Let's Breastfeed

With breastfeeding I have found that unless speaking to a mum directly, having assessed a breastfeed, there really is no clear cut answer to a particular question. When ‘answers’ to questions are put into the ‘wrong’ context, they can cause more confusion and often create other problems. This may be why so many of my clients feel frustrated by conflicting advice – the advice is great, but just not relevant to their situation.

How long should my baby feed for?

I will briefly outline things you need to take into consideration when looking for answers to your breastfeeding questions.

• How cup size may affect your feeding pattern or frequency.
• How to know that your baby is getting enough milk?
• What to do when baby won’t feed?
• How to establish and protect milk supply?

How do I know that my breast is empty?

Regardless of cup size, your body will produce enough milk for your little one, provided the demand for milk is great enough. Over the years I have found that mums with a smaller cup size, may need to feed from both sides at each feed to fully satisfy a hungry baby and often find they need to feed more frequently as well. Mums with a larger cup size may find that simply feeding from one side is more than enough for a hungry baby at one feed. Each mum should be advised on an individual basis.

How do I know that my baby has had enough?

Usually when a baby has had enough milk at a breast feed, you will find that you can roll baby off the breast or gently lift the breast out of baby’s mouth, without much of a protest. There is no magic way of knowing that your baby has had enough milk at a feed. However over time, you will get to know whether your little one needs a little more time or if a short 10 minute feed is all he or she needs. Weight gain is something we can’t ignore. If your baby is gaining 20g -30g each day, you can be sure that he or she is getting enough milk.

What should I do if my baby can’t feed?

There are times when a baby won’t want to breast feed or will struggle to latch. Finding help quickly will allow you to explore possible causes and find resolution. Keep baby close to you, preferably skin to skin, so that you are both in the right place to encourage feeds. Offering baby the breast whilst he or she is calm and not too hungry, will be more successful, than attempting to latch a hungry or frustrated baby.

How can I increase my supply?

Breast milk is made on demand. The greater the demand, the more milk is produced. An unrestricted feeding pattern where baby has free access to the breast in the early days and weeks, will help you to establish a good supply. Very few mums find that they aren’t able to meet their baby’s needs once a suitable feeding pattern has been applied. Here is a guide many mums have found helpful. Low Milk Supply eBook

How do I know that my positioning and attachment is correct?

When a baby is well positioned, you will feel a tugging sensation. Your baby will be able to drain the breast effectively without causing you any pain. At the end of the feed, you should see that your nipples are round and have not been compressed in any way. If your nipples are sore or your baby is constantly hungry, you should review your positioning and attachment techniques.