How to Use a Lactation Aid in Breastfeeding

New mothers and their infants are often faced with a frustrating challenge when learning how to breastfeed. Relieve yourself of worrying about whether your baby is getting enough milk using a lactation aid. The device consists of a bottle (containing a supplement) with a tube attached to that runs along the breast and nipple and into the baby's mouth.

Instructions

1

Ask for assistance from a certified lactation consultant before you use a lactation aid. Your hospital should have a consultant on staff, but your doctor could also give you recommendations if you are unsure of how to find a lactation consultant.

2

Wear a shirt that has a pocket if possible. This way you can place the bottle in the shirt pocket and free up your hands. Otherwise, you can rest the bottle in between yourself and the baby. Most importantly, keep the bottle even with or below the baby's head.

3

Run the tube along your breast and nipple. It should stop where the nipple stops. Some mothers find it helpful to tape the tube to their breast at first.

4

Encourage the baby to latch on as you would with regular breastfeeding. A proper latch is important, as it teaches the baby that he can get enough milk from the breast.

5

Keep an eye on the time. It should take only about 15 to 20 minutes for the baby to take one ounce of the supplemental milk. If it takes longer, reposition the baby and re-latch.

6

Feed with the lactation aid consistently. It should be used for every meal for the duration of its use, which lasts anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks. Speak with your lactation consultant for specific recommendations on how to wean your baby from a lactation aid.

7

Clean the lactation aid tube with hot, but not boiling, water. Completely empty it after each use and then suck enough hot water through the tube to rinse it thoroughly. Repeat until rinsed well. Clean the nipple and bottle as you would a normal bottle and nipple.