How to Wean From Breast-Fed to Bottles

If mother and child are comfortable, breastfeeding should continue until the child reaches her first birthday, recommends the American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) Healthy Children website. In the past, mothers in America have leaned toward weaning earlier than the AAP recommendation. However, recent times have seen late weaning become much more acceptable. Personal choice and family circumstances will likely influence when you decide to start the weaning process. Preparation and a positive attitude should help increase your chances of weaning your child successfully.

Instructions

1

Purchase several different kinds of nipples and bottles. You will need the nipples to be similar to a breast nipple in texture and shape. Having a plastic or silicone nipple in his mouth will be a new sensation for your baby, and if it is too hard or overly big, he will become frustrated and may refuse to feed.

2

Ask someone you trust to give your baby her first bottle. Your child is more likely to accept a substitute feeding from someone other than her mother, according to the Australian Breastfeeding Association. The warmth, comfort and familiarity of mom means she will just want you to breastfeed her.

3

Decide which feeding you plan to replace first. Ideally, this should be your baby's least favorite feeding of the day, suggests the La Leche League International. The chosen feeding should be during daylight hours. Weaning at night is often challenging because you may be tempted to give up on the bottle and breastfeed your baby so you can go back to sleep sooner.

4

Offer your baby the bottle 15 minutes before she is due for a feeding. She should be interested but not so hungry that she is hysterical. If your partner is doing the feeding, leave the room they are in altogether. If the baby sees you, she will want to be breastfed immediately and will not entertain the idea of something new.

5

Add a small amount of breast milk to the bottle's nipple; this should encourage the baby to suck on it. Let him hold the nipple in his mouth and play with it so he can become familiar with the texture. This is important because the sucking motion required to feed from a bottle is different than the mouth and tongue movements used to breastfeed.

6

Anticipate resistance. The chance of your baby playing with the bottle nipple for a while and then refusing the feeding altogether is high. Try three times. If he is still refusing the bottle after this, you need to stop. Be sure to wait 10 minutes before offering him the breast; otherwise, he will associate refusing the bottle with getting what he wants. If you accept that there will be setbacks, the experience will be less stressful for both of you.

7

Allow up to one week in between each bottle-for-breast substitution. Weaning is a slow process when done correctly and can take up to 6 months or longer, according to the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Slow weaning is also important to ensure that your breasts do not become sore and prone to infection.

How to Get Milk From Your Breasts

Breast-feeding allows a mother and her baby to bond. However, there are instances in which a mother will need to express milk from her breasts without nursing her child. A mother may need to express milk in order to provide relief from breast engorgement, maintain her milk production or to store the milk for future use. In such situations, manual expression is a means of retrieving milk from the breasts.

Instructions

1

Wash your hands with the soap and water. Take the supplies and move to a relaxing area. Select a space where you will feel comfortable pumping.

2

Place the picture directly in your line of sight. Place the warm compresses on your breasts and relax for three to five minutes. Focus on the picture and think about your baby.

3

Place both hands around one breast. Gently massage the breasts by moving your hands down the breast and out towards the nipple. Take one hand and use the fingertips to massage around the breast in a circular motion.

4

Position the container beneath the nipple of the breast you are expressing. Take one hand and place the thumb on top of the breast, and one or two fingers below the breast. Position the fingers around the areola.

5

Push the fingers back against your breast and towards your chest cavity. Gently roll your thumb and fingers over the breast and towards the nipple; stop short of squeezing the nipple.

6

Rotate the fingers around the areola and repeat the process. Switch to the opposite breast every few minutes to allow the milk to gather in the milk ducts and to aid expression. Continue until you have drained the breasts.

How to Tighten Loose Skin on Sagging Breasts

Breasts are made of milk-producing glands, tissues and fat---not muscles. Unlike with muscles, breasts cannot be easily toned or shaped. The best way to get the breasts you want is to accept the breasts you have. Of course, this is easier said than done, especially in a society that values unnaturally large, lifted breasts. Sagging breasts are a normal part of aging and are common after pregnancy and breastfeeding. While you can't directly tighten loose skin on sagging breasts, you can tone the muscles surrounding your breasts to give the appearance of a firmer bust and get rid of excess loose skin.

Instructions

1

Get a professional bra fitting to find the right size bra for you and wear bras only of this size. Besides taking a load off your back, a properly fitted bra will keep your breasts from sagging further. An ill-fitted bra leaves your breasts at the mercy of gravity and excessive movement, both of which cause breasts to sag.

2

Develop a strength training routine to tighten the skin in your surrounding chest muscles. Strong chest muscles are like a natural push-up bra; plus, they help tighten sagging skin. Get some weights and do sets of dumbbell chest presses, dumbbell raises, chest flys and dumbbell side lateral raises. Also do push-ups and isometric contractions. Meet with a personal trainer to learn the correct way to lift weights and develop a plan to target your chest muscles.

3

Do yoga and pilates. There are many positions and exercises, such as the headstand and inverted leg stretch in yoga, that work to strengthen the chest area and fight the effects of gravity.

4

Moisturize your skin with a skin-firming lotion. There are many lotions on the market claiming to reduce fat and get rid of excess skin, but only a handful of these creams actually work. Read consumer reviews of different brands to choose the right one for you. Massage the cream over your chest area as directed.

5

Get corrective surgery to fully rid yourself of that stubborn sagging skin. A breast lift tightens skin around the chest area and removes sagging tissue while working to lift and define breasts. A breast lift with implants restores fullness via silicone implants. Of course, surgery should be a last resort and only be pursued when all other procedures fail and you absolutely want to rid yourself of any sagginess.

How to Increase Breast Milk for an Infant That Wants More

Pediatricians agree that breast milk is best for babies during the first year of life. Beginning with colostrum, breast milk provides all the nutrition a baby needs. Many mothers struggle with feelings of frustration and concern that their milk supply is not sufficient for their little one. Learn some tips for how to stimulate your milk supply to continue nursing for as long as you desire. Start right away to increase your milk for your baby.

Instructions

1

Drink plenty of water while breastfeeding to increase your milk supply. The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking 3.1 liters of fluid per day. Eat healthy foods to give your body energy, and do not diet while nursing. Consume at least 1,800 calories per day, limiting fats and sweets.

2

Reduce stress and try to relax when nursing. Rest when the baby rests and get a good night's sleep. Pump breast milk so that dad can help with the nighttime feedings. Ask for help with household chores so you can relax and focus on your baby.

3

Pump or nurse more often to stimulate the body to increase the breast milk supply. Offer the breast at least eight times within 24 hours, and nurse on demand. Wake the baby to nurse if she is sleepy. Use an electric, double breast pump for an additional five to 10 minutes after nursing to stimulate supply.

4

Sling-feed your baby to increase your milk supply. The closer the infant is to the breast, the more often he will want to nurse.

5

Always offer both breasts for at least 10 to 15 minutes per side when nursing to be sure the baby is drinking the rich hind milk, and to ensure that both breasts are equally stimulated.

Child Rearing Beliefs & Practices in Indian Culture

India is a predominantly Hindu nation with large minorities of Sikhs and Muslims. There are more than 375 million children in India, the largest number for any country in the world. According to InfoChange, a non-profit that concentrates on sustainable development and social justice in Southeast Asia, about 36 percent of the population is living below the poverty line, with women and children accounting for 73 percent of those below the poverty line. Socio-economic conditions as well as Hindu beliefs play a large part in the child rearing practices in India.

Values

Indians believe that children are capable of learning from a very young age and that they must be given guidance. Dr. Vicki Ritts, Associate Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Science at St. Louis Community College, says, "Obedience to authority, passivity, and interdependence are highly valued. Childhood is viewed as a sensitive time period where children are moldable. Thus, the environment, especially the parents, are believed to play an important role in child development."

Mothers and Infants

Indian mothers enjoy much physical closeness to their babies. They often carry them close to their bodies and breastfeeding is the norm. Many Indian mothers massage their babies daily using either oil or ghee. Co-sleeping during the early years is another characteristic of the close mother-infant relationship.

Discipline

Discipline is often strict and children are taught to obey their parents. Mothers are the primary disciplinarians. Scolding, yelling, slapping, and spanking are considered appropriate and necessary for socializing children. Some mothers feel that beating should be used to punish the most severe offenses. A study published by the "Journal of Pediatric Psychology" showed that physical punishment is more prevalent in India than the US.

Preference for Boys

Indian families show preference for male over female children. A female child is often seen is a financial drain on a family. In addition to paying for her living expenses, the girl's family must pay for her wedding and sometimes dowry, but after she is married all her future income goes to her new family. As a consequence, a boy is more likely to be well feed as well as receive schooling and health care. The deprivation of girls--through insufficient breastfeeding and denial of food and health care--leads to malnutrition and death. This mistreatment, along with infanticide and the aborting of female fetuses, has led to 10 million women "going missing" in India's population, according to a report by Palash Kumar for ABC News. The ratio of men to women in the population of India shows that there were 10 million women who were killed by their parent in the past 20 years.

How to Nurse a Baby while Flying in a Plane

You are about to embark on a plane ride but are nervous about being away from home with a nursing baby confined in a rather public place that allows little privacy. It is actually much easier to travel with a nursing baby than one who is using a bottle. Being prepared and having a knowledge of what works best for you will make the trip much easier.

Instructions

Preparation

1

Know before you leave where you are most comfortable breastfeeding.

2

Pack the items that you may need to nurse and store the items in an easily accessible area in the diaper bag.

3

Know each flight and layover times. If possible, find this out weeks or days in advance. This will allow you time to adjust the baby's nursing schedule if necessary.

On the Trip

4

Choose a window seat if possible. This will allow you to have one breast with no one nearby it and will allow you to have more privacy.

5

Nurse while taking off and landing. No one is walking around the cabin area and the sucking helps the baby's ears from popping.

6

Nurse while taking off and landing. No one is walking around the cabin area and the sucking helps the baby's ears from popping.

7

Keep hydrated! Bring a large water on the plane with you if allowed by security. The courtesy cup given by the airline will not be enough.

8

Nurse with the baby in a sling or cover with a blanket.

9

Nurse the baby in the restroom if all else fails.

How Do I Choose the Right Size Medela Breastshield?

Selecting the correct size breastshield for your Medela breast pump is crucial for successful pumping. The breastshield is the part of the pump that fits over your nipple and forms a seal around your areola. It is available in five sizes; a medium shield comes with the pump. A shield that is too small will rub against your nipple, causing irritation or even injury and constricting your milk ducts, which inhibits milk flow. But if your shield is too large, you will be unable to get effective suction.

Instructions

1

Insert your nipple into the breastshield, making sure the wide part of the funnel is against your breast and the small end is securely attached to the pump itself.

2

Turn on the power switch on the back of the yellow power supply on your pump. You should immediately feel a vacuum sensation. Adjust the suction power with the same switch that turns the pump on.

3

Watch your nipple as it is pulled to see if it moves freely. Your nipple should not rub against the sides of the shield. If the shield is too small, the constant friction of your nipple against the sides will cause tenderness or even scraping of your nipple, leaving visible flecks in the shield.

4

Watch to see if your nipple is moving with the suction of the pump. The suction should pull your nipple comfortably into the tunnel, and the movement should be visible through the shield.

5

Make sure that the pump is not too large to form an effective seal against your breast. A lack of seal will cause lose of suction--and little or no breast milk be pumped from your breast.

What Birth Control Methods Can Be Used While Breastfeeding?

There are a variety of birth control methods available to women today, even while breastfeeding. The safest options are hormone-free. A women should always consult a doctor before determining the best birth control method while nursing.

Breastfeeding as Birth Control

A number of sources, including the World Health Organization agree that during the first few months of breastfeeding, a woman's body naturally prevents her from becoming pregnant--called the lactational amenhorrea method. And if the woman has not begun menstruating again and is exclusively breastfeeding her child (no formula supplements), she is said to be 98 percent protected from pregnancy. However, there plenty of women have become pregnant while breastfeeding, and the method is not entirely effective.

Temporary Birth Control

Condoms, diaphragms and spermicides are all safe to use while nursing. These methods are recommended over hormone methods, such as birth control pills, as they don't interfere with the mother's milk.

Permanent Birth Control

A male vasectomy or female tubal ligation provides permanent birth control for a women not wanting more children. Tubal ligation can be done immediately after having a child and won't interfere with breastfeeding. In most cases, the woman can resume sexual activity in a week or so, but consult a doctor before making any decision regarding your health.

Progestin-Only Hormonal Birth Control

It is generally not recommended to use any hormone birth control methods while breastfeeding because the hormones can be transferred to the child through the mother's milk and the mother can also experience reduced milk production. However, some progestin-only (estrogen-free) birth control methods can be used after the first six weeks of breastfeeding. Ask a doctor before beginning any progestin-only birth control like Depo-Provera, Norplant or the mini-pill.

Estrogen Birth Control

Traditional estrogen birth control pills generally are not recommended for nursing mothers. Estrogen hormones make their way into breast milk and can be harmful for developing infants. They also can cause a decrease in milk output.

Breastfeeding & Pain Medications

A breastfeeding mother needs to be concerned about what she eats, drinks or is exposed to, since many things can pass into breast milk and then into her nursing infant's system. While there are some general guidelines for medications and the nursing mother, it's always important to check with a health provider before taking any medication.

After Delivery

It's a good idea for expectant mothers to speak with their physicians prior to giving birth about the plan for labor and delivery. If a woman knows in advance that she is having a Cesarean delivery and she plans to breastfeed, she needs to discuss the impact of medications used during the procedure as well as post-operative medications. The anethesiologist can use medications that will ease post-operative pain while allowing the mother to be alert (see reference 4). Also, pregnant women should discuss the impact of any other medications used during a vaginal birth on breastfeeding. However, most medications will not interfere with nursing a baby.

Narcotics

Particularly during or immediately following birth narcotic analgesics or pain medications such as demerol, codeine and morphine may be prescribed to nursing mothers. According to Dr. Jim Sears, of the television program The Doctors, and from the website Askdrsears.com, morphine has the least effect on breastfeeding infants. Medications containing codeine have a riskier profile, with reports of breathing difficulties in newborn infants when mothers received the drugs after delivery. Demerol injections for the mother can make a baby sleepy and less eager to nurse. Short-term use is typically not problematic, but long-term exposure to such drugs would be considered unsafe.

OTC Pain Medications

Over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol or acetaminophen are considered the safest medication for pain and fever relief, since only a very small amount crosses over into the breast milk. Tylenol is generally considered safe during pregnancy as well. Ibuprofen. which isn't typically administered to pregnant women, is considered safe for nursing mothers (see Reference 1). It's a good rule of thumb, according to the March of Dimes, that any medication allowed pregnant women would be allowed for breastfeeding mothers as well.

Risk/Benefit Ratio

With breastfeeding mothers it's important to evaluate the risks and benefits of taking any medication. However, pain will interfere with a nursing mother's ability to produce milk. If avoiding the medication will hasten weaning, it's definitely in the infant's best interests for a mother to continue nursing and for the mother to obtain adequate pain relief (see Reference 4).

Considerations

According to the March of Dimes, to be extra safe, breastfeeding mothers should avoid the extra-strength formulas of any medication. To minimize the amount of medicine a baby receives, breastfeeding should be timed so that the mother takes the medicine either right after a nursing session or at least a few hours prior to nursing. In the case of a long-acting medicine, they recommend taking the medicine after breastfeeding and before the baby's longest sleep time to give the medicine the most time to clear from the mother's body while the baby is sleeping. If a nursing mother notices any possible side-effects from medicine she is taking, she should consult a physician or pharmacist.

How to Treat Acid Reflux With Herbs for Infants

Many parents have endured sleepless nights and struggled to soothe a baby afflicted by acid reflux. While most babies spit up occasionally, reflux is a chronic condition of stomach acids irritating the lining of the esophagus. Reflux in babies may be caused by a variety of factors, including food allergies, poor sleep position and anatomical problems. Relieve your baby's pain by using common and simple at-home herbal remedies.

Instructions

1

Make a list of your baby's symptoms, noting when she cries, the appearance of her stools, if she extends her legs or keeps them pulled in, if she has diaper rash or bloated stomach. Noting these factors will help you determine the type of reflux that plagues your baby. According to Dr. Candice Davis, ancient Chinese medicine identifies two types of reflux based on whether your baby's system is "hot" or "cold." Babies with "hot" reflux may have an overactive digestive system that produces mucousy, smelly stools, blood in the stool, a bright red diaper rash and screaming fits during breastfeeding. "Cold" reflux is identified as underproductive digestion in a baby who pulls her knees up to her chest, has the tendency to curl up and acts "colicky" by crying after nursing.

2

Mix a watermelon juice cooler to treat "hot" reflux. Press chunks of fresh watermelon down into a colander and collect the juice in a bowl underneath. Stir tsp. nutmeg into the juice. Using a medicine dropper, place 10 to 20 drops in baby's mouth before nursing. Mom can also drink this mixture and pass along the benefits to the baby through her breastmilk.

3

Brew homemade gripe water to stimulate baby's digestion if he has "cold" reflux. Blend tsp. powdered ginger into a cup of tepid water. Allow to cool, then place 30 to 60 drops in baby's mouth before he breastfeeds. At bedtime, add tsp. fennel to this mixture for added comfort during sleep.

4

Steep tsp. coriander, tsp. cumin, tsp. ginger and tsp. fennel per cup of hot water for a tea to aid the mother's digestion. The naturally medicinal qualities of this herbal tea aid the baby through your breastmilk.

5

Avoid eating raw foods during the lactation stage if you have a fussy baby. Raw foods are more difficult to digest, so cook vegetables and roast nuts. Improving your own digestion positively affects the baby's digestion.

Basic Newborn Care for Mothers

Your newborn baby needs you, and it's easy to be overwhelmed at the idea of meeting those needs. The truth is, it's probably easier than you think. Give your baby food, clean clothes and a clean diaper, a comfortable sleep environment and your love. Repeat those steps many, many times a day, and within a very short amount of time you will be a mothering pro.

Feeding

For a few days after the birth, a healthy baby born at term loses 5 to 10 percent of his birth weight, which he should gain back over the course of two weeks. Follow your baby's signs of hunger that include rooting around, opening his mouth and sucking or licking. Crying is a late stage sign of hunger at which point feeding becomes more difficult, so when possible try to anticipate your baby's desire to eat.

Breastfeeding

The World Health Organization recommends that exclusively breastfeeding for at least six months is the healthiest way to feed your baby. If you breastfeed, the important thing is that your baby gains weight steadily, and urinates and defecates regularly -- indications your baby is getting enough milk. Breast milk is digested faster than formula, so generally a breastfed baby will feed more often than a formula-fed baby. It is more difficult to put a breastfed baby on a schedule, and for breastfeeding success it is recommended your baby feed on demand every few hours around the clock to stimulate milk production. Contact local breastfeeding support groups or La Leche League for more information.

Bottle Feeding

If you can't breast feed, bottle feeding is the way to go. Follow your pediatrician's recommendations regarding which formula is best, but rest assured the contents of all formulas are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for their safety and nutritional value. Slowly increase the amount of formula you give your baby at each feeding and the amount of time between feedings. Always give formula to a newborn in a clean and sterilized bottle. The water used to make the bottle should be at room temperature or slightly warmer.

Sleeping

Sleeping is one of the most important things a baby does. Initially, a baby may have her nights and days mixed up, but before long and with a little help, you can get her sleeping between 10 and 18 hours per day. Help your baby sleep by darkening her room, rocking her, singing to her, making sure she isn't hungry and her diaper is dry, making sure she isn't too hot or cold, swaddling her, making white noise, using a pacifier or by sharing sleep. Always put a baby down on her back without any toys or blankets to lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Recognize the early signs of sleepiness that include a far-away look, turning the head away from visual stimulation, general fussiness and yawning.

Clothing and Diapering

Change a baby's diaper when it is soiled. Change your baby's diaper either before or after a feeding and when your baby wakes up. Protect a baby's skin with powders or ointments, and use wipes or cotton to help clean the diapered area. Dress newborns warmer than you, especially ones with a low-birth weight because they have a harder time maintaining their body temperature. Dress them with one layer more than you feel comfortable wearing. If a baby's body temperature is low, help heat her up by cuddling with her under a warm blanket, bare skin to bare skin.

Bathing and Umbilical Cord Care

Newborns don't actually get very dirty, and because their umbilical cord stump is sensitive and prone to infection, give the baby a sponge or washcloth bath with warm water and baby soap until the cord heals. Help the cord heal by keeping it clean and dry. Make sure his diaper and clothing aren't rubbing against the stump. Ask your doctor if she recommends cleaning the stump with sterilized cotton only or with alcohol as well. After the cord falls off, begin bathing your baby in a shallow tub or basin. Use warm water that is cooler to the touch than you can stand and never leave your baby unattended.

How Often Should You Pump Your Breast?

For many new moms, breast feeding is an essential part of nurturing the baby throughout the first year of his life. While necessary, the process can also be confusing and daunting. A common concern is how often to pump to meet the baby's needs.

Assess Your Pumping Needs

Determine how much milk you will need to fit your lifestyle. If you are going back to work, how many feedings will you need to cover each day? Are you going to be out of town, away from the baby for several days? Do you want to be able to leave the baby with a sitter from time to time? Your needs will determine how much milk you should have on hand and how often you will pump.

Pumping and Going Back to Work

If you are planning to provide milk for a sitter or daycare provider to use throughout the day, plan to pump three to five times a day, depending on your output. On average, a nursing mother can pump three to six ounces of milk at a time, depending on level of hydration and time of day, and when the baby was last nursed. If your baby will eat three times during your work day and you are able to get one feeding worth of milk each time you pump, consider pumping twice at work when you would normally nurse and once after nursing in the morning. Continue with the morning pump on your days off so that you have a reserve if needed.

Pumping When Away

If you are going to be away from your baby for an extended period of time, you should start pumping far enough in advance that you can have a sufficient supply by pumping three to five times a day. While you are away, take your pump with you and pump on your baby's regular feeding schedule as much as possible.

Occasional Bottle Feeding

If you are only expecting to bottle feed occasionally, you can pump less frequently. Once a day should be enough to produce what you need.

How Do I Know When My Milk Has Dried Up?

Your breast milk supply constantly fluctuates to accommodate your baby's needs. It isn't always easy to tell if he is getting enough milk or if he is simply nursing to pacify. You need to check your milk supply by attempting to express milk. Lactation depends on stimulation and emptying of the breast. If your breasts are not emptied, your milk will dry up on its own.

Instructions

Identify How Much Milk You Are Producing

1

Use a breast pump to express your milk. Attach the pump to your breast. Turn it on and allow to remain for 15-20 minutes. Lack of milk in the bottle may indicate a diminished supply.

2

Express breast milk manually. Grasp your breast with one hand with your thumb just above your nipple and the remaining fingers just below the nipple. Apply gentle pressure, but do not squeeze until you feel pain. If after several tries you are not able to express milk by hand, this is another indication of a diminished milk supply.

3

Feel your breast, checking for firmness. It is common for your breast to become softer after several weeks of breastfeeding. Softness alone does not indicate that your milk has dried up. Loss of breast firmness indicates that your milk supply is not as abundant as it was in the first weeks.

If you have not been able to express milk with a pump or by hand and have a noticeable loss of firmness and breast size, there is a strong possibility that your milk has dried.

Side Effects of Valerian Root Teas

Teas brewed from the root of the valerian plant, embraced for centuries as a mild tranquilizer, are a popular natural remedy. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), based on studies on humans and animals, valerian (Valeriana officinalis) contains properties scientifically proven to treat insomnia and ease anxiety. Other scientifically unproven uses listed by NIH include valerian root's purported ability to relieve depression, stomach and menstrual cramps, high blood pressure, digestion, headaches, angina, nervous tension, muscle pain and arthritis. Although valerian is listed on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) list and is considered safe by the American Herbal Products Association, those who drink valerian root tea may encounter side effects, which vary based on occasional or chronic use, and other factors, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding and liver disease.

Side Effects for Occasional Drinkers

Although Valerian root tea most often is well-tolerated with occasional use, minor side effects may include headache, upset stomach, low body temperature, and feeling edgy, dizzy, unsteady and excitable.

Side Effects for Chronic Drinkers

Drinking Valerian root tea for two or more months sometimes reverses its original intended effects and may cause depression and insomnia, as well as night terrors and stomach pain. Chronic use may also diminish concentration and critical thinking. Valerian extracts are highly concentrated; when used in tea brews, they can cause a drug "hangover" effect when used incorrectly or for too long. When you stop drinking the tea suddenly, the effect is described as "Valerian withdrawal," which includes confusion and rapid heart beat.

Pregnant/Breatsfeeding or Liver Disease

The safety of valerian root tea is not clear for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Valerian root teas are a no-no for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because its safety during pregnancy is undetermined and it is unknown whether it passes through breast milk. People who have liver disease or damage also are discouraged from taking Valerian, especially with medications that metabolize the liver.

Drug Interactions

Little is known about the effect Valerian may have with other drugs or herbs.

Little research exists to assess the side effects of ingesting any combination of herbs, supplements, drugs and food. The NIH suggests valerian may increase the drowsiness effect inherent in some prescription and over-the-counter drugs and when valerian is mixed with alcohol and recreational drug use. The NIH also reports incidences of confusion, agitation and anxiety when taken with some prescription medications and concern over valerian's affect on anti-seizure medications and those metabolized by the liver. When combined with other herbs and dietary supplements, valerian root has led to sweating, nausea, weakness, increased pulse and blood pressure, and muscle cramps.

How to Nurse a Sleepy Baby

Trying to nurse a sleepy baby is a common concern for new moms who are breastfeeding. Newborns don't always recognize when they're hungry, so some of them have a tendency to sleep through it instead of wanting to nurse. The mother must learn gentle techniques for encouraging her baby to wake up to eat and stay awake during the entire feeding. Babies are usually able to start determining their own feeding times between a few days and two months of age.

Instructions

1

Undress your baby. Take off all blankets and clothes except for the diaper, because less warmth will encourage wakefulness. Keep your baby in contact with your skin so that he or she doesn't get too cold.

2

Use activity to keep your newborn awake. Do diaper changes before feedings. Switch back and forth between breasts frequently, or stop to burp when you notice that your baby is nodding off.

3

Provide gentle stimulation. Softly tickle hands and feet, give a massage, or run your fingers along his or her face. Ask someone else to help with this while you hold the baby if you need to. Talk to your baby and look into his or her eyes if they're open.

4

Hold your baby in a different position. Try using the football hold by placing your newborn on the side of your body with his or her legs under your arm. Try sitting up and placing the baby in an inclined, seated position rather than lying horizontally.

5

Take a break from trying to nurse if you become frustrated. Realize that stress isn't good for you or the baby, and nursing is more likely to happen when you're relaxed. Try again when you're calm.

6

Get help from a lactation consultant or nurse if you're still having a difficult time breastfeeding.

Mother & Infant Custody Laws in California

In California, parents are encouraged to come to a custody agreement between themselves outside of court. California courts also require parents to attend at least one court-ordered mediation session to resolve any issues regarding child custody and to create a visitation schedule for the noncustodial parent. If the parents are still unable to come to an agreement after mediation, the court will determine custody of the minor child.

Necessary and Proper

California Family Code Section 3022 grants broad discretion to family courts to determine the custody of a minor child. Under California law, the courts are permitted to make any custody ruling "that seems necessary or proper." With respect to an infant, it is typically necessary and proper to award sole custody to the mother given the child's tender age and the child's needs from the mother. Nursing mothers are almost always given custody of their dependent infants in California.

Best Interests of the Child

When determining custody, California courts also examine the collective best interest of the child. When determining the child's best interests, the courts consider a number of factors including which parent was the primary caretaker of the child, any history of family abuse, the age of the child and the safety, health and welfare of the child. With respect to infants, mothers have typically been the primary care taker of the child and, in the case of nursing infants, custody being awarded to the mother is usually best for the health and welfare of the child. For these reasons, mothers are usually awarded custody of their infants in California.

Other Considerations

If a mother has a history of drug use or abuse, the father or a third party, such as child services, may be awarded custody of an infant. The custody arrangement may be temporary or permanent. In the event the mother is not awarded custody, California law ensures the mother will have "frequent and continuing contact" with the child through regular visitation.

What to Clean on a Medela Pump

Medela manufactures a line of breast pumps, which often are used by working mothers to pump their milk while they are away from their baby. Because some of the pump parts touch the mother's skin and milk, they require cleaning after each pumping session to keep them free of bacteria, mildew and mold. None of the pump parts require cleaning when switching breasts during an individual pumping session, but some must be cleaned after each individual pumping session is complete.

Parts of Medela Breast Pumps

Medela offers manual and electric breast pumps. The parts that can contact the breast milk and require regular cleaning include collection bottles, breast shields, breast shield valves, personal fit connectors, cylinders from manual pumps, tubing, bottle covers and bottle nipples. Medela pumps use common parts for their entire pump product line.

Sterilizing Medela Breast Pump Parts

When using new pump parts for the first time, sterilize the parts that will contact the breast milk and mother's skin to eliminate any surface bacteria. To sterilize pump parts, place them in a pan and cover with at least one inch of water. Bring the water to a boil, and maintain the boil for 10 minutes. Remove the parts from the boiling water using clean tongs, and let them air dry on a clean cloth.

For manual pumps, sterilize the pump cylinder and piston, breast shields, breast shield valves, personal fit connectors, storage bottles, bottle covers and bottle nipples. For electric pumps, sterilize the breast shields, breast shield valves, personal fit connectors, storage bottles, bottle covers and bottle nipples.

Cleaning Medela Pump Parts

For regular cleaning, Medela pump parts that come into contact with breast milk can be washed by hand in hot soapy water or on the top rack of the dishwasher. The tubing used to connect the breast shield to an electric pump cannot be sterilized in boiling water or washed in the dishwasher; it must be washed by hand using hot soapy water and rinsed thoroughly by allowing clear hot water to flow through it.

For manual pumps, wash the pump cylinder and piston, breast shields, breast shield valves, personal fit connectors, storage bottles, bottle covers and bottle nipples. For electric pumps, wash the breast shields, breast shield valves, personal fit connectors, storage bottles, bottle covers and bottle nipples.

Special Considerations

Medela recommends that mothers of premature infants regularly sterilize pump parts instead of using standard washing methods due to the infant's compromised immune system If a mother is pumping milk for multiple children, she does not have to clean any of the pump parts when switching storage bottles during a single pumping session as long as the bottles have been cleaned properly.

How to Get Rid of Warts During Pregnancy

As an expectant mother, you're used to drawing attention. Keep that attention on your baby bump, not on an unsightly wart. Many over-the-counter removal methods could be dangerous to your unborn child, as could some in-office treatments. Using duct tape to naturally remove your wart during pregnancy might be the safest bet.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Most over-the-counter wart removal methods contain salicylic acid, according to MedicinNet. Salicylic acid is not considered safe during pregnancy. "You should not use any products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or any of the retinoids. They are not safe to use during pregnancy," states dermatologist Sumayah Jamal, MD, PhD, in an article for WebMD.

In-Office Treatments

In addition to over-the-counter wart treatments, there are numerous options available at your doctor's office. These include prescription creams, injections and cryotherapy, all of which utilize chemicals that may not be safe during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Tell your doctor about your pregnancy and discuss the safety of any suggested removal method before choosing any one method.

Duct Tape Removal

According to BabyCenter.com, duct tape can be all you need to remove a wart. Clean the affected area and dry thoroughly. Cover the wart with a small piece of duct tape. Place a bandage over the duct tape if desired. The bandage is only to disguise the duct tape; it is not necessary to the removal of your wart.
Leave the duct tape in place for six days. If the tape falls off before you've reached six days, replace it as quickly as possible and continue on to the original sixth day. Remove the tape and soak the wart in warm water. Scrape away as much of the wart as possible with a nail file. It most likely will not come off completely the first time. Leave the tape off and allow what remains of the wart to sit uncovered overnight. Reapply more tape and a new bandage bandage in the morning. Repeat this process as many times as necessary for up to two months.

Considerations

It is not actually necessary to do anything about a wart during pregnancy. Warts typically go away on their own in a matter of months. However, if the wart is in an obvious location or is simply bothering you, check with your doctor before attempting any type of at-home wart removal during pregnancy.

How to Use a Postpartum Weight Loss Calculator

Once you've had a baby, you quickly realize that your life will never be the same. After all, experiencing the gift of life is truly one of nature's miracles. However, it may also become quickly apparent that your figure is no longer the same either. Fortunately, it doesn't necessarily take a miracle to lose the postpartum weight. It will take some effort, though. Learning how to use a postpartum weight loss calculator is one way to get started in the right direction.

Instructions

Use a Postpartum Weight Loss Calculator

1

Use an online postpartum weight loss calculator, such as the one located on the "Baby Center" website (see Resources below).

2

Enter your height, weight, age, your activity level and whether or not you are breastfeeding into the option fields. Then press the 'Calculate' button to get the results.

3

Note the number of recommended daily calories that you should intake that appears in your results. The postpartum weight loss calculator takes certain variables into account that you may have entered, such as the extra energy needed to provide adequate breast milk or how much activity you typically experience in a day.

4

Observe the recommended rate of weight loss provided in the results of the postpartum weight loss calculator as well. For instance, your individual results may suggest losing no more than 1 to 2 pounds per week.

5

Consult with your obstetrician or a nutritionist about your postpartum weight loss calculator results. Professional guidance can be very beneficial to developing an effective plan to lose excess pounds without compromising the health of yourself or your baby.

Breastfeeding & Diet Soda

How to Increase Breast Milk Production While Pumping

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Women's Health, breast milk is beneficial to your baby because it provides antibodies that can help fight disease. However, if you are a working mother, it is difficult to find the necessary time for actual breast-feedings. Pumps are a convenient and necessary tool that provide you with a means to accomplish this even when you are unable to feed your baby yourself. You may unfortunately find that it is difficult to get the amount of milk needed during the process without the proper preparation and technique.

Instructions

Properly Prepare Before Pumping

1

Drink more liquids such as water, juice and milk, which will keep you hydrated and promote the production of milk. Before pumping pour a glass of water and keep it at your side to sip as you pump.

2

Eat a healthy balanced diet in addition to drinking enough water. The Mayo Clinic recommends a diet that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Stay away from greasy junk food.

3

Speak with your doctor about taking an herbal supplement or a prescription to help with milk production. Known as galactagogues, these are meant to increase the breasts' supply of milk. Examples of the herbs that are used include fenugreek and blessed thistle. Discuss any allergies that you may have with your doctor as some of the herbs used for milk production are in the same family as peanuts.

4

Find a quiet location in your house. Place a picture of your baby across from where you will be sitting so that you can look at it as you pump.

As You Pump

5

Warm up a towel or washcloth and place it over your nipples for approximately five minutes before pumping. Place the large-size shields over your nipple.

6

Relax and free your mind of any worries or concerns that you are currently having. Pump both breasts at the same time or switch back and forth between the two. Cornell University recommends pumping one breast until the milk flow slows down and then switching to the second breast until its milk slows. Continue switching back and forth until there is one full minute with no flow of milk. Use your free hand to massage and compress the sides, top and bottom of your breasts when you are pumping one breast at a time. This will help to improve the flow of milk.

7

Increase the frequency that you pump so that you are pumping every 1 1/2 to 2 hours as opposed to every 3 hours. In addition, pump your breast 5 to 7 minutes longer, even if it seems as if no milk is being pumped. This should send a message to the brain that more milk production is needed. Pump during the night at least twice.

About Tandem Nursing

There is no need for a mother nursing a child to wean when she finds out she is pregnant or gives birth to another baby. Tandem nursing, nursing two or more children of different ages, continues to be beneficial for the mother and both children. While it may seem like a daunting commitment to nurse more than one child, many mothers feel it offers more advantages than disadvantages.

Benefits

Nursing a child into the toddler years continues to provide the child with vital nutrients and antibodies that boost the immune system. In addition, when another baby is born into a family, it is natural for toddlers to become jealous. Continuing to nurse a toddler when a new baby is born can reduce sibling rivalry and allow for a smoother transition of having a new family member that demands so much of mom's time.

Misconceptions

One unfounded concern about tandem nursing is that the mother's milk supply will not sustain two or more children, and that the youngest nursing baby who relies solely on breast milk will go hungry. The fact is that women's bodies are designed for the supply to meet the demand. The more nursing that takes place, the more stimulation to create more milk. Tandem nursing mothers are more likely to complain about over-production than under-production. The only time this is really a concern is if the mother has had a medical condition or procedure that inhibits her milk production.

Considerations

When tandem nursing, in the first few days after the new baby is born, mothers should allow the baby to nurse first so that they will get the colostrum important to their digestive system. Once the regular milk supply comes in, mothers should nurse however it makes them most comfortable. She can allow the children to take turns nursing, or nurse both at the same time.

Theories/Speculation

Tandem nursing can be more stressful for some mothers, while less stressful for others. Some mothers may feel they are spending all of their time nursing children, especially in the weeks after the new baby is born, or when the baby is going through periods of heavy feeding demands. Many mothers who ride through the difficult times report that it gets easier, even pleasant. Other women find it easier, because when her toddler becomes cranky or jealous, she can still sooth him with nursing, rather than exacerbate the problem by cutting him off.

Expert Insight

According to Anne Smith, international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), mothers can safely continue to nurse a child throughout her next pregnancy. There is no evidence that suggests that nursing will contribute to miscarriages or take essential nutrients away from the fetus as long as the mother is well nourished. Discomfort from nipple soreness may occur, as hormonal activity contributes to nipple sensitivity. This may make nursing uncomfortable, but will usually lessen as the pregnancy progresses.

How to Become a Wet Nurse

A wet nurse is a lactating woman who breastfeeds another's baby. While this may seem taboo in our culture, wet nursing was actually popular until the invention of formula. With over 70 percent of mothers' breastfeeding, it's only natural that busy moms or moms with medical reasons who can't breastfeed are turning to wet nurses. If you have extra breastmilk, you may be looking to becoming a wet nurse.

Instructions

1

Know that you must have had a baby recently so you are lactating. While it is technically possible for a woman who has not had a baby to start lactating, it's a long and involved process (usually involving hormone supplements) to start lactating. You must be able to produce breastmilk in a good supply to keep your baby and someone else's baby healthy.

2

Be prepared to take some health tests. You need to be in good health to be a wet nurse. It's also best if you go through a screening for viruses that may pass through your breastmilk to the baby such as HIV. You should also expect drug tests.

3

Agree to a contract. Most wet nurses will have to make a commitment to lead a healthy lifestyle and be drug and alcohol free for as long as they're lactating. Most clients will ask you to sign a contract.

4

Understand that you aren't just pumping the breastmilk to give to another baby; you are actually breastfeeding another baby. If you just want to pump your milk to give to others, look at becoming a milk bank donor.

5

Find a client. Many wet nurses start breastfeeding their friends or family's babies. You can also try being hired at a staffing agency such as A+ Staffing Agency.

Newborn Cries When Nursing

Newborn crying can be challenging for any parent. Generally by 6 weeks of age, the time a newborn spends crying peaks and then the fussing tapers off gradually, according to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. If your newborn cries while nursing, explore the possible reasons behind this behavior to help your baby feed effectively.

Impatience

When a mother puts a baby to the breast to feed, the sucking action stimulates the milk ducts to eject milk, a process known as letdown. The time necessary for letdown to occur can vary for mothers. If a mothers milk letdown is slower than average, the baby may become frustrated and impatient as he sucks without receiving milk, according to the KellyMom website, a breastfeeding support source. This impatience may cause a newborn to pull off the breast and cry because he doesnt understand why milk isnt letting down. Kneading the breast gently may stimulate a faster letdown.

Overactive Letdown

A baby may cry while nursing if the he experiences an overactive letdown, advise the authors of The Effects of an Overabundant Milk Supply and a Forceful Letdown Reflex, published the Overactive Letdown website. When this situation occurs, the mothers body responds so forcefully to the stimulation of breastfeeding that milk flows too fast for the baby to handle, states KellyMom. A baby may cry when this occurs. Some mothers pump for about one minute prior to putting the baby to the breast to allow a slight moderation in letdown.

Gas

Breastfeeding babies generally ingest less gas than bottle-fed babies, but babies who nurse may still ingest some excess air during feeds. If your baby gulps and swallows air during breastfeeding, he may experience discomfort from the trapped air, which could make him cry, warns the American Academy of Pediatrics Healthy Children.org website. You may resolve this situation by interrupting the feeding to burp your baby before allowing him to finish.

End of Feeding

A baby may reach the point where shes satisfied and finished breastfeeding. Instead of simply pulling off the breast, the baby may cry to indicate that shes done. Its also possible that a baby may desire more sucking but is no longer hungry. The continued flow of milk may bother her in this situation. End the breastfeeding session and offer a pacifier instead to satisfy her sucking needs.

How to Treat Hyperpigmentation With Skin Lightening Gels

Hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin, can be treated in a variety of ways. Not all patients are candidates for all of the treatments, however. One of the cheapest and least risky ways to treat hyperpigmentation is with skin lightening gels. There are many different formulations of skin lightening gels on the market. Some are available over the counter, and others require a doctor's prescription.

Instructions

1

Have your hyperpigmentation evaluated by a dermatologist. A dermatologist can tell you the best ways to treat your skin based on the type of hyperpigmentation you have, its cause and your skin characteristics.

2

Try an over-the-counter strength of skin lightening gel first if you only have minor darkening. You may not need to use a strong formula to produce the desired results, and over-the-counter products are usually inexpensive.

3

Start using prescription-strength skin lightening gel if necessary. The main ingredients in most types of skin lightening gels are hydroquinone, kojic acid and glycolic acid. Both hydroquinone and kojic acid are melanin blockers, and glycolic acid is an exfoliant.

4

Apply skin lightening gels after cleansing your skin with a mild cleanser. Your skin needs to be clean to absorb the product. Use them two times daily or as directed by your dermatologist.

5

Wait at least 20 minutes before you apply any other skin products to the same area as the skin lightening gel. Waiting allows the gel to soak into the skin. Not waiting can cause the gel to be rubbed off of the skin.

6

Give the treatment several months to work. Using skin lightening gels is not an overnight process. There are other treatments that are more immediate, including chemical peels and laser resurfacing.

Estrace and Breastfeeding

Estrace, a prescription form of the hormone estrogen, is used for a variety of medical conditions in both men and women. While it can be very helpful when used properly, it also poses several concerns for women who are breast-feeding. Further research is needed to fully confirm the risks associated with breast-feeding and Estrace.

Description

Estrace is the prescription brand name of estradiol, a form of the hormone estrogen. It is most often used for symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal itching, dryness, and burning. This medication is also used to treat certain forms of hormone-related cancer in both men and women. Taking Estrace may also help to prevent osteoporosis and correct certain hormonal imbalances.

Birth Defects

The biggest concerns with taking Estrace during pregnancy come from the high risk of birth defects associated with the medication. In fact, the FDA classifies Estrace as a category X drug for pregnant women because of the severe risk it poses for the unborn child. In addition to causing birth defects, Estrace also increases the risk of certain types of childhood cancer when taken during pregnancy.

Estrace in Breast Milk

Normally, small amounts of Estrace can be found in the breast milk of women who take this medication while they are nursing. While opinions differ about whether or not these amounts are enough to harm the infant, all doctors will agree that the risk to the infant is far less than the risk posed to the fetus before birth.

Delayed Growth

In addition to these concerns, doctors must use caution when prescribing Estrace to children because it may keep them from developing at a normal rate. Children who do take Estrace must be monitored carefully to be sure that their growth is not stunted. While there is no medical evidence to support that Estrace in nursing mothers causes delayed growth in infants, this concern has also not been overruled.

Decreased Lactation

Finally, Estrace is commonly prescribed in order to limit lactation in women who choose not to breastfeed their infants. Because of this, mothers who take Estrace while breastfeeding often produce lower quality breast milk in smaller quantities. This problem alone may hinder the baby's growth, even if the hormones present in the breast milk do not.

Conclusions

Professional opinions differ regarding the safety of taking Estrace while breastfeeding. While some doctors are willing to prescribe it in some cases, others believe it to be dangerous to the infant. Because of this, most women taking Estrace are asked to stop breastfeeding, or to wait until continuing treatment with Estrace.