Breastfeeding Care and Tips

Breast milk has the right amount of nutrients and antibodies to meet the needs at each stage of development.  

Baby Benefits

• breastfed babies have a lower risk of ear infections, asthma, type 2 diabetes, diarrhea and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
• breast milk is easily digestible by your baby
• breastfeeding boosts your baby's immune system and helps to protect them from illness

Mama Benefits

• breastfeeding lowers risk of heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer
• your body uses calories as you make milk
• breast milk is free, always ready and the right temperature
• you body releases oxytocin helping contract the uterus so that it can return to its pre pregnancy size more quickly.  

Breast Care

Avoid soaps, alcohol or product that cause drying of the nipples while breastfeeding.  You can simply wash each breast with a clean washcloth and warm water while breastfeeding.

• Don’t over wash. One or two showers a day with a gentle cleanser is plenty.
• After a feeding, pat your breasts dry with a soft cloth.
• Let your breasts air out periodically to avoid irritation from clothing.
• After a feeding, you can apply various over the counter healing products.

Breastfeeding Diet

You will not have the same dietary restrictions while breastfeeding as you did while you are pregnant.   However, there are some substances that can be passed through your breastmilk that you would want to avoid; such as caffeine, alcohol and some medications. 

You will want to consult with your health care provider or a lactation consultant before taking any medications or supplements.

• Drink plenty of fluids.  A general rule to follow is to drink at least one glass of water each time you have breastfed or pumped milk, so just keep a glass by your side. 
• You can continue to safely consume one to two cups of coffee or another caffeinated drink.
• Try to avoid any foods that give your baby an upset stomach.  After avoiding, if you are baby stomach feels better, you will know if it was the true cause or not.  Often times, avoiding spicy foods can help a lot.
• Alcohol leaves your breastmilk just as it leaves your bloodstream.  Therefore it could take a while for the tainted milk to filter out. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, moderate consumption (up to one drink per day) is not known to be harmful, especially if you wait a minimum of two hours prior to breastfeeding.
• If you are under the influence of drugs, do not breast feed your baby.  Drugs can pass through your breastmilk to your baby, which can cause serious health issues.

Ask your health care provider or lactation consultant before taking any medications to ensure they don’t harm your baby.