The birth of a child comes with a lot of questions. Among the popular topics: breastfeeding. For something that seems so self-explanatory, breastfeeding comes with a lot of confusion, misconceptions, and concerns. But we’re here to answer your questions about breastfeeding your baby, and how to make it a healthy and more enjoyable experience for both of you.
1. Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt?
No, breastfeeding is not supposed to hurt. If breastfeeding is painful, you should check the way your baby has latched. Remove your baby and try again.
Cracked, sore, or bleeding nipples can cause discomfort. But you will still be able to breastfeed, as this will not hurt your baby. In this case, try to speed healing with a gentle rinse after each feeding. Don’t use scented soaps, lotions, or alcohol for disinfectant, cleaning, or relief. If this keeps occurring, ask your doctor or a lactation consultant to help your baby latch better.
2. How long should it take each time?
Breastfeeding should take 15-20 minutes per side when the baby is a newborn. It may take longer if the baby falls asleep between sides. In this case, you should start with the other breast when your baby wakes up. Later on, your baby will become more efficient, and your time will reduce.
3. Is there anything I should avoid while breastfeeding?
Yes. While you’re breastfeeding, you will have to avoid certain medications. If you are unable to avoid them for health reasons, you may not be able to breastfeed your baby, or you’ll have to stop for a while. Some of these include:
- Radioactive iodine (to treat hyperthyroidism)
- Lipitor, Lopid, Mevacor, Zocor, and other lipid-lowering drugs
- Salicyclates and Gold Salts
- Large doses of aspirin
- Antihistimine and decongestant combination medicines
- Librium, Valium, Dalmane, and other anxiety and/or sleep medications
Note that you are most likely safe to take these medications in standard doses while breastfeeding:
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
- Caffeine (up to 3 drinks per day)
- Progesterin-only contraceptives
- Nasal decongestant sprays
- Insulin
- Laxatives
- Penicillins
- Thyroid medication like Synthroid
- Vaccines except for smallpox and yellow fever
If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, or are about to breastfeed, be sure to tell your doctor what you’re taking. If you have any concerns about medication, let him or her know.
4. Does breast size affect milk?
It is a common misconception that your breast size affects milk production. However, regardless of size, most women can produce enough milk for their babies. The actual factor affecting milk production is mammary tissue, so it’s possible for a woman with small breasts to over-produce while a woman with large breasts can have difficulty.
If you worry about the amount you are producing, or have difficulty producing milk, seek the help of your doctor or a lactation consultant right away.
5. How do I know my baby is getting enough?
You’ll be able to tell that your baby is getting enough milk by the length of the feeding time before they decide they’re done, frequency (8-12 feedings per 24-hour period), and their growth. A baby getting enough milk should gain 4-7 ounces per week after four days of age, and should have healthy, firm skin. Plus, your baby should be growing obviously. But if you are not seeing these things in your baby, and you are concerned, talk to your doctor right away.
6. Can I breastfeed if I’ve had breast enhancement or reduction surgery?
Having had surgery doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to breastfeed. If you have, though, be aware that it could impact your ability to make milk. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor.
7. My breasts are very hard. What should I do?
This is called “engorgement,” and can happen three to five days postpartum. When this happens, your breasts can feel painful and hard as they over-fill. You can use warm compresses before nursing and cold compresses afterwards to reduce engorgement. Warm compresses help milk secretion, while cold reduces swelling. You should also feed your baby every three hours to prevent engorgement.
8. Can I just pump instead?
Absolutely. Some mothers don’t like breastfeeding, can’t breastfeed directly, or would rather pump for any number of reasons. Don’t feel guilty about this–it works for you and your child, and that’s enough. When choosing a pump, be aware that it’s not about breast size, but rather about how the pump fits your nipple. Look for quality machines to avoid injuring yourself or suffering frequent breakdowns.
9. How should I handle breastfeeding in public?
Do what makes you comfortable. Some women prefer to cover up or use a nursing room, while others don’t mind openly breastfeeding their children. Don’t feel pressured either way, though. Breastfeeding is natural, and shouldn’t be seen as sexual or shameful.
10. What if I can’t breastfeed and have to use formula?
Don’t worry! Breastfeeding or not breastfeeding doesn’t determine good parenthood. While there are plenty of benefits to breastfeeding for both mother and child, not everyone can do it. That’s why formula exists!
Formula is still very nutritious, and you can be sure your child is getting what he or she needs to grow up healthy. If you cannot breastfeed and have any questions about formula, your doctor can talk about that, too.