Breastfeeding Services

Breast milk provides optimal nutrition for babies by boosting their immune systems, reducing the risk of certain illnesses like ear infections and chronic conditions later in life like diabetes. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of some cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer in mom as well as some chronic conditions like heart disease. Not to mention increased bonding.

First, attend a breastfeeding class to ensure you have the information necessary on what to expect as well as have the chance to ask questions prior to delivery. In class we talk about breastfeeding techniques, including positioning, latch and milk production. We talk about how to tell when baby is hungry and also how to know they are getting enough milk. We also discuss common discomforts and when to reach out to a lactation consultant. 

Colostrum is the first milk made for baby and it is made in smaller quantities due to the size of baby’s belly. In the beginning baby’s belly is roughly the size of grape, holding anywhere from 5-7 ml’s of milk per feeding. It is normal to produce small amount of milk the first 2-5 days after birth. Over the first week baby’s belly grows exponentially by the end of week being the size of a strawberry and holding 45-60ml’s of milk per feeding, which aligns with the progression of milk production in mom. Generally, a mother’s milk will “come in” by post-partum day 5. 

Wet and dirty diapers are an indicator baby is getting enough milk, the first day of life we expect to see 1 dirty diaper and 1 stool diaper in 24 hours. By day 2, 2 wets, 2 dirties. By day 3, 3 wets 3 dirties, by day 4, 5+ wets and 4+ dirty diapers. By day 6, 6+ wets and 4+ dirties generally, until baby starts taking solid foods. Another great indicator is steady weight gain. In the beginning it is normal for baby’s to lose some weight, the nurses in the hospital and your pediatrician will monitor weight loss and how baby is doing in terms of what is normal. Most often when your milk “comes in” baby’s start to gain weight getting back to birth weight by 2 weeks of age. 

It is normal to feel engorged when your milk first comes in (usually by post-partum day 5), but there are things you can do to help. Continue to nurse baby on demand, use warm packs prior to nursing and use cool packs to help with discomfort after, hand expression of milk to soften the breast, and OTC pain relief.

Seeing a lactation consultant provides personalized care based on you breastfeeding goals as well as what you are experiencing at that time. A lactation consultant can help with positioning, latch and help with troubleshooting current issues. I would say the main benefit is a personalized approach to feeding your baby. 

It’s recommended to start breastfeeding within the first hour after delivery, if possible. Early breastfeeding helps establish milk production and fosters bonding between you and your baby.

Newborns need to breastfeed at least 8 times in 24 hours, but every baby is different. Look for hunger cues, such as sucking on their hands or making rooting motions. In the early weeks, it’s common for babies to feed frequently to establish a good milk supply also called “cluster feeding.”

A good latch is important to prevent discomfort and ensure your baby gets enough milk as well as supporting your milk supply. If baby is not latching properly, please schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant so they can assist.

Nipple discomfort (due to frequent stimulation) is common in the early days of breastfeeding, but it shouldn’t be severe. If you experience pain, check your baby’s latch and position. If pain continues, you may have an issue like engorgement, cracked nipples, or improper latch. Comfort measures can include nipple cream, hydrogel pads, or nipple shells. However, if pain persists these measures will not solve the root cause and nipple pain should be addressed to ensure milk supply is not affected due to improper latch.

Yes, many women successfully breastfeed after returning to work. Know your legal rights about pumping at work and speak to your employer about when you return to work the plan for pumping. 

Some mothers may need to supplement with formula due to medical reasons such as, infant weight loss, low blood sugar and jaundice. Supplementation and breast feeding is possible! Call to schedule to discuss how to best support your family in your feeding goals. 

In most cases, breastfeeding is safe even if you have certain health conditions. However, there are some conditions and medications that can affect breastfeeding. Always consult with your doctor before making any decisions regarding your health and breastfeeding. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding with the introduction of solid foods until at least 1 year of age. You can continue breastfeeding beyond this time, depending on your preferences and child’s needs.

Pumping is a great tool for helping reach your breastfeeding goals. Pumping can be done for many reasons such as returning to work, being able to give milk in a bottle or increasing supply. Pumping recommendations are specific to the individual and your specific situation. Please contact us to discuss with a lactation consultant your goals for pumping.

Pumps generally come with two standard sizes; however a majority of individuals may need a size not included with the pump. Our lactation consultants use a tool to measure the nipple to ensure you have the correct size flange which can impact amount of milk expressed while pumping. For more information, see this flange sizing guide.

Our clinic offers several resources to support breastfeeding moms, including:

• One-on-one consultations with a lactation consultant
• Educational materials and a breastfeeding class

Please feel free to reach out if you need assistance or have concerns.

Please visit the following site to learn how to maximize milk production: Maximizing Milk Production | Newborn Nursery | Stanford Medicine.

If you have an active prescription with refills for a non-controlled medication, simply call your pharmacy to request it be transferred to your new pharmacy.