Everyone has different experiences when it comes to breastfeeding. Some people may love it, while others may find it painful. So how can you know what to expect? Greenville Women’s Care is here to answer all the common questions about breastfeeding!
1. When will my breast milk come in?
Milk production starts around the 2nd trimester of pregnancy and comes in stages. In the beginning your body produces colostrum, which is a special milk full of necessary nutrients and antibodies.
Around 30 hours after delivery, your milk supply will really begin. The change in your hormones lets your body know that it is time for it to make breast milk. Over the next week you may also notice changes in your breast milk. It will change from the thick colostrum to a creamier white milk and your output should increase as well.
2. How can I tell if my baby is eating enough?
All babies are different, but generally a newborn baby should feed 8-12 times every day, approximately every 2-3 hours. An easy way to gauge nutrition is to monitor your baby’s weight, wet diapers and bowel movements. If you notice your baby needs to be fed more often than that, they may not be getting enough milk, and you may want to consult your physician or pediatrician.
3. Am I producing enough milk?
For the most part, moms make enough breast milk to provide plenty of milk for their babies. After delivery, and once you begin breastfeeding, your milk output should also start to increase from a few milliliters to a couple of ounces around this time. If you’ve breastfed before, your milk production may ramp up more quickly. And, as breastfeeding decreases, your body will naturally start to wean production.
4. Is leaking normal?
Leaking is extremely normal and can sometimes happen just from hearing your baby cry. Typically, leaking occurs if you do not nurse around your usual feeding times, as your body is still prepared to breastfeed.
5. Is breastfeeding painful?
Initially, breastfeeding can be painful until you get the hang of it. If your baby is not latched correctly, or if you develop clogged ducts, it can be extremely uncomfortable. Mostly, breastfeeding is pleasant, and it is a great way to connect with your baby and comfort them.
6. How Should I Store My Breast Milk?
No matter how often you pump, keeping your breast milk protected for your baby is very important. There are many storage options: bags, glass jars, and plastic bottles. You should choose the option that works best for your breast pump, fridge or freezer storage space, and lifestyle. Remember, your milk can be left at room temperature for up to 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 6 days, and in the freezer for 6 months. If you store your breast milk in increments of 2-4 oz it will make thawing and warming times easier and can also reduce milk waste.
7. Health benefits of breastfeeding – for mom and baby
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mom and baby. Breastfeeding burns calories because of the hard work your body is doing, and even helps the uterus contract after birth. Breastfeeding is completely natural and a great source for nutrition, and it also lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, adult diabetes, and osteoporosis. For your baby, breast milk is extremely easy to digest, is great for their immune system, and lowers their risk of ear infections, asthma, and allergies.
8. Recommended stages of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding occurs in stages. It is important to speak with your doctor as to when the best time to transition to the next stage is. From birth to 6 months old, it is recommended to only breastfeed. By 6 months, it is time to slowly introduce solid foods while continuing to breastfeed until 1 year old. By then, your baby should be consuming a large variety of food.
We hope this blog has answered some questions for you. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding breastfeeding, ask your Greenville Women’s Care provider. Our physicians and Tess Garland, Certified Nurse Midwife, will be happy to answer your questions and prepare you for your breastfeeding journey.