Q: Will I be able to make enough milk?
Some women say they gave up on breastfeeding because they didn't make enough milk or their milk wasn't right for the baby. Every mother has the right to do what they feel is the best choice for themselves and their baby. While deciding what is right for you and your baby, take into consideration the following:
- Your breasts take a few days after birth to start making large quantities of milk. Right from the start, though, babies get important health benefits from small amounts of early milk produced, called colostrum. Also, during the first few days, there is a learning process for both baby and mom, as baby learns how to suck properly while mom learns how to breastfeed.
- Breast milk adapts as the baby grows. As long as you keep breastfeeding, your baby will get the right type and amount of food at the right time.
- If at first you experience problems breastfeeding, it doesn't mean that you cannot breastfeed. A clinician or a breastfeeding expert can help resolve problems as they arise, so don't be afraid to ask for help. Some women, even with good advice and much effort, cannot breastfeed exclusively. Breastfeeding is not for everyone.
- In certain rare circumstances, babies are allergic to their mother's milk. Formula allergies are more common, but allergies to breast milk are also possible.
Q: How will I know if I'm making enough milk?
A: There are a few ways to tell if your baby is getting enough milk, even though you can't see exactly how much breast milk a baby is drinking. Look for the following cues that your baby is receiving the proper amount of milk:
- After the fifth day since birth, the baby should have six to eight wet diapers in a 24-hour timeframe.
- Baby should have two to three yellow bowel movements (stools) in 24 hours. In the first few diaper changes, stools are sticky and black tar-colored, but stools become loose and yellow in color once breastfeeding is working well. It is considered normal for breastfed babies to have a stool at almost every feeding during the early weeks. After the first month, some breastfed babies only have a stool every few days.
- Baby should experience weight gain of between three and eight ounces a week.
- Expect to breastfeed eight to 12 times in 24 hours during the first few weeks, while listening for swallowing cues. Newborn swallowing sounds like a tiny clicking noise. If you can train yourself to recognize that your baby is swallowing while breastfeeding, you will be more easily able to ensure your baby is getting enough milk.
Q: Does breastfeeding hurt?
A: In the first few days or weeks of breastfeeding, it will feel awkward and uncomfortable. It's common for breasts to become very full (engorged) and will feel swollen, warm, or painful and heavy. Some women have sore nipples for a while. There are creams that are safe for breastfeeding that can help relieve tenderness and discomfort, and the discomfort will dissipate after both you and your baby's bodies adjust to breastfeeding and you'll find that breastfeeding can become a special, enjoyable bonding time for you and your baby.
Q: What are some ways to reduce embarrassment about breastfeeding, especially with family and visitors around the house?
A: It may be helpful to find a private place to breastfeed in the beginning so that you can feel most comfortable. With a little bit of practice, you'll find that you don't need to expose your breasts to breastfeed, either by using a shawl or scarf, nursing apron, or lifting a loose sweater with a tank top underneath that can be pulled down underneath the sweater to feed. It'll be up to you whatever feels most comfortable and whether or not you prefer to still breastfeed in private.
Q: I plan to go back to work soon after my baby is born. Can I still breastfeed?
A: Yes. Many working mothers are able to continue breastfeeding with a little planning, including these two possible options:
- Breastfeed at home as often as necessary in the morning and evening after returning from work and for nightly feedings. While at work, pump or express milk into a bottle (which can be stored with ice packs or in a refrigerator until traveling home), which can be used to feed the baby the next day.
- Use formula to supplement your milk supply. Many working mothers find balancing formula and breastfeeding to be most convenient and still beneficial to both baby and mom. Other women decide to breastfeed only until they go back to work. Breastfeeding is good for both baby and mom even if it can only be done for a short time.
Q: What are some good resources to learn more about breastfeeding?
A: There are a variety of resources available to new moms, including books, websites, friends and family that have experience breastfeeding, and breastfeeding classes and support groups. La Leche League international (www.lalecheleague.org) is well-known for its services and can send information and phone numbers of local groups in your area that offer support for breastfeeding moms.
LATCH also plans to provide videos and classes for support, education, and advice in either private or group settings. Please contact us if you'd like more information on subscription or enrollment in these services.
Q: I'm worried that breastfeeding will be overwhelming in terms of responsibility. How can I prepare accordingly?
A: Most new moms, including those that choose not to breastfeed, will feel tired and overwhelmed as they adjust to life with a newborn. Breastfeeding newborns nurse usually once every hour to once every three hours, but as the babies get older, they can go longer between feedings.
Formula fed babies can expect to feed eight to nine times a day during the first few weeks.
If you decide to breastfeed, it's important to breastfeed exclusively for the first three to four weeks so that your body can adjust to producing the appropriate amount of milk supply for the new baby, but after three to four weeks, you may wish to pump milk so that others can feed the baby and you can take a break.
Q: Am I wrong to choose formula for my baby?
A: Every mom needs to decide what works best for them. Although there are many proven benefits associated with breastfeeding, it most certainly isn't for everyone. If you have questions about not breastfeeding, it's recommended that you speak with your pediatric clinician.
LATCH can also provide consultations and advice in certain circumstances, but it is typically best to speak with a medical professional about the choice that's right for you.
Some mothers may have a more difficult time breastfeeding, including:
- women with flat nipples
- women who have had breast surgery, including breast reductions
- women who have had chest trauma
- women who have infections such as HIV and active tuberculosis that is not treated
- women who take certain medications, including, but not limited to: ergotamine, lithium, and chemotherapy drugs
- women who use illegal drugs or drink or smoke heavily
