How to Stop Breastmilk From Producing

While it supplies optimal nutrition, breastmilk is not the only option. Formula feeding is perfectly acceptable as well. If you have chosen to discontinue breastfeeding, there are a few ways to stop breastmilk from producing. No matter what you choose, there will be some discomfort during the process. The process of weaning a baby from breastfeeding should be a slow one. Doing so will keep you comfortable and make it easier on the child.

Instructions

1

Shorten the time that you nurse by five to 10 minutes every other day. After doing that for a week or two, go longer between breastfeeding sessions. Doing this slowly is more comfortable for you and will be easier for the child to make the adjustment.

2

Reduce pumping sessions. This only applies if you exclusively pump breastmilk. Get rid of one pump session every two or three days. On those days, pump just a bit, so that your breasts are not overly engorged. Continue to reduce pumping sessions every four to five days, until you have stopped producing breastmilk.

3

Wear a snug-fitting bra or sports bra. Another option is to wrap the breasts with an ace bandage instead. Keep the breasts tightly secured, as much as possible. Breasts that are not contained stimulate prolactin, which makes them produce breastmilk.

4

Reduce stimulation of the breasts and nipples. This is in addition to not allowing the baby to stimulate them or the breast pump. Stimulating the breasts will cause them to keep producing breastmilk.

How to Speed Up Weight Loss With Breastfeeding

There are a consummate number of reasons breastfeeding is an excellent choice for your new baby. In addition to providing your baby with essential nutrients and disease fighting abilities, breastfeeding your baby helps you speed up the weight loss process. When you breastfeed, your body burns hundreds of extra calories each day without any sort of exercise or dieting. Lose that baby weight faster by breastfeeding and adding additional practices into your daily life.

Instructions

1

Eat a healthy diet, advises professor of nutrition and food science at Auburn University, Barbara Struempler. Breastfeeding your new baby will not benefit your own weight loss or your babys health if you are not filling up with foods that are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and healthy fat. Your milk supply will drop and the nutrients your baby needs to thrive will not be present in your breast milk. Speed up your weight loss by eating approximately 500 calories per day more than your daily recommended intake. This is not an excuse to fill up on junk or unhealthy foods, however. Try a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, dairy and lean proteins.

2

Weigh yourself once a week and aim to lose between a half and one pound of weight each week, advises Struempler. Any more than that is considered unhealthy for both you and your milk supply. The important thing to remember is that if you are losing too much weight, your baby is not gaining the adequate amount of nutrition from your breast milk, which means she is not growing, gaining weight or taking in the nutrients she needs to be as healthy as possible.

3

Exercise, advises James M. Pivarnik, Ph.D. and professor of kinesiology and epidemiology at Michigan State University. According to Pivarnik, you should aim for approximately 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week to maintain the maximum health benefits that go along with breastfeeding. This doesnt mean you have to join the gym, it means taking a walk with the baby every day, doing yoga, jogging or cardio. If time is an issues as it frequently is with a new baby in the house limit your exercise to 10-minute intervals three times a day.

Recommended Length of Time to Breastfeed

Breastfeeding your baby for the first year of her life is rewarding for you and your little one. Although it may take a bit for the two of you get the hang of the procedure, youll be providing vital nutrients for her growing body and both of you will be sharing an invaluable bonding experience. The American Academy of Pediatrics has set some general breastfeeding guidelines, but ultimately the length, frequency and duration is unique to you and your baby.

Hunger and Satiety

Instead of relying solely on a rigid breastfeeding schedule, the AAP recommends breastfeeding on demand. You will notice your baby hunger cues and satiety. When its time to eat, the AAP states that she will look more alert; start sucking on her fingers or hands; make smacking sounds with her mouth; or squirm, kick or start rooting. Crying comes after these early hunger signs. When she has had enough to eat, she may fall asleep, pull away from the breast or simply look content. Babies actually regulate their own length of feeding pretty well.

Frequency

At the beginning, you may feel like your baby is eating all the time. Breastfed newborns are hungry more often than bottle-fed newborns and older babies. They will eat every two to three hours or eight to 12 times every 24 hours. As a baby gets older, the time between feedings is farther apart, closer to every three to four hours or six to eight feedings a day.

Duration

The length of time per feeding will vary. For the first month, each feeding may take 20 to 45 minutes, as youre both getting used to the process and she may have a hard time latching on or staying awake. You must switch breasts during the feeding and alternate which breast you offer first. If you are worried about your baby eating enough, the AAP points out that your baby gets 90 percent of her nutrition within the first 10 minutes on each breast. As she gets older, feedings will take around 15 to 20 minutes. During growth spurts, you may notice that she eats longer and more frequently.

When to Stop

The AAP advocates breastfeeding as the only source of food for the first six months of life. Somewhere around the six-month mark, you will start introducing solid foods into her diet, in addition to breast milk. The AAP also recommends continuing to breastfeed until her first birthday. After that, the choice is up to you. Keep in mind that your baby will get increasingly distracted and active as time goes on. Teeth also start to come in by her first birthday, so be mindful that she may clamp down and this can be painful for mom.

Can a Nursing Mother Eat Food Cooked With Alcohol?

After living without alcohol for the nine months of your pregnancy, you might look forward to have a glass of wine now and then or a burger with a bourbon glaze. But if you're breastfeeding, you might also feel like you need to continue your abstinence program until you wean your baby. Fortunately, this isn't true. Nursing moms can consume some alcohol without harming their baby. And most foods cooked with alcohol don't retain enough alcohol to exceed your limits.

Breastfeeding and Alcohol

Consuming a small amount of alcohol occasionally doesn't harm your nursing infant, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. The organization recommends ingesting no more than 2 ounces of liquor, 8 ounces of wine or two beers at one time if you weigh around 125 pounds. La Leche League International reports that your consumption of a single drink per day or less has no proven ill effects on your baby. In large amounts, alcohol can decrease your milk supply; it can also make your baby sleepy, weak and lethargic; chronic alcohol ingestion in breast milk can also cause decreased linear growth in your baby.

Cooking Methods

Many dishes use alcohol to enhance their flavors. Not all the alcohol remains in the food after it cooks; the manner of cooking influences how much alcohol remains in the foods. When you're nursing, stick to cooking methods that give you the least amount of alcohol. When you add alcohol to a recipe that needs no further cooking, such as to a refrigerated dessert, the alcohol content doesn't change at all. Flaming alcohol burns off less than cooking it slowly; a flamed dish may still contain 75 percent of the alcohol it started with, according to "Today" at Colorado State University. Simmering reduces the amount of alcohol in a dish in a time-dependent manner. Cooking in a smaller pan also retains more alcohol, because there's less surface area for alcohol to evaporate from.

The Effects of Time

The longer you cook a food, the less alcohol remains. Around 40 percent of the original alcohol content survives after simmering a dish for 15 minutes and only 5 percent remains after 2 1/2 hours, according to CSU. Adding alcohol to boiling liquid and then removing the liquid immediately from the heat causes the liquid to retain around 85 percent of its alcohol content.

Exceeding the Limit

If you do occasionally overindulge in alcohol, whether it's in food or straight out of a glass, when breastfeeding, you don't have to throw out the breast milk and head for the formulas. You do have to wait two hours after your last drink before breastfeeding, to allow time for the alcohol to pass out of your breast milk, the AAP recommends. Alcohol doesn't remain in breast milk, unless you pump it; then it has no place to go. When it stays in your breast, it diffuses back out into your bloodstream; as your blood alcohol level drops, so does the level of alcohol in your breast milk. Less than 2 percent of the alcohol you consume reaches your breast milk, according to certified lactation consultant Kelly Bonyata. It's rarely necessary to "pump and dump" unless you're really uncomfortable and won't be nursing for several hours.

How to Tie a Moby Wrap for Nursing

Using a Moby wrap to carry your infant keeps your baby close to you while leaving your hands free. Newborns spend a lot of time sleeping and eating, and once you get comfortable carrying your baby in a Moby, it's easy and convenient to and nurse her while she's in the wrap. Breastfeeding your baby in a Moby wrap keeps him close and secure while allowing you the ability to walk around and use your hands.

Instructions

Tie the Moby in the Basic Wrap Position

1

Arrange the Moby wrap across your waist, making sure the tag is centered in front of your belly.

2

Pull the ends behind your back and cross one end up and around one shoulder, then do the same with the other end. The Moby should create a cross on your back.

3

Bring the wrap's ends down through the front panel in front of your waist.

4

Pull each end, creating another cross with the wrap on your chest.

5

Wrap the ends around your waist and tie them where comfortableon your back, side or stomach.

Put Your Baby in the Moby in the Hug Hold Position

6

Pick up your baby, hold him on your right shoulder and place his left leg through the Moby panel that is closest to the left side of your chest.

7

Pull the Moby over your baby's bottom and shoulder, stretching the wrap down to the back of your baby's knee.

8

While supporting your baby's weight, tuck her other leg into the fabric section closet to the right side of your chest.

9

Arrange the Moby so that it evenly covers your baby's bottom and shoulders.

10

Tuck your baby's legs into the front panel where the tag is located. Bring up this panel to cover your baby's back and shoulders.

Arrange Your Baby for Nursing

11

Bring the Moby's front panel back down under your baby and pull the shoulder panels to the side so that you can lift your baby.

12

Remove the baby's leg that is closest to you from the Moby and reach inside to turn your baby's other leg to the side. Both legs should now be out of the shoulder panels.

13

Support your baby's head and pull the nearest shoulder panel open to lower your baby's head to the breast.

14

Arrange the panel closest to your body so that it holds your baby's head, shoulders and bottom in the proper position.

How to Make a Nursing Bra

Whoever was the first to come up with the concept of the nursing bra had the right idea. You design a bra that makes it easy for nursing mothers to transition from regular day clothes into nursing mode without a lot of undressing. Even if you don't feel like dropping the money on a nursing bra, you can still have one. Just make it yourself.

Instructions

1

Start with any comfortable bra. Really, you can choose any size, color or style. You can even choose a sports bra to start with, although the process of making it into a nursing bra might make it loose its nice support features.

2

Make two cuts in the nipple portion of the cups. Cut out a small circle or triangle from each cup.

3

Use some extra fabric to make little covers for the holes you just cut. Make sure the fabric is soft and not itchy. Cut these pieces of fabric slightly bigger than the holes in your bra.

4

Place a little flap over the outside of the bra and over the hole you made in Step 2. Sew the bottom edge of the flap in place. Use peel-and-stick Velcro to secure the top of the flap to the cup of the bra. Repeat this step for the other cup of the bra.

5

Peel the flap down whenever you're ready to begin nursing, and there you go.

How to Recognize Signs of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding usually decreases a woman's fertility by suppressing ovulation, but it is possible to become pregnant while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding women may not know they are pregnant, because they are not menstruating. But several other signs and symptoms can alert them.

Instructions

Recognizing Symptoms of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding

1

Notice if your nipples are sore (or more sore than normal), and if your breasts are tender and more swollen than usual. These are usually the first signs of pregnancy.

2

Note whether your milk supply is decreasing. The hormones produced during pregnancy cause a reduction in your milk supply starting from two to eight weeks after conception, and continuing through pregnancy until birth.

3

Observe whether the breast milk becomes less white and more watery in appearance. Do not be alarmed if your baby weans himself at this time, because the breast milk will also have a different taste. At the same time, don't worry if your baby keeps breastfeeding, the milk still has the same nutritional composition.

4

Notice if you are feeling more tired than usual.

5

Observe whether you are having common symptoms of pregnancy--heightened sense of smell, change in taste or nausea.

6

Notice if you are having minor to strong cramping during nursing. This is due to the hormone oxytocin, which is produced during breastfeeding to let the milk flow. It is the same hormone that is produced during labor. This type of cramping will not lead to a miscarriage.

The Effects of Sugar on Breastfed Babies

Breastfeeding your infant provides her with essential nutrients and vitamins. Your breast milk is custom-made to meet your baby's needs. Though your body does a good job of filtering the things you eat before the nutrients are passed on to your baby, it's always a good idea to pay attention to the foods you consume and try to limit unhealthy items.

Caloric Levels

No matter how many calories or fat grams a mother takes in while breastfeeding, the levels of fat and calories in her milk remain unaffected. Milk sugar is the main component in breast milk, and all nursing mothers have the same amount of sugar in their milk. Even when a mother has a diet that is high in sugar, her body will filter out the junk and create the same beneficial breast milk that every nursing baby enjoys.

Fat Content

Likewise, all breast milk contains the same amount of fat. Fat content in breast milk is determined more by the time of day than by what foods a breastfeeding mother eats. A nursing mom's diet can affect what kinds of fats are most present in her milk, but eating sugar will not change the amount of fat that her breast milk contains.

Artificial Sweeteners

Most artificial sweeteners are safe for nursing mothers to eat. Babies who do not have allergies or phenylketonuria are not affected by sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose. However, it's a good idea not to overdo it, especially on new and untested artificial sweeteners. Moderate use of these sweeteners is safe for breastfeeding moms and will not affect breastfed babies.

Tooth Decay

It was previously believed that the sugar in breast milk could cause infant tooth decay, but a study by Dr. Norman Tinanoff found that breastfeeding does not cause an unusual number of cavities in children. Breast milk contains protein that protects tooth enamel and has antibacterial properties that help prevent bacteria growth. Tooth decay in young children is best prevented by good oral hygiene habits. The amount of sugar in a breastfeeding mother's diet does not affect the levels of tooth decay that her children will experience.

Energy Levels

While consuming sugar may not have a detrimental effect on a breastfeeding mother's infant, it may negatively affect her own health. Since her body will take the nutrients it needs from her to provide the best milk for her baby, a mother who eats large amounts of sugar may suffer from a loss of energy. Breastfeeding moms need protein-rich foods to fuel their bodies while generating milk for their babies.

How to Develop a Positive Body Image After Childbirth

Pregnancy takes a woman's body on a physical and emotional roller coaster. It can be really difficult to regain or boost a positive body image without the right mindset. Having a strong support system at home and in your community is a vital part of your recovery, but it is important to know that you can give this to yourself. Learn great ways to motivate yourself and feel great despite the way you look after pregnancy.

Instructions

1

Love yourself. Your body has sacrificed its shape and has succumbed to so many changes. The only way to make a better outside you is to love the inside of you. You cant change the outside without creating a healthy mindset. Realize that you just gave life to a human being.

2

Remember that it takes 9 months to create a baby so expecting your body to completely return to your pre-pregnancy figure immediately is sure to get you down. You may lose all of your weight fairly quickly, like within weeks of giving birth however, the structure of your body has changed. Your stomach will likely be darker and if you had stretch marksthey dont get any better now that your belly is gone.

3

Breastfeed your baby to get the weight off at a more rapid pace.

4

Work out. There is no way to get your body even remotely close to what it was without working out. As stated before, you may lose the weight but you will have to do a lot more than just breastfeed in order to tighten it up. Whether you want to hear it or not, the flab needs to be firmed. Do crunches, run, jog, walk and dont be lazy. The worst thing to do is sit around sulking and crying about your body.

5

Return to healthy eating habits. Since your body is not dividing the nutrients or junk that youre eating anymore, its all going to you. You dont so much have to diet but avoid greasy and fatty foods. Also, limiting the junk snacks and adding more greens keeps you regular. It may be gross, but being clogged up can really make you feel heavier.

6

Buy new clothes. Let shopping be your catharsis! Its therapeutic. Realize that your clothes will not fit the same after you have a baby. Your boobs and your hips are bigger and your pants may give you that little mushroom affect with your stomach. Buy some clothes that fit and flatter your new body. Shopping will definitely help to build a positive body image after childbirth.

7

Stop listening to what other people and other moms say if it gets you down. No woman is created the same way. Some women regain their body shape in 3 weeks, and it takes months or even years for some. Go with the flow of your body and dont pay attention to what your neighbors best friends daughter went through.

8

Get out of the house. Theres nothing like fresh air to make you feel better. Even if its just for a quick walk around the block, youll feel a lot better than just sitting in the house all day.

9

Wear a body shaper if youre still a little body conscious about your midsection.

Positioning a Newborn to Feed

Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or some combination, in the first few weeks of your newborn's life you may have trouble getting her to feed. While every baby is different and will drink the best in different ways, there are a few different ways to try if she's having trouble. However you're nourishing your newborn, try to relax. Being stressed and overwhelmed will just make feedings more difficult for both of you. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help feeding from your nurses in the hospital or from breastfeeding professionals, if that's what you're doing.

Bottle Feeding

Moms who are bottle feeding their babies should cuddle the baby against their chest, supporting the baby with the arm that the baby's head is pointed towards. The baby's bottom will rest on your thighs, or on a pillow on your lap if that's more comfortable, explains the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Remember to keep the baby's head and neck supported with your arm, and tickle the baby's mouth with the nipple. For bottle feeding, the baby will be on his back.

Nursing Positions

KidsHealth suggests several ways of positioning your newborn to breastfeed. In one variation, you can hold the baby in the crook of your arm, supporting the baby's head and body with the arm that your baby's head is pointed towards. Then, gently turn your baby onto her side so that her belly is facing you. Use the hand of your other arm to lift your breast and direct your nipple into the baby's mouth. The baby's bottom will be resting on your arm or in your lap for this one. In the alternative, you can switch arms and instead cradle the baby with the opposite arm, the one her feet are pointed towards. In this position, you can control the feeding breast with the opposite hand.

Feeding Considerations

Some parents stop every few minutes or every ounce during a feeding to burp their baby. This is up to you, but if he is feeding happily, consider waiting until the feeding is over to burp. If he starts squirming or looking uncomfortable, then it's a different story and you should pause to see if he will burp.

Involving Your Partner If You're Breastfeeding

Dads can sometimes feel a little left out while Mom is exclusively nursing the baby. But there are still ways to include the father in the bonding process. If possible, pump a few ounces of breast milk a day so that your partner can give the baby a bottle. This will allow him to feel like a part of nourishing his baby, as well giving you a bit of a break. For instance, if you pump extra milk during the day, then perhaps your partner can use the pumped milk to take over handling one of the nighttime feedings, allowing you to catch a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.

How to Store Breast Milk in Glass Bottles

Pumping and storing breast milk in glass bottles is the recommended method if you plan to store the milk in the freezer. Glass bottles offer the best protection against leakage and contamination. Sterilization of the bottles before collection isn't necessary as long as they are washed thoroughly with soap and hot water either by hand or in the dishwasher.

Instructions

1

Pump in 2 to 4 ounces of milk per bottle, making sure there is at least an inch of space left at the top of the bottle to allow for expansion during freezing. Two to 4 ounces is ideal because it will be consumed more quickly than a larger amount, ensuring less waste.

2

Cap the bottle with the lid securely, taking care not to get any liquid in the threading. This can cause cracking of the lid during the freezing process.

3

Place a piece of masking tape or a label on the bottle and record the date and amount of milk with a permanent marking pen.

4

Pack the bottles of breast milk in the open plastic container and store in the back part of the refrigerator or freezer. Keeping the bottles in a container will ensure easy access and guard against contamination.

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Breastfeeding & Alcohol

Once the baby is born and the danger of fetal alcohol syndrome is past, mothers often wonder whether it is safe for them to drink alcohol. If you are breastfeeding, alcohol is not forbidden; however, the alcohol could potentially reach your baby through your breast milk. Luckily, alcohol won't harm your nursing child if you follow the American Academy of Pediatrics' advice for drinking as a breastfeeding mother.

Moderation

The Healthy Children website, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics or the AAP, teaches that a breastfeeding mother can occasionally imbibe alcohol. You shouldn't drink excessively or regularly, because this could harm your baby, but you can drink in moderation.

Alcohol in the Breast Milk

When you consume alcohol, it enters your bloodstream, and a small portion could reach your breast milk, warns Healthy Children. For an hour or so after you finish drinking, your body processes the alcohol and removes it from your bloodstream; after all the alcohol has been digested, it no longer affects your milk.

How to Drink Safely

If you drink, do so shortly after breastfeeding. Then, wait two hours per drink before nursing again, Healthy Children advises; by that time, your body will have processed all the alcohol. Habitual or regular drinking can endanger your baby, so don't have more than one or two drinks at a time, and don't drink every day.

Alcohol and Milk Production

A popular, but inaccurate, myth teaches that drinking alcohol can help increase your milk production. Scientists have investigated whether alcohol is a galactagogue, a substance that enhances breast milk production. "Pediatrics," a journal published by the AAP, proved that alcohol is not a galactagogue and does not stimulate milk production. In fact, "AAP News" found that babies drink less milk after their mothers imbibe alcohol.

Potential Effects

If you drink too much alcohol or breastfeed your baby too soon after drinking, you could seriously harm your child in numerous ways, AAP Policy explains. The child may feel drowsy and may even fall into a dangerously deep sleep. He may become weak or begin to sweat excessively. Over time, the alcohol in your breast milk could stunt his growth or cause him to become overweight.

What Is the Code of Conduct for Nursing?

There is an unwritten code of conduct among women who breastfeed that isn't discussed often. The code explains that women have the right to breastfeed in public, in states where it is legal to do so, but should do so discreetly.

Public and Private Breastfeeding

In most states, laws allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location. Even so, there is a commonsense code of conduct to follow. Using a blanket or nursing cover to breastfeed discreetly is standard conduct for public breastfeeding.

Exempt From Indecent Exposure

Indecent exposure is an issue with nursing. There are laws in 28 states that exempt breastfeeding from being considered indecent exposure. Regardless of this law, most women who are in states where breastfeeding in public is legal still abide by the code of conduct and are discreet about nursing.

Workplace Nursing

Nursing in the workplace is another issue where a code of conduct applies in addition to the laws. Twenty-four states have laws regarding workplace breastfeeding. An employer must provide a specified time during the workday, which is unpaid, to breastfeed or pump in a private and secure room (not a toilet stall).

Unique Laws

Public places like airports and shopping malls are required to have a specified area for breastfeeding and changing diapers. This location must be separate from a bathroom. Having laws like this support the unwritten code of conduct among nursing women.

Code of Conduct

Even though there are many laws regarding breastfeeding, and where women may and may not be able to express milk, the unwritten breastfeeding code of conduct still applies. Being discreet about nursing is important. Using a blanket or breastfeeding cover, and nursing in private is considered the code of conduct among mothers.

How to Naturally Produce More Breast Milk

Every mother's body is different. While some pregnant women suffer severe morning sickness for weeks, others feel terrific every day of their pregnancy. These types of differences extend to breastfeeding. Some new mothers produce an overabundance of breast milk, some produce just enough and others struggle to keep up with the demands of their hungry babies. If you would like to produce more breast milk, there are a number of actions you can take. While some are common sense, others are tricks of the trade shared by professional lactation consultants and physicians.

Instructions

1

Allow and encourage your baby to nurse often. The more breast milk your baby consumes, the more milk your body will produce.

2

Pump breast milk often. Just as your body will produce more breast milk after a baby depletes the current supply, your body will produce more milk if a pump depletes the current supply. Literature from the Oregon Health and Science University states that mothers of newborns should pump at least eight times a day, or for a total of at least 100 minutes in every 24-hour period, using a medical-grade breast pump.

3

Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your body produce more milk. The general guideline is to "drink to thirst," meaning to drink up whenever you are thirsty. If you're having trouble consuming enough fluids, drink something that appeals to you, because when you enjoy the taste of your beverage, chances are you'll drink more. Its best to stick with healthy choices, however. Consider fruit juice, vegetable juice, decaffeinated tea, flavored water or milk.

4

Rest up and eat healthy foods. Getting plenty of rest is easier said than done with an infant in the house. However, your body requires a good deal of energy to produce milk, so getting plenty of rest ensures that your body is up to the task. Eating healthy foods also helps supply your body with plenty of energy.

5

Take a fenugreek supplement. This herb is commonly taken by nursing mothers to help them produce more milk, and has been for centuries. Literature from the University of Washington Medical Center states that mothers wanting to increase their breast milk production typically take the supplement with water three times per day, at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fenugreek should not be taken by pregnant women or by those who are taking a blood-thinning medication. Before taking fenugreek, talk to your pediatrician, obstetrician or lactation consultant.

6

Visit a lactation consultant. Lactation consultants are trained professionals who help you ensure your baby is breastfeeding properly and getting adequate nutrition. If something about your breast milk or breastfeeding situation is amiss, a lactation consultant works with you to turn that around, helping you achieve optimum breast milk production and your baby achieve optimum breast milk consumption.

How to Deal With Overactive Milk Rejection Reflex of a Baby

Milk production starts a few days after delivery. The amount of milk you produce is correlated with how often you feed your baby. As milk production increases, milk ejection becomes stronger and it may become too fast for a newborn to swallow. Your baby may react by coughing, biting, or refusing the breast. This is referred to as overactive milk rejection reflex. This article will help you to overcome the symptoms of overactive milk rejection reflex.

Instructions

1

Breastfeed your baby in a semi-upright position. Make sure that her head is higher than the breast. This position forces the milk to flow up, allows your baby to control the flow of the milk and helps to reduce the milk rejection reflex.

2

Use your fingers to gently compress the areola at the beginning of the feeding session. This will help to reduce the milk flow.

3

Your baby may try to un-latch if the milk flow is too strong. Let the milk spray into a towel. Breastfeed your baby again when the flow is less strong.

4

Try to lie on the side. Similar to the upright position, this position may help to slow down the milk flow.

5

Breastfeed frequently to reduce the amount of milk stored in your breast, which can help to bring down the milk flow.

6

Use herbs such as jasmine flower and castor bean to reduce milk flow. Do not use a breast pump since it may stimulate milk production.

How to Relieve Tender Breasts

As you age and your hormones change, you sometimes experience tenderness in your breasts called fibrocystic breasts, fluid-filled sacs. With a few diet changes, you can eliminate or decrease the tenderness.

Instructions

1

Give up caffeine. Beverages with caffeine contain methyxanthines which can cause lumps in the breasts to become inflamed. It will take a few months to see the difference.

2

Give up the high fat diet. High fat diets cause increases in estrogen which can cause growth of lumps in the breasts. Again, it will take at least 2 if not 3 months to see the difference in your breasts.

3

Increase your fiber intake. Fiber can help reduce swelling and tenderness by absorbing excess estrogen. Try for at least 25 grams/day of fiber.

4

Take large doses of Vitamin E. Now, before doing this, talk with your doctor. The usual dose is 400 I.U. You may have to take as much as 800 I.U. to see a difference in breast tenderness. Again, talk to your doctor about taking a large dose of Vitamin E.

Development of Breast Milk While Pregnant

Being pregnant is the most magical time in a woman's life, both physically and emotionally. Growing a child isn't the most easy task, but our bodies were made to withstand all the changes that are going to come during the nine months gestation.

Breasts

The first changes a woman notices upon finding out she's pregnant, is her breasts. They may feel sore and tender, and during the first few weeks of the first trimester her nipples may change a shade or two darker than the norm. Some woman also experience dark or prominent veins across the breasts, which is a sign that your body is pumping double the blood to keep up with that growing baby.

Signs

Actual breast milk won't "come in" until two to three days after your child's birth. Until that time, the magical colostrum or "liquid gold" is what's going to keep your newborn healthy and happy. This fluid is rich in vitamins and immunities and is all your child needs for those first few days. Some woman will develop a leaking breast or two during the third trimester of pregnancy; a sure sign that their bodies are getting ready to produce breast milk.

Milk

While pregnant the levels of progesterone in a woman's body are turned down low, so that her milk doesn't come in and go to waste. When a woman gives birth the levels go down, and a colorful mix of hormones go to work to ensure that the mammary glands are hard at work on a steady supply of breast milk for the baby.

Arrival

You will know when your breast milk is in, by the way you feel. You may wake up one morning and find that your breasts are rock hard, and have doubled in size since the night before! This can be painful at first, but it's your bodies way of telling you that things are going as planned.

Child's Role

Your child plays a huge role in breast milk development. Pregnancy brings on a slew of new hormones and body changes that prepare the body, but the suckling of a child is what encourages the "let down" that so many woman talk about post-pregnancy. Encouraging your child to latch onto the breast upon birth and the days following is extremely important in milk production.

Cognitive Development & Formula Feeding

Much research has been done surrounding breastfeeding verses formula feeding practices on cognition. Studies that differentiate between part-time breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding tend to find differences in the cognitive development of babies based on the type of nutrition they receive in early life. Regardless of type of formula or fatty acid supplementation, breastfed infants seem to maintain some advantages over formula-fed children in cognitive, visual and linguistic development.

Soy Formula, Milk-Based Formulas and Breast MIlk

Research by the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center notes that soy and milk-based formulas may not differ significantly in their ability to provide nutrition that allows for proper cognitive development. In this study published in the journal "Pediatrics" in 2012, soy formula and milk-based formulas were compared to assess developmental measures including those related to cognition, motor skills and language to see if infants benefited more significantly from one type of formula. While researchers found that neither provided more benefit to infants, they did find that breastfed babies scored higher on cognitive measures when compared to either formula-fed group.

Visual and Cognitive Development

Research published in the Italian journal "Nutrition and Health" in 2001 reports that the fatty acid profile of human breast milk may allow for increased cognitive and visual development. Authors noted that babies who were formula fed scored lower on neurodevelopment tests as well as visual performance tests when compared to their breastfed counterparts. Researchers found a lower presence of arachidonic acid (LCPUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in formula-fed infants, leading them to attribute the lower test scores to the lower levels of brain building fats in infant formula.

Linguistic Development

According to University of Louisville researchers, cognition as well as linguistic development may be effected by formula feeding. Published in the journal "Developmental Neuropsychology" in 2007, researchers used scalp electrodes and behavioral observation to determine if children were able to differentiate between sounds of speech. They found that breastfed infants process sounds and speech patterns differently than formula-fed children across both brain hemispheres, and differentiate more speech-related sounds than formula-fed infants. Researchers concluded that breastfed infants may have advantages in linguistic development and later speech as well as general cognitive advantages.

Fatty Acid Supplementation and Formula Feeding

Researchers from the Netherlands undertook a study to find out if supplementation of fatty acids could improve performance in formula-fed infants. This 2012 research published in "Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology" looked at three groups of children -- 159 breastfed, 169 standard formula-fed, and 146 formula-fed plus LCPUFA supplementation -- to examine differences in cognitive development over the next nine years of life. Researchers confirmed that breastfed individuals outperform formula-fed children on IQ tests up to the nine-year mark; however, they found no consistent benefits of LCPUFA supplementation. While research into the dynamics involved in these results is ongoing, cognitive development in formula-fed children remains lower than breastfed babies regardless of type of formula or additional supplementation.

How to Sanitize a Medela Breast Pump

Sanitize your Medela breast pump before you use it for the first time to protect you and your baby. You may find yourself needing to sanitize it at other times as well, particularly if you develop thrush or if your pump comes in contact with anything unsanitary. Following the correct sanitizing instructions will keep your baby healthy and prevent your breast pump parts from breaking down.

Instructions

1

Rinse all parts that will come in contact with breast milk, including the flanges, valves and valve membranes. You don't need to sanitize the tubes, although it won't hurt them.

2

Fill a pot with cold water, as starting with cold water will help preserve the parts. Put the flanges, valves and membranes in the pot and bring the water to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes. Your breast pump accessories are now sanitized.

3

Wash the parts in hot, soapy water after each use. Rinse in clear water and air dry. You can also wash Medela pump parts in the top rack of the dishwasher.

What Causes a Rash on the Breast?

Rashes on the breast can be caused by many factors. In minor cases, you may be having an allergic reaction. In rare instances, a breast rash may be due to signs of cancer. A rash upon the breast can be itchy and red, or blistery and painful. While many women may experience signs of a rash on their breast, it is important to speak with a physician in order to rule out serious causes for your rash.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

According to the Mayo Clinic, inflammatory breast cancer is a form of cancer that can develop quickly, (See Reference 1). If you become effected by this type of cancer, your breast will first begin to swell and become red. It may become painful to the touch. You may notice that the breast will itch, and appear as if it's bruised. The nipple will become swollen or crusted, and seem as if pieces of the skin are scaling off.

Mammary Duct Ectasia

Most women who are between the ages of 40-50 will experience mammary duct ectasia, (See Reference 1). Though this condition may sound worrisome, it is not, and is in no way associated to breast cancer. Your breast may become red and sore. If you begin to experience a discharge from the nipple, see a doctor.

Mastitis

Mastitis is more common in women who are breastfeeding. It is an infection that usually occurs within the first few weeks of the nursing infant. The breast, especially the nipple, will become extremely sore and sometimes scaly. The breast may also swell and become warm to the touch. Your breast will become red in a wedge shaped pattern. If you begin to experience a fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, or have flu-like symptoms, seek medical attention for treatment.

Paget's Disease

The Mayo Clinic states that Paget's disease occurs in less than five percent of women, (See Reference 1). Paget's disease is a type of breast cancer that mainly effects the nipple and areola. In many cases, the cancer is mistook for dermatitis. The breast will become flaky and red. You may also have itching, or the skin may haves patches of dry skin that look like eczema.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a skin condition that can result in inflammation. Types of dermatitis can include eczema. Dermatitis is usually caused by an allergic reaction, either due to products such as soap or perfumes. If you have an allergic response, your breast may begin to itch, swell, and become red. In most cases of dermatitis, your doctor can provide you with an anti-itch cream, such as Hydrocortisone.

Treatment

It is important to speak with a physician if at any point your rash begins to develop symptoms that become worrisome. In most cases, you can use balms, such as petroleum jelly, to help with the scaling and flaking of your rash. Antihistamines can also help with the itching. You may also want to stop wearing a bra until the rash disperses, in order to help stop the friction of tight fitting clothes against your rash. Don't use perfumes, or scented soaps while bathing, Using non-scented soaps, such as Cetaphil can also help with your rash.

How to Make Your Own Nursing Pillow

Store-bought nursing pillows can be expensive and often don't offer a custom fit. Nursing pillows help you get your baby's mouth to just the right level so as not to strain your back. They also give your arms a soft, yet sturdy, place to rest while nursing. Making your own nursing pillow provides you with these benefits while saving you money and ensuring a custom fit.

Instructions

Preparation

1

Take off your belt. Buckle it to where you normally wear it, and place it on a large piece of butcher paper.

2

Trace around the belt with a pencil.

3

From the midpoint of the circle you just made, measure about 9 inches out, and draw a small line.

4

Draw a C shape around the circle using the 9-inch guide. The top and bottom of the "C" should reach almost all the way around the belt circle.

5

Draw a 5/8-inch line around the entire C shape to allow for the seam. (note: The C-shape interior ends at your waist-sized circle plus the 5/8-inch seam.)

6

Cut out the C shape. This is your pattern. Pin it to your chosen fabric. Do this twice so you have two C-shaped pieces of fabric.

Sewing

7

Sew the wrong sides of the two C shapes together leaving an opening of a few inches on the inside curve.

8

Turn the fabric right side out, and fill it with your pillow stuffing. Stuff the pillow as full as you can to prevent future floppiness.

9

Hand stitch the opening closed.

How to Breastfeed a Preemie Baby

Premature babies are difficult to breastfeed, there's no doubt about it. Between excessive pumping, formula fortification, nipple control and developing reflexes, it can be a challenge that seems almost insurmountable for a new mother. Nevertheless, the rewards that come from choosing to breastfeed your preemie baby can include a lifetime of increased health and strength. There is also peace of mind for you in knowing that you did what was best for your baby, regardless of the inconvenience to you.

Instructions

It's hard but worth it....

1

Pump every three hours once your milk comes in. You will need to do this in order to keep your milk supply up while your baby is drinking milk from a feeding tube if necessary. Some preemie babies can nurse from birth, but it usually takes them a little longer than a full term baby to get the hang of things. Be patient and just know that if your baby doesn't nurse right away, that's ok. He or she can still nuzzle at the breast and that skin to skin contact will stimulate milk production. If the pumping and contact with your baby doesn't help you produce enough milk, you can try fenugreek seed which will also help.

2

Collect your milk in collection bags and freeze them while you are producing more than your baby is drinking. Be sure to discard any unfrozen milk within 24 hours because breast-milk can grow bacteria more readily than cow's milk due to its unpasteurized nature.

3

Fortify your defrosted milk and bottle feed it to your baby for as long as your doctor orders. After a while, you can breastfeed your baby normally. However, it's important to pump, fortify your milk, and bottle feed in the beginning so that your baby gets off to a good start. Be sure to control the speed of the bottle flow by tipping the bottle toward and away from your baby gently and slowly. Give your baby plenty of time, but if you are on a feeding schedule in the hospital NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) make sure not to exceed 30 minutes of duration for the feeding.

4

Watch for trouble latching on when breastfeeding your baby from the breast. Make sure you use a breast shield if you have inverted nipples or you feel your baby may have trouble latching on appropriately. Allow your baby to nuzzle if he or she isn't ready to feed yet, and be ready to complete the feeding with a bottle or feeding tube if he or she isn't strong enough to complete the feeding on their own. Preemie babies tend to fall asleep at the breast very easily, so don't force the feeding, just let it come naturally and be patient.

5

Feed your baby on demand if you can. This will stimulate and increase production as well as contribute to much needed bonding between you and your baby. Use of pacifiers and binkies can sometimes slow down the process of producing milk. However, it's a balancing act, learning to breastfeed a premature baby. On the one hand, you want to let nutrition and proper feeding technique take precedence, because this will establish a great foundation for the future. On the other, things will develop as they should, and it's important not to place yourself or your baby under unnecessary pressure as this will have the opposite effect than that you desire.

Breastfeeding & Vaginal Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infections may be problematic; however, they may be particularly troublesome during the breastfeeding stage of a mother's life, as a vaginal yeast infection could also lead to thrush for mother and baby. Understanding symptoms and treatments for both mother and baby can help alleviate some discomfort and stress.

Yeast Infections and Thrush

An overgrowth of candida albincans---the fungus responsible for yeast infections---can lead to vaginal yeast infections and also thrush in the breastfeeding mother. Found in the vagina, nipples, mouth and baby's diapered area, candida albicans thrives in moist, dark environments. Though candida albicans is always present in the body, illness, pregnancy or antibiotic use can cause an surplus of this yeast. When a nursing mother develops a yeast infection, chances are this infection will be present in other ares of the body, such as the nipples, which can lead to an infection in baby as well.

Identification

In addition to symptoms of vaginal yeast infections, such as burning or itching at the labia, a woman may experience sudden nipple pain that lasts through the feeding, or itchy or burning nipples with a candida albicus overgrowth that has also infected the nipples in the form of thrush. Affected nipples may look red, shiny, flaky or even have small blisters. "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" advises to watch for traces of white fungus in the folds of the nipple or breast, or cracked nipples. An infected breast-fed baby may also have white patches on his gums, cheeks, palate or tongue. Also, diaper rash, gassiness or general fussiness are all signs of thrush and that the yeast has spread to the baby.

Treating the Mother

To treat vaginal yeast infections and thrush, a mother has several options. Dr. William Sears says the nursing mother can safely treat her yeast infection in the traditional manner by using over-the-counter yeast infection creams or the prescription drug Diflucan. Sears says it's important, though, to treat the nipples if it appears that the yeast has spread to the nipples. Over-the-counter treatments such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin or Mycelex) or miconazole (Mycatin or Monistat-Derm) can be applied to the nipples after feedings two to four times a day. Use until the symptoms have cleared up for two days.
These medications are safe to take while nursing and don't affect a woman's ability to breastfeed.

Treating the Baby

When a mother has a vaginal yeast infection that also infects the nipples in the form of thrush, oftentimes, the baby needs to be treated as well. Treatment for an affected baby is similar to that for the mother. Oral liquid prescription treatments such as Clotrimazole, Miconazole and Fluconazole have been shown to be effective in infant doses. In addition, Genetian violet may be a helpful over-the-counter remedy.

Prevention/Solution

Once thrush or a vaginal yeast infection are detected, take precautions so that thrush doesn't reoccur or spread to other family members. Wash your hands carefully, especially after diaper changes and using the restroom. Boil all artificial nipples for 20 minutes a day, including all breast pump parts. Use paper towels and disposable nursing pads, and discard after one use. Finally, launder everything that comes in contact with mom and baby in very hot water and wear a clean bra every day.

How to Prevent Pollen Allergy in Infants

Allergies are a common problem due to environmental pollutants and modern lifestyles. Allergies can also develop at any time in our lives because our bodies are continually changing and adapting to what we are exposed to. When infants suffer from allergies, it can be very distressing to the child and parents. When a baby struggles to breathe continually, his or her quality of life is greatly diminished. However, there are things that can be done to help prevent pollen allergies in infants. These steps are especially important if pollen allergies run in the family.

Instructions

Breast-Feed

1

Breast-feed your baby. Breast-feeding for the first year and beyond can do wonders for any child. Breast milk is loaded with vitamins, proteins and enzymes. In addition to being the perfect food for babies, breast milk is also an immune system booster. One tiny drop of mother's milk contains millions of live white blood cells and antibodies. The flora (healthy bacteria) found in breast milk also helps the immune system and digestive tract to remain healthy. Breast-feeding has been shown to dramatically reduce the incidence of allergies. (See Resources below for more information.)

2

Don't smoke or allow other people to smoke around your baby. Secondhand smoke attacks the lungs of infants and small children, making them more susceptible to environmental irritants. Allowing your child to breathe fresh air helps to ensure healthy lungs.

3

Feed your baby the right solid foods first. Diet is a key factor when it comes to preventing pollen allergies in infants. When you start your child on solid foods, be sure to slowly introduce these foods. For instance, start your child on vegetables first rather than fruit, and feed your child the same type of vegetable for one week. The key nutrients in vegetables can help to prevent pollen allergies in infants. Get your child hooked on veggies early on.

4

Give your child an infant probiotic supplement. After your child has been introduced to solid foods, give him or her a probiotic supplement. The good bacteria can help your child stay healthy. Another option is to continue to breast-feed well past the 6-month mark because breast milk already contains probiotics.

5

Buy an air purifier. Using an air purifier can help your child breathe easier and prevent pollen and other allergies from developing. Remember to change the filter often to keep the air pure; otherwise, the filter will not do the job it is intended to do.

How Does a Certified Lactation Educator Spend a Workday?

A Typical Workday

On a typical workday, a hospital-based CLE comes into the hospital, and may spend most or all of her workday meeting with clients who have just had babies and have decided to breastfeed. The CLE meets with each new mom, discusses how breastfeeding is going so far, and asks if she has any questions or concerns. If the baby is having trouble feeding, the CLE will evaluate the problem and suggest solutions. The CLE may also meet with breastfeeding women who are going back to work or school to teach them how to use a breast pump to maintain their milk supply and provide the baby with breast milk when they are away.

Other Duties

CLEs may also handle breastfeeding-related questions via phone during the day, and if the breastfeeding clinic has a "drop-ins welcome" policy, she may meet with women to troubleshoot malfunctioning breast pumps, weigh babies to check for adequate milk intake, or rent hospital-grade pumps and other breastfeeding supplies to breastfeeding mothers and their families.
CLEs may also be expected to take part in Labor and Delivery staff meetings, meeting of facility or local breastfeeding task forces, and create and maintain relationships with other social services organizations.