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How often should I breastfeed?

This depends on how old your baby is and how much milk you have. Most babies want to breastfeed 10-12 times in 24 hours for the first month. Older babies won’t breastfeed as often.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough?

What goes in, comes out. That’s why we’re sort of obsessed with diapers in the first few weeks. Once your baby is a few days old and your milk is in, she should be having 8-10 wet diapers and several stools every 24 hours. If she’s not, you may want to see a lactation consultant to discuss breastfeeding parameters.

How many minutes should I breastfeed on each side?

This is one of the questions I get asked at every consult. Before your baby is back up to birth weight, you should feed from one side until he seems done. Then burp him and then switch to the other side. Until your baby is back up to birth weight you can have one long stretch of four hours without feeding, in 24 hours.

How long do I need to keep feeding every 2-3 hours?

Just until your baby is back up to his birth weight. Then you should watch your baby and not the clock. We talk lots about this at a consult. When your baby has passed his birth weight, he may not want to feed every 2-3 hours.  Watch for feeding cues.

Do I need to breastfeed both sides at every feeding?

The short answer is yes. It’s important to stimulate both breasts to produce milk. The practice of block feeding, nursing only one side at a time, is closely associated with decreasing the milk supply. There are some exceptions, which make it all right to only feed one side at a time. It’s best to have a lactation consultant evaluate your specific situation.

How many minutes should I pump?

I tell my clients to pump for 12-15 minutes, both sides together, with a good electric pump. It’s better to pump more often for less time.

When can I start using a bottle?

It’s best to wait until your baby is 6 weeks old to start a bottle. However, there are many situations when I recommend one earlier. As a lactation consultant, I’ll work with you to make a plan that’s just right for you.

How can I increase my supply?

The more you breastfeed or pump, the more milk you’ll make. It’s that simple! But this may also be time consuming and it doesn’t always work. Some of my clients take Domperidone and have had excellent results.

What should I eat when I breastfeed?

Just eat a healthy diet and you can eat anything you want!

How do I know when my baby is done feeding?

This answer changes during the weeks and months of your baby’s life. Until your baby is back up to his birth weight, you’ll want to do whatever waking techniques you can do to make sure he has a good feed. This is something a good lactation consultant can help you evaluate.

Is it ok if my baby doesn’t burp after breastfeeding?

Babies who breastfeed don’t take in much air. It’s best to try and burp her between sides. If she burps, she’ll have more room for food and it will wake her up so she’ll take the other side.

What should my baby be wearing when he breastfeeds?

Just a diaper! Newborn babies tend to fall asleep before they’re done feeding if they’re wrapped up, cozy and warm.

How do I know if I have enough milk?

Most mothers produce enough milk for their babies. It’s important to be allowed to breastfeed and bond right away. If your baby is gaining weight, then you have enough milk. If you think you don’t have enough milk for your baby, it’s important to have a consult to determine how to increase your supply.

I keep hearing about tongue-ties. How do I know if my baby has one?

As an experienced lactation consultant, I’m very good at not only recognizing tongue-ties, but also understanding its effect on breastfeeding.

How much breastmilk should my baby eat when I’m at work?

The rule of thumb is 1oz per hour that you’re gone. So if you’re gone for 9 hours, then leave 9 or 10oz for the care provider. We can make a plan that’s tailored to your working situation.