Breastfeeding 101
The Basics
Breastfeeding is a huge commitment. For something that is so physiologically rational, our society has a tough time tolerating it. There are many nuances to nursing, and I am happy to support you through the entire journey. Here are some basics for you.
Golden hour:
Uninterrupted golden hour(s) allows for Baby to settle into Mom's chest and gain a sense of comfort. Once their sleepy period dwindles, and they enter their alert phase, they will begin searching for the breast instinctually. Patience is key here.
The first few latches are important as it will establish confidence in both Mom and Baby. If there is trouble with a latch, there is always a lactation consultant ready to help!
Skin to skin:
Is AMAZING for milk production! Also, skin to skin helps regulate Baby's heartrate, blood pressure, blood sugar, temperature, and cortisol levels are minimized.
Nutrition:
Mom needs to be fed, hydrated, and rested in order to produce milk. A google search will say that producing breast milk requires a minimum of 500 extra calories/day... Production of milk is so much more nuanced than calorie intake, BUT my hot take is that breast milk production requires AT LEAST 700 extra calories per day, likely pushing 1000cals/day during cluster feeding windows. Please follow the link for a list of lactation inspiring foods -- No, you do not need to spend money on lactation cookies!
MINIMIZE STRESS:
This is a huge ask of new parents in today's world. Breastmilk letdown is inspired by the release of the hormone oxytocin. This release cannot happen when Mom is stressed, underfed, exhausted, dehydrated, etc. A happy Mom = a happy Baby. Those who hold the family's best interest at heart will be focused on minimizing stressors and providing full support to parents. Allow Mom to have a safe space to feed/pump when it is time.
Side Bar:
In this section, we are dedicated to supporting and educating lactating parents. We do understand that each family goes through its own feeding journey, much like birth. We also understand that formula comes with an instruction pamphlet, and breastfeeding does not. In this space, we are supporting breastfeeding parents and providing the necessary information for a successful BF journey.