Breastfeeding-Feed Your Baby Organic
We all have heard that breastfeeding your baby is best! But did you know that breastmilk offers 100% of what your baby needs, and that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life?
The benefits for babies that get their mom’s milk include, higher IQs, reduction in childhood cancers, obesity, diabetes, ear infections, and access to the mother immunities to mention a few. The benefits don’t stop for the baby but are extended to their moms as well including reduction in weight loss gained during pregnancy, female cancers, heart disease, osteoporosis and many more.
Do you know what the number one reason women give up breast feeding?
A) Lack of support
B) Too painful
C) They don’t believe they have enough milk
Most people think that the answer is “B-Too much pain” but the actual answer is “C- They don’t believe they have enough milk for baby”.
One of the most beneficial things you can do is go to a class and learn HOW to tell baby is getting. For the new parents it is pretty easy and doesn’t require a medical degree. You simply need to count the number of wet and dirty (urine and stool) diapers in a 24 hour period, and make sure it is the minimum number accepted for the age of your new baby. For example a 7 day old baby should have 6-8 wet diapers and 3-6 poop/dirty diapers. The basic concept is if breast milk is going in then there will be output in the diapers. kellymom.com is an excellent evidence based website for breastfeeding information.
Just as your body is designed to grow your baby and give birth, your body is designed to make and provide for your baby. Breastfeeding is the natural and most healthy way to feed your baby. The more milk that is removed from the breast the more milk the breast will produce. Getting support for family members is shown to help the breastfeeding relationship last longer. Also consider who you get information from (is it trusted and evidence based) and surround yourself with friends who have successfully breastfed their babies.
Many women accept that breastfeeding will be painful, but this is a misconception. Breastfeeding should not be painful to the point where you are crying, or dreading the next feeding. It is not normal for your nipples to be cracked and bleeding. If you experience pain or have concerns, getting the correct help from a lactation professional is crucial in helping you turn the situation around. Your hospital will provide breastfeeding help while you are there, and most offer outpatient services once you’re discharged. Also check with your pediatric office to see who they recommend. Some Board Certified Lactation Consults offer home visits, which are nice as they can help you in the comfort of your home where you are nursing all the time.
In January 2013 our current governmental administration mandated that insurance companies provide for lactation consults and pumping supplies. You are encouraged to call your insurance provider while pregnant to see what they exactly provide. If you are planning to return to work and will be pumping it is important to invest in a good pump. Poorly performing equipment can result in poor milk removal. So this is one area where better equipment is worth it.
Price ranges to expect in the Orlando are:
Office Consults range from $75-$120
Home Visits $120-$175
Double Pump Equipment (recommended for those returning to work) $180-$395
Key points to know:
Breastfeeding is normal and the perfect food for baby, water supplementation is not needed
Breastfeeding should NOT be painful
Milk removal (either by baby or pump) equals milk production “DEMAND & SUPPLY”
Know your baby’s diaper output to make sure it is enough
Know where to call or go for help
Know YOU ARE NOT ALONE~
