Parenting Tips

Over the last few years there has been a resurgence in the number of mothers that are breastfeeding their babies.  Research is showing that the natural way of breastfeeding is actually the best way.  Unfortunately, there are a number of misconceptions and confusion that causes many mothers to give up on breastfeeding before they even get started.  Milk supply is at the top of those issues.

Having a good milk supply is important to the new baby, but there is no real way to judge what that milk supply is when you are breastfeeding.  The size of the breast or the length of time the baby feeds is no real indication of the amount of milk available or ingested.  The only real measurement is the weight gained by the baby (and maybe the number of wet diapers each day). 

The best way to ensure that there is an adequate milk supply is to breastfeed every time from the first feeding on.  Breastfeeding on demand (or any time that the baby is HUNGRY) will not only keep the milk supply steady, but it will help to increase it as the baby needs more milk. 

It may also take a few weeks for the baby to settle into a normal pattern when first coming home. In the beginning, your baby may require up to twelve feeds in one day. Eventually she will settle into a pattern and you will be more comfortable about understanding her needs. After the initial period, it is not unusual to nurse your baby up to eight times a day (sometimes even more) with on-demand feeding.  Keep in mind that your baby will need more milk during growth spurts, so you may have periods where the on-demand feedings increase beyond the pattern that you and your baby have settled into. 

The key to settling in to a comfortable on-demand pattern is to learn how to recognize the cues your baby gives off (sucking on her hand, becoming more aware, squirming towards the breast) before she starts crying.  Crying can make it harder for her to latch on properly and can cause her to have more gas.

Feeding on demand can be supplemented with pumping if necessary.  Pump at times when your breasts feel engorged, start leaking or when you are feeding the baby on the other breast.  You will be able to produce more milk that can then be refrigerated or frozen for the times when your husband or children want the blessing of bonding with the new baby.  (Do not use bottled milk for at least six weeks so that the baby can settle in to the breastfeeding).

Some things that can hinder your milk production:

- Lack of sleep
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Dehydration
- Inadequate nutrition
- Supplementing breastfeed with formula feedings

No matter how long you stay with the on-demand breastfeeding, or even if you choose that direction for you and your baby, keep in mind that any time you spend breastfeeding your baby will be beneficial to her growth and development.

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