT as effective as a baby at removing milk from the breast.  The average mother only produces 1/2 to 2 ounces TOTAL (from both breasts) per nursing session. Pumping tips can help moms that need to maintain a pumping schedule.

27. I can’t breastfed because my previous child wouldn’t/couldn’t nurse.

-WRONG!  Every child is different.  It’s likely that a previous nursing dyad fell into one of the many booby traps discussed here.  If you did have a previous nursing relationship not go how you wanted, we recommend seeing a lactation consultant immediately after birth to set up a positive nursing relationship this time around.

28. I can’t breastfeed because I have multiples.

-WRONG!  There’s no evidence that mothers of multiples can’t breastfeed. Remember breastfeeding is a supply and demand business and you can provide adequate nutrition for multiples.  La Leche League has a vast list of resources for breastfeeding multiples.

29. I have to supplement because breastmilk isn’t enough. 

-WRONG!  Breastmilk is enough.  Diaper output and weight gain are the only clear indications of sufficient breastmilk supply.

30. Fusing at the breast so they must not be getting any milk.

-WRONG! There are a multitude of reasons a baby may be fussing at the breast. Oversupply and fast let-down are two of the main reasons, but can easily be fixed with laid back breastfeeding. It’s important to determine the reason of the fussing (growth spurt vs time of day) before assuming anything is wrong with milk production.

31. My family doesn’t support me.

-WRONG!  Who cares.  Giving your baby optimal nutrition should be the only concern.  Hopefully, they will come around, if not, focus on caring for your baby.

32. My partner won’t bond with the baby.

-WRONG! There are hundreds of ways for a partner to bond with a baby besides feedings.  Bath time, bed time routines, reading books, playing during tummy time, brushing hair, getting dressed, taking a walk, singing, etc., are all examples of how a parent can bond with a child.  Feeding does not have to be one of them.

33. I have to supplement in public.

-WRONG! Nursing in public is natural and normal.  There’s no reason you can’t.  However, some woman may not be comfortable for personal reasons.  This doesn’t mean you have to supplement.  Pumping, even a small amount, is adequate, or finding a quiet, private place to nurse can also be beneficial.  Nursing covers may also help if the mother wishes to use one.

34. Don’t need to eat at night after X weeks.

-WRONG!  Have you ever woken up to eat in the middle of the night? Probably.  As a baby is growing and developing, they need to eat frequently.  Remember, breastmilk digests within 30-90 minutes.  If you stopped feeding in the middle of the night, key nutrients could be lost.  Also, breastmilk at night is often fattier and more nutrient dense than in the daytime which ensures that a baby is gaining weight properly. It’s also important to remember that breastfeeding is about nurturing as well as nutrition.

35. Breastfeeding past 12 months is gross/sexual.

-WRONG WRONG WRONG! There is nothing gross or sexual about breastfeeding at any age.  The world average weaning age if a child is let self-wean is approximately 4 years old.  Culturally, we have be told that once a baby can talk/walk, we should wean them, but evidence shows that breastfeeding should continue to at least 2 years old if possible.

36. I have to wean because I’m pregnant. 

-WRONG!  While many moms may decide breastfeeding during pregnancy isn’t for them, that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.  Many moms can continue to breastfeed during pregnancy if they choose.  If breastfeeding is causing contractions, which happens in a very low percentage of women, then breastfeeding may need to stop, but this should be discussed with your care provider.

37. It will ruin your sex life. 

-WRONG!  Huh??  How?? You aren’t trying to have sex while nursing.  Your partner will still find you attractive and still want to continue a sex life.

38. It will make your boobs sag. 

-WRONG!  Or maybe right in a few cases.  But it has nothing to do with breastfeeding and more of a predisposition to a number of other factors.  Over time, all women, unless surgically alternating their appearance, will get “saggy boobs”. This isn’t a reason to not breastfeed.

39. It’s not beneficial after a year. 

-WRONG! Referring back to #13 –  According to Dewey (2001), every 15oz of breastmilk during the second year of life provides 94% of B12 requirements, 43% of protein requirements, 75% of vitamin A requirements, 60% of vitamin C requirements and more. The benefits of breastfeeding a toddler far outweigh any recommendation to stop nursing. WHO recommends a minimum of 2 years old and then as long as mutually agreed upon by the mother and nursling.

40. Can’t breastfeed a baby with reflux.

-WRONG! Breastfed babies actually appear to do better than formula fed babies who have reflux.  Creating a positive environment for a baby with reflux is the most important thing.

41. Shouldn’t nurse a baby to sleep,

-WRONG!  There’s nothing wrong with nursing a baby to sleep. Breastfeeding is calming, comforting, and nurturing and has benefits for both the mother and child.

42. My baby has a feeding tube. 

-WRONG! You can still pump and give breastmilk through a feeding tube.  Actually, this is preferred as breastmilk contains more nutrients and antibodies than any other form of milk.

43. Breastfeeding causes tooth decay.

-WRONG! No valid study has linked breastfeeding and tooth decay. More often, this is a heredity concern and not a concern with breastfeeding itself.  Wiping teeth and gums with tooth wipes may decrease the risk even more.

44. Have to breastfeed on both sides every time. 

-WRONG!  Not all babies nurse on both sides every time.  Some may, other may not.  It’s not any indication of milk production, supply, or anything else.  It’s just a preference.  Again, if diaper output and weight gain are normal then there’s no reason for concern.

45. Never let your baby comfort nurse.

-WRONG! We can’t say enough that breastfeeding has way more than nutritional value.  A baby will want to nurse when sick, upset, or a number of other reasons.  It’s perfectly acceptable, and can even benefit mom to help get through difficult moments by allowing to breastfeed.

46. There’s no such thing as nipple confusion

-WRONG! There actually is such a thing as nipple confusion and can lead to a host of issues if artificial nipples are introduced too early since there is a difference in the way a baby essentially sucks at the breast vs an artificial mechanism.

47. You will spoil your baby if you feed them too often. 

-WRONG!  You can’t spoil a baby.

48. Some babies can be allergic to breastmilk

-WRONG! Most babies have no issues with anything that a mother eats.  It’s important to distinguish between normal fussiness and an underlying issues, especially during the early weeks of life.  Some more may see a benefit in reducing or eliminating certain foods from her diet, such as dairy, but often there is no reason.

49. Side lying causes ear infections

-WRONG! This simply isn’t true and actually there are proven studies that show breastfeeding reduces the risk of ear infections.

50. You can’t nurse if you adopt

-WRONG!  Many adoptive mothers can use resources to lactate, even without previously having children.  They may not be able to provide a full supply, but every drop counts! Supplemental Nursing Systems and Lactation Boosting Foods can be beneficial.

While these are all breastfeeding myths that most women hear, we would like to point out that some women do truly have medical concerns that prevent them from producing enough milk, such as IGT; however, these cases are extremely rare, and if a newborn is allowed to establish a supply from the beginning naturally, then most women will never experience any concerns.

We always recommend attending your local La Leche League meetings and/or seeing a Lactation Consultant, especially an IBCLC if there is concern about any breastfeeding or supply. Typically, a pediatrician has less than an hour of breastfeeding training during medical school and they are not well versed in breastfeeding concerns. Also grabbing a copy of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding can be very beneficial!

It wasn’t until researching for this article that I learned Best for Babes coined the term “Booby Traps”. We love their take on these and other breastfeeding myths.  Read more about Booby Traps from them. 

Special thanks to the following bloggers for help with this post: Making It Home, The Pistachio Project, Do Try This At Home, and My Mama Adventure. 

Check out our post on 15 Lactation Recipes for the Breastfeeding Mom! 

signature button

 

 

 

 

Disclaimer:  We are not a medical professional.  Information within this post should be considered educational and informative only. Readers are advised to consult with their own medical professionals in making decisions affecting their health. 

Lactation Boosting Foods to Increase Milk Supply

by

lactation boosting foods

Galactogogues.

Say it with me….Galactogogues….Yea, chances are you don’t have a clue how to pronounce it either.  Am I right?

I’m pretty sure I gave up after the first try because I also get tongue tied trying to say it.  It’s easier for me to say lactation boosting foods and herbs that increase milk supply.  But regardless if you can say it or not, what exactly is a galactogogue, who needs to look into taking them, do they really work, and what foods actually work to increase a breastfeeding mother’s supply.

Galactogogues themselves refer specifically to herbs or medicines used to increase a breastfeeding mother’s milk production.  However, there are other foods out there that may also help.  But…before you jump into the car and head to the store to buy everything on the list, there’s one VERY important question.

Do YOU need to be taking something to boost your  milk supply? 

Chances are you don’t.  Many mothers, unfortunately, fall into “booby traps” where they are lead to believe that they aren’t making enough milk, when they actually are. If your baby has the appropriate amount of wet/dirty diapers, is gaining weight on track according to the WHO chart, and is meeting age appropriate milestones, you don’t NEED anything to boost your supply. Outdated information, bad advice from family, friends, and even pediatricians, a society that condemns public breastfeeding, and a culture that sends mothers back to work before they should, are all problems that may have mothers believe that there is a drop in their supply or see an actual drop in their supply.

So how do you know if you should be taking lactation boosting foods and herbs?

First — Go see a Certified Lactation Consultant. Better yet, go see an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).  Chances are that you ARE making enough milk and the issue is that you aren’t feeding often enough, emptying your breasts completely, or even using the wrong size flanges on your pump, which can decrease your milk supply because you are telling your body not to make enough. This KellyMom article for increasing supply is also an amazing reference.

What are some cases where you may need to look into lactation boosting foods and herbs?

  • Premature delivery
  • Illness in the infant where physical breastfeeding isn’t an option often enough
  • Adoptive nursing
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Separation of mother/infant for reasons such as returning to work

As you can see, there are very little reasons why you may need to look into this.  For me personally, my returning menstrual cycle was the only time that I noticed during our 26+ months of breastfeeding, that I needed a little boost but I also work from home.  We know that MANY, many mothers have to return to work quickly and keeping up with the demand can be challenging.

One reason, you should seek out a lactation consultant or IBCLC is because you simply don’t know the reason for believing that you have a low supply and other practices, like more time at the breast, different size flanges for your breast pump, or skin to skin contact with your baby could all be more beneficial in the long term than lactation boosting foods that are masking a true problem.  Also – many of these herbs and foods have not be tested for safety when it comes to the breastfeeding mother/infant dyad and as with any natural remedy, there can be side effects.  Fenugreek, for example, can result in low blood sugar if the wrong doses are consumed, and should also be discussed with a medical practitioner before using.

All that said, these are the common herbs and foods recommended for boosting your milk supply:

  • Alfalfa
  • Anise
  • Barley
  • Blessed Thistle
  • Brewer’s Yeast
  • Fenugreek
  • Fennel and Fennel Seed
  • Goat’s Rue
  • Hops
  • Marshmallow Root
  • Milk Thistle
  • Nettle
  • Oatmeal
  • Red Raspberry Leaf

Additionally, these foods may be beneficial:

  • Beets, carrots, yams and other vegetables high in beta-carotene
  • Dark, leafy green (think spinach, kale, greens) because of their nutrient components offer benefits

This post from Nice Breastfeeding gives dosing recommendations that you can discuss with your medical provider.

It’s very important to consider that even if you do notice an increase in using one or a mixture of these products, that ultimately getting your baby/child to the breast more often will ultimately, in most cases, increase your supply more than anything else.

Have you had success with any of these herbs or food options?  Did we miss something?  Leave a comment below letting us know what did or did not work for you!

 

signature button

 

 

 

 

 

 

You may be interested in our Lactation Boosting recipes that we currently have:

Tandem Nursing…You Can Breastfeed Twins! {Guest Post}

by

Twins! The word evokes a sense of excitement in some…and a sense of fear in others. I was in the latter camp when, at 10 weeks along, I found out we were having not one, but two babies. I had never in my lifetime dreamt that I would have twins, and with two older boys already, I was overwhelmed at the thought!

After announcing to the world that we were having twins, then came the repeated commentary. “Congratulations” was not always the typical response. We often heard comments that were, well, less than optimistic about the situation. “Better you than me!” “Wow, you’ll sure have your hands full.” We even heard, “I’m so sorry, that is going to be so difficult for you.” Then, as my due date approached I began to get questions and comments regarding breastfeeding. All of my friends and family knew I had exclusively breastfed my older boys, so they were curious as to how I was going to handle this situation. “Certainly you’re not going to breastfeed your twins, are you?” “If you do breastfeed, you’ll have to pump.” “You will have to supplement with formula, you know.” Even the hospital lactation consultant told me I wouldn’t be able to breastfeed my twins exclusively for the first eight weeks. She sent me home with a detailed pumping-nursing-supplementing plan. And the commentary went on and on…

You Can Breastfeed Twins

I am here to tell you, from experience, if you want to exclusively breastfeed your twins, you can! Don’t let the naysayers say otherwise. My twins were exclusively breastfed from the day they came home from the hospital until almost a year old, and at 17 months have not yet weaned. Having the right disposition and mindset will do wonders for your success in breastfeeding twins! If you have never breastfed, do remember, it’s not easy for everyone to get started. Be sure to ask for help. Ask for help from a trusted family member or friend that is experienced in breastfeeding. Ask a lactation consultant or contact your local La Leche League.

Tandem Nursing

Breastfeeding twins is a juggling act—literally! I found that it was important to help my babies learn how to breastfeed individually before I could tandem nurse them. Because most twins are premature and small, they sometimes need a little extra help learning how to latch appropriately and really getting the hang of nursing. One of the tools I’ve found indispensable in tandem breastfeeding is using a twin nursing pillow. I used the My Brest Friend Twin Nursing pillow. I used it when my babies were tiny and I still use it now when they’re 17 months old! I’ve also heard good things about the EZ-2 Nurse Twin Nursing Pillow. If you plan to tandem nurse your babies, I highly recommend you purchase one of these. I wanted to be able to tandem nurse from day one. While I’ve read some women can do this—and more power to you if you can—it just didn’t happen for me and my boys. My twins, like I mentioned above, needed a little one-on-one attention. After they got the hang of nursing, and had better head control, tandem nursing was a breeze. It took just a few weeks and we were tandem nursing more often than not. Don’t get discouraged if you aren’t tandem nursing from the start—you’ll get there eventually!

Why Breastfeed

Breastfeeding is incredibly important to both your babies health, your health, and bonding with your baby. Make learning how to breastfeed them a priority and surround yourself with positive supportive people on this journey. Don’t beat yourself up if you need help or find that you do need to supplement your babies along the way. As a mom of twins you have too much on your plate to waste energy berating yourself. Enjoy your babies and the journey with them—they grow up too fast.

. . . .

Trisha is a mom to 4 fabulous boys and 1 wonderful husband. She stays busy homeschooling Bradley (8), trying to keep up with Cameron (almost 4), and loving on her twinsies Dylan & Elliot (1). Trisha loves to research and read about a number of topics. She and her husband write about a great diversity of subjects on their blog Intoxicated on Life including: faith, family, homeschooling, health, and anything else that strikes her fancy! They hope you’ll also enjoy following Intoxicated on Life on facebook and twitter.

*This is a guest post.  Thoughts and opinions don’t necessarily reflect our own.

Even More Recent Posts

We're Parents is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com