How to Breastfeed Your New Baby

Breastfeeding has been shown to provide important nutrients that are essential to your newborn's health and increases the bond between you and your baby. Breastfeeding is a natural, convenient and cost-effective alternative to baby formula. Despite its benefits, however, breastfeeding for the first time can be a stressful experience. Newborns can have difficulty latching on, and new mothers require guidance on how to breastfeed effectively. All babies are different, and some may take to breastfeeding sooner than others.

Instructions

1

Place a warm towel over your breasts prior to breastfeeding. This will help to engorge the milk ducts and increase the flow of milk.

2

Seat yourself comfortably. Place a pillow over your lap and put your feet up on a footrest.

3

Position your newborn on his side with his body facing you. Ensure that he is comfortable.

4

Direct your newborn's mouth towards your nipple. When your baby opens her mouth wide, move her, chin first, onto your nipple. If you feel pain or any pressure, your baby is not latching correctly. Insert a finger between her mouth and your nipple to break the suction and begin again.

5

Squeeze your breast gently after your baby has latched on to encourage the flow of milk and to encourage him to swallow.

6

Listen and watch to see if your newborn is swallowing. If she stops swallowing, squeeze your breast again. Repeat this step, repositioning your baby's mouth when necessary, until she is no longer hungry.

Can You Breast Feed With Implants?

Many women are concerned as to whether or not it is possible to breastfeed with implants. The way the breast augmentation surgery was done plays a big role in the ability to breastfeed. But overall, it is very likely a woman can successfully breastfeed with implants. Most women who have had breast augmentation surgery find that breastfeeding is just as easy with implants.

Implants

Breast implants are bags filled with either silicone gel or salt water that are placed behind breast tissue during surgery. Breasts are pushed forward and appear larger and fuller with the implants. Scar tissue will likely form around the implant and keep it separate from milk ducts and the rest of the breast tissue. Regardless of the type of implant, it is important to know that it can not leak into your breast.

Surgery

The way breast augmentation surgery is done can affect the ability to breastfeed. Breast tissue can be cut and milk glands can be damaged. The type of incision made is very important. An incision made under the breast or in the armpit will prevent any damage. Whereas an incision made around the areola has a chance of damaging nerves. Implants can be placed either between breast tissue and chest muscle or under the chest muscle. Placing implants under the chest muscle will help prevent damage to the milk ducts.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is very beneficial for a woman and her baby, and it is possible to do this with implants. However, breasts containing implants can possibly make less milk or decrease the milk stored in the breast. It is also possible for the implant to press nearby breast tissue causing that portion of tissue to die. The nerves around the areola also possibly could have been cut or damaged, making it unable to nurse fully. The implants can potentially pinch milk ducts in the breasts. This can block the flow of milk and cause breasts to swell. Pain may occur when breasts are full of milk. This may increase when breastfeeding.

Risks

After breast augmentation surgery, nipples can be either more or less sensitive than before. After the child is born and breasts develop milk, it is possible to have exaggerated breast engorgement. Fever, pain and chills may occur. Some women worry that the contents of breast implants may mix with breast milk. Whether the implant is silicone or salt water it will not hurt the baby. The silicone that is used in breast plants is actually very close to the silicone babies with gas are treated with.

Solution

It is possible to have nerve damage during breast augmentation surgery. Until a woman tries to nurse, it is hard to know the full extent of the damage. It is important to keep the baby's doctor information about the surgery. In the event that only a portion of breast milk is produced, it is essential to have a formula for the baby, as well.

How to Breast-Feed Twins

Is it possible to breast-feed twins? Absolutely! And it's important, because twins are often small or premature and need all the help they can get to grow healthy and strong.

Instructions

1

Before your babies arrive, line up as much household support as possible for the postpartum period. Try to arrange for help with your older children, housework and other responsibilities so you can concentrate on your twins.

2

Hydrate - when your twins are born, get used to drinking lots of fluids and eating frequent healthy snacks. You need extra calories to make enough milk for two babies.

3

Nurse your babies simultaneously or separately ' there are advantages and disadvantages to each method. It may be easier to nurse them one at a time, but it will take up more of your time each day. Nursing increases your prolactin levels and can stimulate milk production; it is also a time saver!

4

Practice a number of nursing positions; many mothers of twins find that the football hold (one baby tucked under each arm) is most successful.

5

If the football hold doesn't work for you, try nursing in the crisscross position, with your babies facing each other and the legs of one twin tucked behind the other twin.

6

Try the parallel position, with both babies facing the same way ' basically, one will be in the football hold, the other in the cradle hold.

7

Try to breast-feed at least some of the time even if your babies receive bottles. This will ensure that they get the antibodies and protective properties of your breast milk, as well as nutrition from a combination of breast milk and formula.

8

Alternate breasts rather than always nursing the same baby on the same breast. This gives both babies extra visual stimulation and improves visual coordination.

9

Contact a lactation consultant or La Leche League leader to ask about breast-feeding support; they may also be able to give you contact information for other mothers of multiples or groups that focus on parenting twins.

How to Sew a Boppy Pillow

Boppy pillows, generically known as nursing pillows, are used by parents to help when feeding their infant, or to help prop the baby up in a variety of positions. Purchasing a Boppy pillow can be expensive; making one at home is pretty simple project. You can choose from a variety of colorful and soft fabrics to create the pillow, or make a plain cloth pillow with a cover that can be removed and washed.

Instructions

1

Create a pattern or download one (included in the Resources links). To fit one for yourself simply measure the circumference of your waist and draw a semi-circle of the same dimensions. Draw another semi-circle 9 to 10 inches larger than the waist and connect them to form a rounded crescent. Make sure you account for a seam allowance.

2

Cut out the two crescent shapes. Pin them together, right sides in, and sew around the edges. Leave an opening about 4 inches wide on the inside of the crescent.

3

Pull the fabric out through this hole so the right sides are out. Iron the fabric.

4

Stuff the pillow using small bits of fiberfill. The smaller you make the bits of fiberfill the more even your pillow will be. Start with the areas furthest from your hole and make your way toward the center. Be careful not to overstuff the pillow or it will be too hard, but make sure it has enough stuffing to provide support.

5

Sew the opening shut by hand. Iron the pillow with a bit of steam to help loosen and distribute the stuffing.

How to Calculate How Much Breast Milk You Need to Leave Your Baby

Are you currently breastfeeding or nursing your baby and need to leave for an extended time period? It is important to know how much breast milk to leave your baby for while you are away. Not leaving the right amount can leave your infant in distress. Learn how to quickly calculate how much breast milk you should leave your baby to make sure they are well fed.

Instructions

1

The first thing you will need to calculate how much breast milk you need to leave your baby is estimate how long you will be away from your baby. It is important to over estimate, you can always use the milk at another time. Think about how long you will be out of the house and add a couple of hours in case you are held up when you calculate how much breast milk you need to leave your baby.

2

The next thing you will need is your baby's current weight in pounds and ounces as well as their height. Use the most accurate numbers you have when you calculate how much breast milk you need to leave your baby.

3

Now that you have the hours, height, and weight, go to the website http://www.justmommies.com/articles/breastfeeding-calculator.php where you can use thier breastfeeding calculator. Enter the baby's information and it will tell you how much breast milk to leave your baby while you are away. For example, if your baby weighed 10.8 pounds and was 21 inches long and you would be gone for 7 hours, you would need to leave your baby 8-9 ounces of milk.

Is it Safe to Breast Feed With Saline Implants?

If you've recently had breast implants and are concerned about being able to breastfeed your child, rest assured that you still can. While it is generally believed that saline implants have had no linked illnesses to women who have them, you should take into consideration the placement of your implant, as this is an important issue in breastfeeding of an infant.

Misconceptions

It was once believed that women who had implants were unable to feed their children with breast milk. To the contrary, women can still feed their babies.

Fears

Because of the silicone leak scare of the 1990s and women becoming ill due to this, it was believed that all implants were unsafe. When saline leaks, the body absorbs the contents, and unless there is bacteria within the implant, no harm can come to mother or infant.

Placement

Placement of an implant can be crucial in proper feeding of a newborn. If the implant is placed under the fold of the breast, or through the armpit, your chances for breastfeeding are higher.

Complications

If an implant is placed through an incision in the areola, nerves may be damaged, which can make chances for breastfeeding more difficult, as the nerves are needed to stimulate milk production. Also, if breast tissues are disturbed, or milk ducts damaged due to being cut, then this minimizes the chances of being able to breastfeed.

Feeding Problems

Some women who have implants may experience painful engorgement. However, if you feed your infant regularly, you can minimize this discomfort.

Options

If you are worried about your implants, speak to your doctor about your procedure. Talk to a lactation consultant before and after your child's birth, especially to monitor your infant's weight gain to make sure they are receiving enough milk.

What Are the Side Effects of Lipozene?

Weight problems are a big issue in today's population. Diet plans, exercise routines and weight loss products are all in high demand. Lipozene is one of many natural supplements advertised to help with weight loss. As with any other drug, there are benefits and side effects to consider when adding a supplement to your diet.

Identification

The main ingredient in Lipozene is glucommannan, a water soluble, dietary fiber that comes from a plant called the Konjac root. The Konjac root plant grows only in Asia and is cultivated in Japan. The plant is made up of a dry, porous material, of which 70 percent is glucommannan and 30 percent is starch. Its chemical composition makes for a high absorption rate within the stomach's chemical make-up. If too much is ingested, side effects including abdominal pain, nausea, gas and diarrhea. Lipozene can be purchased online or through your local drug store.

Function

Lipozene is reported to absorb up to 200 times its weight in water. When taken before a meal, this effect causes you to feel full, as the drug interacts with the foods in the stomach. Because of its high absorption rate, you need small doses to get the best results. Lipozene's chemical properties bind with bile acid and cholesterols inside the stomach and eliminates them through the bowels. There are, however, reported drawbacks to these effects. Many studies have shown that the process of binding with food in the stomach may deprive you of other needed nutrients. These nutrients are, instead, eliminated by the body along with the cholesterol.

Effects

A number of nutritional supplement products containing glucommannan are advertised to treat cases of high cholesterol, constipation, type 2 diabetes and obesity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not substantiated these claims. Those considering taking Lipozene should consult with a physician, especially if you have diabetes, difficulty swallowing, any chronic health problem or experience a narrowing of the esophagus.
Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not take Lipozene. If you're on any other type of medication, vitamin or supplement, be sure to discuss these with your physician to avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.

Considerations

Lipozene's high fiber content provides other benefits besides help with weight loss. Like any other fiber product, it is a form of roughage that aids in the digestion process. Many studies recommend Lipozene as a treatment for problems associated with constipation.
The glucomannan ingredient is also known to help delay the emptying of the stomach which allows for a more gradual absorption of dietary sugars. This is thought to reduce the occurrence of elevated sugar levels after a meal. Because of this, people with diabetes should consult with their physician before taking Lipozene.

Warning

When considering adding any type of weight loss product or dietary supplement to your diet, research it thoroughly. Lipozene's main manufacturer, Obesity Research Institute, LLC, has numerous FDA rulings against it. The company was accused of making fraudulent claims regarding previous products, all of which were advertised as weight loss solutions. The company did settle out of court for these products. And while these rulings were made against other products marketed by this company in the past, it is worthy of notice. To date, no such filings have been made against their Lipozene product.

What Are the Causes of Loud Rumbling Gas in an Infant?

When your baby has loud, rumbling gas, it is likely that he is suffering from colic. Colic is an irritation that can be caused in your baby by a number of things. Knowing these things allows you to avoid them, saving both yourself and your child from a long, sleepless night.

Food

Certain types of food, such as those heavy with acid, can cause your infant's stomach to be irritated. This can lead to loud, rumbling gas and eventually colic. For mothers who breast feed, any foods they eat can be passed on to their child, so eating a diet rich in acids or spices will transfer to their child. To protect against this, eat only healthy, light foods while breast feeding. In addition to this, try not to overfeed your child, as the extra strain on their stomach can lead to colic.

Stress

Stress can be a cause of colic in an infant. Anytime your infant cries heavily, the large gasps of air they take may increase the bloating to their newborn lungs. Additionally, a newborn mother who is worried with stress may subconsciously project that onto their child, causing it to be more prone to large outbursts. Being relaxed around your infant, and quickly calming any heavy outburst, will reduce the chances of colic in your infant.

Attitude

The attitude a baby has may be a contributor to colic. Babies who are well-mannered and cheerful are less susceptible to colic than a grumpy, fussy baby. Try to keep your infant happy. However, due to your baby's disposition and personality, this may not always work. At this point, colic may become unavoidable.

Early Life Stages

Most babies only experience colic in the first six months of their life. A common theory is that since the digestive track is so new, and not yet accustomed to the daily intake of various foods, it has yet to grow the bacteria needed to process foods naturally. As a result, loud and rumbling gas develops as the digestive system struggles with doing its job. There is no way to avoid this, but after the first six months the digestive system will be more at ease.

How to Choose the Best Maternity Bras

The bodies of pregnant women undergo many changes. Breasts increase between two and four cup sizes -- and become tender -- as a result of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Breasts consist of ligaments that soften and stretch during pregnancy more than muscles. Purchase several comfortable maternity bras that fit properly throughout each trimester -- to fight the forces of gravity and keep skin from sagging and the breasts from drooping -- after delivery and breastfeeding. Pregnant women require larger cup sizes and widths in the first and second trimesters. Buy nursing bras in the third trimester to get the best fit.

Instructions

1

Measure under your bust around the top of your rib cage, this measurement is your band size. Put on a bra that fits and does not have any padding.

2

Measure around the widest part of your breasts. Subtract this measurement from the band size measurement to obtain your cup size measurement. Each inch you get for an answer is equivalent to a cup size, for most bras. So if your answer was between 2 and 2.5-inches, you are aB cup and if your answer ranges between 2.5- and 3.5-inches, you are a C cup.

3

Select bras that are cotton based and make sure there are no seam lines that cross over the nipples. Cotton dries quickly and keeps the skin cool.

4

Avoid purchasing bras with an underwire. These bras may prevent your milk from flowing properly and they also cause blood circulation problems. Opt for deep-sided bras with wide straps and supportive under-bust bands instead.

5

Choose bras with full coverage over the breast area. Attempt to purchase bras that will leave you some room to grow, especially if you are currently between sizes.

6

Find bras that have many rows of hook and eye closures. If you are between your first and second trimester your bras should fit most comfortably on the tighter settings and if you are in your third trimester, you should feel most comfortable with your bra on the widest setting.

7

Purchase at least one bra for your third trimester that has clips or cups that open easily with one hand, if you intend to breastfeed. Avoid nursing bras that open fully in the front.

8

Buy at least three bras, but avoid bras that have plastic lining.

Nursing & Back Pain

Some women experience back pain when they are breast-feeding their infant. There are ways to prevent this from occurring, including selecting a chair that provides support for your back so that you are comfortable while nursing your baby.

What You Need

If your chair isn't that supportive, stuff some pillows or cushions behind your back for back support. Consider purchasing a Boppy, which is a circular nursing pillow and is sometimes referred to as a donut pillow. The pillow provides support for your infant as well as reduces stress on the mother's back. The baby lies on the boppy pillow, which is placed on the mother's lap.

Techniques

When you are nursing, hold your baby close to you rather than leaning over so that the baby can reach your nipple. Leaning over is going to strain your back. Consider using the cradle position, according to Bellaonline.com, where your infant's head is nestled in the crook of your elbow, or utilize the cross-cradle position, otherwise known as the football position, when nursing.

Features

To execute the football or clutch hold, place a pillow next to you and then cradle your infant in your arm, using the palm of your hand on the same arm that is supporting the baby's neck and pull the baby's side closely against your side, according to Kidshealth.org. The baby's legs and feet will be tucked under your arm. Lift your child to your breast. This is a good position for mothers who have had C-sections and want to avoid placing the baby on their stomach as well as for small babies and women who have large breasts.

Rest While Nursing

Use the side-lying approach when nursing your baby. This position allows you to lie down and rest while feeding your infant. Lie on your side with your infant on his side, facing you. Your lower arm will cradle the baby's back or you can use a rolled up blanket to help support your child's back. Use your other arm to support your baby's head. This position will relieve pressure on your back.

Foot Stool

Another good idea to reduce stress on your back is to use a foot stool or foot rest while you are breastfeeding. Elevating your feet slightly while nursing will allow you to rest your legs and feet but also help position your body so it that is securely rested against the back of the chair. This will improve your posture and help eliminate a sore back.

Recommendation

Buy a rocking chair that has arm supports. It helps enormously if the mother has a place to rest her arms while nursing.

Considerations

Mothers want to accommodate their newborns but in the process they can put a lot of unnecessary strain on the back. The mother's comfort is every bit as important as the baby's.

How to Prepare a Bottle of Infant Formula

Whether you choose to breastfeed, bottle feed, or a combination of both, knowing how to prepare a bottle of formula is important. Even mothers who solely breast feed their babies should know the proper procedure. You may suddenly need to stop breastfeeding due to antibiotics or a medical problem. Your baby may be stuck somewhere without you and your babysitter needs to know information on how to fix a bottle. Motherhood comes with many responsibilities. Preparation is one of those responsibilities. You must be prepared for any situation that could arise. Knowing how to properly mix a bottle of formula helps you prepare for some of those situations. This guide will show you how.

Instructions

How to Prepare a Bottle of Infant Formula

1

Stretch the edges of the bottle liner over the rim of the bottle to secure it in place. You can also use the newer bottle liners that you just put inside the bottle without any stretching. Liners help formula fed babies minimize the amount of air that is consumed.

2

Turn the tap water to luke warm. You want the formula to simulate breast milk. Breast milk is slightly warm. It is not hot and it is not cold. Wait until the water has gotten to the desired temperature.

3

Fill the bottle liner with 4 to 6 ounces of water. Use the numbering and lines on the bottle liner to determine how much water you have added. Disregard the numbers on the bottle itself. These can be off if you are using liners.

4

Scoop the baby formula out of the can. Make sure each scoop is level with the rim, and unpacked. Follow the instructions on the can as to how many scoops to add per ounce. Typically, you need to add one scoop of formula for every 2 ounces of water.

5

Screw the nipple back onto the bottle. Use your index finger to cover the hole of the bottle, and shake vigorously. Shake for 10 seconds. Then, put the bottle down for 20 seconds before shaking for another 10 seconds.

6

Put the bottle on the counter for at least 4 minutes before feeding your baby. This is to allow the air bubbles created from the shaking to disappear.

7

Test a couple drips of formula on your wrist to be sure it is not too warm. If it is the desired temperature, feed your baby.

Products to Help With Breast Milk Production

Breast-feeding is not only a way to feed your baby but also an important bonding experience the two of you share each day. While you enjoy these moments with your baby, it can become frustrating when the milk production depletes before you stop breast-feeding, especially if it is such a small amount that formula is required for your baby to get the nutrients she needs. Dietary changes and natural remedies can help increase your milk production.

Drink More Fluids

Drinking more fluids such as water, juice and milk is one of the most effective ways to increase breast milk production naturally. Mayo Clinic suggests lactating women drink at least 3.1 liters (13 cups) of fluids each day. Start your day off with a tall glass of water, drink a glass of water before each meal and juice or milk with your meals to help you get enough fluids for producing more breast milk.

Eat More Calories

Eating more calories each day will help you to increase your breast milk production. Each day, nursing burns an extra 500 calories, which means you should be adding at least 500 calories to your diet. Choose healthy foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables to give your baby the healthiest breast milk possible. Asparagus and alfalfa have shown a positive effect in increasing the amount of milk you produce.

Take Herbs

Certain herbs and supplements have shown an increase in your daily breast milk supply. Fenugreek, often found in curry dishes, can be taken in pill form and is one of the most common herbal remedies for naturally increasing production of your breast milk. Other herbs include ipomea, blessed thistle, anise, dill, fennel, goat's rue and raspberry.

Other Ways to Help With Production

Aside from these products that aid in increasing your breast milk production, there are other methods you can try to help your baby get what he needs. Surprisingly enough, the more frequently you pump, the more you will get each day. Begin increasing breastfeeding and pumping by one or two extra sessions a day. Other ways to naturally increase production include getting plenty of sleep, relaxing during pumping and breastfeeding and avoiding certain products such as alcohol, decongestants, tobacco, birth control pills and herbs such as garlic, thyme, sage and parsley.

What Are Good Home Remedies for Nasal Congestion in Infant?

For adults, nasal congestion is an annoyance. For infants it can be much more serious since babies, unlike adults, usually know how to breathe only through their noses. Until babies are at least 4 to 6 months old, treating congestion requires "a high level of vigilance" from parents or other caretakers, according to Medical Look. Fortunately, many of the most common remedies use components likely to already be in your home.

Steam

Steam is one of the most effective remedies for nasal congestion, especially for infants, for whom over-the-counter decongestants usually are not recommended. Humidifiers and vaporizers work well, but if you don't have access to either of these, sitting with your baby in a bathroom while a hot shower runs, or in a kitchen while a pot of water boils, can have the same effect.

Saline Solution and Nasal Aspirator

Use an over-the-counter saline solution or make one yourself. (Guide-to-baby-needs.com suggests combining 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 4 ounces of cooled boiled water.) Use a small dropper to put two drops in each of your infant's nostrils. Allow about five minutes for crusts to soften and congestion to clear, then use a nasal aspirator to suck out the mucus (see Resources for detailed instructions).

Extra Liquids

When your infant is congested, increase her liquid intake. Diluted juice (half water, half juice) may be recommended for babies who can drink juice; water between feedings may be recommended for babies at least 6 months old. In some cases, rehydration fluids might be suggested for older babies, according to guide-to-baby-needs.com. Follow your pediatrician's advice.

Breastfeeding

For breastfed babies, breastfeeding can be a good option even with congestion as long as you first use a nasal aspirator to make sure the baby can breathe through his nose without difficulty (refer to the previous section). The mother's immunities that are passed to her child through breast milk can help eliminate the cause of the congestion, according to WiseGeek.com.

Warm Washcloth

Holding a warm washcloth on each side of the nose can lessen nasal congestion in infants, although the relief usually lasts only until the washcloths are removed. Since infants' skin is especially sensitive, be sure not to make the washcloth too hot. If it's the right temperature, it should feel comfortable on your upper arm, according to guide-to-baby-needs.com.

Warning

Although nasal congestion is common in infants, check with your doctor if your child's mucus turns bright yellow or dark green, which could indicate a secondary infection; if she seems to constantly have a runny nose, which may suggest allergies; if you suspect an ear infection; or if she is running a fever, according to robynsnest.com.

How to Breastfeed With a Nipple Shield

Although breast milk is best for babies, breastfeeding isnt always easy, and sometimes babies have trouble latching on correctly. If youve worked with a lactation consultant and she cannot correct the babys latch, a nipple shield can sometimes be useful. Nipple shields are particular helpful for premature, unusually small, or ill babies who have a weak suck, mothers with inverted or flat nipples, or babies who are used to drinking from bottles.

Instructions

1

Boil the nipple shield before its initial use, following the manufacturers directions.

2

Wash the nipple shield in warm, soapy water before every use. Pat dry with a clean towel. Leaving the edges a little damp may help the shield stay in place more easily.

3

Gently massage the breast to stimulate milk flow.

4

Place the shield on top of the nipple, with the edges turned up and away from the mothers body.

5

Smooth down the edges so they fit comfortably against the mothers body.

6

Gently squeeze the nipple to release some milk into the nipple shield.

7

Help the baby latch on. The babys jaws should close on the breast, not simply on the shaft of the shield.

8

Remove the baby from the mothers breast and remove the nipple shield after a few minutes of breastfeeding. Help the baby latch onto the breast without the shield and continue breastfeeding without the shield if possible. If the baby has difficulties continuing the feeding, the shield may be reapplied for the remainder of the feeding.

9

Remove the nipple shield when the baby is done nursing, and promptly wash in warm, soapy water.

How to Get a Baby to Sleep Through the Night When Breastfeeding

When a baby is being breastfed, he typically needs to eat more often than a child being fed formula. This is due to the fact that babies are able to digest breast milk much faster than formula, which leaves them feeling hungry more quickly. It is important to note that newborns are likely to need feeding throughout the night whether they are being breastfed or formula-fed. However, a baby can be encouraged to sleep through the night once he is between 10 and 16 weeks old.

Instructions

1

Encourage the baby to be active during the day. Babies are not aware of the difference between night and day. Letting a baby sleep too much during the day will cause the baby not to be tired during the night. Keeping the baby active can be accomplished by playing with her, reading to her, giving her plenty of tummy time and keeping her entertained with brightly colored toys and stuffed animals.

2

Create a calm atmosphere for the baby at night. Although you do not need to keep the house completely silent, it is important that the baby's room is dark and quiet. Babies can be easily distracted and stimulated by lights or noise.

3

Devise an evening bedtime routine and stick to the routine every night. Babies thrive on routine, which can work for or against a parent. For example, if you rock your baby until he falls asleep every night, that will become the baby's routine, and he will have difficultly falling asleep without being rocked. It is important to create a routine that will work for you and gives the baby the opportunity to fall asleep without being held.

4

Feed the baby a large amount right before bedtime each night. Babies wake up during the night because they are hungry, and decreasing their hunger will decrease their need to wake up. It is possible for a 4-month-old to sleep for eight hours during the night. So if you feed the baby a large meal at 11 p.m., she should theoretically be able to sleep until 7 a.m. before needing to be fed again.

5

Offer your baby some cereal before bed. According to MayoClinic.com, it is safe to start babies on solid food as early as 4 months. By 4 months, if your baby is still waking up throughout the night hungry, try feeding him small amounts of cereal right before his last breastfeeding. This will help prevent him from waking up hungry during the night.

Breastfeeding & Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant grown in India, England, Egypt and Morocco. It is an herb that grows pods that contain the seeds. Fenugreek seeds are a yellow brown color and used to make the fenugreek supplements. For many years, breastfeeding woman have used the herb to enhance their milk supply. However, the herb has yet to be properly tested for safety, especially in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Fortunately, fenugreek has been used long enough for doctors to catalog a host of valuable information.

Features

The plant's seed are crushed and used in capsules or pounded into pill form. It is available as a tea, but this form is not recommended as it is extremely bitter. The products are sold in most retail stores where vitamins and supplements are sold.

Function

According to Breastfeeding.com, chemicals in fenugreek are used to stimulate the milk supply. However, no one is sure how this process actually works. Women take the drug after the baby is born, when it is evident that the milk supply is low. The fenugreek is taken until the milk supply is restored and then discontinued.

Time Frame

Breastfeeding.com states that fenugreek should go to work increasing the mother's milk supply 24 to 72 hours after taking the first dose. After that, the mother can stimulate the milk supply on her own.

Side Effects

In frequent and large doses, fenugreek can cause severe side effects. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, fenugreek can cause gas, diarrhea, bloating and skin irritation. The Massachusetts General Center for Women's Mental Health states the fenugreek can also cause extremely low blood sugar, contractions in the uterus, and a maple syrup-like odor emanating from the skin.

Special Precautions

Women who have diabetes or asthma should not take fenugreek as the herb severely decreases the blood sugar and decreases breathing. Consult your doctor before taking the drug as it may have other lesser known side effects. Avoid taking the drug for an extended period of time. See a doctor for continuous problems with lactation.

How To Help Tender Breasts Before a Period

Many women experience tender breasts before a period. This type of breast pain is called cyclical breast pain, and it is nearly always hormonal. For some women, the pain may be severe and interfere with exercise or other activities. In the absence of other symptoms, there are some things you can do to help tender breasts before a period.

Instructions

1

Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages during your period and for two to three days before beginning menstruation. According to Children's Hospital Boston, caffeine consumption increases water retention and contributes to breast pain.

2

Ask your doctor about supplemental hormones or hormone blockers if your breast tenderness is severe. Cyclical breast pain is nearly always caused by hormonal fluctuations, and certain medications may help stabilize your hormone levels. Birth control pills, thyroid hormones, Bromocriptin and Tamoxifen may all offer relief of symptoms, according to New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

3

Take vitamin B6, magnesium, and/or evening primrose oil supplements. These supplements may reduce premenstrual breast tenderness. Ask your doctor before taking any new herb or vitamin. The American Academy of Family Physicians warns that taking too much vitamin B6 may cause side effects.

4

Increase your calcium intake. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, calcium and vitamin D reduce PMS symptoms, including breast tenderness. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products, nuts, dark green vegetables and some fish. Currently, the recommended daily intake of calcium is 1,200 mg per day, and the RDI for vitamin D is 400 IU per day.

5

Reduce your intake of salt, sugar and fat. Many women report a craving for fatty or sweet foods in the days preceding their menstrual period, but a diet high in fat can result in a hormonal imbalance, and high sugar intake can cause breast swelling, water retention and breast pain in some women.

6

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if your breast tenderness is severe. Tenderness in the breasts rarely lasts more than a few days when caused by premenstrual hormone fluctuations. If your tenderness persists, or if you experience other breast symptoms, such as a lump or nipple discharge, consult your doctor immediately.

7

Wear loose-fitting clothing, but do not skip wearing a bra. Pressure from tight shirts and bras may make breast pain worse, but wearing a bra offers breast support that may minimize breast pain in the long-term.

How to Lose Baby Weight at Six Weeks Postpartum

For the women who gain weight during pregnancy, losing the baby weight postpartum is often a high priority. According to Peter J. Chen, doctor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, women should not make an active attempt to lose weight until six weeks postpartum. By this time, Dr. Chen says, most women should have lost half of their baby weight. Women should address the remainder of this weight with a regimen of healthy eating and exercise.

Instructions

1

Adapt to a healthy diet immediately after delivery. Busy moms may find it challenging to stick to the food pyramid while tending to a newborn, but at the very least they should cut out sugary and high-fat snacks.

2

Breastfeed, if possible. Breastfeeding burns a large amount of calories, about 600 per day. For this reason, the La Leche League recommends breastfeeding mothers consume between 1,500 and 1,800 calories a day.

3

Begin a regimen of light walking two weeks postpartum. A woman's body is not fully healed until six weeks postpartum, so she should stick to light walking until that time. Walking the baby around in a stroller or baby sling is a great way to get light exercise and fresh air.

4

Follow the recommended diet plan in the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Pyramid. Use the MyPyramid Plan tool available on the USDA website to determine what kinds of foods you should eat each day. Input your age, height and weight, and choose the menu that helps "gradually move toward a healthier weight."

5

Begin a moderate exercise regimen at six weeks postpartum. If you belong to a health center, La Leche League, or Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, ask if they offer any exercise programs for new mothers.

6

Ask for support from your spouse and family. Following a diet and exercise regimen, you should lose your baby weight by six months postpartum. If you struggle to find time to cook healthy meals and exercise, ask your loved ones for help.