Ways to Encourage Breast Milk Production

Many women find that breastfeeding is more difficult than they imagined. In the beginning, a mother might that the baby is having trouble latching onto her breast properly, or she may be worried that she is not producing enough milk. There are a number of simple ways to increase your production of breast milk.

Breast Feed or Pump Often

The best way to ensure adequate milk production is to breastfeed or pump as often as possible. Breast feed every two to three hours. To increase production, breast feed "on demand," or whenever your baby is hungry. If you work away from home and pump your milk, try to pump every few hours, and spend about 15 minutes pumping during each session, recommends Mayo Clinic. Pumping from both breasts at the same time may boost milk production, so try using a double breast pump. In the evenings, breastfeed on demand.

Empty Breast

Empty your breasts as much as possible during each breastfeeding session to increase milk production. When breastfeeding, completely empty one breast before moving your baby to the other. If you are pumping, continue to pump for a few moments after your breast has emptied. After breastfeeding, try pumping your breasts to make certain that your breast is completely empty.

Diet and Lifestyle

Drink plenty of fluids to maintain breast milk production and stave off dehydration. Enjoy water, milk and juice, but limit your consumption of beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee or soft drinks. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole grains and lean proteins, and engage in physical activity several times a week. Do not smoke or use tobacco products. Certain types of birth control or other medications may interfere with breastfeeding, so talk to your doctor about your options.

Relaxation

Feeling stressed may interfere with your milk production and your ability to breastfeed, notes Mayo Clinic. Find ways to relax before breastfeeding -- a warm bath, reading a book or talking with a friend may relieve anxiety. Massage your breasts to help you relax and to stimulate milk supply. Warm compresses may also help. Ease anxiety by finding a relaxed environment in which to pump your breast milk.

Supplements

Avoid using supplements, such as fennel or teas made specifically for breastfeeding mothers, before consulting with your doctor. The ingredients in these natural teas and supplements may harm your baby.

Breastfeeding Difficulties

Many women struggle with getting their baby to latch on to their breast properly during breastfeeding. Find ways to ease your anxiety and make breastfeeding easier for both you and your baby. Ensure that you are positioned correctly for breastfeeding, recommends the website Family Education. If problems persist, consult your doctor or a lactation specialist for help.

About Butalbital

Butalbital is a barbiturate that has an action of intermediate duration. Chemically called 5-allyl-5-isobutylbarbituric acid, butalbital is sold in a great many forms under many brand names. It is used most often for pain in general and more specifically for headache pain. It comes in a variety of formulations that combine with codeine to treat tension headaches.

Types

Axocet, Bucet, Bupap, Dedapap, Prenilin and Phrenelin Forte are trade-name drugs that contain butalbital mixed with acetaminophen. When mixed with caffeine and acetaminophen, it is called by the trade names of Firicet, Esgic and Esgic Plus. When combined with aspirin and caffeine, its trade names are Fiorinal, Fiormor, Fiortal, Fortabs and Laniroif. Fioricet 3 with codeine is a compound made of butalbital, acetaminophen, caffeine and codeine phosphate. Fiornial 3 with codeine has aspirin, caffeine and codeine phosphate combined with butalbital.

Function

Butalbital, used commonly for headaches and other types of pain, can provide better and faster pain relief than many other choices. Often, less medication is needed because of butalbital's efficacy. Codeine is an analgesic narcotic barbiturate that works specifically on the central nervous system to reduce pain.

Warning

Over time, the use of butalbital in any of its combined forms can cause a tolerance to develop so that more of the drug is required for the same degree of pain relief. As a narcotic, butalbital also has addictive properties so care must be used in taking this drug over time. Caffeine as a butalbital additive is also a substance that causes dependency. When stopped suddenly, persons with that dependency will often suffer from rebound or withdrawal headaches that can be more severe than the headaches being treated were in the first place. The aspirin, when used in the formula, causes no dependency but can cause harm to the body, especially the digestive tract, with pain, disruption and even bleeding. Butalbital can cause excitability in children and confusion, depression or excitement in geriatric patients, who are almost always more drug sensitive than are other age groups. Less commonly, older patients can experience breathing problems from the codeine. Definitive studies have not been done on the effects of butalbital on pregnant women, and the jury is still out on studies about infant risk when the mother is breastfeeding.

Benefits

Take butalbital with a full glass of water, only as directed by a doctor. Don't take it other than as directed or it could lead to dependency, stomach problems and rebound headaches upon stopping or between dosages. In order to be effective, butalbital should be taken at the onset of the headache when the pain is still easily managed. Waiting will make the headache harder to treat. For migraines, when taken early, the headache may be averted if the patient retreats to a dark, quiet place for a while to give the medicine its greatest advantage. If headaches are habitual, it's best to take a headache preventative as butalbital is not a good choice for long-term and or frequent use. For short-term and occasional relief, it's one of the best headache drugs out there for many people.

Effects

Butalbital's normal side effects, or those that generally pose no threat beyond discomfort to the patient, include drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, gas, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting or stomach pain and a false, heightened sense of well-being. Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how your body reacts to this medication. To ease side effects, rise slowly from a seated or lying position. If nausea and vomiting occur, especially after lying down or after the first few doses, see your doctor. Don't take this drug for at least five days before any surgery--including oral surgery as the aspirin in it can cause problems with bleeding. Caffeine should also be avoided before medical tests and procedures as it can skew certain test results.

Considerations

Side effects that should cause concern are flushing or bluish skin color, breathing or coughing problems, swallowing difficulty, hives or other rashes on face, mouth or eye area and nasal congestion.
Seek immediate help for lip bleeding or sores, tenderness and burning or peeling of the skin, chest pain, fever with chills present or not, painful mouth sores or ulcers, sore throat, and thick, reddened or scaliness on skin. Less rare but potentially dangerous side effects include bloody stool or urine, black tarry stool, swollen or painful glands, unusual bleeding or bruising. Seek immediate medical care for any of these also.

Prevention/Solution

Signs of an overdose of butalbital include seizures, loss of hearing, ear ringing or buzzing, restlessness, excitability, confusion, trouble and or slow breathing patterns, and severe drowsiness and dizziness. Cold clammy skin, slurred speech, low blood pressure, diarrhea, hallucinations, thirst, muscle twitching, flashing lights in eyes, eye twitching and unusual movement, severe stomach pain, hand flapping, and vision problems. Get help immediately if any of these symptoms (especially two or more of them) are present as unconsciousness and death can occur. Lactating (breastfeeding) moms should seek immediate help if they experience breathing problems, drowsiness, limp feelings in their limbs and sudden nursing difficulties. For more information see the RxList website listed int he URL below.

How to Breastfeed

Breastfeeding is an important element in the life of a newborn and his/her mother. Aside from satisfying the baby's hunger, it performs other critical functions such as enhancing the newborn's immunity, creating a bond between mother and her child, helping the new mother shed extra pounds gained during pregnancy and bringing her body back to the normal pre-pregnancy state. Correct techniques result in a long successful nursing phase. Read below to familiarize yourself with breastfeeding techniques and tips as well as to learn how to breastfeed:

Instructions

Being comfortable

1

Select a calming and happy location to feed your baby. Whether it is your bedroom, the baby's nursery, or a favorite spot in the house, try to feed in the same place so the baby gets used to the location and gets ready to nurse on seeing or reaching that spot.

2

Make yourself comfortable. Use pillows or cushions for support. Comfort is a key factor in defining the success of this phase.

3

Calm yourself and the baby. Singing or humming helps calm babies.

Holding the baby

4

Relax and choose a comfortable position either sitting or lying down.

5

Hold the baby comfortably. There are different positions in which to hold the baby.

6

Bring the baby to face you directly, with his/her chin touching your breast.

7

Make sure to sit straight while feeding the baby. This is necessary if you choose to nurse while sitting down. The baby should be positioned such that he/she can comfortably reach the breast.

8

Nursing the baby lying down is advisable, especially at night since it minimally disturbs the sleep.

Latching the baby

9

Cup the breast in your hand and tickle baby's lips with the nipple.

10

Bring the baby's mouth on to the breast when his/her mouth is wide open. Ensure that maximum part of the areola, dark part of the breast, and breast are in the baby's mouth. His/her lower lip should be curled out and the tongue rolled. Gentle sucking and swallowing sounds indicate a good latch.

11

Try again if the baby fails to latch correctly the first time. Correct latching prevents pain and soreness which ultimately leads to enjoyable nursing sessions.

12

Break the suction by inserting a finger from corner of the baby's mouth when he/she is done nursing on one breast, usually indicated by the empty breast feeling or the baby becoming sleepy. Typically it takes 10 to 15 minutes of nursing on each side.

13

Follow the same steps to nurse the baby on the other side.

Breast Augmentation & Pregnancy

Many women want to know information about their breasts during pregnancy because breast-feeding is important for babies' development. Breast augmentation surgery does not stop many women from trying to breast-feed their children. They might have a difficult experience, or they may have no problems whatsoever. Women who are upset over their breasts' appearance after childbirth can find that breast augmentation surgery is a reasonable alternative.

Breast-Feeding

The majority of women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery are able to breast-feed. According to DocShop.com article "Breast Implants and Pregnancy," implants are inserted under the muscle, which creates a protective layer between the milk ducts and the implants. The incisions made during surgery should not affect breast-feeding. Many women who do and do not have breast augmentation choose to supplement breast-feeding with formula. The choice to supplement often has nothing to do with whether a woman had breast augmentation surgery.

Pregnancy Risks

Breast augmentation surgery should not put you at an increased risk during pregnancy. The main thing that might be a concern is if the saline or silicone implants leaked, which would demand immediate attention. A breast implant that has ruptured or is leaking should be examined by a medical professional. A surgeon needs to put new implants in or remove them quickly. They could potentially be a danger to the fetus.

Effect on the Implants

Pregnancy typically makes women's breasts stretch out of shape and sag. Many women with breast augmentation find that their breasts are not round and perky after they wean their baby. According to Breast-Plastic-Surgery.org article "Breast Implants and Pregnancy," women with large breast implants have worse problems with them sagging. A simple remedy is to have a breast lift after weaning. Women who are considering breast augmentation might want to consider waiting to get the surgery until their child is weaned.

Potential Problems

BabyCenter article "Breasfeeding after Augmentation" lists potential problems that happen from breast augmentation. They include increased or decreased sensitivity and significant engorgement accompanied by a heightened fever, pain and chills. Some women with breast augmentation also have trouble producing milk. There are methods to increase milk supply. For instance, a mother can do what lactation consultants refer to as a power pump. A power pump means the mother pumps for 15 minutes, waits 15 minutes without pumping and then starts pumping again for 15 minutes. She continues this process over the course of an hour.

Natural Breasts After Pregnancy

Many women who have not had breast augmentation experience breasts that sag after pregnancy and weaning. According to Dr. Steven Teitelbaum, M.D., in "Get Your Body Back after Having Children," implants, breast augmentation or a lift (mastopexy) can remedy the aesthetic results of pregnancy. Women can make informed decisions about whether to get augmentations or lifts by discussing their options with a licensed surgeon. Some women do not want a lift because it results in scars, and they opt for an augmentation instead.

How to Get out of a House With Breastfed Twins

Getting out of the house with a new baby is tough for any mom. Getting out of the house with breastfed twins, though, may seem impossible. Luckily, it is possible to breastfeed multiples without being confined to the walls of your home. Going out is healthy for your babies and especially important for mothers to avoid feelings of isolation and postpartum depression.

Instructions

1

Pump extra milk first thing in the morning, when your milk supply is most abundant. Take this milk with you on outings so that you can go about your business without having to stop and nurse your babies in an uncomfortable spot. Just use your pumped milk to bottle-feed your babies.

2

Pack your diaper bag strategically. You'll need at least one diaper per child for each hour that you plan to be out. In addition to wipes and extra outfits for you and your babies, pack a few breastfeeding pads for those accidental leaks, and throw in a burp cloth or two. For older babies who might want to breastfeed because they are thirsty, pack juice or water in sippy cups to hold off feeding for a little while. If you plan to feed your baby expressed breast milk, pack the bottle in an insulated pouch or container to keep it cool and bring extra nursing pads to collect any leakage from your breasts.

3

Feed your babies just before leaving the house. That way, you'll start your trip with some free time rather than having to nurse your babies again right away when you arrive at your destination.

4

Look for mom-friendly destinations. Many retail stores now have comfortable nursing rooms for lactating moms. You may want to take your babies to playgroups or support groups such as La Leche League, where you may feel more comfortable nursing your twins in public. If you need to nurse your babies in a mall or retail store, just ask for a dressing room for both comfort and privacy.

How to Take Golden Seal

Golden seal is an herb that goes by many names, including moon daisy, ox-eye daisy, maudlinwort and wild Curcuma. The plant originates in cooler climates, ranging from southern Canada to the Northeast region of the United States. Golden seal is used as an alternative form of medicine for a wide range of illnesses and injuries, including mouth sores, diarrhea, vaginal infections and respiratory illnesses. Golden seal is not safe for everyone to take. Check with your doctor before beginning a regimen of this herbal supplement.

Instructions

1

Be frank with your doctor about any medical conditions you may have or medications you take before starting to take golden seal. The herb is not safe for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have high blood pressure, blood clotting problems or children under the age of 18.

2

Learn about the different forms of golden seal that exist and what the standard dosages are for each kind of herbal preparation. For example, if you take the powdered root form of the supplement, a daily suggested dosage is 4 to 6 g. This is not to be confused with liquid extracts, which may be dispensed differently. Read labels carefully.

3

Take each golden seal tablet with a full glass of water to avoid stomach upset and to be sure the herb dissolves completely.

4

Use golden seal cream as a topical treatment for cuts and sores two to three times daily. Gently rub the ointment on the injury with a soft cloth.

5

Know the side effects that are possible when taking golden seal and contact your doctor if symptoms occur. Side effects include nausea and vomiting, and may be an indication that you are allergic to the ingredients of the supplement.

Breastfeeding & Low Carb Diets

Once you've had your baby, you may be ready to try to lose the baby weight, but if you're breastfeeding, you have to be sure that you are eating enough food to sustain your baby as well. Low carbohydrate diets, such as Atkins or South Beach, offer quick weight loss to many people, but the same may not be true for breastfeeding women. While the diet is safe for breastfeeding women, Dr. Atkins said that weight loss would be "painfully slow" due to the hormones needed for breastfeeding.

Calories Needed for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding requires extra calories to produce the milk for your baby--500 extra calories a day. An average breastfeeding woman should eat around 2,200 to 2,500 calories per day to support herself and her child. This is significantly more calories than the traditional dieter, who should eat around 1,200 to 1,500 calories.

If you do not eat enough calories for breastfeeding, you will not lose weight. Your body realizes the importance of feeding your baby and will hold onto its fat stores if it feels that you are not feeding it enough. While part of the appeal of a low carb diet is that you don't have to count calories, a breastfeeding woman should do so in the first part of the diet to be sure that she is eating enough. After having a good idea of how many calories you are eating on a low carb diet, and ensuring that it is high enough, you can stop counting calories.

Low Carb Diets

Atkins and South Beach are two popular low carb diets. Both consist of a highly restrictive first phase that lasts two weeks. During that phase, avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates, including the healthy carbohydrates you find in whole grains. After the initial two weeks, you can begin to introduce some healthy carbohydrates into your diet.

If you're going on a low carb diet while breastfeeding, you may want to consider skipping the first phase of the diet. For some people, this phase is too restrictive and doesn't provide enough nutrition for both you and your baby.

Milk Supply and Low Carb Diets

Some people experience low milk supply as a result of following a low carb diet. This is primarily caused by not eating enough calories. One of the advantages of a low carb diet is that you are not hungry due to the types of foods you are eating. This can cause you to eat less overall.

To monitor your milk supply, pay close attention to your baby's diapers. If she suddenly is not going as often, she may not be getting enough milk. You'll also find that she is not gaining enough weight. If you notice either of these signs, be sure that you are drinking enough water and eating enough calories.

Legal Rights of Nursing Mothers in Public

Doctors and public health professionals encourage exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of an infant's life. However, for many mothers, breastfeeding outside of the home can present challenges. Fortunately, federal and state laws provide protection for breastfeeding mothers in an effort to promote this healthful activity.

At Work

Breast pumps allow mothers to express milk at work.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, enacted in March 2010, requires employers to provide reasonable break times for nursing mothers to express breast milk for up to one year after the birth of a child. Employers are not required to compensate women for the time they use to express milk during working hours. Employers must also provide a place other than a restroom for nursing mothers to express milk.

Federal Law

In 2000, Congress enacted legislation permitting breastfeeding on all federal property. Federal property includes federal office buildings, the District of Columbia, national museums and national parks.

Specific State Breastfeeding Laws

Forty-four states have enacted specific laws allowing women to breastfeed in public and private locations. These laws ensure that a breastfeeding mother can feed her baby at any place whenever necessary.

State Indecency Laws

Historically, women who breastfed their babies in public were subject to penalty under public indecency laws. While some states do not specifically allow breastfeeding in public, they exempt breastfeeding from criminal indecency or obscenity laws. Currently 28 states have enacted legislation exempting breastfeeding mothers from public indecency laws. Some of these laws, or the legislative history for the laws, encourage, but do not require, nursing mothers to nurse discretely under a blanket or other coverup.

Jury Duty

Twelve states excuse breastfeeding women from jury duty. If a nursing mother is called to jury duty in these states, she may report to the court that she is breastfeeding and will be excused from jury duty with no negative consequences.

A Place to Breastfeed

A small number of states have enacted legislation requiring public places, like shopping malls, to provide a place for mothers to nurse their babies or express milk.

Child Care

Two states, Louisiana and Mississippi, have laws specifically relating to child care and breastfed babies. In these states, child care facilities cannot discriminate or refuse to accept breastfed babies. In Mississippi, child care facilities must provide storage for human milk and staff training on the proper handling of human milk.

Discrimination Laws

A woman who is harassed or forced to stop breastfeeding in a public place that is protected by state or federal law may be able to bring a lawsuit under sex discrimination laws.

What Is Permethrin Cream?

Permethrin cream is a topical solution used to treat infections caused by mites, lice and other arthropods. The solution can be bought in liquid, lotion or cream form. If the prescription comes in a 1 percent solution, the lower dosage is usually used for lice and egg destruction. A prescription of 5 percent is used in the effective treatment of mites, or scabies. The use of this medication should only be applied on children who are 2 and older and adults.

Lice Treatment

If you use permethrin for lice treatment, the solution will come in a container that is only used for one application. Any portion of the lotion that is not used, should be discarded. Prior to applying the medication, you need to wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo. Then rinse and towel dry your hair. Liberally apply the permetherin to your hair, being sure to coat your scalp. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should pay special attention to your ears and neck, making sure you coat these areas well. Allow the medication to penetrate for at least 10 minutes, and then wash the medication out.

Scabies Treatment

Your skin should be washed and dried before the application of the cream. Liberally apply the cream all over your body, paying close attention to the creases of your elbows, fingers, feet, toes and underarms. Most adults rarely get a scabies infection of the scalp. Children however, are more susceptible, so treatment to your child's scalp is necessary. The cream needs to be left on your body for up to 14 hours. It is best to apply the cream prior to going to bed. In the morning, you will need to wash the cream off, and put on fresh, clean clothes.

Before Using

If you are breastfeeding, you may want to consider pumping milk for your infant while using permethrin. Small amounts of the medication are excreted into breast milk. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, there hasn't been a definitive amount of studies providing information on whether the medication causes adverse reactions to your infant. It is not known whether this medication causes any affects to a fetus in utero. If you're pregnant, you should discuss with your health care provider whether the use of this medication is okay.

Side Effects

The use of permethrin may cause itching and mild, burning sensations upon the skin. Itching usually subsides after two weeks. If you continue to have itching and burning sensations, speak with your physician about your symptoms. The use of permethrin on your scalp can cause tingling sensations as well. Other side effects include a numbing sensation after application, a possible rash and redness at applied sites, and possible swelling.

Precautions

While using permethrin, it is important to prevent the possible reinfection of you and your family. Any clothing, linens, plush toys and towels should be washed and dried in the hottest possible settings. If you cannot wash your linens, you can dry clean items, or seal them in an air tight bag for two weeks. Hairbrushes and combs should be washed in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes. During treatments, family members should not share brushes or combs. Children's toys (plastic or vinyl), should be sealed in airtight bags for up to two weeks, or washed in hot, soapy water for up to 10 minutes.

How to Arrange Custody for a Newborn in New Jersey

Deciding on how to split the custody of your children is always difficult as neither parent likes the idea of losing time with the children. It is especially difficult when you are dealing with the custody of a newborn. A newborn needs stability in his life and requires more care than an older child. The judge in a custody case involving a newborn needs to consider the ability to care for the baby, bonding and stability.

Instructions

1

Consider how the newborn baby is fed. If the baby is breastfeeding it is unrealistic to expect the baby to spend more than a couple of hours away from her mother. The only exception is if the mother is able to pump milk and the baby is capable of drinking from a bottle. Some babies do not transition well and some mothers are unsuccessful with pumping. Newborn babies who drink formula or breast milk from a bottle can handle longer visits but should still have daily contact with the primary caregiver.

2

Determine which parent is better able to provide a consistent schedule for the baby. Newborn babies are beginning to establish bonds and require a routine to thrive. Any visitation that is given to the other parent should be consistent to allow the baby to develop a routine.

3

Evaluate the parenting abilities of both parents. Many mothers naturally fall into the tasks required for caring for a baby, while many fathers must work at these tasks. However, just because fathers typically have to work at these tasks does not mean he is not capable of caring for a newborn.

4

Set up frequent, shorter visitation times. Newborn babies have short attention spans. Three-hour visits spread over three days are better than allowing one visit a week for nine hours.

5

Allow the baby's father to visit in your own home if you are comfortable. This allows the baby to maintain stability and familiarity while establishing a relationship with her other parent.

6

Arrange for visits to become longer and less frequent as the baby gets older. The visitation set with a newborn will no longer be appropriate as the baby ages, even at six months or a year old. Setting up a step-up visitation plan ensures that you do not have to return to court in the future to modify the visitation plan.

How Much Milk Should My Baby Drink?

Babies are complicated little creatures, and learning to care for one can be a challenge. The more you know, the easier it is to raise your infant. Because babies eat frequently, make sure you understand the basics of infant feeding.

How Much Milk to Give Your Baby

For bottle-fed babies: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a newborn should consume 1 to 3 oz. of formula per feeding. By the end of the first month, your baby should take 2 to 3 oz. per feeding. Each subsequent month, you should increase the average feeding by 1 oz., until you reach 8 oz. per feeding. In general, a baby under six months should take 2 to 2.5 oz. per pound of body weight each day.

For breast-fed babies: According to the authors of "What to Expect the First Year," when a newborn is breast-fed, he should be allowed to nurse for as long as he wants. It's OK if your baby unlatches a few times or nurses slowly; one feeding can take up to 45 minutes. Once your baby seems uninterested in the first breast, then switch breasts, and again allow him to feed until he doesn't want any more.

Demand Feeding

The AAP recommends feeding on demand, which means feeding the baby whenever she acts hungry or wants to eat. Gradually, a routine will develop.

For bottle-fed babies: Generally, give your baby a bottle every three to four hours. For the first month, don't let your newborn sleep longer than five hours without eating. By the second month, your baby should be fed about every four or five hours.

For breast-fed babies: A baby should be breastfed eight to 12 times per day or more often, which means feeding at least every two to three hours. For the first month, don't let your baby sleep longer than three or four hours without being fed.

Parent-Directed Feeding

According to Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam, authors of "On Becoming Babywise," it's best to feed your baby according to a flexible schedule. Although you should always feed your baby when he is hungry, you should strongly encourage him to eat a full meal every time he eats and then to wait two and a half to three hours between feedings. (The AAP agrees that this can help a baby eat fuller meals and stay satisfied longer.) This stabilizes your baby's digestive metabolism, and it allows your baby to sleep longer without waking up to snack. Plus, babies thrive on routine.

Additionally, if you are breast-feeding your baby, parent-directed feeding regulates your milk production and ensures that your baby consumes enough high-calorie, high-fat, nutrient-rich, hunger-satisfying breast milk.

Signs That Your Baby Is Hungry

Crying is your baby's last resort; you should notice that your baby is hungry well before she cries for food. Watch for these signs of hunger: sucking her hands or the air, pursing her mouth, unusual alertness, rooting (turning to your breasts or "searching" for something to suck) or whimpering.

Don't automatically feed your baby every time she cries. Listen to the cry and try to figure out what your baby is saying. For example, she might be fussing herself to sleep or wanting to play, or she might have gas. If you feed her every time she cries, you might ignore some of her needs, and you might overfeed her.

Is Baby Getting Enough Milk?

A newborn should produce at least five dirty diapers each day and at least eight to 10 wet diapers each day. He should seem satisfied after a meal. If your baby is showing these signs, then he is eating enough.

Cow's Milk Caution

Don't give your baby cow's milk until she is 1 year old. Until then, stick to breast milk or formula.

How to Keep Gas Out of Babies' Stomachs

Most babies will have stomach gas at one point or another. Oftentimes the gas will pass naturally without much of an issue for the baby. Sometimes, however, gas can be bothersome and cause distress for both the baby and the parents. Frequent gas can be painful for a small baby. If it happens often it is a good idea to try and get the gas out before it becomes a problem.

Instructions

Preventing Gas in Babies

1

Avoid eating foods that cause gas in your baby, if you're breastfeeding. Some of these foods include garlic, cucumbers, peppers, cabbage, onions, broccoli, cauliflower and turnips. If bottle feeding, use an anti-colic bottle. These bottles come with a valve that snaps on to the base, which reduces air bubbles from forming when the baby sucks on the nipple.

2

Burp your baby every few minutes as she feeds to prevent gas build-up. If the baby has a hard time burping try holding her face down on your lap and gently patting her back.

3

Hold your baby in the "football hold," if he still can't burp on your lap. Put his chin on your hand and his legs straddling your elbow. This should bring the bubbles up so you can pat his back again to get them out.

4

Provide quiet time for the baby after feeding, keeping her still. Too much playing or jostling around right after she eats can aggravate gas.

5

Fold baby's legs to his chest after he feeds to encourage any trapped gas to come out.

Relieving Baby's Gas Once It Has Become a Problem

6

Hold the baby close and facing you, then gently press her tummy against you.

7

Gently massage the baby's tummy in a circular motion. Bring his legs one at a time (like the bicycle exercise) to his chest and press in a gentle manner.

8

Place the baby upside down on your lap and softly shake your legs up and down.

9

Give the baby a dose of gripe water following the directions on the box or bottle. Giving the gripe water before the night feeding can also help relieve gas that may interfere with sleep. Consult with the baby's doctor first.

10

Administer Gas-X to the baby if the gas seems severe and is causing the baby a lot of pain. Consult the baby's doctor first and follow dosage directions on the bottle.

How to Get Out Gentian Violet or Purple Stains

Gentian violet is a common remedy used by breastfeeding mothers to treat thrush in the mouth, nipple or diaper area. Gentian violet is a purple dye that kills the fungi and bacteria responsible for thrush and is safe in extremely small doses and amounts for both the mother and the baby. However, gentian violet stains skin and clothing easily and must be handled carefully. If the stains get onto clothing, fabric, skin or surfaces, removing the stain will require some tools that may be purchased at many hardware or grocery stores.

Instructions

1

Spray the stained fabric with aerosol hair spray and rub the sides of the fabric together to saturate the stain. Wash the fabric with standard detergent, then examine the stain. Repeat if the stain remains. Do not place the item in the dryer until the stain is gone, as the heat will set the stain into the fabric permanently.

2

Wash stained items with color-safe bleach for additional stain removal.

3

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball and wipe on skin immediately after staining. Avoid using rubbing alcohol on the face, nipple or sensitive areas of the baby's body.

4

Apply a small amount of vodka to a cotton ball and wipe gentian violet stains on the baby's face or the mother's nipple area. Wipe away the vodka with a clean, damp cloth immediately to remove traces of vodka.

Breastfeeding and Milk Duct Fistula

When the normal connections between one area and another are cut or disturbed, the contents inside will divert someplace else. With a milk duct fistula -- also called a mammary duct fistula -- something -- a prior or recent surgery, usually, for anything from a biopsy to drainage of a breast abscess -- disrupts the flow of milk from the ducts to the nipple. Milk may discharge instead from an opening in the skin. You can usually continue to breastfeed with a milk duct fistula, but talk to your doctor about the best treatment in your case.

Causes

Milk duct fistulas can develop in several ways. If you've had breast surgery, such as breast reduction, augmentation or biopsy, the duct may have been cut in a way that interferes with milk flow. You might not realize this until you start nursing. If you develop a plugged milk duct while nursing, it can lead to an infection called mastitis, which can in turn develop into an abscess. An abscess is described as a walled-off infection that antibiotics have difficulty penetrating, and in this case, the abscess -- or the process of draining it -- can disrupt the milk duct, causing a fistula to form. Continue nursing if you develop blocked milk ducts or mastitis; offer the affected breast first, to make sure you empty the breast, the Better Health website advises. Stopping nursing increases the risk that an abscess that could lead to a fistula will develop.

Symptoms

If you have a milk duct fistula, some milk will leak out of an opening in the skin on the breast rather than out of the nipple, usually in an area around the areola. Since the breast contains more than one milk duct to carry milk from the milk-producing glands to the nipple, you will still have milk for your baby to suckle from the nipple as well. If you have an abscess drained, the leakage will most likely occur in the vicinity of the drainage incision.

Continued Breastfeeding

In most cases, having a milk duct fistula doesn't decrease your ability to breastfeed your baby, since other ducts will continue to deliver milk to the nipple. However, the leaking can become an annoyance. While the fistula will heal in some cases, in others, only stopping nursing and suppressing milk production will stop the leaking. If a nursing mother has recently had surgery, such as abscess removal or biopsy, she might have to stop nursing on that side temporarily, international board certified lactation consultant Debbie Shinskie states in "The Pocket Guide to Counseling the Nursing Mother," but ask your doctor.

Treatment and Research

Surgical removal of the damaged duct, called a fistulectomy, will clear up the leakage and allow your skin to heal. In a British study published in the January 2006 issue of "World Journal of Surgery," 90 percent of women who had a fistulectomy noticed a distortion in the appearance of the nipple post-surgery. Smokers had a higher incidence of forming milk duct fistulas, according to the study; 83 percent of the women studied were smokers.

How Can I Tell If My Baby Has Gas?

Gassiness is common in babies. A bottle-fed baby is more prone to gas than a breast-fed baby, since she has more opportunity to suck air. A breast-fed baby, however, can develop gas if her mother eats gas-inducing foods, such as beans or broccoli. Other common sources of infant gas include food sensitivities, intestinal bacteria or viruses, or new medications.

Temperament

The first signal that something isnt quite right with your baby is a temperament change. Gassy babies often display these changes during or directly after feeding, especially if their gas is caused by sucking in too much air. If she is usually content during and after feeding but becomes fretful, fussy or upset, try to burp her to determine if shes gassy.

Gassy babies may also be upset long after eating, especially if the gas developed due to a food sensitivity or medicine. In these cases, she may cry or fuss from the pain of the gas passing or expanding her stomach.

Burping

While nearly all babies burp after eating, an overly gassy baby will burp more frequently or forcefully. There is no guideline for how many times a baby should burp, but if he is burping more than usual--that is, more than he does when there is nothing wrong with him--excess gas is probably the culprit.

Also consider whether or not your baby is burping more infrequently than usual. When coupled with signs of discomfort, burping less frequently can be a sign that he isnt releasing the gas trapped in his stomach.

Stomach

Just as adults get bloated or distended stomachs from gas, your babys abdomen may feel hard or look larger than usual. Her stomach may also gurgle or bubble if you put your ear against it. Bloating caused by gas should disappear after she passes gas or soils her diaper.

Eating Habits

While a change in eating habits is not indicative of gas, it can give you an idea of what is causing her discomfort. An over-hungry baby may eat frantically, leading her to swallow more air. A baby with a food sensitivity may eat less frequently from the discomfort of the built-up gas.

How to Use Ameda

Breastfeeding mothers often find a breast pump is either a convenient addition or an absolute necessity. Moms can choose from a manual pump, a hospital-grade pump or a personal electric pump. Ameda produces a hospital-grade pump available for rent, but Ameda personal electric pumps are common choices. Using a breast pump for the first time be daunting, but the process is fairly simple. Issues with milk supply or problems with pumping not related to the breast pump might require the assistance of a lactation consultant.

Instructions

1

Sterilize the parts of the collection kit before using it for the first time. Immerse the parts in boiling water for 20 minutes. Do not boil the white cap, tubing or pump connector. These parts will not come into contact with breast milk and could be damaged from the sterilization process.

2

Assemble the collection kit by attaching the collection bottles to the breast flanges. The flanges resemble horns. The bottles screw onto the end of the flange. Place the diaphragm in the piston chamber and close it with the white cap. Insert the connector at the end of the tube into the input slot on the pump.

3

Turn on the machine and adjust the suction dial to the lowest setting. Having the suction going will help to properly position the flanges. Place the "horn" over the breast, with the nipple centered inside the chamber. The nipple and surrounding tissue should fill the chamber. Horns with smaller or larger flange chambers can be ordered separately to best fit the user. Maintain a slightly downward tilt while holding the collection cups in place to facilitate milk flow.

4

Adjust the cycles per minute speed using the cycle dial between low and high, determined by your comfort level. Adjust the suction dial to the highest comfortable setting. Faster cycles and/or higher suction stimulates faster letdown for some mothers, but the vacuum and pressure should not hurt. Lower the suction or cycles if you feel pain.

5

Store the breast milk as desired and disassemble the collection kit. Wash everything except the tubing, pump connector and white cap. The parts are dishwasher safe, but Ameda recommends hand-washing and drying to prolong the life of the components.

Foods to Increase Milk Supply

How to Stay Thin After Pregnancy Without Exercise

Never underestimate the power of exercise. However, being a new mom is tough and it is often hard to find the time to get moving. Alternatively, a disability or medical condition might be preventing you from exercising. If you want to maintain a healthy body weight, despite your inability or lack of desire to exercise, read on.

Instructions

1

Breastfeed your new baby. Breastfeeding is amazing for both you and your baby in so many ways. Despite what the formula companies want you to believe, there really is no substitute for breastfeeding. As a bonus, breastfeeding burns an estimated 500 calories per day, and it helps shrink your uterus back down to size, thereby helping to flatten your abdomen sooner.

2

Stick to an all-natural diet. Eat plenty of fresh, whole, organic foods every day. Aim to consume at least a pound of fruits and vegetables each day, in addition to beans, nuts and some whole grains. Focus on what you get to have, rather than what youre avoiding. Youll feel satiated because your body will be getting the nutrients it needs for recovery and motherhood.

3

Get the processed foods out of the house. Toss out anything processed, preserved, fried, or dyed.

4

Follow the 90 percent rule. While none of use can be perfect when it comes to nutrition, there is a way to have your cake and eat it, too, and thats by sticking to the 90-percent rule. Make 90 percent of your dietary choices from a list of whole, natural foods. For the other 10 percent of your caloric intake, eat whatever you wantguiltlessly and with joy!

5

Unless a disability is preventing you, make movement a part of your day. Dance with your baby. Play with your baby. Walk with your baby. Wear your baby. While it might not look like your old exercise routine and some might not consider it exercise, it certainly is. Enjoy!

How to Use Proactiv While Breastfeeding

Benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient in the popular Proactiv line of skincare products, has been used as a bleaching agent for more than half a century. It is considered a safe and effective acne treatment for people over the age of 12, although some people can have a negative reaction to it. However, many products such as Proactiv, which are considered safe for most people, may not be suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Instructions

1

Talk to your doctor about using Proactiv or any other medication if you are pregnant, may become pregnant or are breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about all other medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, that you are taking. If your physician feels using Proactiv is appropriate proceed to Step 2. If you physician recommends against using this product, do not use Proactiv and ask him or her to suggest alternatives.

2

Dampen your face with warm water. Pour a dime-sized amount of Proactiv Renewing Cleanser into the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together and apply the cleanser to the damp skin on your face. Massage the area thoroughly for a couple of minutes.

3

Rinse your hands and face with warm running water until the cleanser is completely removed. Pat your face and hands dry with a cotton towel.

4

Pour a small amount of Proactiv Revitalizing Toner onto a cotton ball or pad. Lightly rub the pad over the entire cleansed area. Allow the toner to completely air dry.

5

Squeeze a small amount of Proactiv Repairing Lotion onto the finger tips of one hand. Press the finger tips of the other hand into the lotion. Apply the lotion from the finger tips to the cleansed area in gentle circular motions. Allow to air dry. Do not rinse off.

6

Repeat steps two through five each morning and evening. Apply sunscreen to exposed, cleansed skin once the skin is completely dry if you expect to go outside.

How to Travel With Frozen Breast Milk

For nursing mothers traveling away from their babies, transporting frozen breast milk can be stressful, especially given new security rules about air travel with liquids. But the idea of "pumping and dumping" precious breast milk is unthinkable to most women who put in their time with a breast pump. Here's how to travel with frozen breast milk so you can bring it home safely to baby.

Instructions

1

Decide whether you'll be bringing the breast milk as a carry-on item or checking it with your luggage. Security regulations won't allow you to carry on more than one 12 oz. plastic storage bag filled with containers of 3 oz. or less. So if you've got a big stash to bring home, you're better off checking it.

2

Fill breast milk storage bags with no more than 3 oz. in case you decide to take some on board. Place in a bag filled with frozen gel packs rather than ice, since frozen gel packs are safer for preserving frozen breast milk.

3

Put the breast milk enclosed in frozen gel packs into a suitcase if you plan on checking it. Feel comfortable with this option since checked luggage will be kept colder than carry-on items during air travel.

4

Consider shipping the breast milk packed in dry ice using next-day delivery if you'll be traveling a great distance or expect significant delays during travel. Breast milk is safe for consumption for as long as 8 hours thawed, however, so unless you're planning on close to a full day of travel, you probably won't need this option.

How to Switch Your Baby From Breast Milk to Formula

For reasons of health or convenience, some mothers want to wean their babies from breast milk to baby formula, but they don't know how to make the transition. There are several types of formula available for you to choose from. Some are soy-based and some are milk-based. Others are enriched with iron or are organic. You can follow a few easy steps to switch your baby from breast milk to formula.

Instructions

1

Purchase your supplies. You'll need a breast pump, bottles and formula for your baby. Playtex nursers are considered a good choice for moms who both breast- and bottle-feed because the nipples are designed to simulate sucking patterns associated with breastfeeding.

2

Pump and store breast milk. La Leche League provides guidelines for breast milk storage.

3

If you haven't already, introduce your baby to the bottle. Start by feeding your baby the pumped breast milk during the morning feed, when he'll be hungry and may be more likely to drink from the bottle. Having someone other than you offer the bottle may be more successful.

4

Start mixing formula with your breast milk in the bottle for feedings. Start with a ratio of 3/4 breast milk to 1/4 prepared formula and increase the ratio of formula to breast milk over the course of two weeks, until your baby is drinking 100 percent formula.

How to Switch to Bottles

While in the hospital, over 80 percent of mothers attempt to breastfeed reports a 2008 study in "Pediatrics." But this number quickly drops so that at six months only 50 percent of babies receive any breast milk and by 12 months only 24 percent do. Like many other mothers, you may decide to transition your breastfed baby to formula-feeding -- or may simply want your breastfed baby to take a bottle of formula or expressed breast milk some of the time. It is not always easy to convince a breastfed baby to accept a bottle, but by using certain techniques you can gently help your baby make the adjustment.

Instructions

1

Let your baby play with the bottle before you use it for a feeding. If he has a chance to hold the bottle and chew or suck on the nipple, the bottle won't seem so foreign when you introduce it.

2

Choose the best time to introduce the bottle. Give your baby a bottle shortly before her usual nursing time. If she is a little hungry -- but not starving -- she won't feel as frustrated by the change. Make sure she isn't overtired or feeling stressed, which can also make it harder for her to accept a bottle.

3

Experiment with different nipples. Keep several varieties on hand, so if your baby doesn't like one you can try another. Pick bottle nipples that have a similar shape to your nipples or are made from the same material as his pacifier, so they will seem more familiar.

4

Make the bottle appealing. Put a drop of breast milk on the nipple or warm it with water. Fill the bottle with expressed breast milk so your baby's food will have the taste she is used to. You can switch to formula once she has adjusted to drinking from a bottle.

5

Change the position you use for feeding. Some babies prefer to be held the same way you did to breastfeed. Others have trouble adjusting to a bottle without a change in position. Feed your baby while walking around, letting him sit on your lap or even putting him in his car seat.

6

Let someone else give your baby her first bottles until she becomes used to the new feeding method. Your baby may refuse to accept a bottle from Mom, since she associates Mom with breastfeeding. Often it's best for Mom to not even be in the same room or house. Babies can smell their mothers at least 20 feet away and may insist on breastfeeding if they know Mom is nearby.

7

Replace one breastfeeding session with a bottle-feed every few days. Start with the breastfeeding session your baby is the least attached to and save his favorite -- often the bedtime feeding -- for last. Making the transition gradually gives your baby time to adjust and helps you avoid becoming physically uncomfortable from the engorgement that results from stopping breastfeeding too abruptly.

How to Have a Securely Attached Infant

A securely attached infant has a mutual understanding or bonding with his parents. One of the most outspoken advocates of the attachment parenting style is Dr. William Sears, according to the website, Ask Dr. Sears. To create this important attachment, parents need to start as soon as the baby is born to foster natural bonding. Babies that are securely attached are happier and less fussy, and a trust is built between you and your baby.

Instructions

1

Look into your baby's eyes, if they're open, as soon as she is born. Speak her name and introduce her to the world. Bonding at birth is important to forming a securely attached infant, but bonding with your newborn can be delayed due to a cesarean section or medical complications. As soon as you can see your baby, hold her, speak to her and look into her eyes.

2




Breastmilk has brain-building components that can't be replicated.

Breastfeed your baby as soon as you can. After the birth, try to get your baby to latch onto your nipple. Colostrum is the first milk that the breasts secret that contains antibodies for the baby. Continue breastfeeding as long as possible to understand your baby's cues and body language. Also, breastfeeding creates hormones that relax the mother and baby.

3




Fathers who wear their babies promote strong attachment bonds.

Wear your baby in a sling. Both parents can ensure an attached infant when wearing their baby. The baby can sleep and nurse within the sling. It also increases a parent's sensitivity to their infant's needs.

4




Sleeping with your baby minimizes separation anxiety.

Sleep with your infant next to you in bed or in a bassinet near your bed. It's easier to soothe, nurse or feed your baby during the night if your baby is close by. Babies feel more secure sleeping near their mothers.

5




A crying baby signals that a need, such as food, is not being met.

Pick up your baby if she's crying. Young infants aren't crying to manipulate but to communicate that they need something. Responding to your baby helps her feel securely attached to you.

6

Trust your instincts with your infant. By early bonding and following an attachment parenting style, you will understand your baby better than anyone else. Your infant creates cues for you to read when he's securely attached.

How to Cope With an Overabundant Milk Supply When Breastfeeding

When starting to breastfeed, some women find that they have too much breastmilk. If your newborn seems to choke and gasp as he nurses, you make be producing too much breastmilk for him to swallow comfortably. This overabundance can also create embarrassing leaking problems. You may be producing too much milk right now but it is likely that your body will become in sync with your baby's needs and you will soon begin to produce that right about of milk for your baby. In the meantime, below are some tips for dealing with an overabundant milk supply when breastfeeding your newborn.

Instructions

1

Remove your baby from your breast for a minute. When a baby first begins to nurse, if she is gasping and choking, remove her from your breast for a moment. The beginning rush of breastmilk may be too much for your baby to handle. Wait until the flow has reduced to a slow stream and try putting your baby back to your breast.

2

Let your baby nurse from only one breast per feeding. Your breast will be drained more completely. Also, your baby will have to deal with the first heavy flow only once per feeding instead of twice.

3

Position your baby so that she is sitting up more. This may permit her to allow the overflow of milk to trickle out of her mouth while she is nursing.

4

Apply gentle pressure to your areola while nursing. This may help to slow the flow of breastmilk, especially when your baby first starts feeding.

5

Try sitting back a bit or even try lying on your back while nursing. Nursing against gravity may help to slow down the flow of breastmilk.

6

Pump your breast a little before each feeding. This will eliminate the initial, heavy flow of milk before your baby begins to nurse.

How to Make a Nursing Footstool

Make nursing a new baby more comfortable. Use a nursing footstool to minimize stress on your legs, back, shoulders and arms while nursing and rocking the baby. Nursing footstools are designed to improve a mother's breastfeeding position making it easier on both mom and baby. Design your footstool to coordinate with the nursery or any other room.

Instructions

1

Measure the top and sides of the wood crate.

2

Cut the foam pieces. Cut these pieces according to the measurements on the top and sides of your crate. If you are using egg crate foam be sure to glue it bumpy side down.

3

Hot glue the foam pieces to the top and sides of the wood crate. This creates a cushy base surface for your feet.

4

Drill small decorative feet onto the "bottom" of the crate. The bottom of the crate was originally the open side of the crate. And, it may have four little posts that you can drill the feet into.

5

Create a slipcover. Use your measurements for the crate and cut out fabric pieces for each side (except the bottom) of the footstool. Make sure to add a couple inches on each piece to allow for seams or hems. Sew the pieces together, and then add any decorative details like ribbons.

6

Put the nursing footstool in front of a rocking chair or other spot where you nurse.

The Average Duration of Breastfeeding

A large number of new mothers start out breastfeeding their infants, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many mothers, however, don't stick with it for a variety of reasons, which include poor latch on the part of the infant, pain or discomfort and a mother's return to work. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for a certain length of time, but many moms don't make it that long.

Overall Duration Average

In 2009, 76.9 percent of mothers began breastfeeding their babies at birth, according to the CDC. By 6 months of age, the number of breastfeeding mothers drops to 47.2 percent. That number drops even further so only 25.5 percent of mothers continue breastfeeding their infant until the one-year mark. A 2008 article published in "Pediatrics," a journal from the AAP, reports that exclusive breastfeeding tends to drop off after four months of age. It's difficult to pin down an exact average, however, because daily feedings, length of feedings and time between feedings varies across moms, according to "Pediatrics." In other words, some moms exclusively breastfeed for four to six months, while other moms might nurse while also supplementing with formula, and that influences how long a mom breastfeeds.

Recommendations

The AAP recommends that moms exclusively breastfeed for at least six months. Exclusive breastfeeding means that a baby doesn't receive any source of food other than breast milk. Further, the AAP recommends prolonged breastfeeding, in addition to baby food purees and table food, after six months of age and for at least one year. Breastfeeding offers babies certain health benefits, such as a reduced risk for gastrointestinal problems and certain infectious diseases, according to the World Health Organization. The AAP notes that breastfeeding might also reduce a baby's risk of eczema, ear infections, respiratory illnesses, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and obesity, as well.

Prolonging Your Breastfeeding

If you want to breastfeed for six months to one year, it's essential to get off on the right foot when it comes to nursing. After your baby is born, you might receive a visit from a lactation consultant before you're discharged from the hospital. Take advantage of that visit by having the lactation consultant show you how to have your baby latch on correctly and talk about how to produce enough milk. Also ask any questions you have about breastfeeding because mothers who have all the facts are often more successful. International breastfeeding support organizations can offer additional help, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. La Leche League International and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are among your most reputable options.

Additional Considerations

Don't feel like a terrible mother if you're not able to breastfeed exclusively. Any amount of breast milk your baby gets is beneficial to his health. Formula is a nutritious alternative and it won't harm your little one. If you're determined to breastfeed exclusively, invest in a quality breast pump, especially if you plan to return to work. A pump allows you to express breast milk that your baby can drink from a bottle, which makes it easier for you to accomplish your goal if you can't nurse him each and every time he's hungry.