Breast Feeding Basics

Question: How often should I breastfeed my baby?

I created the following video to answer that question:

Question: Do Big Breasts Make More Milk? 

The simple answer to this question is no. However, size does matter in this situation. If you have small breasts, you will need to nurse a little more frequently to maintain your milk supply at the same level as those who have larger breasts. The science behind this principle goes something like this: (more…)

Question: Can breastfeeding cause cavities?

Whether they breastfeed or not, some babies and toddlers seem to be easily afflicted with cavities. Unfortunately for nursing moms, some dentists claim that breastfeeding, especially at night, contributes to cavities in infants and toddlers. They recommend weaning when the baby’s teeth start to come in. Are these dentists justified in making this claim and recommendation? (more…)

Question: When should my baby start solid food?

Unless there is a complication that prevents you from doing so, your baby should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months. This is in accordance with the World Health Organization’s breastfeeding guidelines and the American Academy of Pediatrics’ policy statement on breastfeeding. But knowing that you shouldn’t unnecessarily introduce solid foods, or foods other than breast milk, prior to six months of age probably doesn’t help you know when you can, or should, start introducing solid foods into your baby’s diet. (more…)

Question: What is tandem nursing?

Tandem nursing is when two siblings of different ages breastfeed together. It generally comes about because the older baby was too young to wean, and continued nursing throughout a pregnancy, although it is possible for a baby to temporarily stop nursing, only to start again after the new baby is born. (more…)

Question: What is colostrum?

When your baby is brand new, you will notice that the milk you produce is small in quantity and a yellowish color. It is also much thicker than the milk you will produce later on. This milk is called colostrum, and for 2 to 4 days it is all your baby will need. Often, the amount that is made at a feeding is less than ¼ of an ounce! (more…)

Question: How soon after birth should I start breastfeeding my baby?

Ideally, a mother should give birth vaginally and put her baby to the breast within the first 30 minutes following the birth. Also, if possible, rooming in with baby and sleeping with baby is helpful in establishing a strong bond and preventing engorgement, in addition to stimulating a good milk supply. (more…)