Breastfeeding FAQs
- Latch/pain
- Breastfeeding may cause nipple irritation as your body adjusts. Application of lanolin cream after every feed can help to prevent cracking and bleeding.
- Your nipple shape should look the same before and after your baby feeds. If your nipple is flat or misshapen after your baby unlatches, you may want to see a lactation counselor for help adjusting the latch.
- Feeding frequency/expectations
- Breastfed infants will show signs of hunger cues by tightening their fists, bringing fists to mouth, opening and closing mouth, rooting.
- Cluster feeding is when infants want to feed every hour. This often happens in the evening hours and it is their way of increasing your supply to meet their needs.
- Pumping and return to work
- Practicing with your pump before returning to work is recommended. You may pump a different volume of milk at different times of the day – that is normal! Hydration and good nutrition will help to maintain your supply.
- Supply – do I have enough? How do I know?
- If you baby is gaining weight well, having seedy yellow stools and urinating at least 6 wet diapers/day, then you can feel confident that you are supplying enough breastmilk for your baby. After feeding, infants will look more relaxed and satisfied.
- Timeframe when milk comes in
- Initially after delivery, you will be able to hand express some drops of colostrum. Colostrum is the first milk produced that is rich in protein and antibodies!
- On average, a mother’s milk will come in on day 3-5 post-delivery. If you have a c-section, it may take a little longer for milk to come in completely.
- How to increase supply
- Skin to skin
- Hydration and good nutrition
- Frequent emptying of the breast – either with direct feeding or pumping
- Signs of mastitis, candida, oversupply
- If you develop fever, breast pain or redness of the skin on your breasts, then call your doctor.
- Ok to use pacifier
- Pacifiers can be used and still preserve a healthy breastfeeding relationship. They are also recommended for safe sleep!
- Support system/ask for help
- Breastfeeding can be challenging! It is always helpful to reach out to a trusted family member, lactation consultant or pediatrician if you have any questions. We are always here to help!
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