1. Why does the baby seem so hungry?
It may seem that you are constantly feeding your baby, especially at first. Breast milk is very easy to digest, so the crumb needs to be fed at least 6-8 times a day.
Do not worry if your baby needs more frequent feeding than usual. Outbreaks of hunger are normal for babies. Usually, they occur at the age of 10 days, 3 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months, but can occur at any other time. In some cases, they can be caused by a temporary decrease in the amount of milk in the mother due to overwork and lack of sleep. In this case, do not give in to the desire to start bait mixing, this will only reduce the amount of milk produced by your body.
Instead, follow the child's wishes and apply it to the chest as often as he wants. Usually, it takes approximately two days of feeding every two hours for 20 minutes before the amount allocated by your body of milk adapts to the increased demand of the baby. In such a period try to follow a balanced diet and drink more. And of course, try to rest as much as possible.
2. Can a child bite?
It's one thing to breastfeed a toothless newborn and put a baby with small incisors to another breast. It is unlikely that the baby will bite during feeding. His tongue covers the bottom teeth while he sucks. But at the end of feeding, when the flow of milk decreases, the baby can play and bite. To prevent this from happening, gently remove the baby from the chest as soon as it stops swallowing. If he somehow gets to the chest, say "no" in a strict voice and stop feeding. Almost all babies quickly learn that during feeding, mom can not be bitten.
3. When is the best time to start decanting milk?
Milk can be started to decant even on the day when it first appears. There are several advantages in decanting milk in the first week of your baby's life. The key to stimulating milk production by the body is to unload the breast. Therefore, if the baby does not eat much, immediately after feeding, express the milk for 10 minutes. After the first week, you can express the remains of milk only after the morning feeding. This procedure will help to continue to increase the allocation of milk and at the same time will give you the opportunity to freeze the surplus for further use.
4. Will the feeding of the mixture be separated from breastfeeding?
Despite the fact that feeding only breast milk is an ideal option, bait mixture from time to time will not repel the desire of the baby to breastfeed.
If you are considering the option of feeding a child with a mixture, you must take into account his age. Try not to give the mixture at least until the baby is 1 month old and the allocation of milk by your body is well established. Breasts are also more susceptible to a nipple nozzle (which is easier to suck) than older babies, because they are still learning how to properly suck.
The most suitable option is to express the milk and feed the baby from the bottle. Breast milk is much more useful, and pumping does not limit its allocation.
If, for some reason, your baby prefers a bottle of breast, do not panic. You can teach him how to feed properly, especially if you have enough milk. Try the following: Stop using the bottle; offer your baby a breast every time he looks hungry; create positive associations, pinching the baby naked calf to his chest.
However, if your pediatrician advises to replace breast milk with a mixture, agree. This is usually the fastest way for children to gain sufficient weight for their age.
5. Why does the baby prefer feeding only on one side?
The baby may prefer one breast another because it is easier to grasp the nipple or milk more from this side, or the milk stands out more easily. Sometimes my mother, without even noticing it, feeds more often on one side. Different amounts of milk can affect the uneven breast size.
Different amounts of milk are usually not a problem. If your child is gaining weight and looks full after feeding, then he gets enough milk between the two breasts. You can increase the allocation of milk in a less beloved chest, decanting it after feeding, or starting feeding from this breast.
6. How to overcome your shyness while breastfeeding with others?
Despite the fact that breastfeeding in public places is not prohibited by law, many mothers do not dare to bare their breasts outside the walls of their homes. But a little practice and you will become more confident to breast feed the baby anywhere. Here are some tips:
- Use a special bra for nursing moms.
- Cover the baby with a diaper or a handkerchief during feeding.
- Wear a few things. Waistcoat or blouse over the blouse will close your belly, while you raise the blouse for feeding.
- Before you start breastfeeding in public places, practice before the mirror.
If you still feel uncomfortable, try to postpone feeding in public places. Try to talk with other moms about how they overcame the embarrassment.
7. Is it possible to combine breastfeeding and taking medication?
Usually, mothers are advised to interrupt breastfeeding while taking medications such as antibiotics. In fact, the drugs are quite safe, only a minimal amount falls into the milk.
But it's better to be careful. When the doctor prescribes medicine for you, make sure that he is aware of the fact that you are breastfeeding. Inform the pediatrician. Ask about possible side effects for you and the baby.
Try to take medication immediately after feeding.
However, some medicines, after all, are very harmful to children. Any antidepressants or those used for chemotherapy. But even if you need to take medicine that is harmful to your baby, you do not need to wean it. You can temporarily stop breastfeeding, express and drain milk. This will help to keep the amount of milk allocated and continue feeding when you are ready.
Now, with the necessary information, you can overcome these and other obstacles. It is worth it, because breastfeeding is one of the priceless rewards of motherhood.