9 Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding

All parents, especially first-time parents, have a series of questions that usually arise around the birth of their child. Many of these issues have to do with breastfeeding.

You probably have many questions about breastfeeding. Below we list nine of them and their answers!

Breastfeeding can be a difficult ordeal for many mothers – especially first-time mothers. Part of the problem is that there are many myths about breastfeeding.

While there is a lot of information available, many still have several common doubts.

Most women can breastfeed their babies, but it is very common to encounter obstacles and difficulties in the beginning. In most cases, these problems can be solved with the help of a specialist.

In fact, there are many centers and groups that help breastfeeding mothers.

Many common questions about breastfeeding have to do with whether the woman produces enough milk or not.

New mothers also wonder if their milk will provide all the nutrition their baby needs.

But the fact is, with practice, your technology and production will improve over time. The best thing you can do is relax.

Frequently asked questions about breastfeeding and our answers

When is the right time to feed my newborn baby?

The answer is immediately, now, live. The most natural thing to do is to place your newborn baby on your breast as soon as you get her so she can start sucking.

Even if your milk will take some time to drain – maybe several days – your baby’s sucking will speed up the process.

Keep in mind that milk flow can take even longer to get started after a caesarean section.

How do I know if I am producing enough milk for my baby?

Among all the important questions about breastfeeding, this is one of the most common.

Your baby takes responsibility for increasing your milk production through his own breastfeeding.

Therefore, it is important that you let your little one breastfeed freely during the first days of life.

You should also pay special attention to the technology. Make sure your baby gets the right grip on your breast. If she only sucks at the end of your nipple, help her open her mouth larger so that all or almost all of your nipple is covered.

Finally, turn your baby’s lips outward.

You probably have questions about breastfeeding

How much milk should my baby drink?

Let your baby drink until she is full and satisfied. Ideally, your baby should empty one breast before switching to the other breast.

The idea behind this is that the first milk that comes out – the foremilk – is more watery and sugary. It provides many necessary calories and keeps your baby well hydrated.

Then comes your regular milk, which is creamier and has a higher fat content and contributes to your little one’s weight gain. Both pre-milk and regular milk are important for your baby.

Mothers often ask how long their baby should wear at each breastfeeding session. During the first days of life, your little one should breastfeed completely free on request – which means as often as he wants and for as long as he wants.

This will help stimulate your milk production. Over the next few months, your baby will start breastfeeding at regular intervals.

Should I stop breastfeeding if my breasts hurt?

It is normal for mothers to first experience pain and cracks in the breasts. In rare cases, your nipples may start to bleed, but this is not harmful to your baby (although she may vomit the blood).

If your nipples are bleeding, it’s time to correct your baby’s sucking technique – seek help from a specialist if needed.

During the first days of your baby’s life, when your milk flow is flowing, you may experience painful swelling in your breasts.

Your breasts can also feel very hot. This is normal and can be relieved with a hot shower and massage of the breasts.

However, if the swelling and pain persist or recur at a later date, you should contact your doctor to rule out mastitis.

Can I pump out my breast milk and give it to my baby in a baby bottle?

During your baby’s first days of life, you should try to stay away from baby bottles and pacifiers.

Your newborn is still learning to suck and these accessories can cause confusion due to their shape and structure.

If you feel that your breasts are too full, the best thing you can do is to let your baby breastfeed. If this is not possible, you can pump out the excess milk and freeze it and use it at a later time.

This will be useful if you plan to start working again relatively soon.

How about a breastfeeding pacifier?

In the past, it was common for mothers with inverted or flat nipples to use breastfeeding pacifiers. But this attribute does not limit a woman’s ability to breastfeed her baby in any way at all.

During breastfeeding, the baby will find ways to get the nutrition she needs.

Is it possible to breastfeed with breast implants?

This is one of the most common of all breastfeeding issues.

Breast augmentation surgeries do not affect the mammary glands, which are the glands responsible for producing breast milk.

Furthermore, there is no evidence that breast implants have any effect on milk or milk production.

What diet should a nursing mother eat?

The golden rule is that what is difficult for the mother to digest will also create problems for the baby.

Some foods can cause gas in the stomach of infants and, as a result, cause colic. Therefore, it is best to reduce the consumption of dairy products, cereals and white flour.

In addition to breast milk, should my baby also drink water?

Babies who breastfeed freely get all the fluid they need through their mother’s breast milk. As a rule, children should not drink water until after 6 months of age.

Then your child’s pediatrician will indicate when it’s okay to introduce water and other foods.

These common questions about breastfeeding are just a snippet and you may well have more. Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor or any other expert as you prepare for this important stage in your baby’s life.