11 Things to Know About Breastfeeding from an IBCLC
March 2023
Author:
Morgan Jackson BSN, RN, IBCLC
Coauthors:
Hyemyung Kim, RD, CDN, CNSC, CLC
About Kids Eat in Color
Created by experts, Kids Eat in Color is the leading resource for families seeking evidence-based information and strategies on child nutrition and feeding.
Author:
Morgan Jackson BSN, RN, IBCLC
Coauthors:
Hyemyung Kim, RD, CDN, CNSC, CLC
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Inside: New baby? Get the answers to common breastfeeding questions from a lactation consultant, including how much milk a baby needs, what to eat to support breast milk production, how to get a good latch and what supplies are helpful.
When it comes to breastfeeding or nursing, the questions and concerns can seem endless.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of breastfeeding, we’re going to answer common questions to help you feel empowered in your breastfeeding journey.
It is normal to have questions about breastfeeding, and you are not alone. All moms, from first-timers to more experienced moms, run into questions along the way. Let’s dive in!
1. What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Curious about the benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child? Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both.
Benefits of breast milk for babies
One of the most commonly known benefits of breast milk is that it does an amazing job boosting an infant’s immune system.
But did you also know that breast milk can promote lifelong benefits?
Breast milk may reduce your baby’s risk for many illnesses and diseases including:
Allergic diseases like asthma, atopic dermatitis and eczema.
Diabetes.
Ear infections.
Gastrointestinal infections.
Obesity.
GI issues like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Respiratory tract infections.
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Benefits of breastfeeding for mom
There are several benefits for mom when breastfeeding, including some things you might not expect!
In the immediate postpartum period, breastfeeding or nipple stimulation by hand expression or pumping can help to project against postpartum hemorrhage and decrease postpartum bleeding. (1)
The hormone behind this benefit is called oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions shrinking the uterus back down to its natural pre-baby size. (1)
But, as with baby, there are long-lasting benefits of breastfeeding for moms too. They include:
There are many reasons why women choose to breastfeed, and there can also be reasons that a family chooses not to breastfeed.
A great deal of thought should go into your infant’s feeding plan, but guilt should not play a role in your decision-making.
Common reasons breastfeeding may not be the best choice include:
Lack of desire to breastfeed.
Medications that are contraindicated with breastfeeding.
Certain maternal or infant health conditions.
2. How is breast milk made?
We often think of milk production like a faucet that can be turned on and off as needed. However, milk production resembles more of a busy factory that responds and slows based on demand.
To establish and promote a full milk supply, breastfeed or pump up to 8-12 times a day, based on your baby’s hunger cues.
The best way to build a full milk supply is by deeply latching your baby to the breast every few hours and looking to see if they seem content and relaxed after breastfeeding.
Or, if direct breastfeeding is not feasible at the moment, pumping every few hours will help to empty your breasts and send signals to your brain to produce more breast milk.
Newborns have very tiny tummies and it is natural and normal for them to want to eat every 2-3 hours early on, including during the night. Your body will respond to their needs and your supply will steadily increase through the first 10 days after giving birth.
3. What is colostrum?
The short answer is that colostrum is your baby’s first superfood! Colostrum is breast milk in a highly concentrated, nutrient-dense, high-protein form.
The longer answer is that colostrum is your first milk, and it is loaded with amazing benefits.
Colostrum production actually begins during pregnancy, which is why some women will experience small amounts of leakage during the third trimester.
Colostrum is thick and sticky in consistency. On average, your newborn will take in about 5-15 mL of colostrum with each feeding on their first day of life. That’s just about 1-3 teaspoons of milk every few hours!
Colostrum never goes away. Over time, breast milk will contain higher amounts of water and other components to meet a growing baby’s needs.
4. How much breast milk does a baby need?
Until you and your baby fall into a rhythm with breastfeeding, you may worry about making enough milk for your baby.
To ensure your baby is getting enough milk, watch your infant’s weight, number of wet and poopy diapers, and look for signs of contentment after feedings.
Like most things when it comes to raising kids, there is a wide range of normal when it comes to infant intake.
Along with observing your little ones’ feeding patterns, I also encourage moms to check in with their body. Your breasts will feel heavy and full around the time your infant usually shows hunger cues, letting you know it’s almost time for a breastfeeding session.
General guidelines for milk intake by age
Day 1: Tummy is the size of a walnut; Baby will take in 5-15 mL with each feeding.
Week 1: Tummy is now the size of an apricot; Baby will take about 30-60 mL with each feeding.
1 Month: Tummy is about the size of an egg; Baby will take about 2-4 oz with every feeding.
5. How a mother’s diet affects production
Did you know that breastfeeding mothers need to consume more calories to make milk than they did during pregnancy? It’s true!
You need about 500 extra calories a day to support milk production. It’s also important to take a daily postnatal vitamin and have labs checked for vitamin and nutrient deficiencies like vitamin D, iron, and B12. (5)
During your postpartum period, eat foods that you enjoy. There is no magical milk-making diet, but choosing nutrient-dense snacks and whole foods, and consuming enough calories will support your production.
Here is my recipe for a comfortable, deep, and effective latch:
Get comfy. Set up a throne of pillows so that you feel supported. If you have hemorrhoids, then you may want a donut pillow for your bottom.
If you are using a nursing pillow like a Boppy or My Best Friend, then you will want to either stack another pillow on top or underneath to bring your nursing pillow up to breast height.
Hold your baby tummy-to-tummy, so that they are laying on their side facing you. Double check to make sure that their hips are turned in as well. You want their ear, shoulder and hips to all be aligned.
Support your breast using a sandwich hold and wait for your baby to open with a wide gape (like a yawn) and then bring them up and into your breast.
Look for their bottom lip to be turned down and their top lip to be straight across.
Watch for rhythmic sucks that feel like strong tugs.
Use gentle massage and compressions to keep Baby sucking regularly. Reminder: It’s normal for a baby to alternate between having vigorous and short gentle sucks.
Latching is a learned skill and it takes practice for both Mom and Baby. Newborn feedings can take a long time, so keep water and snacks for yourself close by.
7. When to get help
It is never the wrong time to get lactation help!
Start planning early and connect with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) during pregnancy. Keep them updated with changes that may impact your feeding plan, and anticipate needing help in the early days (and weeks) of breastfeeding.
Oftentimes parents aren’t sure if their specific feeding problem really warrants the help of an IBCLC, but there is no problem too small to need help with.
Reach out early for support if possible. Don’t wait until it’s 2 a.m. and you are ready to give up on breastfeeding.
Building your careteam is vital. Don’t forget to add a lactation consultant to your team!
Tips for finding a lactation consultant
Ask your provider for a referral.
Ask friends and family for recommendations.
Find out if your insurance company has a network of IBCLCs that you can access for services.
Connect with your local breastfeeding coalition.
Check to see if your hospital has a breastfeeding support group.
Search for an IBCLC using the database on ilca.org.
9. How long should a parent breastfeed?
Everyone will have different goals for how long they want to breastfeed or express milk for their baby, and this uniqueness of each journey is part of the beauty in breastfeeding.
A mom and baby should breastfeed for as long as it is mutually enjoyed and beneficial.
The current recommendations from WHO and AAP are to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months. WHO recommends breastfeeding along with complimentary foods until age two or beyond, and AAP recommends breastfeeding along with complementary foods until age one and supports breastfeeding along with complementary foods until age two or beyond. (6,7)
Breastfeeding is a journey and everyone’s path will look different. Providing your baby with breast milk is a precious gift and every drop truly is liquid gold. Whether you breastfeed for 3 days or 3 years, be proud of yourself!
10. Supplies that may be helpful when breastfeeding
If you are thinking about adding a few infant feeding items to your registry, you may find yourself wondering what are some key must-have breastfeeding items. Time and time again clients have shared that they love these items below.
Helpful breastfeeding supplies
Bamboo cotton reusable nursing pads
Warm/cold therapy gel packs
Silicone milk collector
Silicone milk storage bags
11. How to choose a breastfeeding bra
When it comes to finding a breastfeeding or nursing bra, consider two things. The first is comfort and the second is function.
Nursing bras vary greatly in style. If you like to work out, you might want to buy a couple of supportive nursing sports bras. If the thought of unclipping and re-clipping a bra with every feeding drives you crazy, look for a breastfeeding bra with elastic straps.
There are also nursing tank tops and nursing/pumping bras that can be modified to accommodate breastfeeding or pumping without you needing to change.
Steer clear of any bra with an underwire as the restriction can lead to pesky and painful clogged ducts. Keep in mind that your breasts will increase in size as your milk transitions so you may want to make the bulk of your bra purchases after the baby arrives.
Returning to work
If you are returning to work after maternity leave, you may have questions about pumping in the workplace. Learn everything you need to know about creating a pumping schedule, maintaining milk supply, storing breast milk and more from our blog How to Breastfeed & Pump at Work.
Gathering information and preparing for this period will help you feel confident as a breastfeeding, working parent!
Created by experts, Kids Eat in Color is the leading resource for families seeking evidence-based information and strategies on child nutrition and feeding.
Morgan is a Cardiac RN turned breastfeeding junkie! Breastfeeding education became a deep rooted passion after working as a public health nurse working primarily with first time families. Watching women transition to motherhood left Morgan in awe. After becoming a mother herself and struggling with breastfeeding she realized the lack of access to breastfeeding support. And out of both desire and necessity she studied to become an IBCLC. Morgan has assisted thousands of parents on their feeding journey in the hospital setting, in the homes of new families, as well as virtually, which has allowed her to serve families across the globe. Morgan has a deep passion for prenatal breastfeeding education and never misses a chance to talk about breastfeeding! Intentional and holistic are two words used to describe her approach. She is the mom of two adventurous boys and believes that every parent is an expert when it comes to their child!
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Breastfeeding Beyond Maternity Leave: Tips for Pumping at Work
Inside: New baby? Get the answers to common breastfeeding questions from a lactation consultant, including how much milk a baby needs, what to eat to support breast milk production, how to get a good latch and what supplies are helpful.
When it comes to breastfeeding or nursing, the questions and concerns can seem endless.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of breastfeeding, we’re going to answer common questions to help you feel empowered in your breastfeeding journey.
It is normal to have questions about breastfeeding, and you are not alone. All moms, from first-timers to more experienced moms, run into questions along the way. Let’s dive in!
1. What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Curious about the benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child? Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both.
Benefits of breast milk for babies
One of the most commonly known benefits of breast milk is that it does an amazing job boosting an infant’s immune system.
But did you also know that breast milk can promote lifelong benefits?
Breast milk may reduce your baby’s risk for many illnesses and diseases including:
Benefits of breastfeeding for mom
There are several benefits for mom when breastfeeding, including some things you might not expect!
In the immediate postpartum period, breastfeeding or nipple stimulation by hand expression or pumping can help to project against postpartum hemorrhage and decrease postpartum bleeding. (1)
The hormone behind this benefit is called oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions shrinking the uterus back down to its natural pre-baby size. (1)
But, as with baby, there are long-lasting benefits of breastfeeding for moms too. They include:
When breastfeeding is not the right fit
There are many reasons why women choose to breastfeed, and there can also be reasons that a family chooses not to breastfeed.
A great deal of thought should go into your infant’s feeding plan, but guilt should not play a role in your decision-making.
Common reasons breastfeeding may not be the best choice include:
2. How is breast milk made?
We often think of milk production like a faucet that can be turned on and off as needed. However, milk production resembles more of a busy factory that responds and slows based on demand.
To establish and promote a full milk supply, breastfeed or pump up to 8-12 times a day, based on your baby’s hunger cues.
The best way to build a full milk supply is by deeply latching your baby to the breast every few hours and looking to see if they seem content and relaxed after breastfeeding.
Or, if direct breastfeeding is not feasible at the moment, pumping every few hours will help to empty your breasts and send signals to your brain to produce more breast milk.
Newborns have very tiny tummies and it is natural and normal for them to want to eat every 2-3 hours early on, including during the night. Your body will respond to their needs and your supply will steadily increase through the first 10 days after giving birth.
3. What is colostrum?
The short answer is that colostrum is your baby’s first superfood! Colostrum is breast milk in a highly concentrated, nutrient-dense, high-protein form.
The longer answer is that colostrum is your first milk, and it is loaded with amazing benefits.
Colostrum:
Colostrum production actually begins during pregnancy, which is why some women will experience small amounts of leakage during the third trimester.
Colostrum is thick and sticky in consistency. On average, your newborn will take in about 5-15 mL of colostrum with each feeding on their first day of life. That’s just about 1-3 teaspoons of milk every few hours!
Colostrum never goes away. Over time, breast milk will contain higher amounts of water and other components to meet a growing baby’s needs.
4. How much breast milk does a baby need?
Until you and your baby fall into a rhythm with breastfeeding, you may worry about making enough milk for your baby.
To ensure your baby is getting enough milk, watch your infant’s weight, number of wet and poopy diapers, and look for signs of contentment after feedings.
Like most things when it comes to raising kids, there is a wide range of normal when it comes to infant intake.
Along with observing your little ones’ feeding patterns, I also encourage moms to check in with their body. Your breasts will feel heavy and full around the time your infant usually shows hunger cues, letting you know it’s almost time for a breastfeeding session.
General guidelines for milk intake by age
5. How a mother’s diet affects production
Did you know that breastfeeding mothers need to consume more calories to make milk than they did during pregnancy? It’s true!
You need about 500 extra calories a day to support milk production. It’s also important to take a daily postnatal vitamin and have labs checked for vitamin and nutrient deficiencies like vitamin D, iron, and B12. (5)
During your postpartum period, eat foods that you enjoy. There is no magical milk-making diet, but choosing nutrient-dense snacks and whole foods, and consuming enough calories will support your production.
Related: 100+ Easy Meals & Food Ideas for New Parents
6. Tips for a good latch
Here is my recipe for a comfortable, deep, and effective latch:
Use gentle massage and compressions to keep Baby sucking regularly. Reminder: It’s normal for a baby to alternate between having vigorous and short gentle sucks.
Latching is a learned skill and it takes practice for both Mom and Baby. Newborn feedings can take a long time, so keep water and snacks for yourself close by.
7. When to get help
It is never the wrong time to get lactation help!
Start planning early and connect with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) during pregnancy. Keep them updated with changes that may impact your feeding plan, and anticipate needing help in the early days (and weeks) of breastfeeding.
Oftentimes parents aren’t sure if their specific feeding problem really warrants the help of an IBCLC, but there is no problem too small to need help with.
Reach out early for support if possible. Don’t wait until it’s 2 a.m. and you are ready to give up on breastfeeding.
Common reasons for lactation help
8. How to find support
Building your careteam is vital. Don’t forget to add a lactation consultant to your team!
Tips for finding a lactation consultant
9. How long should a parent breastfeed?
Everyone will have different goals for how long they want to breastfeed or express milk for their baby, and this uniqueness of each journey is part of the beauty in breastfeeding.
A mom and baby should breastfeed for as long as it is mutually enjoyed and beneficial.
The current recommendations from WHO and AAP are to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months. WHO recommends breastfeeding along with complimentary foods until age two or beyond, and AAP recommends breastfeeding along with complementary foods until age one and supports breastfeeding along with complementary foods until age two or beyond. (6,7)
Breastfeeding is a journey and everyone’s path will look different. Providing your baby with breast milk is a precious gift and every drop truly is liquid gold. Whether you breastfeed for 3 days or 3 years, be proud of yourself!
10. Supplies that may be helpful when breastfeeding
If you are thinking about adding a few infant feeding items to your registry, you may find yourself wondering what are some key must-have breastfeeding items. Time and time again clients have shared that they love these items below.
Helpful breastfeeding supplies
11. How to choose a breastfeeding bra
When it comes to finding a breastfeeding or nursing bra, consider two things. The first is comfort and the second is function.
Nursing bras vary greatly in style. If you like to work out, you might want to buy a couple of supportive nursing sports bras. If the thought of unclipping and re-clipping a bra with every feeding drives you crazy, look for a breastfeeding bra with elastic straps.
There are also nursing tank tops and nursing/pumping bras that can be modified to accommodate breastfeeding or pumping without you needing to change.
Steer clear of any bra with an underwire as the restriction can lead to pesky and painful clogged ducts. Keep in mind that your breasts will increase in size as your milk transitions so you may want to make the bulk of your bra purchases after the baby arrives.
Returning to work
If you are returning to work after maternity leave, you may have questions about pumping in the workplace. Learn everything you need to know about creating a pumping schedule, maintaining milk supply, storing breast milk and more from our blog How to Breastfeed & Pump at Work.
Gathering information and preparing for this period will help you feel confident as a breastfeeding, working parent!
Related nutritional articles
References