About Bottle Feeding

Whether to bottle-feed or breast-feed a newborn can be an emotional decision for a woman. There is a lot of pressure from society to breast-feed because of the bonding that takes place between the mother and the newborn as well as the nutrients and antibodies shared. However, breast-feeding is not right for every woman or every baby. For some women and babies, bottle-feeding is the best choice for everyone involved.

Benefits

Both parents can spend equal time feeding, snuggling and bonding with baby while bottle-feeding. Also, the parents can go on a date without worrying that the baby needs to eat in just a few hours; anyone can feed the baby. The mother can eat a variety of foods without worrying about the potential effects on the baby's digestive system.

Types

There are many types of bottles and formulas available to parents who choose to bottle-feed. Formulas are available with milk base or soy base or hypoallergenic ingredients. Formulas improve regularly as scientists learn more about the contents of breast milk and babies' needs. Bottles are available in glass, plastic and disposable varieties. Some have vents and bends, and others are made using only earth-friendly materials.

Prevention/Solution

In the past, parents sought to prevent illness in newborns by sterilizing bottles by placing them in boiling water or in a bottle sterilization appliance or by running them through a dishwasher after each use. Concerns over the leakage of Bisphenol A have changed the procedure to washing with hot soapy water. Well water should be tested or boiled before use. City water containing fluoride or other supplements should be avoided. Many parents choose to use water bottled especially for newborns.

Considerations

A serious health condition may warrant bottle-feeding an infant. When an infant is premature or fails to thrive, tracking the quantity the baby is consuming at each feeding is important. Women who are not willing to give up drinking alcohol in excess or using drugs should bottle-feed their infants to protect them from exposure. Many families who adopt infants are not able to induce lactation; they meet their babies' needs through bottle-feeding.

History

Elijah Pratt of New York invented the first rubber nipple; a patent was issued to him in 1845. However, the nipples were not sufficient to replace breast-feeding safely until the 1900s. Governments strictly regulate the ingredients of baby formulas, but the materials used to manufacture baby bottles and nipples are not regulated in most countries. However, in the United States the Food and Drug Administration does regulate the materials used in their manufacture.

Activities to Boost a Baby's Intelligence

Genetics plays an important role in the intelligence of children, but, according to Carolyn Csgongradi, society and environmental interactions also influence the learning process. Babies are born with innate information via their genes. Engaging them in various activities helps strengthen this information and build on it.

Pregnancy

Boosting health and brain development starts during pregnancy. Keep active to increase blood flow and hence nutrient and oxygen levels to the fetus. Eat healthy foods during pregnancy to ensure that the fetus receives quality nutrients. Consume oily fish three to four times a week to provide good levels of omega-3 oils which, according to Joseph Jacobson in the Journal of Pediatrics, may improve brain function.

Breastfeeding

According to A. Reynolds of the Child Development Unit at the University of Colorado-Denver, breastfeeding is thought to have a small effect on the development of babies' brains. Although this effect is minimal per person, it is thought that it could be meaningful over a population. There is also a more powerful impact on preterm babies that are breastfed. Breast milk is a superior food for babies that enhances overall health and development.

Bonding

Dr. Melanie Beingessner states that humans have the least developed brains of all mammals at birth, and because of this, the environment considerably effects brain development. Building attachments by bonding with parents and caregivers is the first stage of brain development. Touching is a powerful form of communication that results in bonds of trust and security. Lack of touching as an infant can lead to a decrease in brain development, as witnessed in orphanages in Romania in which children showed poor cognitive and social development.

Audio Stimulation

Talking to babies from the beginning stimulates the brain and aids development. As babies get older and can contribute to conversations, ask questions to challenge them. Reading out loud not only helps memory capacity but also introduces vocabulary and literacy. Some researchers believe that music also plays a role in increasing infant intelligence. Gargi Talukder on Brainconnection.com suggests that, based on Wisconsin studies, listening to Mozart may increase infant IQ .

Sign Language

Dr. Linda Acredolo, psychology professor at the University of California-Davis, states on Brainconnection.com that if children start learning sign language by 11 months of age, their IQ by the second grade will likely be 12 points higher than those of children who were not introduced to sign language as babies. The Babies and Sign Language website states in its long list of benefits that sign language promotes language skills and increases creative thinking. Cognitive skills are being developed at an early age; this may increase IQ.

Physical Exploration

Allowing babies to touch objects and explore their textures and shapes aids brain development by challenging the brain to learn new tasks. A baby's mind is blank as compared with that of an adult, so the learning curve is huge. The Franklin Institute website discusses engaging the brain with activities such as modelling clay. Exercise also plays an important role, but North Dakota State University's Extension Service warns against overstimulating young infants, as stress can inhibit development. To keep stress to a minimum, ensure that infants play in a safe environment with no physical threats.

How to Get Rid of Cellulite After Pregnancy

Pregnant women usually expect some changes to their bodies including bigger breasts, weight gain and a lot of hormones. What a lot of women don't realize is the appearance of cellulite also increases during pregnancy. Cellulite is the unpleasant, dimply looking skin that usually appears on thighs, hips and butt. It is most often the result of excess fat storage. Naturally, these pockets of fat get more numerous as women gain weight during pregnancy. While cellulite is something that most women must face, there are ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite after pregnancy.

Instructions

1

Wait for the baby weight to come off. Most women lose their baby weight over time rather than right away. Cellulite will naturally reduce as the weight comes off. Losing baby weight takes time. Be patient. Check on your cellulite after the baby weight is nearly gone to gauge how much you really gained.

2

Follow a balanced diet. Do not reduce your diet by too many calories if you are breastfeeding, but choose healthy foods including whole grains, fruits and vegetables instead of salty foods, fatty meats and sweet treats. Making healthier diet choices will reduce the amount of fat you intake daily, reducing the size of the fatty deposits that become cellulite.

3

Avoid soda and coffee; opt for water and fruit juices instead. Water is a natural cleanser and plumps the skin to hide the appearance of dimples.

4

Get lots of exercise; focus particularly on strength training. While running after your newborn will burn lots of calories, adding a few moderate cardio and strength training exercise sessions to your week will help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. The more fat you lose and muscle you gain, the less cellulite you will have.

5

Use a cellulite cream to temporarily reduce signs of cellulite. Do not expect these creams to work quickly or permanently. These creams simply tighten the skin around the cellulite instead of fighting the cellulite itself.

6

Consider liposuction if other options do not reduce the appearance of cellulite. A plastic surgeon will suck out these fatty deposits with a small hose. This procedure is one of the most permanent options for cellulite reduction but is also one of the most costly. There is also the risk of permanent scarring.

How to Treat Ear Infections Naturally

Ear infections are most common in babies and young children, about 5 to 6 million of whom receive antibiotics each year to fight the illness. New research suggests that antibiotics can actually contribute to future infections by weakening the immune system. In response, many doctors now think twice before reaching for their prescription pad.

Instructions

1

Breastfeed. Breast milk strengthens the immune system and children who are breast-fed generally develop fewer ear infections. Breastfeeding also encourages proper fluid drainage, which can be problematic in children who drink from a bottle and can lead to infection.

2

Prepare a warm compress for pain relief. Warm towels work well as do heat packs that contain corn, rice or buckwheat, which maintain heat for relatively long periods. Add essential oils of chamomile or lavender to the compress to further soothe and calm your child.

3

Massage tissue surrounding the ear to encourage proper fluid drainage and further relieve pain. Rub gently with essential oils and quit promptly if pain increases. If your child has swollen lymph nodes, massage them as well.

4

Fix warm tea to break up congestion. Make sure the tea is decaffeinated and contains soothing natural ingredients such as mint and ginger. If your child cannot have tea, run a hot shower and place him in the steamy bathroom for a few minutes just before bed. You can also prepare a vaporizer if your child is at least two years old.

5

Take proactive measures to boost immunity. Feed your child a diet rich with essential vitamins and minerals like zinc and vitamin C. Reduce sugar intake and increase consumption of fiber. A strong immune system can prevent recurrent ear infections.

Breast-feeding & Diet Soda

In addition to wondering how to get the baby to latch, how long to feed and choosing which way to hold their baby, many new moms may also find themselves wondering about their diet. It is well known that some of what a new mother eats makes its way into her milk supply. As a result, there are certain foods, herbs and beverages that should be consumed with caution, including diet soda.

Diet Soda with Aspartame (NutraSweet)

Diet soda with aspartame, a low calorie artificial sweetener, is safe to drink while breast-feeding, as aspartame is rapidly broken down in the body after ingestion. Dr. Thomas Hale, author of "Medications and Mother's Milk," says even in doses three to four times higher than what would normally be ingested, "the milk levels are too low to produce significant side effects in normal infants." A person would have to consume the equivalent of 17 cans of soda before an increase in the amount of aspartame could even be detected.

Diet Soda with Saccharin (Sweet'N Low)

A sweetening agent with no nutritional value, saccharin is approximately 300 times sweeter than sucrose. According to Sweet'N Low, a New York-based artificial sweetener manufacturer, saccharin has an established safety record that indicates it is safe for consumption during breast-feeding.

Diet Soda with Sucralose (Splenda)

The American Pregnancy Association says that sucralose, a non-caloric sweetener made from sugar, is certified by the Food and Drug Administration as being safe for everyone to consume, including pregnant and lactating women. The reason behind this appears to be that sucralose is poorly absorbed by the body after consumption, making it unlikely that it will have any effect on a woman's milk supply.

Diet Soda with Aspartame and PKU (Phenylktonuria)

In situations where either a mother or a baby has PKU or Phenylktonuria, an inherited metabolic disorder that is detected shortly after birth, it is best to avoid consuming diet sodas sweetened with aspartame. Aspartame contains phenylalanine, an amino acid that babies born with PKU are not able to break down. The enzyme that normally breaks down the phenylanine is completely or nearly deficient, leading to a build up of the amino acid in the blood and body tissues.

Diet Soda and Caffeine Levels

Although the occasional glass or can of diet soda will have no noticeable effect on your milk supply, as with any caffeinated beverage during breast-feeding it is always best to drink it in moderation. Try to wait at least one hour to breast-feed as the caffeine peaks in your milk supply at the one-hour mark. Mothers of premature babies and newborns (under 3 months) should be extra cautious as their systems take longer to break down foreign substances. Consider limiting your caffeine intake to one or two cups a day, make sure to always drink eight glasses of water a day and, as with all diet choices, consult a physician.

Natural Remedy to Dry Up Breast Milk

Breastfeeding is a popular way to feed an infant, but it's not the only way. Some mothers who return to work may choose to stop breastfeeding because it's more convenient to formula-feed. Other mothers find it too painful or difficult to breastfeed. Regardless of the reason mothers don't nurse, their bodies continue to produce milk to nourish their babies. If this milk isn't necessary, there are natural ways to stop its production.

Why to Stop Milk Production

If a woman's breasts fill with milk and she's not breastfeeding or otherwise expressing milk, it can be very uncomfortable. As her breasts engorge, they become hard and painful. The fuller they get, the more difficult it is to relieve the pressure. The skin of the breast stretches, and as it does so, the nipple flattens, which makes it harder to express milk.

Cabbage Leaves

For decades, green cabbage leaves have been used safely and effectively to stop the production of milk. To use this method, place cold, fresh cabbage leaves in your bra, making sure the leaves are flat against the surface of the breast. When they begin to wilt, replace them with fresh leaves. The chill of the cabbage leaves acts as a cold compress on your breasts, helping to constrict blood vessels and stop milk production. Continue to replace the wilted leaves with fresh leaves until your breasts no longer hurt.

Sage

Sage is also a safe, effective and natural remedy that can stop the production of breast milk. It contains estrogen, which helps reduce your milk supply. It's available in a tea as well as a tincture. Drink a cup of sage tea three times a day for best results. Taking two droppersful of sage tincture will yield the same results as one cup of tea. You should experience a decrease in milk production within 24 to 48 hours.

Hand Expression

Milk production is a function of supply and demand. If a baby nurses frequently, or if milk is expressed often, the body makes more to keep up with demand. If a you stop nursing, or never start, and your breasts are engorged, you can relieve some of the pressure by expressing a little milk by hand. Squeeze the breast until a small amount of milk is visible on the nipple, taking note of your pain relief. Express only enough to make you comfortable. If you express too much, this may signal the body to produce more.

Warnings

Don't use cabbage leaves if you are allergic to cabbage or sulfa. This can cause a rash. Don't use on cracked skin. It's important to take steps to decrease your milk supply gradually. If you decrease your production too abruptly, it can lead to mastitis, a painful breast infection that can be caused by pressure on the milk ducts.

Gas Problems in Babies

Gas problems in babies have various causes, from the normal process of digestion to food allergies to hyper-lactation syndrome. Though not all gas in babies can be eliminated, there are methods of reducing the discomfort baby might experience. Learn the symptoms of gas problems in babies, how long they commonly last, and the options you have for treating the pain caused by gas.

Causes

According to T.A. Lawrence (B.Sc, CIRM, CPMP), writing for ColicCalm.com, all babies have gas to some degree, and "gassiness in the newborn and many babies often results from multiple factors." Some of the most common causes of gas problems in babies are the following:

Air intake during feeding can be a problem. In this case, the baby does not latch on well or gulps too quickly during feeding, taking in swallows of air along with the milk. There air bubbles can cause cramps. This can occur whether baby is bottle-fed or breast-fed.

The infant may have a reaction to what its breast-feeding mother eats. Although there isn't much scientific evidence, many breast-feeding Mamas swear that their baby reacts to what Mama consumes. Foods that commonly cause gas in adults--such as cruciferous vegetables or very acidic foods--are often tagged as culprits.

Some situations may occur with hyper-lactation syndrome. According to Lawrence, this excess of foremilk during breastfeeding can occur with an over-abundant milk supply and can cause crampiness in baby.

Colic is also a casue. Colic is the still mysterious and upsetting condition in which a normal, otherwise happy baby has extended periods of uncontrollable crying. Gas may be both a cause and an effect of this condition.

Symptoms

Babies cry for many reasons, so a little crying doesn't mean that baby has gas or is crampy. However, when baby keeps crying and isn't satisfied with normal holding, cuddling or activity, gas may be the culprit. Watch for fussiness after eating, clenched fists, drawing up and kicking legs, and general signs of discomfort.

Time Frame

Gas can be a problem in babies due to their immature digestive system. That's good news. As baby grows, his digestive system will mature, and gas will become less of a problem. Many babies have significantly fewer problems with gas by three months old, according to FamilyDoctor.org. By six months of age, most gas problems will be gone.

Prevention

Some gas in baby's intestines cannot be helped; it is a natural byproduct of digestion. However, according to Lawrence, a thorough burping after every feeding can help eliminate much of the gas in the tummy and may help prevent it from becoming painful. For breastfeeding moms, eliminating some foods from the diet may be helpful; if hyper-lactation is a problem, then using a breast pump to reduce the amount of foremilk before feeding baby might help prevent gas problems.

Treatment

There are available treatments for gas in babies; you should always talk to your pediatrician before trying any, as their effectiveness will vary according to what is causing your baby's gas. Some of the options include Mylicon, which is one of the most popular gas remedies. Mylicon's active ingredient is simethicone, which is purported to attach to gas bubbles and make them easier for baby to expel. Homeopathic drops are another option. There are multiple brands, often called colic gripe water, which exist in different formulations. Colic Calm is one; it contains a blend of herbs, vegetable charcoal, water, and glycerin.

How to Feed Triplets

Feeding your triplets takes up the majority of your time in the first few months of your babies' lives. A difficult task in the beginning, feeding multiples is made harder if you are breastfeeding. The key to feeding your triplets is to become educated about feeding babies and to plan ahead as early as you possibly can.

Instructions

1

Get some help. Since newborns need to be fed every few hours, you need to get some help. You may need people to help with bottle feeding, preparing bottles or even just making sure you get enough food and rest.

2

Decide how you are going to feed your triplets. While breast milk is absolutely the best thing for your babies, especially if they were born premature, it may not be a possibility to offer your triplets nothing but breast milk. Successfully breastfeeding triplets is made easier with some help. Contact a lactation consultant and La Leche League for more information on breastfeeding multiples. Decide whether you are going to offer your babies pumped breast milk or formula in a bottle.

3

Figure out some way to distinguish your triplets from each other. As you get more and more sleep deprived, it may become easy to mix up who needs a feeding and when. Putting numbers on tags or painting toenails may help prevent one triplet from getting a double feeding while another goes hungry.

4

Make a chart. You may find it easier to make a gigantic chart to hang on a wall that notes feeding times, number of wet diapers and number of bowel movements so you can help ensure your babies are getting enough to eat. After all, what goes in must come back out.

5

Avoid using a bottle proper. A bottle proper is exactly what it sounds like; it holds the bottle in place so you don't have to. However, bottle propers may lead to choking and are not recommended by the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics). In addition, you must hold your babies as you feed them for proper brain and personality development.

Breastfeeding at a Wedding

Breastfeeding has been accepted in the United States as being healthful for both infant and mother. However, breastfeeding at a wedding can elicit a spectrum of responses. Some people might be charmed by the sight, others will commend it as a practical way to keep the baby from crying, while others might be shocked and offended. When and where to breastfeed can become a dance between your baby's needs and social expectations.

Age of the Child

The age of the child makes a difference in how acceptable viewers find nursing in public. Infants are less likely to elicit comments from viewers. Babies who are older than 6 months are more likely to be eating other foods, which creates an alternative to offering breast milk to satisfy hunger or to occupy their attention. In many cases, viewers find the sight of a nursing infant more acceptable than the sight of a nursing child who is close to becoming a toddler.

Style of the Wedding

The type of wedding, the location, the number of guests and their relationship to each other make a difference as to whether nursing a child during the ceremony would be acceptable. If the wedding is a small, family affair, it is unlikely that nursing a fussy baby would cause comment. If the ceremony is more formal, the nursing mom might want to sit in a location that will let her slip away to take care of her baby. According to the Emily Post website, a wedding guest's job is to be present, discreet and to help keep the focus on the bride and groom.

Nursing Gracefully

Nursing an infant in a crowd can be done without drawing attention to yourself. Clothing that allows the mom to discreetly uncover only the portion the baby needs can help with this, as can attractive nursing bibs or throws that can be tucked over the baby and mother. It helps to practice nursing modestly at home so that you can meet your baby's needs easily, in a way that neither embarrasses you or draws attention to your actions. In many cases, if you don't make a big deal out of this natural act, neither will other people.

Be Sensitive to the Setting

No single answer covers whether it is acceptable to nurse your baby at a wedding. A good rule of thumb is that the guests at small, intimate weddings are more likely to accept the practice than those at large, formal ones. However, if is it just the family, and you are aware that great-aunt Augusta will be upset, then you might make plans to avoid offending her. By the same token, you are less likely to be noticed in a large crowd than in a small group. It pays to know the audience before breastfeeding in public.

Should You Wake a Sleeping Baby to Eat?

It is the age-old question that many new parents struggle with every night. Sleep-deprived parents wonder if it is necessary to wake a sleeping baby to eat. The answer depends on the age and weight of the baby.

First Days

According to the Mayo Clinic, the newborn baby should be woken up to feed on a regular schedule. In the first few days of life, it is not unusual for a newborn to lose as much as 10 percent of his body weight. This weight loss is expected and normal. However, any additional weight loss is cause for concern. Newborns are not as adept as older babies at waking themselves up to feed and will sleep through a feeding if allowed. Newborns should feed every two to three hours.

First Weeks

The Mayo Clinic recommends that babies are woken up to feed until they have regained all of the initial weight loss after birth. Once the baby is back to his birth weight and consistently gaining at least one ounce per day, the baby can be left to sleep and wake on his own to feed. Depending on the amount of weight loss, this might take a few weeks to occur. Until this happens, the baby should continue to wake every two to four hours to feed.

Waking During the Day

Regardless of if the baby is gaining appropriately, he should not go more than four hours during daytime hours between feedings. This is important to ensure that the optimal weight gain continues. Babies who are napping should be woken up to take a bottle or breastfeed during the day at regular intervals.

Waking During the Night

After the baby has reached the weight milestone, waking the baby during the night is not necessary. Young babies will generally sleep in four- to six-hour stretches during the night. The baby will wake on his own when he is hungry. It is not necessary to wake the baby during the night unless proper weight gain is not being achieved.

Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding

Breastfeed babies might not sleep as long or wait as long between feedings. Breast milk is generally not quite as filling as formula, so breastfed babies typically will wake more often for feedings. Bottle fed babies are more likely to sleep longer stretches during the night once the weight milestone has been reached.

Considerations

During the first month of life, the baby's pediatrician will want to check the baby on a regular schedule. This is to weigh the baby to ensure that the baby is gaining weight as necessary. If there are concerns about the baby's feeding schedule, check with the pediatrician at these visits.

How to Breastfeed Properly

Nursing a baby is a tender and wonderful experience shared between mother and child. It is a process that not only encourages bonding, but also provides the baby with the necessary nutrients he needs for optimum growth. Learn how to position your baby and guide him toward an easy and efficient feeding.

Instructions

1

Place the baby in the correct position for feeding. Holding the baby securely in your arms, gently bring the baby to his side so that his stomach gently rests against yours. Continue to support the baby's head as you guide him into the position. For added support, have your partner assist you or use a pillow. Slowly, bring the baby to your breast, without hovering your breast over the baby or pushing it downward into his mouth.

2

Grip you areola, using a gentle pinching movement with your fingers and thumb. Use your hand to round the areola, but do not exert force. Simple massage the area or create a gently pulling motion.

3

Guide the baby's head backwards slightly. When the baby is titled slightly, gently rub your nipple against his lips. This slight and delicate sensation will spur the baby to open his mouth to accept the nipple.

4

Focus on his lower jaw. Position the baby's lower jaw beneath the nipple to allow for easy suckling of the nipple. This position will allow the baby to acquire the milk with little waste.

5

Cradle the baby's head as you tilt it forward. Place the upper jaw to the nipple, making sure it is well above the nipple. Guide his mouth to cover the entire nipple; this should include at least 1/2 inch of the areola.

About Costs Associated With New Babies

It probably comes as no surprise that there are a lot of costs associated with new babies. Diapers, food, clothes, cribs, bedding and more--all of these things add up in a hurry. Not including delivery costs, new babies cost an average of $10,000 in the first year alone. So where does all this dough go?

Feeding

The most cost-effective way to feed a new baby is by breastfeeding. While some things like lanolin cream, nursing bras, pumps and breastfeeding pads will need to be purchased, most mothers can breastfeed their new babies for less than $100 a year. Bottle feeding is a different story: A parent will need to purchase several bottles and formula, and this will total closer to $100 a month and the cost will only increase throughout the first year of a new baby's life.

Diapering

New babies go through a lot of diapers. Whether you use cloth or disposable, the diapering costs add up. The price of disposable diapers has dropped so dramatically over the years that it is now very similar to the costs of cloth diapers. This does not mean it will be inexpensive. New babies use an average of seven diapers a day. When considering all the diaper supplies needed--diapers, wipes, rash creams and powders--this will end up costing around $100 a month per child.

Clothing

While there are few things cuter than a diaper-butted baby, most parents will find clothing to be a necessary cost associated with new babies. Most newborns will not need many clothes. Children in the first year grow so quickly that it will be important to reign in all clothing costs. Most new babies will only need two to three pairs of pants and a week's worth of onesies, socks and pajamas. In the winter, a warm hat, coat and mittens should be added to the wardrobe. Anything above and beyond these few basics is just for fun. For babies who spit up a lot you may have to double this. Overall, new babies' wardrobes should cost less than $150 in all for the first 3 months.

Medical Costs

Typically, the largest costs associated with new babies comes before delivery. The cost of prenatal care and delivery costs an average of $6,500 for a vaginal delivery with no complications. The average cesarean costs closer to $12,000. After new babies are born they will need to attend several checkups at a pediatrician's office. Families covered by insurance are likely to see a rise in premium costs as the result of adding another person to the policy. Additionally, if a child has any medical problems, all costs for medical care will rise exponentially. However, healthy new babies will likely ring up less than $10,000 each in medical expenses in the first year. If covered by insurance, this will likely total less than $1,000 in out-of-pocket costs.

Nursery

While a cute nursery is certainly not a mandatory cost associated with new babies, it is still a lot of fun. Even if a nursery is not decorated, there are still a few pieces of nursery furniture that will be hard to live without. New babies should have either a bassinet or crib to sleep in complete with bedding. Most people also invest in a changing table, diaper pail, baby swing or vibrating chair and a chair for the parents to perform nighttime feedings. In all this can cost as little as $150 if purchasing items in sets or as much as several thousand dollars if purchasing from a high-end baby boutique.

Transportation

New babies will need a way to leave the house with their parents. Before a baby ride in a car they must have a car seat. It is also a wise idea to purchase a stroller or baby carrier. A combination car seat and stroller can be purchased for under $150. A baby carrier can be as inexpensive as $30.

Other Costs

A few other items needed for new babies include bathing supplies, receiving blankets, nursery decorations, feeding pillows, toys, music for soothing, pacifiers, teething rings, over-the-counter medicine, suntan lotion, books, day care and vitamins.

How to Switch Reverse Cycling in Breastfeeding

Reverse cycling is a fancy term for an age-old problem: a baby who has his days and nights mixed up. Many babies come into the world confusing night and day, but breastfed babies can have additional issues, if mom goes back to work while still breastfeeding. Some breastfed babies eat less during the day, when the only food available is a bottle, and then want to stoke up all night, when the breast is back. Babies outgrow this schedule pattern eventually, but until then, you can take steps to reverse the up-all-night, sleep-all day trend.

Instructions

1

Introduce noise and light into your daytime hours. Don't tiptoe around when your baby sleeps during the day, or darken rooms. Keep the daytime light and reasonably noisy, to help him understand that daytime is awake time.

2

Establish a bedtime routine. If your baby is still tiny, it might seem like it is too early to worry about a bedtime routine, but the earlier you initiate a sleep routine, the sooner he'll get the idea that certain activities means that it is time to sleep. Follow his nighttime bath, with a quiet story, then rock in the rocking chair with him, and breastfeed at bedtime in a quiet, dark room.

3

Wake your baby during the day, to nurse every two to three hours. Some babies sleep so soundly that they're like limp sacks of potatoes when you try to wake them up. Change your baby's diaper or put a new outfit on him, take him outside for a walk; do whatever you can to help him wake up every few hours and eat.

4

Keep your baby near you during the day if you're home with him so that you recognize his subtle waking or hunger cues. If you wait until your baby screams in hunger, you've waited too long. When he moves from a deep sleep to a light sleep or when he starts smacking his lips or turning his head from side to side, he thinks that it is time to eat. Offer him the breast as soon as you notice hunger cues during the day. Keeping him in a sling or other wearing device makes it easier to catch his hunger cues so that he doesn't stretch out his daytime feedings.

5

Cluster the breastfeedings in the early evening to help prevent multiple middle-of-the night-awakenings. If you've gone back to work and your baby is eating more when you get home, giving him frequent feedings before your bedtime might reduce the number of times he nurses during the night.

6

Make night feedings a time of peace and quiet, not a time for play. Keep the room as dark as you can, without stumbling over the furniture.

How to Use the Drug Metformin

Metformin is used for the treatment of Type II diabetes. The drug, which comes in pill form, works to stabilize and control the body's blood sugar levels. While the medication may be prescribed in conjunction with insulin, it is not recommended for the treatment of Type I diabetes. Only a physician can determine which type of diabetes a patient suffers from and prescribe the proper medication.

Instructions

1

Make an appointment to obtain a complete physical. Tests to rule out the possibility of diabetes and other common conditions are usually a part of routine screenings. Should Type II diabetes be discovered, speak with your doctor to see if Metformin might be the right drug for you.

2

Make yourself aware of the drug's contraindications. Metformin is not recommend for those suffering from heart, kidney or liver disease. The medication can trigger a dangerous condition known as lactic acidosis. Left unchecked, it can result in severe damage to organs or death.
Metformin may not be prescribed for women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or who are breastfeeding. The drug is dangerous for children under the age of 10.
Anyone taking a test that involves dye injected into the veins should suspend Metformin's use for a few days before the test since the drug can interact with the dye, causing temporary medical issues.

3

Note the drug's interaction with other drugs. Metformin cannot be taken while drinking alcohol since it lowers blood sugar and could result in a risk of lactic acidosis.
Hyperglycemia may result in those taking Metformin along with birth control pills, diet pills, diuretics, phenothiazines, steroids, seizure and thyroid medications, and some drugs that are typically used to treat allergies and colds.
Low blood sugar may result in those taking Metformin with anti-inflammatory medications, beta blockers, MAO inhibitors, probenecids, salicylates and sulfa drugs.
Other medications, such as amiloride, cimetidine, digoxin, furosemide, morphine, nifedipine, ranitidine, procainamide, quinidine, triameterene, trimethoprim and vancomycin, may contraindicate the use of Metformin as well.

4

Contact your physician if you experience any of these side effects: chills, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, headache, muscle aches and pains, nausea, sudden weight gain or trouble breathing.

5

Report to an emergency room immediately if you experience any of these dangerous side effects: abdominal pain, black outs, chills or cold, dizziness, fever, obstructed or slow heart rhythm, sleepiness, sudden weakness, trouble breathing or vomiting. Also go to an ER if you develop allergic side effects like hives or swelling of the mouth or airways or symptoms of lactic acidosis.

6

Take the dosage amount prescribed for you. It may take your doctor some time to find the right dosage amount and timing for you. Once he has, however, take the drug exactly as instructed.
Metformin is usually taken with a meal since it can upset an empty stomach. The oral medication should not be chewed or crushed, nor should the tablet be broken into pieces since that could cause uneven and incorrect amounts of the drug to enter the body's system incorrectly.
Metformin dosage may change slightly when another illness or virus is also diagnosed. Contact your physician each time such conditions occur to ascertain if dosage amounts of the drug need to be temporarily changed.
If you miss a dose of Metformin, take it as quickly as possible and then skip the next dose.

7

Get regular blood and kidney tests, as outlined by your doctor, to make certain the drug is working effectively without doing any other damage to your health.

8

Avoid low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. Symptoms include black outs, coma, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, hunger, irregular heartbeat, irritability, seizure, sudden weakness, sweating or tremors.
Always keep sugar available in the event that hypoglycemia occurs. The best options include candy and orange juice.

9

Store the medication at room temperature. Keep it away from heat, light and moisture to preserve the drug's medicinal properties.

How to Breastfeed an Adopted Baby

If you're adopting a baby, you may be surprised to find out it's possible to breastfeed that baby. Breastfeeding offers many benefits and should be encouraged whenever possible. Lactation is all about hormones and the hormones produced during breastfeeding can be produced even if you haven't given birth, though it will take a great deal of planning and effort.

Instructions

1

Pump your breasts, using a quality pump (hospital grade if possible) every two to three hours before your baby comes home. This will stimulate your breasts to produce the hormones you need for lactation. Your body may start producing milk even before your adopted baby comes home. Try to pump both breasts at the same time to stimulate the most hormones.

2

Call your pediatrician and care provider and let them know you plan on breastfeeding your baby. Listen to their recommendations for you. Your care provider may even prescribe a drug called Domperidone to help you produce milk.

3

Find a lactation consultant through your local hospital or care provider. A lactation consultant will offer tips to help with lactation. She also makes sure you know how to correctly latch your baby on to your breasts.

4

Contact La Leche League. La Leche League has a great deal of research and tips about how to breastfeed an adopted baby. Consider going to La Leche League meetings in your area so you have the support of other breastfeeding women and can use your La Leche League Leader for assistance.

5

Get your baby onto your breast as soon as possible, even if you're not producing any milk. If you can, try to avoid offering your adopted baby any artificial nipples due to the risk of nipple confusion. Cup feed or finger feed your baby breastmilk or formula rather than bottle feed them.

6

Consider purchasing a lactation aid such as a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS). An SNS allows you to give your baby breastmilk through tubes attached to your breast, while your baby nurses. This allows your baby to get breastmilk at the same time she nurses and will stimulates your breasts to produce milk.

7

Latch your baby correctly onto your breast, eight to twelve times a day. The more your baby nurses, the more lactation hormones are produced and the more milk you will have.

How to Breastfeed After a Cesarean

Breastfeeding after a cesarean birth can be quite challenging. Unlike a vaginal birth, you will have an incision in your belly that needs to heal and will be very sensitive to pressure. You may not be able to climb in and out of the bed as easily to quickly meet your baby's early demands for food. And, you may still be taking pain medications to ease the discomfort. However, by following these steps, you will be able to successfully breastfeed your baby.

Instructions

1

Make sure that you speak with a lactation consultant after delivery. She will be able to show you alternative holds without putting direct pressure on your belly, which will enable you to breastfeed.

2

If you are going to breastfeed while sitting up in your hospital bed, make sure that you use lots of pillows to support the baby and your abdomen while breastfeeding. You want to make sure that you do not strain those muscles or require them to do anything but heal.

3

Allow your partner to practice with the professionals on how to help you position the baby for breastfeeding. He will feel more confident doing this if he has guided help from a lactation consultant.

4

Make sure that you have someone at the hospital and at home with you the first few weeks after birth to help. You may need help getting the baby and positioning him correctly.

5

If you are in a lot of pain, but you still want to breastfeed, you can. Let your doctor know that you plan to breastfeed and he can prescribe pain medication that is safe to take while breastfeeding.

6

Breastfeed your baby frequently. Frequent feedings will bring your milk supply in quicker.

7

Room-in with your baby if you have assistance. You will not be able to get up and down very quickly, but if you have someone there who can assist you, it is a good idea to start learning baby cues.

8

If you had a cesarean because of a premature baby or some other medical complication presents which requires your baby to take formula, make sure that the nursery staff cup feeds instead of bottle feeds. This will help prevent any nipple confusion in the very beginning of your nursing relationship.

How to Remove Breast Milk Stains From Clothing

Breast milk stains are prevalent among nursing mothers, but can be tricky to remove depending on the type of material and how long the stain has set in. If you catch the problem early, this method with almost always lift the stain and leave little or no visible trace on your clothing. The best part is that you'll likely have to buy no special solutions to remove that stain; liquid laundry detergent should do the trick. If it doesn't, turn to your kitchen pantry for a product that gets the job done.

Instructions

1

Take off the soiled garment. Wet down two tightly folded paper towels and place one on each side of the stain. Press down on the towels firmly, holding them in place for about 10 minutes and re-wetting them when necessary. This step should draw out any stain-causing liquid that remains in the clothing.

2

Lay the garment flat. Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent to the stain. Rub the detergent in with a paper towel or your fingers. Let the detergent soak in for about 15 minutes, then launder the item of clothing in the hottest water appropriate for the material.

3

Check the garment after it comes out of the washer. If a trace of the stain remains, unseasoned meat tenderizer can sometimes be effective in breaking it down. Mix a generous pinch of the meat tenderizer with water until it makes a paste. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rewash and dry the garment.

Women With Large Breasts & Breastfeeding Problems

Women with larger breasts often face unique challenges when breastfeeding, such as finding a comfortable position and discovering ways to nurse in public discreetly. However, simply having larges breasts does not lead to trouble with producing milk or the process of breastfeeding.

Significance

Breast size is based on the amount of fatty tissue in the breast, which is unrelated to the process of producing milk notes the La Leche League, a mother's cooperative. A woman's breast size does not interfere with milk quality or quantity and most large-breasted women are able to breast feed successfully.

Considerations

Women with large breasts must find a comfortable position for them and their baby for successful breast feeding. Women may choose to place a folded blanket or small pillow under a breast for support, hold their breast, with fingers gently lifting from underneath and the thumb on top for support, while the baby nurses or nurse lying down.

Warning

Large breasted women who have trouble breastfeeding or concerns about breastfeeding techniques should talk to a lactation counselor or medical professional for tips, techniques and advice on breastfeeding.

How to Get a Baby to Latch to a Breast When Feeding

Breastfeeding is nature's way of providing your baby with all the nutrients she needs. Proper latching is important for your comfort and your baby's ability to eat efficiently. When your baby learns to latch on properly, you will both have a more pleasant experience during feeding.

Instructions

1

Choose the hold that's most comfortable for you. You can use the cradle hold, the football hold, or you can lay down with your baby. It may be easier to get comfortable with one way of holding and nursing before trying another.

2

Place your baby's mouth near your nipple.

3

Hold your breast with your thumb on top of the breast but not touching the nipple. Position your other fingers directly under the breast across from your thumb.

4

Rub your nipple against your baby's mouth until he opens wide. His tongue should be down.

5

Insert your nipple into your baby's mouth. If you feel pain as your baby starts nursing, insert your finger into the corner of her mouth to release her from your breast. Try again. It may take a couple of attempts in the beginning.

6

Pull your baby's head towards your breast, don't take your breast to your baby. His mouth should cover most of the areola (the area around your nipple). His lips should pout around the breast, not tuck in over his gums.

The Disadvantages of Bottle Feeding

One of the most important decisions mothers make concerning their children is also one of the first they have to make as new mothers. The choice of whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed with formula is a choice that should be made only when you are thoroughly informed. Although there are advantages to both methods, there are also disadvantages that must be considered.

Antibody Content

Breast milk contains important antibodies that help protect infants from infection. The antibodies contained in breast milk are specific to the mother and her environment, and provide protection for the possible infections infants could be exposed to during their first few weeks of life. Formulas provide the nutrients babies need; however, they do not provide any antibodies. Infants who are bottle-fed tend to have weaker immune systems than those who are breastfed and are more prone to infection and illness.

Expense

Bottle feeding can be extremely expensive, especially when compared to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is completely free and requires no equipment or special products, though many mother choose to purchase a breast pump. Bottle feeding requires the purchase of bottles, nipples and formula. The American Pregnancy Association estimates that formula can range in price from $50 to $200 per month, at the time of publication, depending on the brand and special needs of the infant.

Lack of Convenience

Bottle feeding can be less convenient than breastfeeding. Preparation of formula and bottles can be time-consuming and tedious. Powder formulas must be mixed appropriately to ensure that infants receive the nutrition they require, and many parents heat the formula to a comfortable temperature for consumption. In addition to preparation, the cleansing and sterilization of bottles and nipples can be cumbersome, given the frequency with which infants eat. Bottles and nipples can transmit bacteria if not cleaned and sterilized appropriately.

Stomach Upset

Some infants do not tolerate formula well. Often the formula itself can lead to gas and constipation, which can make infants uncomfortable and cranky. Air bubbles can also cause discomfort. Air bubbles can easily become trapped inside bottles and be transferred to infants during feeding, leading to indigestion and gas.

How Many Calories Does Nursing Burn?

Not only is breastfeeding an excellent source of nutrition for your new baby, it's a great calorie burner. According to the La Leche League International, breastfeeding moms lose more weight three to six months after birth than moms who do not breastfeed. Nursing burns about 300 to 500 calories a day.

Function

A 140-pound woman may burn about 1,990 calories a day, but if she's breastfeeding, she will burn an additional 300 to 500 calories, depending on whether or not she exclusively nurses her child. A mother who exclusively nurses will burn more calories than a mother who supplements with formula.

Nutrition

Generally, a nursing mom's caloric intake should be about 300 to 500 calories more than her recommended daily calories prior to pregnancy.

Dieting

While most new moms are free to begin exercising six weeks after the birth of their baby, generally nursing moms should avoid beginning a diet until the baby is at least two months old. Even then, moms should consume at least 1,500 to 1,800 calories per day, to avoid putting their milk supply at risk.

Weight Loss

Generally, nursing moms shouldn't lose more than 1.5 pounds per week. Sudden weight loss may put their milk supply at risk.

Additional Benefits

Nursing also helps to shrink your uterus faster, decreases the risks of cancer and increases your bone density.

How to Use Reglan to Induce Lactation

Breastfeeding is one form of bonding between a mother and baby. Women who adopt a newborn or are having a baby by surrogate may want to breastfeed so they don't miss this important experience of motherhood. It is possible to induce lactation without pregnancy using herbs or other medications to trick the body into producing breast milk. One such medication is Reglan, a drug originally created to ease gastrointestinal pain and nausea. Because Reglan is a prescription-only medication, this method of induced lactation must be performed under medical supervision.

Instructions

Using Reglan as Part of an Induced Lactation Therapy

1

Make an appointment with a family physician or OB/GYN who is familiar with lactation therapy. The physician will determine if you are healthy enough to begin induced lactation therapy and can give you a prescription for Reglan. He/she can also coordinate with the birth mother's obstetrician and hospital to arrange a visit with a lactation consultant.

2

See a lactation consultant. If you are not able to see a lactation consultant at the birthing hospital due to travel distance, you can hire a lactation consultant at your local hospital. She/he will also assess your health, discuss induced lactation options and help you throughout the breastfeeding process.

3

Take the physician-prescribed dose. Reglan comes in a 10 mg dosage and can be taken two to four times per day. Don't stray from the recommended dosage. Reglan was originally prescribed to treat gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting, so there is no need to take it with food.

4

Monitor any side effects and report to your physician if symptoms worsen or become unbearable. Mild side effects include fatigue, anxiety and dizziness. Extreme cases may result in depression and neurological disorders such as tremors, convulsions and even breathing problems.

5

Supplement Reglan therapy with a birth control pill and breast pump. This step is optional and will be up to the discretion of your lactation consultant and physician. The birth control pill will increase the levels of progesterone and estrogen in your body signaling the breast tissue to enlarge and prepare for milk production. Repeated use of a breast pump causes the release of oxytocin in the brain signaling the breast tissue to release milk.