Infant Weight Loss After Birth

Due to a number of environmental and physiological factors, an infant's weight two to three days after birth is often significantly lower than her birth weight. This weight loss is usually normal and not a cause for concern.

Average Loss

The average baby loses between 5 percent and 7 percent of his birth weight within the first 72 hours. Any loss under 10 percent is considered normal. Losses above this amount require professional evaluation of the infant's eating habits.

Regaining Weight

The majority of infants, whether breast-fed or formula-fed, regain the lost weight within three weeks of birth. If your baby does not regain the weight, your pediatrician may suggest more frequent weight checks. If you're breast-feeding, she may suggest formula supplements and an evaluation by a lactation consultant.

Excess Fluids

The loss of excess fluids is one of the most common reasons for infant weight loss after birth. This is especially true if you received IV fluids during your labor.

Meconium

The passage of the first bowel movement--a black, tarry substance known as meconium--causes a decrease in weight shortly after birth.

Breast-feeding

Because your milk does not "come in,"--that is, switch from the sweet pre-milk known as colostrum to true breast milk--until several days after birth, breast-fed babies may lose slightly more weight after birth. However, on average, these babies gain the weight back as well as their formula-fed counterparts.

How to Get Pregnant When Nursing

Are you still nursing your little one, but hoping to get pregnant again? It is a common misconception that this is not possible, but much to many a mother's surprise, it is indeed possible to conceive while breastfeeding. In fact, if your menstrual cycle has returned, there is a very high possibility that if you are trying to conceive, you will. You don't have to wean your nursling, even if and when you do become pregnant. These simple steps will help your determine your fertility while breastfeeding and help you try and get pregnant while still nursing a little one.

Instructions

Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding

1

Determine whether your body is fertile and ready to get pregnant. Are you experiencing a regular (for you) menstrual cycle? A cycle that is longer, shorter or more irregular than you normally have can be a sign that your fertility is not yet on track. However, according to Robert Zurawin, an obstetrician, you often will release your first egg before you get your first period after delivery, so you won't know that you're fertile until about two weeks later.

2

Monitor your cervical mucus for changes. If your period has returned, you have most likely returned to some degree of fertility, says Zurawin. Monitoring your cervical mucus and using your basal body temperature will both help point to ovulation indicators. An ovulation indicator kit or basal body temperature thermometer can be purchased at a pharmacy or online.

3

Chart your basal body temperature. To chart (sample charts are often sold with the thermometer or can be found online at the sites referenced in the Resources section) your basal body temperature, you must record your temperature each day first thing in the morning. That means as soon as you sit up in bed--don't drink anything, go to the bathroom or get up. Just take your temperature. The best day to begin is on the first day of your menstrual cycle. According to Toni Weschler, author of "Taking Charge of Your Fertility," you have ovulated when your temperature rises 0.2 degrees higher than any temperature from the previous six days, and it stays elevated for at least three consecutive days.

4

Try reducing the amount of nursing. If you're not ovulating yet, supplement nursing with a bottle or some solid (pediatrician-approved) baby food. This will lower your hormone levels a bit and help your cycle get back to normal. You don't have to wean completely, but changing your breastfeeding schedule or cutting back will help get your fertility back in order, reports Hilary Flower, author of "Adventures in Tandem Nursing: Breastfeeding During Pregnancy and Beyond."

Does Prolonged Breast Feeding Affect Speech?

It may be surprising to hear that the natural weaning age for breastfed humans is between 2 and 7. That statistic may sound unrealistic if you consider the data gathered in the Center for Disease Controls 2011 Breastfeeding Report Card. The study indicated that only 75 percent of U.S. mothers start out nursing their babies, and only 45 percent of breastfeeding mothers are still going strong by the time a baby is 6 months old, with only 15 percent still breastfeeding exclusively. The benefits of breastfeeding are substantial, but there has been some question as to what effects prolonged breastfeeding has on the development of a child, including language and speech development

Speech Development

Breastfeeding aids in normal oral motor development, including the lips, tongue, face, mouth and jaw muscles. Given that fact, KellyMom suggests that breastfeeding would not only enhance speech development, but also help to prevent problems. A study published in the journal "Pediatrics" in 2007 examined "the associations of breastfeeding initiation and duration with language and motor skill development in a nationally representative sample of U.S. children aged 10 to 71 months." Their findings concluded that breastfeeding may help prevent delays in children's language and motor skill development. A similar study done by the School of Medicine at the University of So Paulo went as far to say that breastfeeding is the basis for the prevention of speech-language disorders.

What Can Affect Speech?

Children should be drinking from a straw by age 2 and from an open cup by age 3, according to TeachMeToTalk. A "sippy cup" can lead to a huge open bite, or dental malocclusion, especially if he drinks out of it all day. It can have a negative effect on speech development, and require therapy, most commonly for the "s" sound. He should also be weaned from pacifiers between 2 1/2 to 3 years of age. At the very most, a pacifier should be used only for sleeping or calming. A child may become addicted to a pacifier and even prefer having it in his mouth over talking.

What Is Normal?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding exclusively to 6 months of age and then in combination with solid foods until at least age 1. Anything after that, it says, is considered extended breastfeeding or prolonged breastfeeding. In contrast, the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding in combination with solids to the age of 2 or beyond.

Modern practices of premature weaning have become the societal norm, but benefits of breastfeeding are considerable. In addition, the AAP found no evidence of psychological or developmental harm related to extended breastfeeding.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breast milk contains nutrients, antibodies, and immune-modulating substances that infant formula or cows milk lack. It is also full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for healthy brain development. Breast milk provides balanced nutrition, boosted immunity and also reduces the incidence of both childhood and adult illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and central nervous system degenerative disorders. According to Dr. William Sears, a pediatrician, extended breastfeeding is an investment in your child's health. He cites the benefits of improved vision, better hearing, good dental health and teeth alignment, and a reduced risk of obesity.

Tips on Newborn Babies

Babies do not come with an owner's manual. Many new parents are left confused and overwhelmed when dealing with crying, feeding and sleeping issues. Newborn babies are a lot of work, but the most important thing any parent can do is to remember that it is only temporary. By the end of the first three months, most babies are eating and sleeping well and the new parents have learned to decipher their cries like old pros.

Crying

Babies cry. What is not always as clear is why they cry. Determining why a baby is crying is the most daunting--and most important--ask a new parent faces.

Babies cry when they are hungry. A newborn baby usually eats every two hours. His tummy is very small and cannot hold enough milk to keep him full for longer. If baby is crying and it has been around two hours since his last meal, offer him a meal.

Babies cry when they are uncomfortable. Discomfort may be caused by a wet diaper, a scratchy fabric, loud noises, bright lights, being too cold or too hot or being lonely. Pay attention to the things that make baby uncomfortable and try to avoid them.

Babies cry when they are gassy. Make sure to burp baby very well after each feeding. Lay baby on his tummy across your legs and rub his back if he still seems to be in pain. This will often reduce gas and eliminate crying.

Babies cry sometimes for absolutely no reason. They have no other way to communicate, and sometimes they cry because that is the only thing they can do. When babies cry and no other solution seems to calm them, just hold the baby while he cries; if this doesn't calm the baby, try playing soft music and minimizing sensory input. A baby who is fussy usually just wants the comfort of someone who is there to hold him while he lets it all out. If baby's crying is making you tense, baby will sense it. In this case, it is best to put baby down in his crib and walk away for a few minutes to calm yourself down.

Feeding

Feeding a newborn baby takes up most of the day during the first month. Babies eat very often, sometimes up to twelve times per day. The first few weeks, you may feel like all you do is feed your new baby.

Babies need either breast milk or formula. While most professionals agree that breast milk is best, there are many situations where breast milk is not an option. Babies who grow up on formula are not at a disadvantage in later life, so a mother who needs to use formula should not feel guilty.

Breastfed babies will probably eat a little bit more often than formula fed babies. Formula is heavier and will make the baby feel full longer. A formula fed baby will take about two ounces at a time, gradually increasing to four ounces per feeding over the first three months. Formula fed babies take about twenty minutes or so to take a bottle. Breastfed babies may stay at the breast as long as an hour in the early days but by three months, she will become efficient at getting the milk faster and feedings should be closer to 20 minutes.

Sleeping

Sleeping like a baby is a misleading phrase. The truth is that babies do not sleep very much. Babies tend to cat nap. Because newborns eat every two hours or so, they generally sleep less than two hours at a time. Babies will usually have one time of day when they will sleep a longer stretch, usually not more than four hours. In the beginning, that stretch is most often during the day. Babies need to be taught that nighttime is for sleeping; they do not know this at birth.

To encourage babies to sleep at night, keep lights dim and sounds soft when they wake to eat in the night. During the day, keep baby in well lit rooms, with plenty of natural light. This will help your baby discover the difference between night and day and eventually that long stretch of sleep will happen in the night rather than in the daytime.

Babies often have trouble falling asleep. Swaddling baby and rocking him to sleep often helps. White noise also helps babies to sleep and to stay asleep longer because they do not hear the other sounds in the house.

What Can I Use for Acne When Nursing?

Many new mothers continue to have acne issues after pregnancy due to fluctuating levels of their hormones. Breast-feeding mothers may be concerned with the safety of using acne treatments. Certain medications, topical and oral, may affect the mother's milk and add potential harm to the baby. However, there are many safe acne treatments available that have a low lactation risk. Similar to any medications, it is always best to consult with a physician first.

Over-the-Counter

Benzoyl peroxide and salicyclic acid are safe over-the-counter acne medications available as creams or facial cleansers.

Oral Treatments

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the oral antibiotic tetracycline is excreted in small amounts to the breast milk, but the calcium limits its absorption. It is deemed compatible with breast feeding, but other oral medications, such as erythromycin, are recommended for long-term use.

Topical Treatments

Tretinoin, adapalene and azelaic, when used as topical treatments, are unabsorbed into the mother's milk and are deemed compatible.

Warning

Tretinoin, as an oral antibiotic, and isotretinoin, commonly found in Accutane, are both deemed hazardous for breast-feeding mothers and their babies.

Other Alternatives

Consider a natural acne treatment like tea tree oil. Also, be sure to wash with a mild facial cleanser, exfoliate, and wear oil-free products to avoid further irritation.

Breastfeeding & Zyrtec

Breastfeeding an infant can make anyone anxious about the medicines and other chemicals that might transfer from mother to baby. It is wise to check with a physician or other healthcare professional about medicines taken regularly. While Zyrtec can help allergy sufferers with their allergy symptoms, there are questions about whether or not it is acceptable to take while breastfeeding.

Zyrtec's Function

According to Drugs.com "Zyrtec is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body." Its scientific name is cetirizine. While it has not been shown to harm unborn babies, Drugs.com says there is evidence of transmission from mother to child in breast milk with harmful results since the drug is not recommended for children under the age of six months.

Breastfeeding and Medication

When a woman breastfeeds, her milk is infused with the chemicals, vitamins and minerals she puts in her body. This includes whatever medicines the mother may take. Some medications have been deemed safe, meaning the amounts transmitted through the breast milk are not harmful to a breastfeeding child. However, others have not been deemed safe and should be discontinued while nursing.

Problems with Determining Drug Safety

One of the problems determining which drugs are safe and which are not is the limited way in which they are tested. Although all drugs must undergo testing before getting FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approval and becoming commercially available, according to CDC.gov, "For ethical reasons, pregnant and breastfeeding women are usually not included in these studies. As a result, little information is available about the safety of most medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding when they are first marketed."

Animal Testing

RxList.com reports some side effects from Zyrtec in the nursing young of animals given the drug. According to the site, mice given "40 times the maximum recommended daily oral dose in adults" passed the medication along to their young through nursing. The young experienced a decrease in weight gain.
Additionally, tests on beagles showed a transmission rate of 3 percent from mother to young. The site cautions that animal testing results are not always truly analogous to results in humans. However, because of a dearth of testing in nursing women and their children, it is safer to assume that the drug should not be taken while breastfeeding.

Tests in Infants

Clinical trials of Zyrtec have been conducted in children of common breastfeeding age (6 to 24 months). These children were given dosages directly; not through the medium of breast milk. Some side effects were discovered, but according to RxList.com, side effects like sleeplessness and irritability experienced by the group receiving Zyrtec did not vary greatly from those experienced by a group given a placebo.

How to Nurse a Baby Lying Down

To make breastfeeding your baby easier, try nursing while laying down. Nursing in the side-lying position, once mastered, is simple and gives you the opportunity to rest while baby nurses. Mothers who have had caesareans find this position the most comfortable as the incision heals.

Instructions

1

To begin the nursing session, ensure that you have a comfortable place to lay down. Arrange pillows to support your back and hips. Bring the baby into bed with you. If the baby is crying, help her to settle before you try to nurse. A crying baby can stress you and make relaxing difficult. You may try nursing in the cradle position to begin with and then switch to the side-lying position to relax the baby.

2

Once you and the baby are relaxed and ready, lay down on your side with the baby's belly against yours. After the baby is nursing, you can move your underneath arm above your head. Most find it comfortable to put their arm under their head while the baby nurses. Before latching your baby on, make sure you feel supported by the pillows.

3

Now that you and the baby are properly aligned, it is time to latch the baby on. With the baby's mouth at breast-level, rub the cheek closest to the mattress with your nipple. The goal is to get the baby to turn his head down, towards what is now the bottom breast. The aby will open his mouth wide toward the nipple. You will use your underneath arm to gently guide the baby onto the breast.

4

As your baby begins nursing, this is your chance to rearrange baby's body to make the session more comfortable for both of you. If the baby's nose is pressed against your breast, try moving her lower body towards you. As the lower body moves in, the upper body and head will move slightly in the opposite direction. Now is also an excellent time to readjust your body by rolling in towards your baby or back and away depending on what will increase your comfort.

5

Experiment with what feels good to both of you. Mothers and babies are known for falling asleep in this position. Enjoy the extra time to rest while your baby is still little.

How to Make Your Own Nursing Shirt

One of the best gifts you can give your baby and yourself is to nurse. Your baby will be healthier and you will loose baby fat faster and lower your risk of postpartum depression and breast cancer. But finding attractive and comfortable nursing tops at an affordable price can be difficult. Certain styles of blouse patterns can be adapted for nursing, or you can purchase patterns for making nursing tops. Either way, these can cost you less than purchasing ready-made tops.

Instructions

1

Purchase Simplicity Pattern 5086 or any pattern with a similar side and center panel structure. You may use any view of Simplicity 5086 for these alterations.

2

Cut the pattern pieces apart, and set aside the side front piece.

3

Cut a piece of paper 2.5 inches wide and 10 inches long. Beginning 9 inches down from the top of the shoulder, tape the 2.5-inch wide strip to the seam that connects the side front pattern piece to the center front pattern piece.

4

Lay the pattern out on your fabric and pin into place as directed by the pattern instructions, adjusting the side front pattern piece to include the wider interior seam allowance. Cut out the pattern pieces,

5

Use tailor's chalk to mark a dot on the outside center front fabric seam 9 inches down from the shoulder and 19 inches down where it will attach to the outside center front panel. These dots will be the points where the seam allowance addition on the outer center panel will begin and end.

6

Take the side front pattern pieces and edge stitch or overlock the edge of the seam allowance beginning 1 inch above the wide addition and ending 1 inch below it. Edge stitch or overlock the outside seam allowance of the center front pieces between the dots.

7

Pin the center and outer front pattern pieces together, rights sides together. You will stitch down from the shoulder to 1 inch below where the addition starts, then backstitch and cut your thread. Begin stitching the seam 1 inch above where the addition stops and stitch all the way to the end of the panels. This will leave you an opening in the seam over the breast.

8

Iron the seam so that the seam allowance for both panels is pointed toward the center front of the shirt.

9

You can sew small snaps into the seam allowance at a point 3 inches down from the opening and at 6 inches to help keep the panel closed when not in use. This step is optional.

10

Finish the rest of the garment according to the pattern instructions.

How Is Baby Acne Caused by Breastfeeding?

Baby Acne and Breastfeeding

Newborns commonly develop acne in the first few weeks of life. Acne neonatorum, as it is called, is a temporary condition related to breastfeeding. It usually does not require a doctor's treatment.

New mothers produce excess hormones, especially in the first weeks after giving birth. These excess hormones are transferred to the baby through breast milk. The hormones stimulate the baby's sebaceous glands to produce a fatty, oily substance called sebum. Sebum clogs the pores and causes pimples. It is more common in boys than in girls.

Baby acne looks like small red bumps or whiteheads. The pimples typically appear on the baby's cheeks and near the mouth but may also occur on the baby's forehead, chin, back or scalp. The acne typically appears about three weeks after birth, although it may occur sooner, and lasts three to four months.

Treatment

The acne will usually clear on its own. You may gently cleanse the baby's face once daily with mild baby soap. Do not use lotions or oils since they may worsen the acne, and avoid cleansers that are not specially formulated for a baby. You can use herbal skin cleansers, but be sure to use only those that are safe for babies. Severe or prolonged cases of baby acne may require a doctor's treatment. If necessary, your pediatrician may prescribe benzoyl peroxide or a topical cream. Do not use products containing benzoyl peroxide unless you have instructions from your pediatrician.

Although the acne looks unattractive, it is painless and does not irritate the baby.

Continue Breastfeeding

Although it stimulates acne, it is important to continue breastfeeding. The benefits of breast milk outweigh the temporary inconvenience of pimples.

Other Types of Acne

Other types of rashes mimic acne in newborns. Milia looks like small white bumps on the baby's nose, cheeks or chin. It is usually present at birth and vanishes within two to three weeks. Eczema appear as a scaly rash on the baby's face and body. Cradle cap resembles dandruff.

Baby acne does not necessarily mean the child will develop acne during adolescence, and a family history of acne does not predict whether a baby will have acne.

Is Nyquil Safe With Breastfeeding?

There are very few medications that are deemed unsafe for use by a nursing mother. Taking Nyquil as directed while breastfeeding is unlikely to cause any harm to your baby, but it is recommended that you take alternative over-the-counter medications that would lower any potential risk even further.

Medications and Breast Milk

Less than 1 percent of any medication will be passed through your breast milk. This small amount of Nyquil is unlikely to have a negative effect on your baby.

Multi-Symptom Formula

Nyquil is a multi-symptom formula, meaning it is used to treat a variety of cold symptoms from coughing to aching muscles. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that if you are only suffering from one symptom to choose a single-ingredient medication. If you are suffering from a stuffy nose for example, choose a nasal decongestant only rather than Nyquil which contains a variety of ingredients.

Product Instructions

Always read and follow Nyquil product instructions and pay attention to any precautions related to breastfeeding. Product recommendations change over time so it is important that you always read instructions thoroughly.

Timing

To further decrease the risk of Nyquil being passed in breast milk, breastfeed your baby right before taking the medicine or two to four hours after. If your baby is still nursing with greater frequency than every two hours, you will want to consider this before taking Nyquil.

Other Precautions

Monitor your baby after having taking Nyquil and breastfeeding to make sure that she is not drowsy, sleepless, or displaying any other unusual behaviors. Drugs that are safe to take during pregnancy are generally safe to take while breastfeeding. If possible, avoid taking Nyquil and choose one of these safer alternatives.

Are Colonics Safe While Breastfeeding?

Opinions vary on whether or not a woman who is breastfeeding can safely have a colonic performed. Overall, it appears that a water-based enema, or one approved by your doctor is safe to administer while breastfeeding, especially in the case of constipation or inflamed and irritable bowel. However, completeing a colonic for body detoxification purposes is not recommended.

The Facts

A colonic or an enema is the process of cleansing the colon. Most people use them if they are having a problem with constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids and detoxification. The majority of colon cleanse products are meant to detox the body, and can produce toxins which can be harmful to your baby. The difference between a colonic and an enema is that an enema is only introduced into the very bottom of the colon, whereas a colonic is introduced into the whole of your lower bowels.

Function

Colonics and enemas can help to restore natural balance in the body. Your colon stores buildup and toxins, which can slow you down and make you sick. Cleansing away the buildup and toxins can improve the way your body works and how you feel. It is a natural way to eliminate wastes from your body. After giving birth, many women experience constipation and use enemas as a way to empty their bowels and provide comfort.

Types

There are colonics that are performed at a medical or therapeutic facility, and there are also colonics that can be performed at home by you or a helper. Home based colonics include: water, herbal, coffee and yogurt. The safest form of colonic to use while breastfeeding is a water-based form, and should only be used after consulting with your physician first. An enema is safer to use than a colonic.

Considerations

According to Cure Zone, water colonics are safe during breastfeeding, but herbal remedies should be avoided. Colon Cleanse agrees and says additionally that performing colonics can deprive some nutrients and vitamins from your milk. However, doctors do agree that using an enema to relieve constipation is safe.

Warnings

Consult with your physician or your pediatrician before performing a colonic yourself or having one performed for you.

Can HPV Be Passed Through Breastmilk?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by direct contact with an infected person. Different types of HPV can cause genital warts or cervical cancer, or infect the mouth and throat. According to a 2008 study, it is possible for HPV to be passed through breast milk.

2008 Study

For a 2008 study reported in The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal, researchers in Finland took 223 breast-milk samples from women who had given birth three days earlier. They found that 10 of the samples (4.5%) tested positive for high-risk HPV DNA.

HPV-16

Nine of those 10 samples tested positive for HPV-16, which has been linked to cervical cancer.

Correlations

The researchers also tested scrapings from the mothers' cervixes and mouths as well as from the mouths of 87 of the fathers. Researchers found no correlation between mothers' cervical or oral HPV results and their breast milk, but they did find that breast milk tested positive for HPV-16 more often when the baby's father tested positive for oral HPV.

Possible Explanations

The researchers suggested that it's possible the breast milk became infected from the father's mouth to the mother's nipple, or from the mother's hands.

Conclusion

As reported by Reuters, the researchers concluded that it is possible for an infant to become infected with HPV when viral particles are present in a mother's breast milk.

Why Is My Baby Vomiting After Breastfeeding?

When your baby spits up or vomits after breastfeeding it can be very concerning. Determining the cause is important for your baby's health and your peace of mind. Causes can vary from as simple as normal baby spit up to allergies to reflux, but your pediatrician should provide a diagnosis.

Spit Up or Vomit

Your baby's spit up can sometimes appear to be much more than it actually is. Take a teaspoon or tablespoon of water and spill it down your shirt, or on your couch, or wherever your baby's favorite target is, and see how much or how little it compares to the spit up. Vomiting usually distresses the baby, is in large quantities, and takes bodily effort. Spitting up typically doesn't seem to even phase the baby.

Can Be Normal

Spitting up can be a totally normal newborn phase. With an immature digestive system it is easy for the milk to flow back up. Sometimes, though, this is caused by the baby receiving too much milk too fast. In a breastfed baby this can be due to an oversupply or forceful letdown. Make sure baby has a good latch so that he is swallowing minimal air and nurse him on demand; small, frequent meals are easier on his small stomach.

Resolving Oversupply and Forceful Letdown

If baby is gaining well, producing enough dirty diapers for his age, and you suspect an oversupply is to blame, you can try block feeding. Use only one breast per meal, and if after a week or two you see no improvement, try using the same breast twice in a row before switching sides. Never restrict nursing. If your baby is overcome by your forceful letdown of milk--coughing, gulping, gasping, pulling off, or sometimes refusing to nurse--you can try different nursing positions. Recline so baby lies on top of you or try side-lying next to one another in bed. You can also nurse until letdown triggers, unlatch baby and wait for the fast flow to slow down, and then resume breastfeeding. Burp baby often, and if nothing else works, try block feeding as well.

Reflux

Vomiting can sometimes be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This only occurs in a small percentage of babies and can only be diagnosed by a doctor. Testing and treatment generally isn't needed for a baby that isn't in pain and is gaining weight well. Sometimes elevating your baby on a slight incline so that his head is higher than his stomach is enough to remedy the vomiting.

Allergies

A small percentage of babies have sensitivities to foods in the mother's diet. You can diagnose these allergies with the help of a breastfeeding-savvy pediatrician. The most common allergens that cause problems when passed through the mother's breast milk are cow's milk, soy, wheat, corn, eggs and peanuts. Consider any family history of food allergies as well. Try elimination diets to determine what is affecting your baby. A complete two weeks of not consuming the potential allergen is necessary before determining its effect on the baby. Eliminate one food at a time until you notice change. A thorough journal is very helpful for noticing these changes.

How to Lose Baby Weight Like Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek is a saucy movie actress with a powerful career, a vibrant personality and a passion for motherhood. This article will tell you how she lost her baby weight gradually and intelligently without sacrificing her health, the health of her baby or her enviable curves.

Instructions

1

Take your time. Salma was realistic from the very beginning when it came to post-partum weight loss and realized that it takes time to both gain and lose the baby weight. By maintaining a casual approach to weight loss, you can eliminate a wide range of anxiety and stress (which can lead to weight gain).

2

Eat to fuel your baby and yourself. Salma spoke openly about the myth that breastfeeding alone will help mothers drop post-partum pounds quickly, and admitted that dieting during breastfeeding can sacrifice the quality and amount of milk produced. Breastfeeding mothers need an extra 500 calories per day for an adequate milk supply, so focus on making all meals extremely nutritious.

3

Keep your breastfeeding baby in mind. He is drinking everything you are eating. Salma has discussed the challenges of creating a nutritious diet that is full of the very best nutrients for her breastfeeding baby. Research healthful breastfeeding diets and eat frequent, small meals full of natural vitamins from produce, nuts and seeds, dairy, lean protein, whole-grain carbohydrates and healthy fats.

4

Skip alcohol, caffeine and sugary items while breastfeeding (or any other foods that were avoided during pregnancy). Salma stays slim with a clean lifestyle that forgoes beer or fried foods in favor of well-rounded indulgences of red wine or the occasional dessert.

5

Stay active with your child. Salma is different from many in Hollywood because she stays trim merely through an active lifestyle. Try mimicking Salmas routine by walking instead of driving whenever possible, carrying the weight of your baby during daily tasks (like shopping), and simply getting outside to play with your baby.

How to Prepare Your Nipples for Successful Breast-feeding

If you have never breast-fed a baby, the idea of it might seem scary and overwhelming. Breast-feeding is often challenging for new moms, but it can be a great experience for both mother and baby if a little preparation is done before the end of the pregnancy. To help minimize nipple soreness during breast-feeding, expectant mothers can do a few things before the baby comes to prepare their nipples.

Instructions

1

Learn all you can about breast-feeding and its effects on your nipples and body before your baby arrives. Speak with nursing moms, read books about breast-feeding, talk to a lactation consultant or call your local chapter of La Leche League International. Most hospitals offer breast-feeding classes you can take during your third trimester. The more you learn about breast-feeding, the more comfortable you will be and the more likely you are to succeed.

2

Ask your doctor to examine you to determine if your nipples are flat or inverted. For your baby to nurse effectively, she must be able to properly grasp the nipple and pull it upward against the roof of her mouth. Flat or inverted nipples may prevent your baby from properly latching on, and may make it difficult to successfully breast-feed. If your nipples are flat or inverted, you have the option of using breast shells during the end of your pregnancy to encourage your nipples to protrude. Breast shells are plastic cups that gently exert pressure on the areola and help to break the adhesions that prevent the nipples from taking a shape necessary for breast-feeding. Shells should be worn as much as possible during the third trimester, but should be removed before going to bed.

3

Desensitize your nipples by exposing your breasts to air or spending time without a bra on underneath your clothing. Do not rub your nipples to "toughen" them up, just allow them to become used to friction and increased stimulation.

4

Keep your nipples moisturized. During pregnancy, your body produces oil in the glands on your aureoles that moisturizes and cleanses the nipples naturally in preparation for breast-feeding. Avoid washing your nipples with soap, as this can remove the oil from your nipples and cause significant drying. If your nipples are sore or unusually dry, you can apply moisturizing lotion to them as often as needed. Lanolin moisturizers are typically very soothing.

5

Massage your breasts daily to increase your familiarity with them and your overall comfort level with the idea of breast-feeding. Massage is an easy way to practice the proper way of handling your breasts during breast-feeding. Gently cup your breasts from underneath and rub out from the chest wall toward your nipples. Manually expressing milk can be good practice for breast-feeding, as well.

How to Buy or Rent a Breast Pump

If you're a nursing mom, you have milk on demand for your baby. But what happens when you are in demand somewhere else? For a backup milk supply, you need a breast pump. All pumps, whether manual or mechanical, use suction to pull milk into a container for later feedings. The basic difference between models is how quickly, comfortably and conveniently they work--and at what price.

Instructions

1

Consider how often you will be using the pump. Will you be expressing milk only occasionally, or do you want to give your baby a bottle regularly or continue to provide breast milk while you go back to work? If you will only be pumping occasionally, consider an inexpensive ($30) manual pump. Manual pumps are compact but can be slow--and sometimes painful--to use. Many models require both hands, tying you up completely. Still, for occasional at-home use, these do the trick.

2

Rent top-of-the-line equipment at a low cost. Fees average $10 to $15 a week. Keep in mind that a security deposit is required. You'll also need to buy a personal accessory kit for about $50. If something goes wrong with a rental, you can get another. Rental machines can be bulky, making them a poor choice if you're short on space or on the move.

3

Consider buying your own pump if you'll be using it for a long time or plan to have more children. You get what you pay for in terms of motor quality. Some machines let you pump both breasts at once so you're done in half the time. Pumps run from $40 for a simple battery-powered model to $300 for a powerful double-pumper like the Medela Pump In Style. (The Bailey Nurture III has all the same power but for only $125.)

4

Look for a model that suits your needs, like a pump that packs neatly into its own carry case and comes with an ice pack to get your "white gold" home safely. Choose a double-pumper if you will be using it at work; you'll be done in half the time. If you're in the car a lot, look for a pump with a car-lighter adapter.

5

Pull the pump out and get comfortable with its parts and operation a few weeks after the baby's born. Choose a time when you're not overwhelmed, or have a friend give you a hand.

How to Dye Hair After Giving Birth

During pregnancy, it is not recommended for a woman to dye her hair. This can be a trying period in any woman's life, and she may want to update her appearance after the birth of the child. Dye your hair lighter for a more calming appearance or darker for a more dramatic appearance. Dying your hair is a simple way to change your appearance after the birth of a child.

Instructions

1

Mix hair dye in the application bottle according to package instructions. Shake bottle vigorously for one to two minutes to mix content well. If you are breastfeeding, use a brand of hair dye that does not have ammonia in it as some of the chemicals from the hair dye are absorbed through your scalp, however there has been no conclusive evidence that the chemicals are harmful to a breastfeeding baby.

2

Brush your hair, leaving it dry, to remove any knots or tangles. Brushing your hair before you dye it will allow you to apply it thoroughly to your hair without having to work it into knots, which can result in missing spots during the dye process.

3

Put on rubber gloves and apply hair dye to your roots. Massage dye into hair with your finger tips. Always wear gloves when dying your hair to avoid chemical stains on your hair and potentially passing the chemicals onto a baby through touch.

4

Apply hair dye to the body of your hair. Work into every strand evenly. Use the entire content of the bottle in your hair, even if you have some left after applying it to your hair. The remaining hair dye would otherwise be thrown away, so using as much as you can on your hair is not harmful. Allow hair dye to stay in your hair between twenty to thirty minutes.

5

Rinse dye out of your hair with warm water. Once water runs clear, wash with shampoo, rinse, towel dry, and style as usual.

Relpax and Breastfeeding

Relpax is a prescription medication often prescribed to treat migraines and severe headaches. Relpax has several negative side effects that may make it dangerous for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers to take. It is important to discuss this with your doctor before starting any new medical treatment.

About Relpax

Medications have side effects.

Relpax is a brand name version of eletriptan, a medication used to shorten the length of migraine headaches as they are happening. It does not prevent a migraine from occurring. It is classified as a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonist.

Side Effects of Relpax

Woman on mountain

Relpax can cause many side effects, such as tightness in the chest, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, sleepiness, tingling, and weakness. Relpax can also cause a stroke or heart attack in those with previous health issues.

Relpax In Breast milk

Baby

Relpax can be passed to the fetus if pregnant and to a child through breastfeeding. The effects that this may have on a child have not been adequately studied to determine the true risk, according to MediResource at Canada.com.

Children and Relpax

Child's hand and pills

It is not recommended that children under the age of 18 years take Relpax. The safety and effectiveness of this medication on young children is not yet established. This includes young children who may receive some through breast milk.

Alternative Treatments

Mother breastfeeding baby

Other medications, such as acetaminophen, butalbital and ketorolac are moderately safe to take while breastfeeding. Before taking any medication, women should discuss the options with their doctors.

Dealing With Breast and Nipple Soreness When Breast Feeding

Breastfeeding should not be painful, regardless of what you have been told. Breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding is a sign that something is wrong and such symptoms should never be ignored. Soreness is common during the newborn period, but should never be severe enough to interfere with nursing. Dealing with breast and nipple soreness during breastfeeding is essential, as the longer you wait to begin treatment, the worse the symptoms will become.

Instructions

1

Evaluate and improve your positioning. Poor positioning is the most common cause of breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding and accounts for approximately 90 percent of early nursing problems. To improve your positioning, you must find a spot where you are able to sit comfortably upright, with your feet squarely and firmly on the floor. Hold your baby so that his stomach rests against yours, but be careful no to extend your baby's head too far. Pillows can assist in elevating your baby to the level of your breast.

2

Make certain that your baby is latched on correctly. Bring your baby to your nipple, encourage her to open her mouth widely and allow your baby to bring your entire nipple and areola into her mouth. If you experience pain or soreness, it is a sign that your baby is not latched on properly. Continuing to allow your baby to suck when not latched on properly can result in prolonged pain and tenderness.

3

Examine your nipples for signs of thrush. Symptoms of thrush include itching, soreness and redness. Thrush is a type of yeast infection, and chances are good that your baby will have thrush if you do. Consult your doctor immediately if you believe thrush may be the cause of your breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding. Both you and your baby will need to be treated. You can reduce the risk of thrush by washing your nipples with clean, clear water after each nursing and by changing your nursing pads frequently.

4

Determine whether you have inverted nipples. Inverted nipples can prevent your baby from properly latching on because they make it difficult for your baby to pull your areola back into his or her mouth. Inverted nipples can be minor or severe and are caused by adhesions that pull the skin of the areola back into the breast. To determine whether your breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding is caused by inverted nipples, place your forefinger and thumb behind your areola and press them together. If your nipple dents or bends, your nipples are likely inverted. Having inverted nipples does not mean you cannot breastfeed. Using a breast pump or wearing breast shells can increase your chances of breastfeeding successfully.

5

Avoid using strong, scented soaps and creams on your nipples during breastfeeding, as some of these items can cause dermatitis in sensitive mothers. If your breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding is related to itchy, cracked, or red nipples, you might be allergic to your current soap or laundry detergent. Try using sterile nursing pads and wash your nipples only with clean, clear water.

6

Change your breast pump. A poorly designed breast pump can cause pain, inflammation and cracked nipples. If you experience discomfort when using your breast pump, try turning down the suction or purchase another brand. Using a breast pump should never cause pain.

7

Take painkillers during the healing process. Acetaminophen is safe for both mother and baby during breastfeeding and the relief it brings can allow you to continue nursing while your breast and nipple soreness is healing. Take the lowest possible dose every 4 to 6 hours, as needed, for no more than a few days.

8

Expose your nipples to air to aid the healing process and prevent many causes of breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding. Change your nursing pads every couple of hours and spend as much time as you can without a bra or shirt on. Place a towel on your lap while sitting to catch any leaking breast milk. Breast shells are also useful at keeping the nipples dry, and can help protect your healing breasts from bumps.

9

Use a cream designed for breastfeeding. Lanolin, chamomile, and vitamins E, A, and D, can bring soothing relief to sore breasts and nipples. Before using any cream on your sensitive nipples, be certain to perform an allergy test by using the product on the inside of your wrist. Use only those creams that are safe for use during breastfeeding and check the label to determine if you must wash your nipples before nursing.

10

See your doctor urgently if you suspect that your breast and nipple soreness when breastfeeding may be caused by a serious condition, such as mastitis or another bacterial infection. Mastitis can cause considerable pain, fever, chills and an area of hardness and redness in the breast.

Signs and Symptoms of Group B Strep in Breastfeeding

Group B streptococcus (group B strep) is a bacteria that can cause severe illness in newborn babies, pregnant women, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. In newborns, it can cause a dangerous blood infection or meningitis. Breastfeeding poses no risk as group B strep cannot be passed from mother to infant through this means.

Symptoms In Newborns

The symptoms for group B strep in newborns are similar to the flu. An infant may develop symptoms such as fever, irritability, difficulty feeding and lethargy. If not treated quickly, group B strep can develop into meningitis or sepsis. Parents who see these symptoms in their newborns should seek a doctor's care immediately. If a newborn is diagnosed with group B strep after a blood culture, the doctor will treat the infant with an IV of penicillin or ampicillin.

Symptoms in Mothers

Many adults carry group B strep yet have no symptoms of the illness. The CDC estimates that around 25 percent of women carry the bacteria at any given time. It can occasionally cause infections in the bladder or womb of pregnant women. Mothers of newborns can carry the bacteria in their bowels, vagina, bladder or throat. Most pregnant women are tested for group B strep by their physicians through a simple swab test. If they test positive, they will receive an IV of antibiotics during labor to prevent the bacteria from passing to the child.

Transmission of Group B Strep

Women who are positive for group B strep can safely breastfeed their infants. Group B strep is not passed through breast milk, so there is no risk of infecting a child through breastfeeding. However, a pregnant woman who is carrying the bacteria can pass it to her child before or during childbirth. It is important for pregnant women to be screened for the bacteria by their doctor.

When to Introduce Cereal to a Breastfed Baby

In the past, women often put a bit of cereal in their baby's bottle soon after birth in an effort to help the baby -- and mom -- sleep a little longer. This is no longer considered an appropriate practice, according to AskDrSears.com, as a baby's intestines need to mature before he's ready to digest anything other than breast milk or formula. Your baby can begin eating cereal as soon as you and your doctor feel he is ready.

Age Recommendations

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding until the baby is 6 months of age, and on HealthyChildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommendation is to wait until "about 6 months" before feeding baby solid foods. Though some babies may be ready for solid foods earlier or later, it's clear that the 6-month mark is the one to keep in mind. During the first year, her solid food experiences are more about experimentation than actual nutrition, and you should continue to offer breast milk or formula to meet her needs for growth; you can continue this until mother or baby feels the need to stop.

Physical Readiness

Reaching the 6-month mark isn't always a green light to start feeding your baby cereal, nor is it necessary to wait until his 6-month birthday if he seems very interested in food. According to HealthyChildren.org, a baby is ready to start eating solid foods when he's able to sit well without support, shows an interest in food, doesn't push it out of his mouth and has doubled his birth weight. If your baby was premature, you may need to wait a bit longer until he's ready.

First Foods

Baby cereals are often the first foods that parents turn to when it's time to start solid foods. However, it isn't your only choice. If you prefer, you can start your baby eating fruits and vegetables, waiting until she's used to these foods before you start cereal. You should always wait at least three days between introducing new foods, so if you're starting solids with a variety of fruits and vegetables, it could be a month or more before your baby first eats cereal.

Other Cereals

Though the soupy, blended cereals are liked by babies, other cereals are also popular, as they make for easy take-along snacks. If you're baby has gotten comfortable with eating and is sitting well and feeding himself, you can offer him other types of cereals. Choose brands that are low in sugar and dissolve easily in the mouth. Oat circles are a good choice because the hole in the middle makes them difficult to choke on.

How to Tell If Breast Milk Is Not Spoiled

According to the BabyCenter.com, breastfeeding helps protect your child from SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), allergies, childhood obesity and other health problems. Using a breast pump to extract milk allows you to store the liquid inside a refrigerator or freezer, giving you the ability to use the milk at a later time. Just as with milk that you purchase at a grocery store, breast milk does have a shelf life. Giving your child sour or spoiled breast milk is not recommended, so you must always inspect milk before giving it to your baby.

Instructions

1

Taste a small portion of the breast milk. Breast milk that has not spoiled still has its original taste, while breast milk that has gone bad has an unmistakable foul taste, similar to spoiled store-bought cow's milk.

2

Smell the bottle or container of breast milk. Milk that has gone bad has a very foul and sour smell that causes you to immediately move your nose away from the container. One sniff is all it takes to know if breast milk is spoiled.

3

Swirl the milk gently for about five to 10 seconds to redistribute the liquid's cream and milk layers. Then inspect the container or bottle, looking for any clumps or solid portions of milk. Discard the milk if you notice any of these clumps. Milk that is just separated into layers, however, is still safe for consumption.

How Does Projectile Vomiting Occur?

Projectile Vomiting

New parents are often frightened when they notice their baby projectile vomiting. It can be an infant's way of showing his disgust with a particular kind of baby food, or it can be a sign of a medical emergency. Projectile vomiting can occur in breast- or bottle-fed babies. This type of vomiting causes the contents of the stomach to be expelled with tremendous force. The vomit travels in an arc shape for several feet. It happens often in infants, but projectile vomiting can occur at any age. Projectile vomiting isn't cause for worry if it only happens occasionally. But for peace of mind, it is advised that you bring up your concerns with your pediatrician. Here are some common causes of projectile vomiting.

Gastroesophageal Reflex

Projectile vomiting isn't a diagnosis but a description of the type of vomiting that is occurring. The most common reason an infant projectile vomits is due to gastroesophageal reflex (GER). A muscle between the esophagus and stomach (sphincter muscle) does not function as well as it should in infants. This muscle is responsible for keeping contents inside the stomach until it empties into the small intestine. The sphincter muscle opens up at the wrong time, causing the contents of the stomach to travel back up to the esophagus. Stomach acid is strong and can irritate the throat and esophagus. Breastfeeding is recommended for infants that have GER. Breast milk is less irritating to the esophagus, because it contains less acid. It also leaves the stomach faster than formula. Breast milk is digested rapidly, so it is less likely to come back up. Treatment is usually not needed. This condition disappears as the baby gets older. Your baby just needs time to grow.

Pyloric Stenosis

Pyloric Stenosis is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. The pylorus is located in the lower section of the stomach. Anything the infant eats passes through the pylorus and enters the small intestine. An infant with pyloric stenosis has enlarged muscles in the pylorus, which prevents food from emptying out of the stomach. It is estimated that three out of 1,000 infants in the U.S. are diagnosed with this condition. It is common among male infants and tends to develop 4 to 6 weeks after birth. The infant suffering from this condition will projectile vomit almost immediately after feeding, or may vomit several hours later. Vomit may contain blood, but this is usually rare. Symptoms include constant and uncontrollable crying, difficulty swallowing, refusal to nurse, wheezing and slow weight gain. Dehydration is common because the infant suffers an electrolyte imbalance from the constant loss of fluid. Symptoms and signs show up as the muscles in the pylorus thicken and enlarge. Theories as to why this condition occurs include the effect of maternal hormones on the infant, or perhaps a lack of the receptors in the body that detect nitric oxide. This chemical is needed to tell the pylorus to relax. If these receptors are missing, the pylorus muscle is in constant contraction, thus causing the enlargement. Pyloric Stenosis is usually treated with a surgery called a pyloromyotomy, which cuts through the enlarged muscles to relieve the obstruction.

Danger Associated with Vomiting

Infants can dehydrate easily when they vomit continuously. This risk increases when the child has a fever and/or diarrhea. Repeated vomiting that is severe can cause injury to the esophagus and stomach, which could lead to internal bleeding or shock. Vomiting that occurs daily and continues for long periods of time can wreak havoc on an infant's metabolism. His growth rate can be affected, and he may have difficulty gaining weight. Vomit can also aspirate into the infant's lungs, which could cause pneumonia.

Positive Effects of Breastfeeding

One of the most important decisions an expectant mother has to make is whether or not to breastfeed her newborn. Whether she chooses formula or opts for breastfeeding, she needs to weight the pros and cons of each to determine which method is best for her and her baby. The American Academy of Pediatricians recognizes that breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for newborns. Whether a new mother chooses to pump her breast milk, transfer it to a bottle or feed her newborn at the breast, the positive effects of breastfeeding are well-documented.

Nutritional Benefits

Breast milk contains minerals and whey proteins that are gentler on an infant's digestive system than commercial formulas. Almost half of the iron found in breast milk is absorbed, as opposed to only about 4% of iron from formula. Furthermore, breast milk contains essential fatty acids, probiotics, growth factors and immunoglobulins. It also is rich in anti-inflammatory substances and growth factors to enhance the development of the gastrointestinal system.

Immunity

Newborn babies have immature immune systems. Because of this, they are very susceptible to any microorganisms they are exposed to. Breast-fed babies enjoy a multitude of antibodies received through maternal breast milk, providing them with an enhanced ability to fight infection. It is because of these maternal antibodies that breast-fed newborns may get sick less often than their bottle-fed counterparts.

Convenience

Breastfeeding is convenient because it requires no mixing in the middle of the night or heating bottles. Breast milk is always the right temperature and ready to use. Furthermore, breast milk is portable so that mothers need not be concerned about forgetting to pack bottles in the diaper bag. One of the few concerns new mothers face when breastfeeding is determining whether or not they will need to purchase a breast pump, should they decide to feed via a bottle.

Financial Benefits

Breastfeeding your baby is the most cost-effective method of feeding. You do not need to purchase formula, sterilizers, mixing devices or bottle warmers. Although powdered formulas that are mixed with water are less expensive than premixed canned formula, the cost still adds up.

Does Breastfeeding Hurt?

For a new mother who is sleep-deprived and emotionally exhausted, pain during breastfeeding can be unbearable. This can make following the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation of breastfeeding for a year seem impossible. However, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there is usually an easy fix if breastfeeding is hurting you. For most women, the right adjustments can lead to successful, pain-free breastfeeding.

Improper Latch

If you are experiencing pain, it may be a sign that your baby is not latching on to your breast correctly, according to "Your Guide to Breastfeeding," published by Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health. Pain may also occur when the baby is sucking only on the nipple. In this case, you will need to adjust his latch.

A Good Latch

If your baby it latched correctly, the position will be comfortable for you, according to the Office on Women's Health. You should see little or none of the areola (the darker area around the nipple), and your baby's mouth should be full. When you are finished feeding, your nipple should look the same as it did before feeding, not flattened, which can be a sign that the baby is not latched correctly.

A Learned Skill

Breastfeeding is a learned skill, according to the Office on Women's Health. To increase chances of successfully breastfeeding, new mothers should breastfeed immediately after birth. In the hospital, mothers should ask the staff not to supplement the breast milk with other food, but to bring the baby to her for feeding. For the first month, breast-fed infants should not be offered pacifiers, which can cause confusion.

Seeking Help

You can begin preparing for breastfeeding before your baby's birth by taking a breastfeeding class or meeting with a lactation consultant. The Office on Women's Health recommends that all mothers see a lactation consultant while in the hospital. The consultant will be able to help you and your baby develop healthy breastfeeding habits that are comfortable for both of you. Suddenly developing pain after a feeding can be a sign of infection, so be sure to talk to your doctor if this occurs.

How to Increase Breast Milk Flow

The only tools you really need to increase breast milk flow are time and patience. Your body will almost always produce enough milk to meet your baby's demand. Breast milk contains all the nutrients your baby needs and protects your baby from disease by strengthening her immune system. Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to enhance the bond between you and your baby. There are a few simple steps that can increase breast milk flow.

Instructions

Nurse frequently

1




Nurse frequently. This stimulates the milk glands to increase production of milk. Newborns nurse about every one to three hours for 15 to 20 minutes on each side, usually nursing eight to 12 times each day. Start nursing on the same side from which you finished nursing your baby the previous feeding. Use different nursing positions so that you drain all milk ducts.

2




Encourage letdown of your milk. You can massage your breasts gently from the outside toward the nipple; apply warm, moist cloths to your breasts; or stand in a warm shower. You will feel a tingling as letdown begins.

3




Make sure your baby is latching on properly. Guide her mouth onto the nipple. Her lips must be on the areola and not just the nipple to stimulate milk production. Her bottom lip will cover slightly more of the areola than the top lip.

4

Watch your diet. By two weeks postpartum, you will produce about about 25 ounces of milk daily, so you need to increase your fluids by about a quart a day to 2.5 to three quarts daily and add about 500 calories to your diet. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

5

Don't smoke. Smoking can decrease milk production and alter the milk's taste, making it less attractive to your baby. You should never expose your baby to second-hand smoke while nursing her.

6

Pump every three to four hours for at least 15 minutes if you are unable to nurse your baby. It's better to wait at least four weeks to give your baby a bottle because the artificial nipple feels different, and she may resist nursing if given a bottle too soon.

Contraceptives While Breastfeeding

Before taking any medication, breastfeeding mothers need to weigh the benefits with the possible risks. To prevent a subsequent pregnancy, the breastfeeding mother might be interested in contraceptives, both hormonal and non-hormonal. Many of these methods are compatible with breastfeeding, and mothers should determine which method works best for their situation.

Types

Contraceptives---both hormonal and non-hormonal---can prevent pregnancy during lactation. Non-hormonal methods include barrier methods, spermicides and non-hormonal intra-uterine devices. Hormonal methods available include progestin-only methods, such as the minipill, IUDs, vaginal rings, injectables and implants.

Effects

"The Breastfeeding Answer Book" by Nancy Mohrbacher and Julie Stock says that barrier methods that do not contain spermicide generally do not have negative effects on breastfeeding. If a breastfeeding mother uses spermicide, though, she might absorb a small amount into her blood and possibly pass to the milk; however, no adverse affects to babies have been reported. In addition, non-hormonal IUDs don't have an effect on breastfeeding.

Progestin-only hormonal methods are compatible with breastfeeding. Progestin-only methods work to thicken cervical mucus, block ovulation and make it difficult for sperm to penetrate.

Hormonal methods with progestin and estrogen are not the best choice for breastfeeding mothers, according to askdrsears.com and "The Breastfeeding Answer Book."

Time Frame

Mothers can take non-hormonal methods of birth control at any time post-partum. They can take progestin-containing hormonal forms as early as six weeks post-partum, once they have started breastfeeding.

Mothers should not use birth-control methods that contain estrogen until the baby is at least six months old, and he is eating solid foods and doesn't rely on breast milk as heavily.

Warning

Introducing a hormonal contraceptive early---even a progestin-only pill---could have some adverse effects. Mothers taking hormonal methods should watch for a drop in milk supply. It does seem, though, that with progestin-only methods, the mother shouldn't worry about adverse affects to the baby. "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" cites a study that followed breastfed babies whose mothers were on a progestin-only method until the children were 17, and the study noted no negative effects.

Breastfeeding mothers should not take contraceptives that contain estrogen, as they have been cited to reduce the milk supply and overall duration of breastfeeding. As a matter of fact, "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" says that methods with estrogen could decrease total milk supply by 20 to 40 percent. The book also states that the American Academy of Pediatrics consider estrogen and progestin compatible with breastfeeding.

Considerations

Some breastfeeding mothers have success with the lactation amenorrhea method of pregnancy prevention. This method assumes that the mother is exclusively breastfeeding and not supplementing with formula or solid foods, has not resumed her menstrual cycle since pregnancy and her baby is under six months old. Planned Parenthood says that two to eight women out of 100 practicing LAM will experience a pregnancy, and "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" claims that LAM is 98 percent effective in the first six months of the baby's life.

Weight Loss After a C-Section

Thousands of births occur in the United States on a daily basis. Of those, many are cesarean births. This type of birth, because it requires major abdominal surgery, means that a mother may have a more difficult time losing weight than a mother who delivers vaginally. However, weight loss still can be achieved after a cesarean delivery.

Swim

Swim to thin. Many exercise regimens, such as yoga or Pilates, require bending or twisting that are not advisable in the first few weeks and months after a cesarean delivery. Swimming, by contrast, is an exercise that relies mainly on buoyancy and limb movement rather than bending or twisting. This makes it an ideal exercise for someone who needs to be careful not to stress the abdominal region. Those who wish to swim after a cesarean still should clear the exercise with their doctors, however, since the incision must be healed to a certain point, and chemicals in pools may irritate or cause infection.

Breastfeed

Breastfeed the baby. Breastfeeding aids in weight loss after pregnancy for both cesarean and vaginal deliveries. This is because breastfeeding requires the mother's body to use maternal fat stores in the process of milk production. Breastfeeding does not guarantee that a mother will lose a particularly large amount of weight, but the weight that is lost can be lost entirely without a change in diet or exercise. This can be beneficial to a mother who has just had a cesarean, since exercising after surgery can be difficult, and trying to minimize caloric intake after a major surgery can slow recovery due to the fact that the body may not receive enough vitamins, nutrients, and minerals to heal quickly.

Eat

Eat. Although this may seem counterproductive at first, eating after a cesarean actually can increase the amount of weight that a mother can lose provided that the diet is well-balanced and properly portioned. This is because the body requires vitamins, nutrients and minerals to heal and to support the new baby (if the mother is breastfeeding). Conversely, when a mother who has had a cesarean delivery does not eat properly, she can encounter problems such as anemia, which can cause fainting, dizziness and fatigue that can make it hard to exercise and get back in shape. Diet management thus is a good way for cesarean mothers to lose weight after delivery; dieting is not.

Easy Ways to Get Off Pregnancy Pounds While Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a great way to ensure that your baby is as healthy and well-fed as possible, yet some mothers worry that breastfeeding will cause them to keep the pregnancy weight on longer. The truth is that moms who breastfeed tend to lose weight faster than mothers who bottle-feed--and when you add exercise into the mix, you'll find that the weight comes off quite easily. While you want to lose the weight, it is important to do it slowly so as not to risk your milk supply and your overall health.

Controlled Diet

When breastfeeding, your body will require more calories every day than it did before you were pregnant, so make sure that you are eating enough. The key is to eat when you are hungry, but to choose the right foods If you want to lose weight, aim to eat around 1,800 calories per day. This will give your body sufficient calories for milk production yet allow you to slowly lose the weight so you are able to keep it off. A diet consisting of healthy foods as well as six to eight glasses of water per day will help you maintain your milk supply, while also allowing you to slowly get your pre-pregnancy body back.

Walking It Off

As soon as your doctor tells you that you can start exercising, usually between two and six weeks after giving birth, begin walking with your baby. Start out with leisurely strolls around the block and as you build your stamina, take longer and faster walks. If you bring the baby with you in the stroller, you'll be burning more calories because you're pushing the stroller. If your baby doesn't enjoy the stroller, you can also put him or her in a backpack and still get your walking time in. With the backpack, you'll be burning more calories thanks to the added weight of the baby and the backpack.

Baby and Me Exercises

A lot of health clubs and gyms offer classes for mothers and babies. These classes can be a lot of fun because they show you how to use the weight of your baby to help you tone up and lose weight. You'll burn more calories and be interacting with your baby in a fun way. Create your own exercises to do at home if you cannot find classes in your area.

How Many Calories Do You Burn a Day Breastfeeding?