Breastfeeding to Bottle Feeding Tips

According to Breastfeeding Basics, mothers may need to switch feeding their babies from breastfeeding to bottle feeding when they return to work. Although the change can be difficult, there are simple ways to ease the transition for mother and baby.

Pump Breastmilk

Try pumping your breastmilk. This way your baby will only have to adjust to drinking from the bottle, because the flavor of the milk will be the same. To keep your milk supply from drying up you will need to pump at least once during the day when you are at work. If you don't plan to breastfeed when you are home use your pump to collect milk. Store your milk in milk storage bags in a cool pack or refrigerator. Freeze it when you get home if you won't be using it within the next 24 hours.

Start Early

When you want to introduce a bottle nipple to your baby it is bet to start her feeding early. If you wait until she is hungry she will likely get frustrated. According to Babycenter.com, the nipple of a bottle requires different tongue movement than when breastfeeding, so it may take a little work for your baby to master the technique. In addition, your baby may not like that the nipple is cold and feels different from your nipple.

Have Dad Feed Baby

If you won't be feeding your baby breastmilk in her bottle have someone else do the feedings while she adjusts to the formula. If you are close by, your baby will smell your milk and may be less willing to tolerate the formula or work at learning how to drink from her bottle. According to Babycenter.com, a baby can smell breastmilk up to 20 feet away.

Choose Bottle Nipple Carefully

When you are looking for a bottle nipple, choose one that is similar to your baby's pacifier. You can also look for a nipple designed for breastfed babies. Let your baby play with the nipple ahead of time so she can chew it and familiarize herself with it before she has to drink from it.

How to Dress for Breastfeeding

If you have made the choice to breastfeed, you must now dress for the task. Not every article of clothing is compatible with the needs of nursing moms. Being able to easily access the breast, perhaps even in front of others, requires looking carefully at your wardrobe and choosing the best options for keeping you modest and your baby fed.

Instructions

1

The easiest, although most expensive, solution is to buy clothing designed specifically for nursing mothers. The shirts have openings either on the sides or the front. The openings are covered with another layer of fabric that is easily moved while nursing.

2

If you don't have the money, or the desire, to buy new clothing for nursing, another option is to wear loose t-shirts. The shirt can be simply pulled up to allow the child to nurse. With a large t-shirt, the stretchy folds can then be pulled down a bit to cover the exposed breast without disturbing the baby. With this option, however, the lower part of the body may be exposed.

3

If you like the t-shirt choice, but do not like being exposed, try layering clothing. Have a stretchable tank top under your shirt that can be pulled under the breast while the t-shirt is pulled up. This extra layer will keep your skin from being exposed.

4

Button down shirts are also a viable option, but can be tricky. While it may seem logical to unbutton from the top down, the opposite is true. Unbutton shirts from the bottom to keep yourself more covered on top, while allowing easier access for your baby.

5

Dresses can difficult to wear when breastfeeding. Shirts and skirts are frequently better options. However, there are a few things you can do if you choose a dress. If you are wearing a jacket, you can unzip your dress and bring it down in front. Use the jacket to cover your back and a blanket to cover your front. The jacket can also be used to cover the front, if necessary. If your dress is lower cut, you may be able to move the fabric to the side to expose your breast, although this may call for a some unzipping.

6

Tighter fitting shirts can also work, if you are able to pull them up without causing too much discomfort. Try a combination of clothing for various situations.

Natural Herbs That Produce Milk

New mothers often want to increase their flow of milk when breastfeeding to ensure their infants are receiving ample nutrients at each meal. Certain herbs are considered lactogenic, or milk-producing, and some women take the natural supplements to keep their milk amounts consistent during their child's entire breastfeeding phase.

Alfalfa

According the Mobi Motherhood International website, alfalfa may be lactogenic due to its ability to strengthen the breasts' glandular tissue. The herb is safe to take both during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and increases the healthy fat content of the milk. Alfalfa also boosts the function of the pituitary gland, or the bodily organ that produces hormones for lactation. The supplement is antifungal and rids of the body of infection while promoting the health of the liver and kidneys. Mothers also choose alfalfa due to its high nutritional content; the supplement is potent in amino acids, potassium and zinc, which are also transferred to the baby.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a popular herb associated with producing a healthy flow of milk in lactating mothers. The tea and supplements have a maple syrup-like smell, causing a mother's breast milk and urine to carry the scent. The Breast Feeding.com website warns against taking too much fenugreek, as the herb can make the baby smell like maple syrup as well; this is one of the symptoms of Maple Syrup Urine Disease, which is a very serious disorder of the metabolism. The herb originated in Asia and contains phytoestrogen, which has a mild sedative effect for women. In addition to boosting milk flow, fenugreek capsules or tea can also lower blood sugar and reduce water retention.

Blessed Thistle

Blessed thistle is an herb used as a cure for smallpox during medieval times. In the present day, blessed thistle is an herbal contraceptive, as well as a natural remedy for ridding the body of infection, according to Breast Feeding.com. The website also asserts that there are no studies that prove that the supplement increases milk production, but that blessed thistle is likely safe for mothers who are breastfeeding. The herb is useful for treating diseases of the liver and stomach, and stimulates gastric juices in the stomach to aid in food digestion. Blessed thistle is taken as a tea, and increases appetite in mother and baby, which could lead to more milk in the breasts.

Cumin

Cumin, the herb that gives warm, savory flavor to curry, is also a natural supplement that can boost milk supply for lactating mothers. And, according to the Mobi Motherhood website, when a mother takes cumin and breastfeeds her baby, the herb can soothe the infant's digestive system and help to cure colic. The herb also possesses sedative properties that will relax mother and baby during feeding times. According to "Mother Food," a book on lactogenic herbs and foods by Hilary Jacobson, pregnant woman should only take small amounts of the herb, and women who are especially prone to breast infections should limit the use of cumin. You can find cumin in the ethnic seasonings section of the grocery store to add to recipes, or visit the health food store to purchase the herb in capsule form.

How to Transport Frozen Breast Milk

In 2010, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that 75% of women breastfeed their babies, but the numbers drop to 43% by 6 months. The Surgeon General, agreeing that breast milk is the best food for infants, issued a call to action in January 2011 to support women who breastfeed. The intention of the Surgeon General's call to action is to see that the percentages of breastfeeding mothers remain steady through a child's infancy. Knowing how to properly transport frozen breast milk may encourage more women to continuously breastfeed their babies.

Instructions

1

Purchase a cooler and pack it securely with ice packs to keep the temperature down. Use dry ice if the breast milk must be transported a long distance.

2

Place the frozen breast milk in the cooler and close it securely. Tie the cooler lid shut with rope or use a lock.

3

Leave the container closed and do not open it until you reach your final destination.

About Hydroquinone & Breastfeeding

Pregnancy, as well as prior use of birth control pills, can cause darkening of the skin. Sometimes called melasma, or the "mask of pregnancy," many women turn to prescription creams such as hydroquinone once the baby is delivered. If you're a breastfeeding mom, read on for further information about hydroquinone use.

Function

Hydroquinone is a topical cream that inhibits the body's ability to create melanin--the source of brown pigment in the skin. It's a bleaching agent that not only minimizes existing brown spots, but inhibits new ones from developing. It is considered a Class C drug, which means it has caused harm to developing fetuses in animal studies, but benefits from the use of the product may outweigh the risks. No human studies have been conducted on the effects on a developing baby.

Effects

As with many medications, it's not clear if the use of topical hydroquinone will pass to your breast milk. And, if it does, it's unclear if there would be any harm to your infant. However, be aware of any allergic reaction in your baby if you are using this product. These symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling in the face, tongue, throat or lips, as well as hives.
The Physician's Desk Reference does not include information about breastfeeding and the use of hydroquinone. While this reference is considered extensive, because of the lack of medical studies, the final answer on the use of this product while breastfeeding is unclear.

Considerations

The issue of dark pigmentation, however, can be uncomfortable for many women. If you're hesitant about using hydroquinone and would prefer to avoid it until there's more definitive information, use an alternative. Consider natural Cellex-C products; its Fade Away Gel for Dark Spots uses botanical ingredients. Also, a product known as Lightening Gel is derived from natural ingredients, including tea trea oil and kojic acids. They are also considered bleaching agents. Another product to consider is Kinerase. It's not a bleaching agent, but it helps fade light marks.
Avoid products that include high doses of vitamin A, such as Retin A or Tazorac. Products derived from high doses of vitamin A that are taken orally, such as Accutane, have been proven to cause birth defects.

Misconceptions

The use of hydroquinone while breastfeeding is not prohibited; however, be sure to let your doctor know if you are. Each woman's skin condition is unique and needs to be evaluated by a health practitioner. The health of the baby and the health of the mother need to both be taken into consideration before using a prescription product such as hydroquinone.

Warning

Topical treatments are poorly absorbed by the skin, which is one reason why your doctor may feel comfortable prescribing hydroquinone for while you are breastfeeding. But be sure to follow safety directions when using it. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby, especially near the mouth or eyes.

How to Recognize Ovulation Symptoms

It is very important to be able to recognize ovulation symptoms when you are trying to get pregnant. Knowing what ovulation symptoms look like will enable you to know when the best time is for you to try and get pregnant. Learn the many symptoms of ovulation and increase your chances of getting pregnant today.

Instructions

1

Charting Your Body Temperature to Recognize Ovulation Symptoms
One easily recognizable ovulation symptom is changes in your body temperature. During ovulation your body temperature will rise due to the release of hormones. The easiest way to recognize this ovulation symptom is to chart your daily temperature before you get out of bed in the morning. When you see an increase in temperature, you are ovulating. This increase will last until the first day of your cycle but you are most fertile when you first see the ovulation symptom of increased temperature.

2

Breast Sensitivity is an Ovulation Symptom
One ovulation symptom that many women experience is breast sensitivity. This ovulation symptom includes increased sensitivity in the breast and nipple area that is caused by increased hormones.

3

Changes in Cervical Mucus is an Ovulation Symptom
Most women produce cervical mucus and changes in this mucus is an ovulation symptom. During the time you are ovulating, cervical mucus should be almost clear, slippery, and have the consistency of a raw egg white. The change in cervical fluid as an ovulation symptom allows the sperm to travel to the egg easily.

4

Consider Buying Fertility Monitors
There are many products on the market to help you monitor fertility more accurately. It can be very helpful to purchase an ovulation monitor that will help you recognize ovulation symptoms.

How to Get a Breastfed Infant on Formula

Babies need to either be on breast milk or on formula until they turn 1 year old. Many parents switch from breast milk to formula as the baby gets older. This can be because the parent goes back to work or because the baby begins to get teeth. There are a few things you can do to make the transition from breast milk to formula easier for your infant.

Instructions

1

Pump breast milk and pour it into a bottle. Do this once a day for the first week, to get the infant used to the nipple on the bottle. The infant is still getting breast milk, so she won't reject the bottle based on taste.

2

Choose the baby formula you think is best for your baby. If necessary, ask your doctor. Make a bottle of formula and replace the daily breast milk bottle with the formula. The infant can get used to the new taste before he has to drink it full time. Do this for one week.

3

Gradually increase the amount of formula bottles and decrease the amount of times you breastfeed. This will let you naturally decrease the amount of milk you are producing. Cutting back all at once can cause painful breasts.

4

Make a schedule and stick to it. Write down week one's goals, introducing a bottle nipple to your infant. Week two would list what time of day the infant would get a formula bottle. Week three would list how many formula bottles your baby is getting and the times she is getting them.

Remedies for Constipation in Newborn Babies

Newborns usually have their first bowel movement within the first 24 hours after birth. Once they begin breastfeeding or bottle feeding, it is not uncommon for newborns to have infrequent bowel movements or go a few days without a dirty diaper which can confuse parents into thinking their newborn is suffering from constipation. Constipation is very common in newborn babies and usually a result of feeding changes from breast milk to formula or a reaction to switching formula types. Home remedies often treat the problem effectively, and if the problem persists, your pediatrician should be able to treat the condition successfully with suppositories, laxatives or natural alternative methods.

Symptoms

Newborn babies often strain while having a bowel movement and it is usually normal and not a sign for concern, but newborns that cry while passing a bowel movement may be constipated. Newborns suffering from constipation will often have bowel movements that are dry and hard instead of a normal loose, watery texture. The hardness of a constipated newborn bowel movement will be harder than the texture of peanut butter.

Home Treatment

Reduce feeding amounts and increase feeding times to allow your newborn to digest milk with ease. Add an additional bottle of water to daily feedings for formula-fed newborns to increase water intake and absorption in the intestines. Try giving your newborn a stomach massage in a warm bath to stimulate the intestines and assist with passing stools. If you notice your newborn is straining and having difficulty during a bowel movement, lay her on her back and gently push her knees up towards their chest in a "squatting" form to assist with the bowel movement. Picking up your newborn during a difficult bowel movement can also allow gravity to assist in passing a stool.

Professional Treatment

For newborns that have consistent problems with constipation, your pediatrician may recommend the use of glycerin suppositories or prescription laxatives. Flax oil may also be recommended as a natural alternative and added to bottles based on your doctor's recommendation to treat newborn constipation.

Considerations

Switching from breastfeeding to formula feeding can cause constipation and you should give your newborn a few days to adjust to the change. Switching formulas may also cause constipation and you should consult with your pediatrician on how to switch formulas and which formula is best suited for your newborn.

Misconceptions

Breastfed babies will pass bowel movements less frequently than formula fed babies. Babies who are formula-fed are not more likely to have constipation due to iron in the formula. Studies now show that iron is essential for a baby's development and should not be reduced.

Warning

Do not feed your newborn honey or corn syrup as a remedy for constipation. Both honey and corn syrup can contain the clostridium botulism bacteria that can cause the potentially fatal infection, infant botulism.

How to Treat Sagging Breasts After Breastfeeding

Some new mothers find that after weaning their babies from breast milk, their breasts are left sagging lower than they did pre-pregnancy. This is generally attributed to the actual breastfeeding, though a study by Dr. Brian Rinker of the University of Kentucky suggests that the act of breastfeeding has less to do with sagging breasts than pregnancy. Age and Body Mass Index (BMI), which can be affected by pregnancy-related weight gain, can also cause breasts to sag. With some work, and in some cases surgical procedures, your breasts can be restored nearly to their original, pre-baby appearance.

Instructions

1

Exercise. Cardiovascular and other exercises that target the chest muscles are an effective way to prevent your breasts from sagging. Cardio, when paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle, can help keep your BMI down and help you maintain the shape and position of your breasts. Exercising your chest muscles through push-ups and other strength training exercises will help keep your chest muscles tight and strong, which can lift your breasts. Since breasts sag naturally with age, you should do these exercises early, even before you have children, to keep your chest in shape and your muscles taut. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

2

Wear a supportive bra that fits properly. A well-fitting supportive bra is a helpful defense against sagging breasts. Arrange a proper bra fitting with a trained professional to ensure that your bra fits you properly. It should be comfortable with a strap that sits straight across the middle of your back without pinching. Wearing a bra that fully supports your breasts can take strain off of your chest muscles and help maintain your breast shape.

3

Wait for your body to adjust after breastfeeding. Pregnancy can cause changes to various parts of your body, including your breasts. When you begin breastfeeding your newborn, your breasts may become larger and fuller, but after weaning you may notice that they have begun to sag. They will return to roughly their original size and shape once you've completed the weaning process, according to lactation consultant Jan Barger.

4

Schedule a breast lift or implant consultation with a licensed plastic surgeon as a last resort if you are unhappy with the shape of your breasts and exercises and waiting do not yield the results you want. A simple breast lift can restore your breasts to your satisfaction, or you can opt for implants along with the breast lift to increase their size.

How to Heal Breast Pain

If you suffer from breast pain caused by mastitis, an infection of the mammary glands or breast tissue, there are ways to treat your symptoms and relieve your discomfort. Mastitis most often occurs a few months after delivering a baby, when milk ducts may become swollen or clogged in your breast. Other causes of mastitis may include a hormone imbalance that can occur during menopause or, in rare cases, cancer of the breast tissue, called "inflammatory carcinoma."

Instructions

Medication

1

Ask your doctor about taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These drugs are not released into your breast milk and are generally safe to use when breastfeeding. If your breast pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe prescription-strength medication.

2

Ask your doctor whether you need antibiotics. Because mastitis is an infection, it should respond well to antibiotic therapy. Your doctor will weigh the risks and benefits of prescribing antibiotics to you if you are breastfeeding. If breast pain is inhibiting the flow of milk or causing you not to breastfeed as often as you should for the health of your baby, your doctor will probably choose antibiotic therapy.

3

Avoid using medicated topical solutions and creams. Though they may provide temporary relief from cracked, sore or dry nipples, they will ultimately worsen mastitis and create a breeding ground for the bacteria that caused the infection. Also, if you are breastfeeding, the solution could end up being ingested by your baby.

Relief

4

Apply warm compresses to your breast before and after breastfeeding, or whenever you experience pressure and pain in your breast. If your breast tissue is too sore for a compress, soak in a warm tub of water to help relieve the pain.

5

Alternate between ice packs and warm compresses if you are not breastfeeding. Using an ice pack will inhibit milk flow if you are breastfeeding, so this therapy is not suggested before feedings.

6

Drink at least eight to ten 8 oz. glasses of water every day. Be sure to eat a diet high in fiber and vitamin C. This will help your body flush away excess toxins and keep your skin hydrated. Avoid spicy foods and overly processed foods, which could slow down your digestion and create further inflammation.

Surgery

7

If your mastitis is complicated by an abscess and buildup of fluids underneath the breast tissue, you may need to have an in-patient surgical procedure to drain the abscess and remove the fluids. Speak to your doctor if you notice pus and discolored drainage from your nipples.

8

If your doctor decides to perform surgery to drain a mild abscess, he will probably elect to do this in his office, using a local anesthesia. You should be able to return home or to work the same day, though you may experience soreness after the surgery. The incision site will be small, and there should be no substantial scarring.

9

For deeper and more advanced breast abscesses associated with mastitis, you may require hospitalization and surgery under general anesthesia. The incision may be larger and require more time to heal, and your doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic to prevent further infection after the procedure.

Celebrity Tips to Lose the Baby Weight Fast

Celebrities are under a lot of pressure to always look good and be in shape. So when they become pregnant and put on the necessary baby weight, it's expected they lose the weight as quickly as possible to regain their past image. Celebrity moms have developed some tricks and techniques for losing the baby weight fast in order to return to their former fit bodies in no time.

Breastfeeding

Celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow, Debra Messing, Camila Alves and Keri Russell swear that the best weight-loss secret is breastfeeding. Breastfeeding does burn around 500 calories a day through the production and extraction of milk. So continue to put the baby to the breast and let him eat whenever he is hungry because it will be benefiting you both in some great ways.

Already-Prepared Meals

Having and caring for a baby is a lot of work and you might find that you suddenly don't have time to eat correctly and cook the best meals possible. Celebrity moms lose weight by ordering meals that are all already prepared and nutritionally balanced so they get exactly what they need to help their systems regulate appropriately, provide enough calories for breastfeeding and encourage weight loss. Tori Spelling used NutriSystem and quickly lost the weight she put on with son Liam.

Yoga

Angelina Jolie and many other celebrity moms say yoga is what restored their fabulous pre-pregnancy bodies quickly because it helped tone, tighten and burn off fat all in one daily workout routine. Add some yoga to your daily routine when possible to start getting those loose areas tightened and toned. Also it will help you relax and keep your cool when caring for a little one stresses you out.

Cabbage Soup Diet

"My Name is Earl" star Jaime Pressly dropped 42 lbs. of baby weight with help from the Cabbage Soup Diet. She said it worked really well but the taste was awfully boring after a while. If you can stand to eat the same thing everyday in an attempt to lose your weight quickly, this might work for you. Just make sure you also supplement your diet with some vitamins and nutrients so your baby gets what he needs if you breastfeed.

Swimming

Swimming is one of the best workout there is and stars like Julia Roberts and Naomi Watts used it to shed 35 lbs. and 30 lbs., respectively. Swim every day for 30 or more minutes varying your strokes and you should start to see the pounds fall off as well as a tighter body all around.

How to Help a Gassy Baby

There are a variety of ways to help prevent gassiness in babies. But what about when you baby is crying and already gassy? Here are some tricks to try on gassy babies.

Instructions

1

Burping is the first action in helping a gassy infant. Pat your baby's back to help work up any bubbles. If nothing is coming up, lay your baby on his back for 20 seconds and then hold him upright and burp him. The changing of positions can really help your crying baby.

2

Use the secret weapon for gassy babies! Lay your baby on her back, hold onto her ankles and alternate moving her legs in a bicycle motion, bending her legs and gently pushing her knees into her tummy. This move was such a lifesaver for my gassy baby. It worked like a charm. Whenever she was really fussy, we would do this move and it wouldn't be long before she was tooting away!

3

Tummy time can help gassy babies. Give your baby supervised tummy time so he can work out his own gas, while exploring the world around him.

4

Walk around the house lightly bouncing her. Also, shift her around, changing the way you hold her. Sometimes, changing from one position to another helps things to move along. Take turns with someone holding her and help calm her, a lot of times, as the baby is being passed to another person, some gas will escape! The change of scenery might help distract a gassy crying baby as well.

5

Hold her high up on your shoulder so your shoulder is gently putting pressure on her tummy and gently bounce while singing a song to comfort her.

6

Massage your baby's belly with some massage oil, this will help relax her and break up the gas bubbles. Run your baby's belly in a circular motion. Rub down her legs and gently tug on her legs a little bit. Holding her lower legs, make gentle pulling motions towards you. Your baby may scoot towards you a little as you do this. If she gets too close, just move her back and do it some more. This worked great with my daughter, especially combined with The Secret Weapon!

7

Gripe water is great for colic, gas, teething pain or other stomach ailments. It's been used for a very long time. It works wonders when you eat something that upsets your baby through breast milk, or anytime baby gets something that doesn't agree with his tummy. In my experience, Gripe Water works MUCH better than Mylicon.

How to Cope With Sore Nipples While Breastfeeding

Some women experience painfully-sensitive nipples when they are breastfeeding. Generally, this sensitivity will ease quickly as you continue to nurse your baby. However, some women will continue to experience sore nipples as they breastfeed. This soreness is often due to your newborn being a vigorous nurser or to the fact that your baby does not have a proper latch on your nipple. Below are some tips for dealing with sore nipples while you are breastfeeding your baby.

Instructions

1

Make sure that your baby is positioned correctly. Position your baby so that her entire body is facing your breast and be sure that your entire areola, not just your nipple, is in her mouth.

2

Allow sore or cracked nipples to air dry after each feeding. Be sure that your bra or clothing is not irritating your nipples by wearing breast shells.

3

Change your nursing pads often, especially if they are damp. Be sure that your nursing pads do not have a plastic liner. This will only increase the irritation to your already sore nipples.

4

Use a commercial nipple cream to help ease the discomfort of cracked nipples. After you nurse your baby apply medical-grade lanolin to your nipples.

5

Wash your nipples with water only. Do not use soap, alcohol, or moistened towelettes.

6

Wet tea bags with cool water and place them over your nipples. This will help to soothe your sensitive nipples.

How to Increase Breast Milk With Lactation Tea

Sometimes the breastfeeding efforts of the most dedicated mothers can be frustrated by a low supply of breast milk. Lactation teas, which are herbal teas, are just one of many things a breastfeeding mom can try to increase her supply of breast milk.

Instructions

1

Determine whether you actually have a breast milk supply issue first. After the first six weeks of baby's life, your body has figured out how much milk your baby needs. You will find that your breasts will become softer and you may not experience as much of a sensation of letdown as previously. This doesn't mean your supply is low.

2

Find that remedies used to increase the production of breast milk are called galactagogues. The most common herbal galactagogues are fenugreek, blessed thistle and alfalfa. Caffeine-free teas that contain these herbs are specially produced for mothers wishing to increase their breast milk supply. They are available at most nutrition stores, and are available for ordering over the Internet.

3

Steep a bag of tealeaves in hot water until the tea has reached your preferred strength. Enjoy a cup of lactation tea as often as is recommended, usually three times a day. In addition, continue to drink plenty of water. Be alert for any signs of an allergic reaction either in yourself or in your baby, discontinue use if that occurs and consult your doctor.

4

Continue to nurse your baby frequently, at least every two hours during the day and every 3 hours overnight. Be sure the baby is latching on correctly, and efficiently nursing at each breast in order to obtain the fatty hind milk. The combination of lactation tea and continuing to nurse your baby should help to increase your milk supply.

How to Lose Baby Weight Like Kerri Russell

Keri Russell is a famous actress and petite movie star who recently gave birth to son River. Although Keri is naturally small, she has many tips and tricks for balancing motherhood and losing weight along the way.

Instructions

Get Her Body

1

Stay realistic when it comes to shedding pregnancy pounds after giving birth. Although Keri was photographed looking slim and trim a mere two weeks post-partum, the average womans body takes time to return to a healthy size.

2

Stay active during pregnancy like Keri, by continuing moderate exercise. Keri kept in shape by alternating between hour long workouts on Pilates machines (called a Reformer) every other day, and daily 20 minutes walks around a hilly park near her home.

3

Keep active in your day to day life, especially when working with a busy parenting schedule. Although Keri often skips daily workouts, she walks every day (running errands) and carries the weight of her son. Simply using the weight of your baby (in a pouch or baby carrier) while staying active can help burn calories throughout the day.

4

Eat everything in moderation. Keri is describes herself as naturally thin, but she also enjoys healthy choices of foods such as vegetables, eggs and salad. She values nutrition even more because she is breastfeeding and she skips unhealthy desserts and sweets whenever possible.

5

Try breastfeeding post-partum to help reduce weight and burn calories. Although Keri cited breastfeeding and good genes as the main aid in her weight loss for new mothers who cannot breastfeed continue to pay the same attention to proper nutrition. Try to treat your body with care and balance after giving birth and you will feel great in no time.

How to Lift Saggy Breasts

Saggy breasts result from many factors, including: pregnancy, when estrogen and progesterone stimulate glands in the breasts' fatty tissue; menopause, where a lack of estrogen reduces breast size; and even gravity, which puts breasts under continuous stress, causing the skin around them to loosen. Fortunately, you can lift your breasts in a variety of ways.

Instructions

1

Perform the pec flye exercise on a machine at your local gym. Execute three to five repetitions two to four times. Rest for two to three minutes between reps. Hold the weight for more than 15 seconds a fourth of the way back or halfway back for two repetitions, for faster results. Do these exercises three to four times per week, or as many times as you feel comfortable. The pec flye exercise helps lift saggy breasts by making them more toned and firm.

2

Get measured for a properly fitting bra every six months. Your bra should rest firmly against your rib cage and be level front to back across the bodice. Change your bra's cup size after experiencing significant weight loss or gain. Have a bra-specialist at your local lingerie or department store fit you for proper cup size. Wear a sports bra while exercising, especially if you are well-endowed, as that can bring about soreness in the breasts after exercise.

3

Moisturize your breasts twice a day with body lotion or skin-tightening cream. This will help keep and rebuild their elasticity. Massage your breasts twice a day to help tone them for a firm look.

How to Lose Post-Pregnancy Pounds With Weight Watchers

Weight watchers is a great weight loss program. Most women trying to lose their pregnancy weight use the point system where foods based on calories, fats and fiber are assigned a certain number of points. Each person on the program is given a goal points for the day, based on weight, exercise amount and whether the person is breastfeeding.

Instructions

1

Join the Weight Watcher's Program. You can join online or at weight Watcher's locations (see Resources below). You will probably not be able to stick to a Weight Watcher's diet unless you have officially enrolled in Weight Watchers.

2

Plan to attend the Weight Watcher's Meetings. You will have better success at these meetings than you will on your own.

3

Breastfeed your baby if possible. Breastfeeding is a great way to burn calories and Weight Watcher's automatically adds extra points to breastfeeding moms, since it burns so many calories. Many breastfeeding moms find it easy to lose their pregnancy weight using Weight Watchers.

4

Build exercise into your regime. Weight Watchers gives extra points when you exercise, depending on the type of exercise and how long you exercise for. Exercise is actually one of the best ways to lose your pregnancy weight. In addition, if you exercise, you'll have more energy for dealing with your baby if you exercise.

5

Make it a life-long plan. One of the problems many people have with weight loss is keeping the weight permanently off. Plan on using the tips you learn from weight watchers to keep your pregnancy weight permanently off (or at least until you have your next baby).

Colace Nursing Considerations

Colace is used to treat constipation. It increases the amount of water and fat absorbed by the feces, softening the stool and making it easier to pass.

Colace is the brand name for docusate sodium and is available as liquid, capsules and suppositories, on prescription and over the counter. It is made by Purdue Products L.P.

Misconceptions

Contrary to popular opinion, it is not necessary to have a bowel movement every day. Everyone has their own pattern and constipation is diagnosed when bowel movements are fewer than three times weekly. Constipated stools are small in size, hard, dry and difficult or painful to pass.

Constipation is a very common complaint in the U.S. accounting for 2.5 million visits to a physician and $725 million spent on laxative products every year. It is most prevalent in people over 60 and in women, particularly when pregnant .

Warning

Contraindications to the use of Colace

Colace should not be given if there is a suspicion of intestinal obstruction.

It may interfere with the efficacy of aspirin, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics and mineral oil (liquid paraffin).

It increases the absorption of anthraquinones such as found in laxatives, antimalarial drugs and some cancer drugs.

Other contraindications include: inflammatory bowel disease such as Crone's and ulcerative colitis; coloproctitis; abdominal pain and nausea. Rectal preparations should be avoided in the case of hemorrhoids, anal fissure and bleeding from the anus.

Use With Caution

Use Colace with caution in pregnancy.

Briggs' "Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation" states that no congenital defects have been noted as a result of taking Colace, even during the first trimester.

No undue effects have been reported in breastfeeding babies and it is not known whether it passes into breast milk.

Colace should be given as a short-term remedy only and dietary advice given. The Food Standards Agency recommends a diet which includes adequate fluids and dietary fiber.

Side Effects

Look out for side effects.

Side effects include stomach ache, abdominal cramps, nausea and loss of appetite.

Oral preparations can cause throat irritation which can be avoided by mixing the solution in fruit juice.

Rectal preparations can also cause local irritation.

Allergy to ingredients can cause skin rash; the medication should be stopped immediately and a doctor consulted.

Hypocalcaemia (low calcium) may occur, leading to muscle cramps, muscle weakness and dizziness.

Considerations

Make a full assessment of the patient.

Prior to administering Colace, the nurse should make a full assessment of the patient to identify possible causes of constipation.

WD.com recommends enquiry into: diet and lifestyle; duration of constipation and whether it is acute or chronic; all medications taken, whether prescribed over the counter or recreational; associated symptoms such as bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain, vomiting.

Physical exam should include examination of the abdomen and the rectum. An empty rectum may be a sign of bowel obstruction rather than simple constipation.

Administering Colace

Administer Colace correctly.

Oral preparations of Colace should be administered on an empty stomach at least one hour apart from other medications, meals, milk and antacids. It may be given in juice to prevent possible throat irritation.

Six to eight ounces or 180-240 ml of water should be taken with oral preparations. When administering rectal preparations, beware of forcing past impacted feces.

Discontinue the medication at the first sign of nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps or rectal bleeding.

How to Cure Food Poisoning Symptoms

You may get food poisoning from eating meat that is not fully cooked, that is contaminated by bacteria, or that is spoiled, as well as from using unclean utensils. Symptoms of food poisoning include severe stomach cramps, fever, nausea, diarrhea, and chills, usually within two days of being exposed to the cause of the illness. Food poisoning can make you feel miserable and cause you to become dehydrated. It is important to find quick, effective relief to help cure your symptoms.

Instructions

1

Fill a hot-water bottle with warm water and place it on your abdomen where you feel cramps, to aid in easing them.

2

Get hold of some activated charcoal. You can get it from a health food store in capsule form and should take two capsules with water every hour until symptoms ease or as directed by the labeling. Activated charcoal capsules will help to move toxins and harmful bacteria out of your system. Keeping a bottle of this remedy in your home would be a wise thing to do in case of digestive emergencies. Consult your doctor about using activated charcoal if you are on any prescription medications or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

3

Get some comfort with a few slices of plain white bread. However, refrain from putting any kind of topping on it. The bread will sop up the toxins that have caused your food poisoning and help get rid of the symptoms.

4

Eat a banana or two. Bananas have a healthy amount of potassium, which you have probably lost a lot of through diarrhea and vomiting. Mash up a few bananas and eat throughout the day to help make your stomach feel less queasy.

5

Limit your diet to bland dishes. Even if you feel your symptoms start to ease, you should refrain from eating foods that are salty, heavy, greasy, spicy, highly seasoned, or rich. Eat things like oatmeal, chicken soup, unsalted crackers, and yogurt, which are very light.

6

Remember to stay properly hydrated. The diarrhea that comes with food poisoning can cause your body to become dehydrated and weakened. For that reason, sip liquids like water, bouillon, sports drinks, apple juice, ginger ale, or decaffeinated tea at room temperature. Avoid drinking any caffeinated drinks.

How to Overcome Lactation Failure

When you're not able to provide enough milk for your baby it's called lactation failure. It's a heartbreaking problem that involves emotional stress and possibly even depression, adding to the stress of having to care for a new baby. Here are some things that you can do when faced with lactation failure.

Instructions

1

Find a supportive lactation consultant. Some breastfeeding experts hold the strong opinion that every mom can breastfeed their baby with pumping, herbal supplements and improvements to breastfeeding technique. The fact is that every mom can breastfeed her baby, but some just can't supply all the nutrition her baby needs. Find a lactation consultant who understands that lactation failure can and does happen and who will be understanding to your feelings of failure.

2

Do what you can to eliminate stress. Stress is a factor in every home with a new baby, but it can actually be hurting your ability to breastfeed if you're under too much stress. Try to take a walk once a day, but don't beat yourself up if you don't.

3

Learn more about lactation failure and breastfeeding problems. La Leche League has wonderful information about some of the possible causes of lactation failure and what might be done about them.

4

Try a nursing supplementer. This nifty little device enables even adoptive moms to nurse their babies. It also keeps the baby on your breast, which helps your body produce more milk.

5

Redefine success. Celebrate the fact that you were finally able to hear your baby suck and swallow or take less of the supplement. Be thankful for the blessings each day and celebrate the little accomplishments.

6

Search out support. Overcoming breast feeding problems requires help. Find someone to talk to about how you feel. A great place to start is your local La Leche League.

7

Keep things in perspective. When your baby is 2 years old, it won't matter that you had to give him a few supplements each day. Take a deep breath and enjoy that little angel.

How to Assemble an Evenflo Breast Pump

There are a number of different types and styles of Evenflo breast pumps, but most of them use a number of basic parts that must be assembled in order to make them work properly. To work, an Evenflo breast pump must be able to create a seal around the breast in order to be able to create suction. All of the assembled parts are necessary for creating that suction.

Instructions

1

Attach the breast shield to the T-shaped plastic tube that will connect the breast shield, the bottle and the pump motor. On most models, the breast shield, the large, cone-shaped portion that fits over the breast, will screw into the tubing. If the hold the tubing so that it has an opening at both ends, the opening in the middle is the one where the breast shield is attached.

2

Put the small, rubber flab on the valve. The valve is the small, colored piece of plastic that fits onto the bottom part of the tubing. The rubber flap has a small notch in the back that fits into a hole on the valve. On most Evenflo breast pumps, the valve is either yellow or blue to coordinate with the motor casing.

3

Screw the valve onto the bottom of the clear tubing. Make sure that the valve and the rubber flap fit securely so that the right suction can be maintained.

4

Fit the motor onto the top of the tubing. The motor is houses in the colored plastic top of the breast pump. There will be an opening on the underside of it where you screw in the top part of the tube.

5

Put the baby bottle over the valve and screw it into the bottom part of the tubing. The valve will be inside the bottle.

How to Deal With Breast Engorgement

Breast engorgement is painful if not treated. Engorgement of breasts occurs when they are overfilled with milk due to the imbalance between your baby's feeding and your milk production. Your breasts will become warm and firm. You might also have flu-like symptoms due to breast engorgement.

Instructions

1

Make sure that at least one of your breasts is empty after each feeding. Use a machine pump or hand expression to extract the residual milk after each feeding.

2

When you have breast engorgement, the nipples are flattened and it is difficult for your baby to latch on correctly. A proper latch-on will help your baby to get enough milk and reduce the risk of nipple soreness.

3

Gently massage your breasts when feeding your baby. Massage during a shower also helps. Wear a comfortable nursing bra.

4

After feeding, apply ice packs to your breast to reduce swelling. Take a warm bath or use a warm cloth to apply on the areola. Warm showers also help to release milk from your breasts.

5

Take pain medications if necessary. Both Tylenol and Advil are safe for breast feeding.