When it comes to breastfeeding in those first newborn days, it can feel like there are a million moving parts to get your baby on the breast with a “perfect” latch and breastfeeding successfully. With so much going on, recommended breastfeeding techniques can be easily overlooked and leave mom with not only sore nipples but also an aching back or neck. Let’s take the part where mom’s back is killing her while nursing out of the equation by bringing in a nursing pillow. Nursing pillows are excellent tools to help you get your little one into an ideal position for breastfeeding.

What Is a Nursing Pillow?

Nursing pillows are breastfeeding tools used to support the baby and assist in making breastfeeding as comfortable as possible for the mom. The nursing pillow allows the mom to help adjust the baby into an ideal position for successful breastfeeding.¹ Most commonly, a breastfeeding pillow will come across the front of the mother’s abdomen and wrap around her slightly above the hips. Nursing pillows are generally found in a C- or U-like shape and made of a foam material. Many breastfeeding pillows come in various forms, sizes, and colors. Two of the most common brands are Boppy and My Brest Friend.

What Is a Nursing Pillow For?

Nursing pillows are designed to help your baby be propped up into an ideal breastfeeding position, helping mom and baby breastfeed comfortably with optimal support. Commonly, breastfeeding mothers will have complaints of a sore back or neck. This usually comes as a result of the mom moving her body down to the baby’s level to latch and feed. Breastfeeding pillows allow mom to position baby in a more supported and higher-up position, bringing baby up to her.

This support allows for a better position for the mom to work on the baby having a good latch and helps prevent the mom from being hunched over and causing stress on her back and neck areas. When breastfeeding is comfortable for both baby and mother, it will be easier to meet breastfeeding goals and have a successful breastfeeding journey.¹

How To Use a Boppy Pillow

The Boppy pillow has a simple, user-friendly design. With both of my daughters, I chose to use the Original Support Nursing Pillow by Boppy for breastfeeding. I found the Boppy to be easy to use, and it offered the perfect amount of support for me to breastfeed comfortably. Although colors and design were not at the top of my priority list when looking for the ideal pillow for breastfeeding, it was nice to see the large variety of prints and colors available to choose from. The size of the Boppy made this feeding pillow convenient to bring anywhere I went.

Here’s how to use the Boppy Pillow:

1. Find a comfortable seated position.
2. Place the opening of the pillow around your waist or side, depending on where you need support for your preferred breastfeeding position.
3. You are now ready to feed your baby.

How To Use a My Brest Friend Pillow

Another commonly recommended breastfeeding pillow is the My Brest Friend pillow. This feeding pillow offers a backrest to help give support to mom’s back and neck by promoting good posture. It also has a wraparound design to assist in maintaining the feeding position while nursing, a large “firm front” cushion for the baby to rest on while feeding, and even an armrest for the mom.

Here’s how to use My Brest Friend Breastfeeding Pillow:

1. Find a comfortable seated position.
2. Place the pillow around your waist with the backrest behind you.
3. Move the pillow to your desired height for breastfeeding.
4. Use the clasp to close and secure the pillow.
5. Make sure the pillow is close to your body and comfy.
6. Place baby on the pillow, and you are ready to breastfeed.

Benefits of a Nursing Pillow

Nursing pillows allow baby to be in a higher position, which provides a better opportunity for baby to latch well and supports mom’s back and neck by adjusting baby so she does not need to hunch or bend over.¹

One published study specifically looked at the impact nursing pillows had on mother’s fatigue levels. The result showed that fatigue levels were lower for mothers who used pillows while breastfeeding. They attribute this to babies being in a position where they are more motivated to feed and can feed more successfully. Being in a position to latch well leads to fewer breastfeeding complications such as nipple pain, engorgement, and mastitis.²

Another benefit of nursing pillows is the convenience factor. While bed pillows or rolled blankets can help get the job done, breastfeeding pillows offer convenience, helping mom get their baby into a comfortable position before each feeding with little effort.

Are There Other Ways You Can Use Your Nursing Pillow?

You should only use nursing pillows for nursing or bottle-feeding. You should never lay your infants in or prop them up on a feeding pillow and leave them alone for the risk of rolling into a position where something may obstruct their breathing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has acknowledged that breastfeeding pillows can pose a safety risk for little ones if misused and has even called for new regulations for the design and marketing of nursing support pillows.³

Things To Keep In Mind When Buying Nursing Pillows

It is easy to get overwhelmed when deciding on products you might need for your baby, including which breastfeeding pillow to choose. I always recommend doing your due diligence when researching products. Look into all the details to see what product best meets your needs and expectations.

If possible, try out different nursing pillows before you purchase one. If you have a friend who has a Boppy pillow, My Brest Friend pillow, or another breastfeeding pillow, ask to borrow it to find out which might work best for you and your little one. Once your baby arrives and you can give them a try, you can see which one you are most comfortable with and make an informed purchase. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to which nursing pillow works best. Every individual will have a different preference as to which is most comfortable and supportive to their needs. There are also many nursing pillows for tandem feeding if you have twins!

Moms, we want you to meet your breastfeeding goals and be as comfortable as possible while doing so. Nursing pillows offer support, comfort, and convenience when it comes to getting yourself and your baby into a breastfeeding position that will set you up for a successful feeding session. As always, contact your lactation team or healthcare provider if concerns or questions arise during your breastfeeding journey. You are never alone!

If you have heard of colostrum, I’m sure you know it is also called “liquid gold.” It has this nickname for a good reason. This liquid is packed full of nutrients that all work to support your baby’s needs and offer protection. Colostrum may be tiny in volume, but it is mighty in its benefits to your baby.

What Is Colostrum?

After birth, the first milk available to your baby is called colostrum.¹ This incredible source of nutrition comes in small doses but is precisely what the baby needs. It is a thick liquid packed full of protein, minerals, and antibodies.^2,3 This early milk provides your newborn’s nutrition while also being an important source of infection protection.⁴ Antibodies pass from mom through the colostrum and are the key to the protection it offers.

Some may worry about the volume their baby is receiving with this liquid gold, thinking it is not enough. We are so used to seeing babies with bottles full of a large amount of milk or formula that it can be confusing. It is essential to know that baby’s stomachs are small. They do not need large quantities of food in the first days of life. Their stomachs will slowly grow. The small amount is just what your baby needs for nutrition as they are learning to breastfeed. In the first few days, it also allows your baby to learn more easily the basics of breastfeeding; sucking, swallowing, and breathing.⁵

When Does Colostrum Come In, and How Long Does It Last?

Here’s a cool fact: Women begin to produce colostrum during pregnancy.⁷ This usually begins around 12 to 18 weeks.^5,6 Once a baby is born, a mother’s body has the colostrum ready and continues to produce it for about the first three to four days after birth.^2,8,9 It is the first milk before a mother’s milk fully comes in.² Isn’t it amazing what our bodies can do to prepare to meet our baby’s needs right at arrival? Because colostrum is being made during pregnancy, some women may even collect it in the last weeks before the baby arrives. Having colostrum available can be beneficial in some circumstances. This may be something to talk about with your healthcare team and should be discussed before trying on your own.¹⁰

What Does It Look Like?

As noted, colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold.” This name comes from not only the benefits it offers but also the color. When expressed, colostrum milk is a yellowish, golden color.¹ It is thick and may only be a few drops when expressed at first. Although colostrum may not be much in volume, it is still exactly what a baby needs.⁸

What Are the Benefits?

With so many nutrients and antibodies in colostrum, the benefits your baby receives from it are truly incredible. Some of these benefits include:

• Providing optimal nutrition⁶
• Supporting and building the immune system⁶
• Lining the intestines to keep away germs⁵
• Maintaining blood sugar levels⁶
• Helping baby pass meconium and lowering the risk of jaundice by assisting in getting rid of bilirubin through stooling^6,9

Colostrum vs. Breast Milk: What’s the Difference?

Colostrum is the first milk a mother’s body makes. Within three to four days, colostrum will change from a thick, yellowish liquid into milk, which is thinner and whiter in color.²

Colostrum is found to be richer in protein and minerals than milk. In contrast, breast milk has more carbohydrates, sugar, fats, and certain vitamins. The higher fat, carbohydrate, and lactose levels of milk are necessary for supporting the baby’s growth and providing energy. Breast milk also offers more calories than colostrum.⁶

Should You Use a Colostrum Supplement?

If your baby is having a challenging time latching or cannot breastfeed for another reason, colostrum can be hand-expressed. It is always a good idea to ask your health team to assist with this process to show you the correct technique to use to help you be successful. Once expressed, the colostrum can be cup-fed, spoon-fed, or even syringe-fed to your baby. Getting the liquid goodness even when they can’t breastfeed will benefit your baby.¹¹

Today, there are supplements on the market, commonly bovine colostrum. If you cannot express colostrum alone, this may be an option to explore. As with introducing anything to your little one, it is essential to discuss the introduction of a supplement with your medical team before using it. They can assist you in finding the best supplement for your little one if recommended.

With the vast health benefits that colostrum offers your little one, it truly deserves the nickname liquid gold. The nutrients and antibodies it provides will help protect your little one right from the start of life. If you have questions about colostrum, contact your healthcare team for support.

As a mom with a new baby, your nutrition is always an afterthought. All eyes (and thoughts) revolve around your cute new baby! Nutrition for both mom and baby is essential postpartum and throughout your breastfeeding journey. By nourishing yourself with the best foods for breastfeeding, you provide your baby with many needed nutrients to help support their growth and development through breast milk.⁸

When you breastfeed, your body needs more energy and calories for milk production. Lactation increases your body’s caloric needs by about 300 to 400 additional calories daily.⁴ You need calories and energy to help produce milk, feed, and care for your little one. This is why a healthy, well-balanced diet packed with nutrient-rich foods is paramount. Let’s dive into seven great food groups to add to your breastfeeding diet.

Best Foods for Breastfeeding to Add to Your Diet

1. Iodine and Choline

Sources of iodine are essential to add to your breastfeeding diet. Iodine supports infant growth and neurological development. The amount of iodine a baby receives through breast milk depends on the mother’s iodine levels.¹ Good sources of iodine include iodized table salt, seafood such as shrimp and tuna, eggs, low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.²

Along with iodine, choline is also crucial for babies, and they should receive it through breast milk. Choline supports the growth and development of your little one’s spinal cord and brain. Good sources of choline to add to your diet include eggs, kidney beans, peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and milk.³

2. Water

Hydration, hydration, hydration. No matter what you are doing, drinking plenty of water is always a good idea. It’s the same for breastfeeding. Although there is no recommended amount of fluid intake for breastfeeding, a good rule of thumb is to drink when thirsty.⁴  Some women like to drink water every time they breastfeed. It is also important to note that limiting the amount of caffeinated and sugary drinks you have each day is best.⁵

3. Protein

Protein-rich foods are always a good choice while breastfeeding. Protein is essential as it helps repair and make cells, supports both mother and baby’s muscle health, and is good for overall growth.^6,9 Eggs, beans, lean meats, chicken, and nuts are good examples of protein sources you may want to add to your diet.⁵

4. Fruits and Vegetables

Adding fruits and vegetables to your daily diet will add great sources of nutrients and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Fruit is delicious, very nutritious, and an excellent healthy food choice for your breastfeeding diet. Some nutrients found in fruits include vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.¹⁰  Whole fruits such as apples, berries, oranges, and bananas are easy choices for a quick grab-and-go healthy snack.²

Vegetables can also add nutrients to your diet. These include fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and potassium.⁹  Vegetables can be the perfect addition to your dinner, or you might even sneak some into your morning eggs or grab a handful of baby carrots for an afternoon snack.

5. Dairy

Dairy products are a healthy source of calcium and vitamin D, so they are an integral part of a breastfeeding diet. Calcium plays a vital role in bone and teeth health and strength, while vitamin D is crucial for helping the body absorb calcium.⁶  Some dairy sources include milk, yogurt, and cheese. Use milk or yogurt in a smoothie, or have some cheese for a fast snack.

6. Whole Grains

Whole grains are packed with nutrients. They are an abundant source of vitamins and many minerals. Being a good source of fiber is an additional benefit of eating whole grains. This is your cue to grab some popcorn for an afternoon snack or start your day with a bowl of oatmeal; you will be doing good things for your body. Other sources of whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread.⁷

7. Vitamins

Some essential vitamins and minerals for babies are received through their mother’s breastmilk and are impacted by their mom’s diet. These include vitamins A, B6, B12, iodine, and riboflavin.⁴  A supplement may be recommended if a mom is not eating foods rich in these vitamins and minerals. This is common for mothers with restricted diets, such as vegans or vegetarians. It is essential to speak with your health care provider to discuss your diet and if taking supplements and vitamins might be the right choice for you.⁴

Knowing that your diet can impact your health and the nutrients your little one receives through breast milk is an excellent reason to plan for and eat nutritious meals and snacks throughout your day. With some planning and help from your support system, you can fuel your body with all the best foods for breastfeeding for you and your precious little one.

Breastfeeding discomforts can be quite a literal pain when they pop up. Caring for your baby while dealing with breastfeeding discomforts and concerns can be overwhelming and tiring. Some common breastfeeding difficulties may or may not present themselves during your journey. By being aware of these discomforts and knowing how to manage them, you will be prepared and set yourself up for success.

7 Common Breastfeeding Discomforts

Let’s dive into seven common causes of breastfeeding discomforts and recommendations for handling them if they arise.

1. Clogged Ducts & Engorgement

While engorgement and clogged ducts are technically two different discomforts, they are related.

Engorgement

Engorgement of the breasts can refer to both edema of the breasts and milk stasis. Edema can commonly occur when a mother has a quick and sudden increase in her milk supply or has increased volumes of intravenous (IV) fluids during labor.^1,2  Both can cause increased fluid to build in the breasts, resulting in engorgement. This increased fluid can impact milk ducts, not allowing them to fully dilate and leading to milk stasis.¹

Another form of engorgement is a result of milk stasis. Milk stasis occurs when the mother’s breasts are full of breast milk and have not been emptied as needed. Milk stasis can lead to further problems, such as plugged milk ducts and mastitis, and impact milk supply if not addressed and taken care of.¹

Because of edema and milk stasis, engorgement can cause a mother’s breasts to feel tender and sometimes painful, firm, warm, and red.² It can make breastfeeding extra challenging, especially regarding baby latching.

How To Manage Engorgement

Recommendations to manage engorgement include the following:

• Skin-to-skin contact with mother and baby to encourage breastfeeding.¹
• Ensure the baby is latching correctly to adequately remove milk from the mother’s breasts.¹
• Frequent removal of milk from the breast. This can be done by baby breastfeeding or expressing milk.²
• Reversed pressure softening technique. This allows the mother to help with edema around the areola, making latching for the baby easier and allowing them to remove milk adequately.^1,2
• Cold pack application for 20-minute intervals.²
• Anti-inflammatory medications. Make sure to speak with your healthcare provider before taking it.²
• Lymphatic drainage. This is a technique to help move fluid and decrease edema.²
• Consultation with a lactation specialist for management guidance.

Clogged Ducts

Clogged ducts, also known as plugged milk ducts or ductal narrowing, occur when factors such as breast engorgement cause milk ducts to be compressed and narrow. Plugged milk ducts can present as tender lumps in the breast and can cause warmth, redness, and increased discomfort.¹ If ductal narrowing is left untreated, it can lead to mastitis.²

How To Manage Clogged Ducts

Recommendations to manage clogged ducts include the following:

• Breastfeed baby on demand.^1,2
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, and do not wear restricting bras or bras with underwire.^1,2
• Sunflower lecithin daily can help. Reach out to your healthcare team for help with correct dosing.²
• Avoid over-pumping, as this can worsen things and cause an oversupply of breast milk.²
• Avoid deep massage; this can cause harm and injure the breast.²

2. Mastitis

Just hearing the term mastitis can make you cringe. It is a breastfeeding discomfort that everyone hopes they can avoid. Mastitis can develop when ductal narrowing occurs in the breast due to inflammation, edema, and other contributing factors.² Mastitis can present as flu-like symptoms such as fever, increased heart rate, and chills and can cause a painful area in the breast that is red and swollen.²  Some forms of mastitis may require treatment with antibiotics.

How To Manage Mastitis

Some recommendations to manage mastitis include the following:

• Continue to breastfeed your baby. It is recommended to continue to bring your baby to your breast for feedings even while managing and treating mastitis.²
• Consult with your healthcare team. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms, and they may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial mastitis.²

3. Nipple Pain

Are you experiencing nipple pain? Stop what you are doing, and let’s dive into how your baby is latching. Many newly breastfeeding mothers do not realize the importance of “properly” latching your little one to the breast. If your baby does not have a deep latch, it is common for moms to experience nipple pain and discomfort. First-time breastfeeding moms may not know what a “good latch” should look or feel like. This is why many moms may experience nipple pain at the start of their breastfeeding journey. Learning a “good latch” can take time and practice for you and your baby, but with support and education, you can navigate this discomfort and breastfeed without nipple pain.

How To Manage Nipple Pain

Here are several recommendations for managing nipple pain:

• Work on a “good latch.” Some signs of a proper breastfeeding latch may include pain-free breastfeeding with the mother and baby being comfortable, the baby latching on with a wide mouth, and covering most of the areola, not only the nipple, the baby’s lips are flanged out on the breast, and you can visibly see or hear baby swallowing breastmilk.³
• When experiencing nipple pain, consulting with a lactation specialist is always helpful. The consultant can evaluate how your baby latches to your breast and show you the correct way to latch. Pain can start due to a shallow latch, with the baby just sucking on the nipple. They may also evaluate your little one’s suck and oral anatomy to identify contributing factors that may impact latching.¹
• Find the breastfeeding position that works best for you and your baby. There are many “holds” you can try. It is also helpful to use a breastfeeding pillow to support your baby and also help you feel more comfortable and not “slouched” over.¹
• If your nipples have visible cracks and trauma, take measures to treat them.¹

4. Let Down Discomfort and Pain

Some women will experience discomfort or pain when they “let down.” For many who experience this, it lasts about the first month of breastfeeding.¹ A mother with a strong milk ejection reflex might experience sharp pain in the breast as her milk begins flowing.¹ For others, this discomfort can result from numerous reasons, such as having an oversupply of breast milk, engorgement, an infection, plugged ducts, or even an injury.⁴

How To Manage Let Down Discomfort and Pain

Here are several recommendations to help you manage discomfort and pain with let down:

• Find a comfortable, supportive, and relaxed position to breastfeed.⁴
• Address concerns that may be causing letdown pain.⁴
• Hand express a small amount of breastmilk, then latch baby.¹
• Consult with a lactation specialist for guidance and support.

5. Thrush or Yeast Infection

When thrush is untreated, it can spread quickly. This could even mean the yeast can spread to your nipples if your baby has untreated oral thrush.⁵  If you are experiencing a yeast infection on your nipples, the skin on your areola and nipple may look irritated and inflamed and cause you pain while feeding and in between feedings.¹

How To Manage Thrush

Recommendations to manage thrush or a yeast infection include the following:

• Reach out to a healthcare provider for an evaluation and treatment plan.¹
• Rinse the nipple area with water before and after feeding your little one.¹
• If breastfeeding is painful, express breast milk for your baby until the pain resolves; otherwise, you may continue breastfeeding.^1,5
• If thrush is suspected in the baby, consult your pediatrician for a treatment plan.⁶

6. Biting Baby

There comes an age when your baby may start to bite while breastfeeding, and this is not only a painful discomfort but can be pretty shocking. As your baby gets older, distractions become commonplace when breastfeeding. Any little noise or movement may catch their eye, and they do not want to miss out on the fun. This may cause them to clamp down and pull your nipple as they quickly turn one way or another.⁵

How To Manage a Biting Baby

Here are some recommendations on how to handle it when your baby bites:

Firmly state “Don’t bite” or “no bite.” Never yell; it may surprise you, but your baby never tries to hurt you.^5,7

Remove your baby from your breast and again state, “no bite.” Return baby to the breast if still feeding; if finished, you may offer a teether to chew on.⁷

If the nipple experiences trauma and the skin is broken, use basic first aid and treat the wound.⁵

Watch your baby’s cues, and anticipate if your baby is becoming distracted; remove from the breast if finished feeding.⁷

7. Feeding After C-Section

Having a Cesarean section is a major surgery.¹ As with any major surgery, you may initially experience pain and continued discomfort at your incision site for some time. Healing from surgery, alongside taking care of your infant and breastfeeding, can feel overwhelming. This is a great time to accept help from your support system.

How To Manage Feeding After Having a C-Section

Here are some recommendations for how to manage breastfeeding your baby after a C-section:

• Ask for help. When first breastfeeding after delivery, you may need extra support from your significant other and your healthcare team. In addition, ask for guidance and assistance with comfort when breastfeeding.
• Find a comfortable breastfeeding position for you and your baby to breastfeed; the football hold position is an excellent place to start.⁹
• Use lots of pillows for support and to protect your incision while feeding.⁸
• Skin-to-skin is always a good idea!
• Pain medication. Speak with your healthcare team for appropriate pain medication to help you feel comfortable after a C-section.⁸

These breastfeeding discomforts are never anything a new mom wishes for herself. Although they may be stressful, you should never suffer alone. So, contact your healthcare team and lactation specialist for assistance in problem-solving your discomforts so you are no longer in pain and are breastfeeding in comfort!

Deciding how you will feed your baby is a huge decision for new and expecting parents. Research shows that breastfeeding offers many benefits for both the baby and the mother, and it’s a wonderful choice for many. But while it is a favorable source of nutrition for little ones, in some circumstances, choosing not to breastfeed may be best for the mother and baby duo.²

For many new parents, whether to breastfeed is a personal choice. But for some, it can come down to safety for your baby. However, understanding if breastfeeding is suitable for you and your baby or identifying whether you have any contraindications can feel overwhelming. If you are unsure about this journey, contact your healthcare team to help determine if breastfeeding is recommended for you and your baby.^1,2

Choosing Not To Breastfeed: Contraindications

Breastfeeding contraindications can arise for various reasons. Whether they are related to a medical concern, medication, or substance use, it is essential to work with your healthcare team to identify anything that could affect your little one by breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is safe and still recommended despite many medical diagnoses. The American Academy of Pediatrics has identified some medical concerns contraindicated with breastfeeding. These contraindications include the following:²

• Infant diagnosis of galactosemia
• Specific maternal infectious disease diagnosis
• Maternal medication intake.

Galactosemia

If your baby is diagnosed with galactosemia, breastfeeding becomes unsafe for your baby.^1,2,3,4 Galactosemia is a rare genetic metabolic disorder in which the body cannot digest galactose found in breast milk. Due to the inability to digest galactose, sugars build up in the body and can cause long-term complications if left untreated.⁵ Babies with galactosemia should avoid products with galactose and lactose and will need a special formula.⁴

An exception to this is a diagnosis of Duarte variant galactosemia. A study has shown it “is not associated with an increased risk of developmental abnormalities and does not benefit from dietary restrictions of galactose.” 1^,2 This variant usually shows mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.⁴

Mother Diagnosed with an Infectious Disease

Although it is reported that it is rare to have a medical condition that would contraindicate breastfeeding, there are a few diagnoses where a mother would want to choose not to breastfeed her baby at all or until the condition is resolved.^1,2,3  These identified diseases are of concern because of the possibility of passing the infection through breast milk or by contact with the infection.

The following are some infections to be aware of and consult with your healthcare team for guidance, as recommendations should be determined on a case-by-case basis:^1,2,3

• HIV
• Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 or type 2
• Ebola
• Herpetic lesions on the breast
• Hepatitis C with bleeding and cracked nipples
• Untreated brucellosis
• Untreated or active tuberculosis (but you may still express breastmilk for baby)
• Active varicella days before delivery or two days after delivery (but you may still express breastmilk for baby)

As research continuously evolves, you can reference the AAP and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for updated guidance.¹

Mother’s Medications

You can take many safe medications while breastfeeding, but there are medications to avoid. Medication use while breastfeeding can be concerning because many medications pass to a baby through breast milk. This is why it is essential to check with your health care provider before taking a medication and ensure they know you are breastfeeding when prescribed a medication. However, while you can pass medications to your baby, many are not harmful or will not impact your baby. Providers can reference medication safety with breastfeeding by researching the LactMed database online.^1,2,3

Substance Use Contraindications

Illicit substance use when breastfeeding can impact an infant’s neurobehavioral development. The AAP reports that substances such as cocaine, PCP, and illegal opioids are contraindicated.²  When it comes to marijuana use and breastfeeding, there is a lack of research, so the AAP does discourage it during breastfeeding. Current guidance from the AAP for breastfeeding and alcohol use states that having up to one standard drink of alcohol a day doesn’t harm the baby. The AAP also recommends the mother wait to feed for two hours after alcohol consumption. The AAP does not recommend additional daily alcohol consumption, mainly because breastmilk alcohol levels closely mimic blood alcohol levels.²

Even if you are a mom with no breastfeeding contraindications, breastfeeding is a personal decision. You must find what feeding method works best for you and your baby. The newborn stage is beautiful and emotional, so add in breastfeeding, and it can feel overwhelming.

Breastfeeding has its hurdles, such as low milk supply, mastitis, and sore nipples. This is quite a mental and physical load to carry. With the support of your medical team, you can resolve many of these breastfeeding barriers. If breastfeeding becomes too stressful, you may choose not to breastfeed; instead, it may be best for you and your baby to try bottle feeding. You know yourself and your baby best, so do what works for you.

Whether you are returning to work or come across an unforeseen reason you need to be apart from your little one, having a breast milk freezer stash can put your mind at ease. It is the ultimate dream and can give a breastfeeding mom much peace of mind. You never know when something will take you away from your little one for a time, and a little preparation can feel good when you learn how to build a breast milk freezer stash.

When you begin your breastfeeding journey, a breast milk freezer stash might feel unobtainable, but don’t worry, mama, you are reading the right article. Following these tips, you will build your breast milk freezer stash before you know it.

How to Build Your Breast Milk Freezer Stash

When it comes to starting to build your breast milk freezer stash, you can add a few steps to your daily routine. An essential piece of the puzzle is to start thinking about when you will first be separated from your little one. For example, if you know the date you will be returning to work, aim to start establishing your freezer stash a few weeks before your return date.

Here are some more tips to help you build your breast milk freezer stash.

Catch Your Let Down

Today, many “let down milk collectors” are available for sale. You may see them called “catchers,” “collectors,” or “savers,” or something like that, but generally, they all work the same way. These collectors catch expressed milk on the opposite side you are breastfeeding during your letdown. Although the amount you may catch may not be enough for a full feed for your little one, it is the perfect way to start storing breast milk. And who knows, you might even be surprised at how much you collect this way.

Pump After Breastfeeding

When you’re on a mission to create a freezer stash of breast milk, you will become very familiar with your breast pump. Start by picking one or two daily sessions to pump 10-15 minutes after each feed. This can increase as needed. One of the best times to pump after feeding is in the early morning when your supply tends to be the highest. During the night and early morning hours, prolactin levels are at their highest, decreasing slowly throughout the day. Prolactin is essential in initiating and maintaining milk production. By staying consistent with pumping after feeding, you will let your body know how much milk your body needs for your baby. Don’t overdo it; you don’t want to be engorged.^1,3

Maintain a Pumping Schedule at Work

If you are a mother returning to work, you might worry if your freezer is not full, but please don’t! You will continue to pump each day while you are at work. It will be essential to squeeze in as many pumping sessions as you would have breastfeeding sessions at home. This will ideally provide you with enough milk for your baby the next time you are apart and continue to build your freezer stash of breast milk.

Benefits of Having a Breast Milk Freezer Stash

The two main things a stash of breast milk can bring to a mother are confidence and peace of mind. As you start to see your breast milk freezer stash grow, you can rest easy knowing if an emergency comes up, you have a backup for your little one during your time apart. I don’t know about you, but I like to be prepared for everything since becoming a mom. And that included a “just in case” breast milk stash in the freezer.

Another benefit of a breast milk freezer stash is the little bit of freedom it can bring to a mother. If you have an opportunity to run out to dinner with a friend, go on a date night with your partner, or you want to run an errand on your own, having milk at home can allow you the chance to enjoy these outings without feeling like you must rush home to breastfeed.

How to Store Breast Milk in the Freezer

Due to breast milk’s antibacterial, probiotic, prebiotic, antioxidant, and immune support properties, proper breast milk storage is paramount. The following steps can help ensure you properly collect and freeze your breast milk to maintain its amazing properties for your baby.²

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before beginning to express milk.
2. Express your milk into a clean container using clean pump parts.
3. Label the container or milk storage bag with the date, time, and amount. You may even add your baby’s name if stored in a setting other than home. Some also label what they ate before the pumping session in case their child has a reaction to the milk.
4. When freezing breast milk, it is a good idea to divide it into expected volumes the baby takes at feeding so as not to let any go to waste.
5. Ensure the freezer is maintained at 24.8 degrees Fahrenheit to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the milk in an area with a low risk of damage to the bags or containers in the back of the freezer. Placing it in the back of the freezer will have less chance of being exposed to warmer temperatures when someone opens the freezer.
6. Use your breast milk stash within six months (optimal recommendation) to 12 months of freezing.

Using Frozen Breast Milk

Here is how to properly thaw and use frozen breast milk.

Thaw

To thaw your frozen breast milk, place it in the refrigerator overnight, sit it in a warm container of water, or run the container under warm water. It is important to note that the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine says thawing in the refrigerator is a slower process that results in less fat loss in the breast milk than sitting frozen milk in warm water to thaw.^2,4

Use

When breast milk is thawed to room temperature, pour it into a clean feeding device. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours, and if it’s brought to room temperature, it should be used within two hours.²

Breast Milk Freezer Stash Tips

Here are some tips to help you build and maintain a breast milk freezer stash.¹

• Don’t stress about pumping immediately; enjoy breastfeeding with your little one. Establish the breastfeeding relationship before introducing bottles and worrying about pumping.
• Be sure to work on introducing a bottle to your little one before you are apart for the first time. You want to ensure they are comfortable with the change in feeding method and can take the bottle. This might not happen immediately, so keep practicing and don’t force it.
• Your breast milk freezer stash should never be used instead of pumping or breastfeeding. This can impact your breast milk supply, and you could see a decrease. Always pump to maintain your breast milk supply even when your little one is receiving a bottle.
• Contact your healthcare team and lactation specialist if you are struggling with pumping. They can help troubleshoot. It may be as simple as using the incorrect flange size while pumping.
• Before returning to work, talk to human resources or your manager about what your pumping breaks will look like. Ask where you will be able to pump and how often. Try your best to make your pumping spot comfortable, do your best to relax, and maybe even look at a picture of your little one while pumping.

Leaving your baby can be emotionally and physically challenging, especially the first few times. Although having a breast milk freezer stash won’t totally ease your mind while you are away, you will at least ensure your little one has enough milk while you are apart. With some extra work, your freezer stash will grow before you know it. Keep up the hard work, mama; you got this!

Using pacifiers with breastfed babies always seems to be a controversial topic. Can my baby have a pacifier? Should I wait to introduce one? Will it cause nipple confusion? What are the best pacifiers for breastfed babies? The questions could go on. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2022 updated breastfeeding guidelines reports that a review shows introducing a pacifier before or after the mother and baby duo establish breastfeeding does not impact the duration of breastfeeding for a healthy, full-term baby up until four months of age.¹

You may think, “This is great news, but is there a catch?” Not really, but here are some guidelines to make sure you and your baby use a pacifier appropriately to not interfere with breastfeeding. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, the parent — pacifier or no pacifier. Let’s dive into the benefits, risks, and guidance for how to pick the best pacifier for breastfed babies.

Benefits of Pacifier Use

It might be hard to believe, but there are benefits to infant pacifier use. Let’s start with one of the most important benefits. Research has shown that when an infant uses a pacifier when placed to sleep, it can decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Pacifier use has also been shown to provide infants comfort, has been associated with helping infants when they’re in pain, and even can help premature infants develop a sucking reflex. And lastly, introducing the pacifier decreases the risk of developing a thumb- or finger-sucking habit.²

Risks of Pacifier Use

You must always weigh the benefits and risks to determine what is best for your baby. This is even true when deciding whether to introduce a pacifier to your breastfed baby. There are a handful of benefits to pacifier use but also risks. One of these risks includes the impact of pacifier use on developing otitis media as an infant and later as a child. Pacifiers also pose an increased risk of causing problems such as oral yeast infections due to carrying bacteria and other germs. And, after 36 months old, the risk of developing dental and orthodontic issues rises.²

Important Note for Pacifier Use for Breastfed Babies

Pacifiers are an excellent tool for helping babies soothe and calm down when upset. It is essential to pay close attention to your infant’s hunger cues. Do not delay or miss a feeding by giving your baby the pacifier. The pacifier should never be a substitute for the breast.

How to Choose a Pacifier for Breastfed Babies

The AAP gives the following guidance on choosing a pacifier:³

• The pacifier should not be able to come apart. Multiple pieces can increase the risk of choking. The pacifier should be of single construction.
• The pacifier should have ventilation holes and measure at least 1.5 inches across. This prevents the baby from fitting the whole pacifier in their mouth, helping prevent choking.
• Do not attach a pacifier to a cord or strap, especially around the infant’s neck. This could lead to an injury.
• Never use a bottle nipple as a pacifier. The full nipple could easily go into the infant’s mouth.
• Do not force a baby to use a pacifier if they do not want it.
• Regularly inspect the pacifier before giving it to the infant. Pacifiers can break and deteriorate.

Although the AAP gives guidance on what to look for in a pacifier, they do not specifically recommend a type or brand of pacifier. The vast pacifier market has many shapes, colors, nipple sizes, and materials. It may be a trial-and-error process to see what pacifier works best for your baby. A breastfeeding baby may benefit from using a pacifier that closely resembles the mother’s nipple, but no research supports this.

5 Options for the Best Pacifiers for Breastfed Babies

Here are five great options for pacifiers for breastfed babies.

1. Philips Avent Soothie

The Philips Avent Soothie, known to many as the “hospital paci,” is a one-piece design made of silicone. This pacifier has the bonus of being designed to support bonding through the ability to place a finger in the nipple to encourage suckling. The nipple slightly resembles moms with a straight nipple and broader pacifier base. Its silicone material also helps with oral development and makes it easy to clean and sterilize.

2. Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci

With a broader base and straight nipple, this pacifier resembles a mother’s nipple shape. This may be helpful when introducing the pacifier to the infant. The HappyPaci is lightweight, made of silicone, and has a unique “butterfly-shaped shield” that curves away from the nose and cheeks. As for safety concerns, the pacifier is made of one full piece, minimizing the risk of choking.

When deciding whether to use a pacifier for your breastfed baby, it is up to you. Do what is best for your little one. Finding the right pacifier fit might not happen immediately, but the market is vast. With the various materials, sizes, shapes, and textures, there is sure to be a pacifier to meet every baby’s need. When trying pacifiers with your little one, you may need to try a few before finding the best fit.

3. Evenflo Feeding Balance

This pacifier is designed by feeding specialists and has a cylindrical-shaped nipple, making it favorable for breastfeeding infants due to its resemblance to a mother’s nipple. The pacifier is made of 100% silicone and is one full piece, which is always recommended to decrease the risk of choking. The silicone material makes this pacifier not only flexible but also very lightweight.

4. Tommee Tippee Breast-like Pacifier

This is a pacifier specifically designed to mimic a mother’s nipple when it comes to its feel, flexibility, and ability to stretch. As a bonus, the base of the pacifier was created to curve away from the baby’s face to allow for better airflow and decrease irritation to the baby’s skin.

5. Nanobebe Flexy Pacifier

The Nanobebe Flexy Pacifier is a soft, flexible pacifier designed to fit snugly around your baby’s nose and to their baby’s help the pacifier stay in place. It is made of 100% silicone, providing the soft, familiar feel of a mother’s breast. The silicone material also makes it easy to clean and sterilize.

We hope this list gives you confidence in choosing the best pacifier for your breastfed baby.

With breastfeeding, the types of possible positions, methods like switch nursing, and other techniques sometimes seem limitless. This is important to remember, especially if your little one is struggling with breastfeeding. If, at first, you are not succeeding, don’t give up. There are more breastfeeding positions and methods to try that might be just right for your baby.

Switch nursing is a breastfeeding method that many may not be aware of. The term describes a method commonly recommended for infants sleepy at the breast or mothers with low milk supply. This technique involves frequently switching the breast the baby is feeding on to facilitate active sucking and swallowing and triggering multiple letdowns from the mother. Although no research supports the effectiveness of switch nursing, it is still frequently recommended.¹

Why Switch Nursing?

Breastfeeding does not always come easy to every mother and baby duo. When a baby can’t stay awake long enough at the breast to remove milk adequately, this can cascade into the mother experiencing a low milk supply. In this scenario, switch nursing could be a helpful technique to implement into the feeding routine.

A mother’s milk supply depends on how much breast milk is removed from her breasts. The amount of milk a baby removes when breastfeeding will match the amount the mom makes if she is not expressing milk additionally on her own. This begins a chain of events leading to a low milk supply and can impact a baby’s ability to gain weight through breastfeeding.¹

When a baby is sleepy at the breast, you may see them actively sucking and swallowing when they first latch and experience mom’s let down, but soon after, a pattern of non-nutritive sucking begins. Non-nutritive sucking is a term used to describe a baby sucking at the mother’s breast but not removing milk or receiving nutrition from the sucking pattern. The mother-baby duo could benefit from implementing switch nursing into their breastfeeding routine.¹

The idea behind switch nursing is that frequently switching the breast the mother offers throughout the feeding will trigger frequent letdowns and cause an active swallowing response more frequently. This can lead to the baby receiving and removing more breast milk. As a result, the baby will be helping the mom increase and maintain her milk supply.²

How Does Switch Nursing Work?

Switch nursing requires observation from the breastfeeding mother, who watches the baby sucking and swallowing closely while feeding. Once the baby goes from active swallowing to non-nutritive sucking, the mom is ready to “switch.” ¹

When switch nursing, the mom should gently slide her finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth. From here, gently pull down on her breast to break the seal. The baby will then be ready to latch onto the other breast. This pattern can be repeated several times.^1,2

Breast massage with switch nursing can help increase milk production and the calories in the breast milk. It is advised to compress when the baby is actively sucking and begin to release when swallowing starts. As swallowing ends, gentle compression can start again.^1,2

It is essential not to compress or massage your breast too hard because it could cause damage, leading to further problems such as plugged ducts or mastitis. Speaking with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider to review breast massage techniques is always a good idea.

Important Tips To Consider

There are some circumstances where switch nursing will not be helpful. This includes if you have a baby with low endurance when it comes to feeding. This could be related to being premature, losing weight, or having an illness.¹

Although switch nursing helps sleepy babies feed for more extended periods, it might not be the best method for infants struggling with weight gain. When switching breasts, there is the risk that the baby will only be receiving the mother’s foremilk, not the calorie-dense hindmilk that comes later in a breastfeeding session.³

It is also essential to note that switch nursing is not meant for long-term implementation in the breastfeeding routine.

When concerns arise or you have problems breastfeeding, contact your healthcare team for guidance and recommendations. Speak to your team before changing to nursing so they can help you closely monitor your little one’s weight.

Breastfeeding offers many benefits to mom and baby. We wish it could come without challenges, but that is rarely true. Thankfully, with the help and support of a lactation specialist, you can navigate the challenges together. Who knows, maybe switch nursing is the answer you need. Talk with your team because you never know!

A cleft lip or cleft palate are congenital anomalies defined as a “group of disorders affecting the structure of the face and oral cavity.” A baby can be born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, or both. When babies are born with either, extra special attention is needed to help meet their needs.²

Various factors can cause a cleft palate or cause a cleft lip, but the diagnosis of either puts a child at a higher risk for concerns related to feeding, nutrition, hearing, and facial, orthodontic, and dental abnormalities. A multidisciplinary healthcare team can help address these concerns and assist the family in navigating care for their child.¹

What are a Cleft Lip and a Cleft Palate?

A cleft lip occurs when the infant’s lip does not fuse completely together. The baby is then born with a separation in the lip. A cleft palate occurs when the baby’s palate does not completely fuse, causing the baby to be born with a gap or opening in the roof of the mouth.^4,5

There are various degrees in which a cleft lip or cleft palate can occur, and diagnosis can be unilateral, occurring on one side, or bilateral, shown on both sides.^4,5

What Causes a Cleft Lip or Cleft Palate?

So, what causes a cleft lip, and what causes a cleft palate? Although what causes a cleft lip and palate is unknown, many are thought to be a result of gene mutations or a mother’s exposure to environmental factors during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that maternal smoking, diabetes, and using certain medications increase the risk of their baby developing a cleft lip or cleft palate.⁶

Diagnosis

Most parents find out their baby will be born with a cleft lip early since it can be diagnosed through ultrasound. A cleft palate, on the other hand, can be diagnosed early but is not as commonly diagnosed by ultrasound and is usually noticed quickly after birth. The pediatrician plays a vital role in the early diagnosis of a cleft palate not diagnosed prenatally. Some babies may not even be diagnosed until later when they are not gaining weight appropriately or have feeding difficulties. The child is usually diagnosed with a submucosal cleft palate in these circumstances.^2,3,7

Treatment

Care coordination is extremely important when treating a child with a cleft lip or cleft palate due to the child’s complex medical needs. A specialized healthcare team with a multidisciplinary approach can often cover every need. A typical team usually includes pediatrics, dentistry, orthodontics, plastic surgery, audiology, genetics, oral surgery, and otolaryngology. It can also be helpful to involve speech pathology, psychology, nutrition, and social work in the care team. Care plans should be specialized to each child and focused on their needs.^11,12

Surgery to correct the cleft lip or cleft palate will be based on each child and sometimes will occur in stages. Cleft lip repair surgery usually occurs between 3 to 6 months old. This repair is known as a cheiloplasty. Cleft palate repairs, also known as palatoplasty, close the gap between the nasal and oral cavities. The palatal musculature is also reconstructed during this procedure to enable normal speech development. The cleft palate repair is commonly done between 9 to 18 months old. Following the initial procedures, follow-up surgeries may be needed or recommended to assist with speech and the appearance of the lip and nose area of the child.^2,8

Surgery is a large part of the child’s treatment plan, but even before and after surgery, many other healthcare disciplines will play a role in meeting the child’s medical needs.

Feeding a Baby with a Cleft Lip or Cleft Palate

It is essential to find the best feeding method for your baby and continually educate yourself on how to support your little one best. As you explore different ways of feeding your little one, it is essential to monitor their weight gain, making sure the method is appropriate. Below, we will explore three feeding methods and how to best approach them for a baby with a cleft lip or cleft palate.⁷

Breastfeeding

A key component for successful breastfeeding is creating suction. Suction helps the baby latch and stay on the breast to suck and trigger the mother’s letdown, and the movement of the baby’s tongue helps transfer milk from the breast. This becomes a more complex problem for a baby with a cleft lip or palate.⁷

Some babies with a cleft lip or palate may appear to latch but are more commonly seen as “chomping” and cannot transfer milk and swallow appropriately.⁵

Challenges differ between children depending on the variation of cleft they have. It is more common for babies with a cleft lip to have better success breastfeeding than a child with a cleft palate or both.⁷

Tips for Breastfeeding a Baby with a Cleft Lip or Palate

Here are some tips from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine regarding breastfeeding a baby with a cleft lip or palate:^5,7

• After cleft repair, breastfeeding can resume right away.
• Even if the baby cannot remove milk effectively from the breast, putting your baby on your breast can help with bonding and comfort for the baby.
• A lactation specialist can assist with, evaluate, and discuss the possibility of breastfeeding and offer education about milk supply and expression.
• Draw your baby tightly to the breast and use your thumb over the cleft lip area to help close the area, creating a seal for your baby to breastfeed.
• If unable to breastfeed, it is essential to express milk with a breast pump to maintain your breast milk supply.

Bottle Feeding

It is common for babies with a cleft lip or cleft palate to need a special feeding device. Just as with breastfeeding, when sucking a bottle, it is challenging to create suction to remove milk. You can try a variety of special bottles and nipples to find the best fit. You can work with a feeding specialist to find the right device for your baby. Some of these special and supportive feeding devices include Dr. Brown’s Specialty Feeding System, the Haberman Feeder, Pigeon Cleft Palate, and Mead-Johnson Cleft Lip/Palate Nurser.²

Even when using a special feeding device, feeding strategies and techniques may help your little one successfully and comfortably feed.

Bottle Feeding Tips for Feeding a Baby with a Cleft Lip or Cleft Palate

Here are some tips on bottle feeding your baby if they have a cleft lip or cleft palate:

• Feed in the upright position to help decrease nasopharyngeal reflux.
• Use the “dancer-hand” feeding position. This position supports the baby’s lip, chin, and cheeks to help with sucking movements.
• Take feedings slowly. Allow the child to take breaks to breathe.
• Synchronize “squeezing” milk to the child from the bottle with their sucking pattern.

Feeding Solid Foods to a Baby with a Cleft Lip or Palate

Just as with children without a cleft lip or cleft palate, you can introduce solid foods around six months. You should watch for signs your child is ready to start solids, such as holding their head up on their own, sitting upright with minimal support, and showing interest when others eat. If you are unsure your child is ready, speak with their healthcare team. Children with a cleft palate may experience food entering their noses while eating. This can be alarming and very uncomfortable for the child. The child can usually clear the food by sneezing or drinking.¹⁰

To help the child handle the food in their mouth easier, children with a cleft palate need to start with thicker purees with no clumps. As your child grows comfortable with the purees, you can slowly add more textures with other soft foods. It’s helpful to work with your healthcare team and a feeding specialist for guidance on feeding your little one solid foods.¹⁰

Children born with a cleft lip or cleft palate need extra support and care from the start. With an excellent healthcare team on hand, you can navigate your child’s healthcare needs. It is important to contact your health care team if you notice any concerning or new changes, your little one is not feeding well, you feel they are losing weight, or any questions arise.

Breastfeeding is such a beautiful and amazingly beneficial method of feeding. The benefits are numerous for both mother and baby. It’s fantastic when everything goes smoothly and your baby is nursing well and gaining weight. However, it can become overwhelming when breastfeeding is not going well, and you may need to consider triple feeding.

Unfortunately, many possible problems could make breastfeeding more challenging for a new duo. Breastfeeding is a brand-new skill for your baby, and together you and your baby are working to figure out what works best for both of you. Contact your healthcare and lactation team for support and guidance when problems arise. Depending on the issue, some may recommend triple feeding. Triple feeding can be helpful when navigating certain concerns, but they are hard to sustain for long periods.¹

So here we go, mama, nurse, pump, bottle-feed, repeat — let’s help you survive the triple feeding!

Why Must Some Moms Do a Triple Feeding?

The term triple feeding is used when a mom is nursing her baby at the breast, using her breast pump to express milk, and then feeding the baby expressed milk with a bottle. Triple feeding comes into play when there is a problem not allowing a baby to drain their mother’s breasts fully or the mother’s milk supply is insufficient to meet her baby’s needs.^1,2

Common Problems That Impact Breastfeeding

The following are common problems that can impact a mother and baby duo’s ability to breastfeed:^1,3,4

• Complicated or traumatic birth for mom or baby
• Prematurity
• Illness
• Jaundice
• Painful breastfeeding for mom
• Difficulty latching and feeding coordination
• Tongue and lip tie or facial and jaw anomalies
• Milk is slow to come in, or it’s a low supply

These causes can significantly impact a baby’s ability to breastfeed. They can cause your baby not to have the stamina to breastfeed for appropriate periods or cause difficulties for the baby to latch properly to the breast. These problems can lead to ineffective milk removal, and pumping becomes essential to the triple feeding method. By expressing milk by pump and then bottle feeding, you can ensure that your baby takes in an appropriate amount of milk and that the mom’s milk supply is established and maintained.³

Expressing your breast milk with your nursing baby or a pump is imperative for your supply from birth. The mother’s supply will decrease if a baby cannot remove enough milk. Milk synthesis slows down when less milk is removed, decreasing production. This is why it is essential to pump if you’re experiencing breastfeeding challenges. This will keep your milk production high enough to meet your little one’s growing needs.³

Tips for Surviving a Triple Feeding

While triple feedings have been seen to be effective, they are worrisome regarding sustainability. They require ample time each day to feed your baby, set aside time to pump, store your expressed milk, and then clean your pump parts. The to-do list could be exhausting! Taking on all of those responsibilities alone is overwhelming. This is when to ask for help or accept help from your partner or support system. They can play a helpful role in bottle feeding your baby, cleaning bottles and pump parts, and even helping with other chores that need to be done around the house.¹

You also want to take care of yourself. Fuel your body with healthy food options,  drink plenty of water, and give yourself grace. You are working hard, mama, and doing all the best things for your baby. So don’t be too hard on yourself.

Tips for Transitioning From Triple Feeding to Exclusively Breastfeeding

Don’t worry, mom, the triple feeding method doesn’t have to be a forever thing. When your baby is ready, it will be time for exclusive breastfeeding. This transition period is great for contacting a lactation consultant for guidance and support. Check out these helpful tips below for transitioning to exclusively breastfeeding.

1. Address All Concerns and Problems

Before you are ready to transition to fully breastfeeding, ensure you have addressed the concerns preventing exclusively nursing before. Addressing concerns could be anything from working with a lactation consultant to help work on proper feeding techniques and latch while your sore and painful nipples are healing to waiting on healing after a traumatic birth. This is when consulting with your healthcare and lactation teams can be very helpful.

2. Ensure a Deep Latch

A deep latch helps your baby pull milk out of the breast and helps keep your nipples intact and comfortable. When a baby has a shallow latch, the nipple is too far in the front of the baby’s mouth. This causes increased friction and compression of the mother’s nipple when the baby begins sucking, resulting in nipple pain for the mother. Nipple trauma can occur quickly, so correcting the latch and finding a comfortable feeding position as soon as possible is essential.³

3. Skin-to-Skin

Skin-to-skin contact between the mother and infant is beneficial in many ways. Not only has it been shown to increase the mother and infant bond, but it also has been shown to promote more breastfeeding. One study showed that mothers who used skin-to-skin contact with their babies had greater increases in their milk supply volume than those who did not use skin-to-skin.³

4. Paced Bottle Feeding

Even while triple feeding, you can help set yourself up for success with breastfeeding later by using the paced bottle-feeding method. This method encourages your baby to suck to pull milk out of the bottle’s nipple by holding the bottle horizontally while feeding.⁵

5. Expression and Breast Compressions When Feeding

When the baby is still learning to breastfeed, it may be helpful to stimulate your breast to initiate your letdown before attempting to latch. Milk already available gives the baby more instant gratification and encourages them to continue sucking. The same concept applies to using breast compressions during a nursing session. Be careful not to use too much force on the breast because it could cause trauma.²

6. Pre & Post Feed Weights

When transitioning back to exclusively breastfeeding, it can continue to be a concern if your baby gets enough milk from the breast. A great way to see how well your baby removes milk from the breast is through a “weigh feed weigh.” This is when you weigh your baby before you start feeding, usually recommended in just a diaper. Then feed your baby at your breast, and weigh again afterward in the same diaper to see how much your baby took in.²

Transitioning to Exclusively Pumping From Triple Feeding

If the triple feeding has you exhausted and stressed out, this could mean it is no longer working for you, and it might be time to transition to exclusively pumping. By this point, you most likely are familiar with using your breast pump and bottle-feeding your baby. The next step will be determining how much your baby needs at each feed, pumping frequency, and how to store and handle expressed breast milk properly.

Triple feeding is no easy task. Mom, you are amazing and doing everything right for your baby. Although this exhausting period of triple feeding seems to have no end in sight, it will. So, make sure to give yourself grace and ask for help!