Managing Stress During Pregnancy

When you are pregnant, there are days when you may cycle through every possible emotion. And one of the most common feelings that many expecting mothers tend to experience throughout their pregnancy is stress—stress about the baby, stress about the body, stress about preparing for the baby’s arrival, stress about life changes—you name it.

While it’s normal to experience these emotions, periods of prolonged or severe stress during your pregnancy isn’t good for you—OR your baby. In fact, high levels of constant stress can even make pregnancy symptoms worse (like trouble sleeping, body aches, etc.)—or contribute to larger issues like depression, problems with weight (gaining too much or not enough) or even high blood pressure. Finding ways to manage stress is important for any mother-to-be. Here are some ways you can reduce stress during pregnancy. 

Focus On Your Breath

Deep breaths help us get extra oxygen into our body, which in turn helps our muscles, body and brain feel relaxed. But how often do we truly focus on our breathing? Meditation is a great thing to try (there are several apps available that can teach you how), or simply sit calmly and take long, belly-filling breaths in through your nose, then slowly out through your nose or mouth. 

Prioritize Rest

While some pregnant ladies fall asleep at the drop of a hat (especially during the first trimester), sleep doesn’t always come as easily as pregnancy progresses. Your body is going through a lot (you know, the whole growing a human thing), and not getting enough rest can elevate levels of stress. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night, and plan for a bedtime that helps you hit that goal. A calming bedtime ritual might help you quiet your mind before you go to sleep—some suggest a warm (not hot!) bath, a cup of herbal caffeine-free tea, calming music, and  little to no screen time. If you are struggling with getting enough sleep, speak to your healthcare provider about additional suggestions.

Move Your Body

Not only is incorporating some movement into your daily activities good for your body, it’s good for your mind, too. Exercise releases chemicals in the body called endorphins, which can improve your mood and even relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. And don’t let the idea of “working out” intimidate or limit you—just heading outside for a walk is a great way to get your heart rate up. The fresh air and movement can help ease your mind and boost those endorphins. 

Eat Right

Eating right is all about balance. Growing a human is a lot of work and pregnancy cravings are so real. So, ensuring you get a good mix of healthy food and plenty of water is one of the best forms of self care. Don't be afraid to give yourself a treat once in a while—but remember that fueling your body with healthy choices will ensure you and baby are getting the nutrients you need to feel good and strong physically and mentally. And don't forget to take your prenatal vitamins.

Let It Out

Sometimes, just sharing your feelings or worries with someone else can take some of the weight off your shoulders. Talk to other pregnant or new mamas—they will be able to relate, and might even offer advice about what worked to relieve stress during their own pregnancies. You can also try writing out your thoughts—keeping a journal, making a list of the things you are grateful for, or writing to-do lists if there’s simply too much on your itinerary. All these can help calm your mind and lower your stress levels.

If your stress feels unmanageable or you’re worried about your own or your baby’s health,  speak to your healthcare provider. Losing sleep, lack of appetite or unhealthy behaviors means it’s time to get some help managing your stress.

Source: Lancaster HealthHub

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Female Orgasm: How Does It Affect Conception?

With John Preston Parry 

Most women want their partners to take them to the peak of sexual satisfaction during intercourse and the climax of this is orgasm. But, for most couples wanting to have a baby, the issue of female orgasm, especially during the critical period of ovulation, has become a topical one in recent times. On the one hand is the school of thoughts that believe female orgasm aids conception because the sperms would find it easier to swim into the fallopian tubes  to fertilize the egg. However, a contrary argument is that, since a woman’s release is acidic by nature and the male sperm is alkaline, all the sperms would be destroyed before they even get to the uterus.

So, what is the true position? Does female orgasm aid or hinder conception?  What role does female orgasm play in conception? According to John Preston Parry, a specialist with  Positive Steps Fertility , this is a question many women and couples, wanting to conceive, usually ask fertility specialists. Female orgasm during ovulation is a topic shrouded in both mystery and misinformation, blending the lines between scientific fact and age-old myths.

Understanding conception, a process deeply rooted in biology and physiology, requires experts in the field to not only explore these questions but also to demystify the nuances surrounding them.

Understanding The Female Orgasm

To demystify the role of female orgasm in conception, we first need to understand what it is. The female orgasm is a complex, multifaceted experience, encompassing both physiological and psychological elements. Physiologically, it is characterized by rhythmic contractions of the pelvic muscles, along with increased heart rate, blood pressure, and often a heightened sense of pleasure. These contractions are thought to aid in the movement of sperm through the cervix, potentially influencing conception.

From a psychological standpoint, the orgasm is a deeply personal and varied experience. It can range from intensely pleasurable to subtle, and for some, it may be elusive. This variability is completely normal, reflecting the diverse nature of female sexual experience.

Misconceptions About Female Orgasm

Despite its commonality, there are numerous misconceptions about female orgasm. One of the most prevalent is the notion that orgasm is necessary for conception. This is a myth. While the experience can enhance the intimate and emotional aspects of a sexual relationship, it is not a prerequisite for conception. Many women conceive without experiencing orgasm during the act of intercourse.

Another common misconception is the belief that all women experience orgasm in the same way. In reality, the experience is highly individualistic, influenced by a myriad of factors including physical health, emotional state, and the nature of the sexual activity.

Understanding these aspects of female orgasm is crucial in comprehending its potential role in fertility and conception. The journey through the realms of conception and fertility is complex, and female orgasm is just one of the many facets that contribute to our understanding of the fertility process.

The Biological Perspective Of Conception

Understanding conception from a biological standpoint is essential in unraveling the mysteries of fertility. Conception is the process that begins with the fertilization of an egg (ovum) by a sperm, leading to the formation of an embryo. This intricate process starts with ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary. Once released, the egg travels down the fallopian tube, where it may meet sperm for potential fertilization.

Several factors influence the likelihood of conception. Key among them is sperm quality , which encompasses sperm count, mobility, etc. High-quality sperm increases the chances of successful fertilization. Equally important is the timing of intercourse relative to ovulation. Fertilization is most likely when intercourse occurs close to the time of ovulation, as the egg remains viable for a limited period post-ovulation.

The female reproductive system plays a critical role in this process. It includes the ovaries, which produce eggs; the fallopian tubes, where fertilization occurs; the uterus, where the fertilized egg implants and grows; and the cervix and vagina, which form the passage for sperm entry. The hormonal interplay governing this system is intricate, with estrogen and progesterone playing vital roles in regulating ovulation and preparing the uterus for potential pregnancy.

Historical Views on Female Orgasm And Fertility

Historically, the perceived role of female orgasm in fertility has undergone significant shifts. In ancient times, certain cultures believed that female orgasm was necessary for conception. This belief stemmed from the notion that orgasm in both partners was essential for the ‘mingling’ of male and female ‘essences’ or fluids, considered crucial for procreation.

As medical science progressed, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries, these views began to change. The advent of more scientific understandings of human anatomy and reproduction led to the dismissal of some earlier beliefs. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the role of female orgasm in conception was largely downplayed in medical literature, with the focus shifting more towards the physiological aspects of sperm transport and egg fertilization.

The 20th century brought further shifts in perspective, influenced by psychoanalytic theories and a deeper understanding of human sexuality. While modern science recognizes the non-essential role of female orgasm in the mechanical process of conception, there is growing acknowledgment of its potential indirect benefits. These include the possible facilitation of sperm transport and the enhancement of the overall sexual experience, which could positively affect fertility indirectly by promoting regular sexual activity.

As we continue to explore the interplay of sexuality and fertility, it’s important to acknowledge how our understanding has evolved and continues to evolve, shaped by both scientific discoveries and societal attitudes towards sexuality and reproduction.

Current Scientific Findings

Recent studies have painted a complex picture regarding the role of female orgasm in conception. While some research suggests that contractions associated with orgasm may help ‘suck’ sperm up the cervix and into the uterus, increasing the chances of fertilization, other studies find no significant correlation between orgasm and increased fertility.

The challenge in these studies often lies in the variability of sexual experiences and the difficulty in isolating variables in human reproductive behavior.

A study conducted in the 1950s by American sex-education pioneers William Masters and Virginia Johnson used dyed artificial semen and X-ray technology to investigate the “upsuck theory.” This theory hypothesized that uterine contractions during an orgasm help propel semen into the vaginal canal, thus aiding conception.

Their experiment debunked this theory, showing no evidence of increased semen retention during orgasm. This research, along with other studies, suggests that while orgasms might not directly impact conception, factors like the release of oxytocin during orgasm, which can decrease stress and increase feelings of intimacy, might have indirect benefits for conception​​.

The evidence remains inconclusive. Some researchers argue that while orgasm may not directly influence conception, it could play a role in sperm retention, potentially increasing the likelihood of conception. However, it’s important to note that many women conceive without experiencing orgasm during intercourse, indicating that it is not a requirement for successful fertilization.

The Role Of Female Orgasm In Fertility Treatments

In the realm of fertility treatments, the role of female orgasm is viewed more as a component of overall sexual health rather than a direct factor in treatment efficacy. Fertility specialists acknowledge that while orgasm may not significantly impact the success rates of treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) or IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), the sexual satisfaction and emotional well-being it brings can be beneficial.

A positive sexual experience, including orgasm, can reduce stress and enhance intimacy between partners during fertility treatments. Thus, while the physiological impact of orgasm on these treatments may be limited, its role in maintaining a healthy relationship and emotional state cannot be overlooked.

Psychological And Emotional Considerations

Focusing heavily on the attainment of orgasm for conception can lead to added stress and pressure, which can be counterproductive. It’s important for couples to understand that conception is a multifaceted process, influenced by a variety of factors, and reducing it to a single element like orgasm can lead to unnecessary frustration and anxiety.

Adopting a holistic approach to fertility is crucial. This involves understanding the interplay of physical, emotional, and psychological health. Couples are encouraged to focus on overall well-being, intimacy, and mutual support, rather than fixating on specific aspects of sexual activity. Obviously, having a fertility specialist guiding you through the complexity of conception and treatments is essential to have as well.

Summary

There is no direct relationship between the female orgasm and conception

While the female orgasm remains an area of interest in the context of conception, current scientific evidence does not support a direct, essential role in increasing conception likelihood. It is one of many components of the complex dance of human reproduction.

The consensus in the medical community is to view the female orgasm as a part of the broader sexual and emotional experience of couples rather than a clinical tool for enhancing fertility. For couples trying to conceive, the recommendation is to maintain a balanced perspective, focusing on overall health, emotional connection, and enjoying the journey towards parenthood, rather than fixating on specific aspects of their sexual encounters.

 

Dr. John Preston Parry works with Positive Steps Fertility, United States  

 

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Exclusive Breastfeeding: How Does It Affect Mother And Baby? 3

With Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron

(Continued from the last article. See Older Posts)

Some Things Can Help You Prepare For Breastfeeding: 

• Get regular prenatal care to help you avoid preterm birth.
• Tell your doctor you plan to breastfeed and ask what support the facility you plan to deliver in offers to help you breastfeed after birth.
• Take a breastfeeding class.
• Ask your doctor to connect you with a lactation consultant, who can teach you breastfeeding basics and also give you some important information on general well being if you have issues.
• Talk to your doctor about any health conditions you have or medications you take that could interfere with breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor and hospital health care providers that you want to breastfeed as soon as possible after delivery.
• Talk to friends who breastfeed or join a support group for breastfeeding.
• Stock up on the supplies you need for breastfeeding, such as nursing bras and other items.

The following tips, known as the ABCs of breastfeeding, will help you and your baby get comfortable with the process:

1. Awareness. Watch for your baby's signs of hunger, and breastfeed whenever your baby is hungry. This is called “on-demand” feeding. In the first few weeks, you may be nursing 8-12 times every 24 hours. Hungry infants move their hands toward their mouths, make sucking noises or mouth movements, or move toward your breast. Don't wait for your baby to cry. That's a sign they are too hungry.
2. Be patient. Breastfeed as long as your baby wants to nurse each time. Don't hurry your infant through feedings. Infants typically breastfeed for 10-20 minutes on each breast.
3. Comfort. This is key. Relax while breastfeeding, and your milk is more likely to “let down” and flow. Get yourself comfortable with pillows as needed to support your arms, head, and neck, and a footrest to support your feet and legs before you begin to breastfeed.

Are There Medical Considerations With Breastfeeding?

In a few situations, nursing could cause a baby harm. You should not breastfeed if:

• You are HIV-positive. You could pass the HIV to your infant through breast milk.
• You have active, untreated tuberculosis.
• You're receiving chemotherapy for cancer.
• You're using an illegal drug, such as cocaine or marijuana.
• Your baby has a rare condition called galactosemia and cannot tolerate the natural sugar, called galactose, in breast milk.
• You're taking certain prescription medications, such as some drugs for migraine headaches, Parkinson's disease, or arthritis.

Talk with your doctor before starting to breastfeed if you're taking prescription drugs of any kind. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision based on your particular medication.

Having a cold or flu should not prevent you from breastfeeding. Breast milk won't give your baby the illness and may even give antibodies to your baby to help fight off the illness.

Also, experts suggest that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months, and infants who are partially breastfed and receive more than half of their daily feedings as human milk, should be supplemented with oral iron. This should continue until foods with iron, such as iron-fortified cereals, are introduced into the diet. They recommend checking iron levels in all children at age 1.

Discuss supplementation of both iron and vitamin D with your pediatrician. Your doctor can guide you on recommendations about the proper amounts for both you and your baby, when to start, and how often the supplements should be taken.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

There are some common concerns or challenges that you could face when breastfeeding. They include:

• Sore nipples. You can expect some soreness in the first weeks of breastfeeding. Make sure your baby latches on correctly, and use one finger to break the suction of your baby's mouth after each feeding. That will help prevent sore nipples. If you still get sore, be sure you nurse with each breast fully enough to empty the milk ducts. If you don't, your breasts can become engorged, swollen, and painful. Holding ice or a bag of frozen peas against sore nipples can temporarily ease discomfort. Keeping your nipples dry and letting them “air dry” between feedings helps, too. Your baby tends to suck more actively at the start. So begin feedings with the less-sore nipple.
• Dry, cracked nipples. Avoid soaps, perfumed creams, or lotions with alcohol in them, which can make nipples even more dry and cracked. You can use natural products to rectify this and boost your overall fertility. Changing your bra pads often will help your nipples stay dry. If possible, only use cotton bra pads.
• Worries about producing enough milk. A general rule of thumb is that a baby who's wetting six to eight diapers a day is most likely getting enough milk. Never give your infant plain water. Your body needs the frequent, regular demand of your baby's nursing to keep producing milk. Some women mistakenly think they can't breastfeed or produce enough milk if they have small breasts. But small-breasted women can make milk just as well as large-breasted women. Good nutrition, plenty of rest, and staying well-hydrated all help, too.
• Pumping and storing milk. You can get breast milk by hand or pump it with a breast pump. It may take a few days or weeks for your baby to get used to breast milk in a bottle, so begin practicing early if you're going back to work. Breast milk can be safely used within 2 days if it's stored in a refrigerator. You can freeze breast milk for up to 6 months. Don't warm up or thaw frozen breast milk in a microwave. That will destroy some of its immune-boosting qualities, and it can cause fatty portions of the breast milk to become super hot. Thaw breast milk in the refrigerator or a bowl of warm water instead.
• Inverted nipples. An inverted nipple doesn't poke forward when you pinch the areola, which is the dark skin around the nipple. A lactation consultant can give you tips that allow women with inverted nipples to breastfeed successfully.
• Breast engorgement. Breast fullness is natural and healthy. It happens as your breasts become full of milk, staying soft and pliable. But breast engorgement means the blood vessels in your breast have become congested. This traps fluid in your breasts and makes them feel hard, painful, and swollen. Alternate heat and cold, for instance, use ice packs and hot showers, to relieve mild symptoms. It can also help to release your milk by hand or use a breast pump.
• Blocked ducts. A single sore spot on your breast, which may be red and hot, can signal a plugged milk duct. This can often be relieved by warm compresses and gentle massage over the area to release the blockage. More frequent nursing can also help.
• Breast infection (mastitis). This occasionally happens when bacteria enter the breast, often through a cracked nipple after breastfeeding. If you have a sore area on your breast along with flu-like symptoms, fever, and fatigue, call your doctor. To relieve breast tenderness, apply moist heat to the sore area four times a day for 15-20 minutes each time.
• Stress. Being overly anxious or stressed can interfere with your let-down reflex. That's your body's natural release of milk into the milk ducts. It's triggered by hormones released when your baby nurses. It can also be triggered just by hearing your baby cry or thinking about your baby. Stay as relaxed and calm as possible before and during nursing. It can help your milk let down and flow more easily. That, in turn, can help calm and relax your infant.
• Premature babies may not be able to breastfeed right away. In some cases, parents can release breast milk and feed it through a bottle or feeding tube.
• Warning signs. Breastfeeding is a natural, healthy process. But call your doctor if:
• Your breasts become unusually red, swollen, hard, or sore.
• You have an unusual discharge or bleeding from your nipples.
• You're concerned your baby isn't gaining weight or getting enough milk.

Where Can I Get Help With Breastfeeding?

Images of parents breastfeeding their babies make it look simple, but many people need some help and coaching. It can come from a nurse, doctor, family member, or friend, and it helps new parents get over possible bumps in the road.

Reach out to friends, family, and your doctor with any questions you may have. Most likely, others in your life have had those same questions.

When To Stop Breastfeeding

Deciding when to stop breastfeeding is a personal decision. Experts recommend feeding your baby only breastmilk for the first 6 months. Once you begin to introduce solid foods, the AAP advises continuing to nurse for the next year and a half, if this is desirable for both you and your baby.

But some new parents may want to stop nursing earlier. You may choose to stop breastfeeding if you're returning to work, pregnant with another baby, or seeking more independence. Whatever your reason, deciding to stop breastfeeding is always your choice.

It can be easier to stop breastfeeding if your child initiates the weaning process. Some parents begin by transitioning their baby to bottle-feeding first. Once you begin to introduce other foods to your baby, they may naturally turn away from breastfeeding around their first birthday. If your baby is eating three solid meals a day, they're likely getting the nutritional content they need from solid foods alone.

Weaning can be an emotional process for both you and your baby. Take extra time to cuddle your baby to make sure you still have all the skin-to-skin contact you had while nursing.

Talk with your health care provider if you have questions about when you can stop nursing.

(Concluded.)

Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron work with WebMD

 

 

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Exclusive Breastfeeding: How Does It Affect Mother And Baby? 2

With Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron

(Continued from the last article. See Older Posts)

How To Get A Good Breastfeeding Latch

A variety of factors can affect latch quality, including positioning and timing. Some things, such as nipple shape, may be beyond your control. However, some strategies can help promote a better latch.

Choose the right position. Breastfeeding positions affect the quality of the latch, but what works for some parents and babies might not be ideal for others. If latching is a struggle in one position, try a few others until you find a comfortable option.

Position your baby facing you so that your baby is comfortable and doesn't have to twist their neck to feed. With one hand, cup your breast and gently stroke your baby's lower lip with your nipple. Your baby's instinctive reflex will be to open the mouth wide. With your hand supporting your baby's neck, bring the mouth closer around your nipple, trying to center your nipple in the mouth above the tongue. Additional tips include:

• Try a nipple shield. If you have flat or inverted nipples, it might be hard to secure a proper latch. A nipple shield may help by giving a clearer shape. It could also make breastfeeding more comfortable if you’re dealing with cracked nipples or other sources of pain.
• Wait until your baby’s mouth is open wide. You may have a shallow latch if your baby’s mouth doesn’t open wide enough. It needs to cover both the nipple and a large part of breast tissue. Encourage this by gently placing your nipple against your baby’s lips.
• Don’t be afraid to gently unlatch and try again if you struggle to get the timing right at first. You can do this by putting a finger into your baby’s mouth and softly breaking the suction.
• Check for tongue-ties. Also known as ankyloglossia, tongue-tie is a condition that happens when the cord that attaches the tongue and the bottom of the mouth is unusually tight. It happens in up to 11% of newborns and can limit tongue mobility, leading to a form of breastfeeding compression, which can be painful for new parents and make it hard for a baby to gain weight in the crucial first few days. A procedure called a tongue-tie revision can correct the problem.

You'll know your baby is “latched on” correctly when both lips are pursed outward around your nipple. Your infant should have your entire nipple and most of the areola, which is the darker skin around your nipple, in their mouth. While you may feel a slight tingling or tugging, nursing shouldn't be painful. If your baby isn't latched on correctly and nursing with a smooth, comfortable rhythm, gently nudge your pinky between your baby's gums to break the suction, remove your nipple, and try again. Good “latching on” helps prevent sore nipples.

Pumping And Hand Expressing

There are many situations in which you may need to express that breast milk yourself instead of letting your baby nurse. These situations may arise when:

• Your baby is too premature to breastfeed
• Your baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and you're unable to stay with them
• Your baby is ill
• Your baby is teething
• Your baby has latching difficulties
• Your baby has a condition such as a tongue tie or cleft palate
• You're away from your baby for a long period (like going back to work)
• You’ve consumed a high amount of alcohol or recreational drugs or taken a medication that's not safe for your baby

Going too long without emptying your milk can lead to engorgement, or overly full breasts. A painful condition on its own, engorgement can also lead to complications such as clogged milk ducts or mastitis, in which the milk ducts become inflamed or infected. Hand expressing or pumping can help you empty your milk.

What Does Hand Expression Of Breast Milk Mean?

Hand expression is a type of massage to the breasts that releases milk. Parents choose to hand express for many reasons, including:

• It’s a way to express milk when the baby cannot nurse. This allows you to collect milk for later.
• It may allow you to avoid engorgement. Engorgement can be painful and cause leaking or clogged ducts.
• It requires less equipment than pumping. Breast pumps often require a whole bag of equipment, with the machine, the tubes, the flanges, and the bottles. This can be difficult or annoying to carry around.
• You can hand express milk in more places than you can pump. Most pumps require electricity. If you’re in a situation where you don’t have electricity available to you, you won’t be able to pump. Additionally, if you’re out and about and didn’t bring the pump with you, you still have the option of hand expressing.
• The skin-to-skin contact offered by hand expression encourages the milk letdown reflex. The milk letdown reflex is what causes your milk to start flowing and may be easier to trigger with hand expression than with a pump.
• You may get more milk with hand expression than with a pump.
• It’s free. In many cases, insurance will cover your breast pump. But if you don’t have insurance, or for some reason your pump is unusable, hand expression will save you from having to spend money on a pump.

To Prepare For Hand Expressing Milk:

• Wash your hands to avoid contaminating your milk.
• Find a clean container to collect the milk. If you’re expressing colostrum, the thick, nutritious milk released immediately after birth, you may only need a teaspoon. 
• Relax and get comfortable. If you’re tense, it will be more difficult to produce milk.
• To encourage letdown, it may help to have your baby nearby. If that’s not an option, try looking at photos of your baby or keeping a piece of clothing near you that smells like your baby.
• Gently massage your breasts to encourage letdown.

When you're ready, hold your breast with your hand in a C-shape. Your thumb should be on the underside of your breast, and your fingers along the top. Your fingers and thumb should rest near, but not on, the areola. Supporting your breast with your hand, apply pressure to the milk ducts by pushing toward your chest. Compress your breast between your fingers and your thumb to encourage the milk toward the nipple. Repeat the pressure and compression rhythmically until milk flow stops. Rotate your hand and repeat the movement until milk flow stops again.

Continue around your breast until all areas of the breast are drained and soft. Hand expression of milk can take 20 or 30 minutes at a time.

When Does Pumping Help?

Breast pumps can be cumbersome. They require a lot of parts and a supply of electricity. It’s not always possible to carry those parts around with you, and you may not be in a situation where you have consistent access to electricity. In that case, hand expression likely wins out over pumping. Pumps can also be noisy and uncomfortable to use.

But there are reasons some parents may prefer a pump to hand expression. Some pumps are hands-free, allowing you to do other things while pumping, such as working, tending to other children, or entertaining yourself with a book or your phone. 

Additionally, pumping can allow you to store milk if you're going to be away from your baby. This can offer you more independence and allow other caregivers to help feed your baby…

(To be concluded in the next article. See Newer Posts.)

Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron work with WebMD

 

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Exclusive Breastfeeding: How Does It Affect Mother And Baby?

With Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron

There was a time when exclusive breastfeeding was thought to benefit only the baby what with all the rich natural nutrients that breast milk is endowed with. But studies have since shown that exclusive breastfeeding, especially for the first six months, has a lot of benefits for the mother as well. Many medical experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, strongly recommend breastfeeding exclusively (no formula, juice, or water) for the first 6 months. After the introduction of other foods, it recommends continuing to breastfeed through the baby’s first year of life.

Benefits Of Breastfeeding For The Mother

The physical closeness, skin-to-skin touching, and eye contact all help your baby bond with you and feel secure.

Breastfeeding burns extra calories, so it can help you lose pregnancy weight faster and regain your normal figure. It releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps your uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth. There are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years, especially in the parent. Breastfeeding also lowers your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. It may lower your risk of osteoporosis, too.

As you don't have to buy and measure formula, sterilize nipples, or warm bottles, it saves you time and money. It also gives you regular time to relax quietly with your newborn as you bond.

Benefits Of Breastfeeding For The Baby

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein, and fat - everything your baby needs to grow. And it's all provided in a form that's more easily digested than infant formula. Breast milk contains antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria. Breastfeeding lowers your baby's risk of having asthma or allergies. Plus, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea. They also have fewer hospitalizations and trips to the doctor.

Breastfeeding has been linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood in some studies. Breastfed infants are more likely to gain the right amount of weight as they grow, rather than becoming overweight in childhood. The AAP says breastfeeding also plays a role in the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

How Often Should You Breastfeed Your Baby?

How often you should breastfeed your baby depends on whether your baby prefers small, frequent meals or longer feedings. This will change as your baby grows. Newborns often want to feed every 2-3 hours. By 2 months, feeding every 3-4 hours is common, and by 6 months, most babies feed every 4-5 hours.

You and your baby are unique, and the decision to breastfeed is up to you.

Signs That Show Your Baby Is Hungry

One of the most common ways your baby will let you know they're hungry is to cry. Other signs that indicate your baby is ready to be fed include:

• Licking their lips or sticking out their tongue
• Rooting, which is moving their jaw, mouth, or head to look for your breast
• Putting their hand in their mouth
• Opening their mouth
• Fussiness
• Sucking on things

How Do I Start Breastfeeding?

You can begin nursing your baby within an hour of birth. Hold your breast in your hand and with your baby's head slightly tipped back and, with their mouth open wide, squeeze your nipple and guide your baby to your breast. If your baby is properly latched, you'll feel a tug when they begin nursing.

Things To Consider Before Breastfeeding

It may take time to establish a nursing routine with your baby. Some parents struggle to achieve a good latch with their newborn. Latch quality can affect things such as pain levels, milk supply, and even how long you breastfeed. Not getting a proper latch can lead to discomfort and sometimes force new parents to stop breastfeeding before they’re ready. Even if your baby isn’t properly latching at first, you can develop a good latch with time and practice.

Additionally, there are certain foods you should avoid while breastfeeding, which include:

• Alcohol. If you drink, you'll need to wait to nurse until the alcohol levels have cleared from your breast milk. Typically, this takes 2-3 hours per drink that you've had. If you're planning to have a few drinks, it might be a good idea to store some milk beforehand.
• Caffeine. Try not to drink more than two cups of caffeinated beverages a day while breastfeeding. The excess caffeine in your breast milk could disrupt your baby's sleep schedule.
• Fish. Seafoods such as swordfish and king mackerel contain high amounts of mercury that could be transferred to your baby through your milk.

What Should I Expect When I Start Breastfeeding?

At first, your breasts will make a thick, yellowish substance called colostrum that is packed with important nutrients that your baby's immune system needs early on. After about 3 days, your milk will start to come in, though this may take longer for first-time parents. You may notice your breasts becoming firmer as this happens, and they might leak sometimes. If your breasts become too full with milk, you may experience some discomfort. Your nipples can become sore or cracked early on.

As you and your baby figure out your routine for nursing, breastfeeding shouldn't be painful. But don't hesitate to reach out to your health care provider if you are struggling to get a good latch or having a lot of pain. They can help you figure out the issue or connect you with a lactation consultant, a specialist in breastfeeding education.

Will You Make Enough Milk To Breastfeed?

The first few days after birth, your breasts make an ideal “first milk” called colostrum. There’s not a lot of it, but there's plenty to meet your baby's nutritional needs. Colostrum helps a newborn's digestive tract develop and prepare itself to digest breast milk.

Colostrum is the first phase of breast milk, which changes over time to give your baby the nutrition they need as they grow. The second phase is called transitional milk. You make this as your colostrum is gradually replaced with the third phase of breast milk, called mature milk.

You’ll start to make transitional milk a few days after giving birth. By 10-15 days after birth, you’ll make mature milk, which gives your baby all the nutrition they need.

Most babies lose a small amount of weight in the first 3-5 days after birth. This is unrelated to breastfeeding.

Even if you breastfeed less than the recommended 6 months, it's better to breastfeed for a short time than no time at all. You can add solid food at 6 months but also continue to breastfeed if you want to keep producing milk.

Is Your Baby Getting Enough Milk?

Many breastfeeding moms wonder whether their babies get enough milk for good nutrition. If your baby is getting enough breastmilk, they should:

• Not lose more than 7% of their birth weight in the first few days after delivery
• Seem content for about 1-3 hours between feedings
• Have at least 6 diapers a day wet with very pale or clear pee by the time they are 7-10 days old

How To Increase Milk Supply

As your baby needs more milk and nurses more, your breasts usually respond by making more milk. Experts recommend trying to breastfeed exclusively (no formula, juice, or water) for 6 months. If you supplement with formula, your breasts might make less milk.

But some new parents struggle to make enough milk early on. This could happen if your baby was born prematurely or if you were separated from your baby soon after their birth.

One way to increase your milk supply may be to pump more often, not longer. Try pumping for 10 minutes, then take a 10-minute break for about an hour, in addition to your normal pumping schedule. This could help increase your milk supply within 3-4 days.

Be sure to stay hydrated when nursing, especially if you're also drinking any caffeinated beverages.

If you're not seeing an increase in your milk supply despite pumping often, talk with your health care provider or a lactation consultant.

What To Do If Your Breast Milk Supply Is Low

Before taking steps to try to increase your breast milk supply, talk with your doctor. Low milk supply can be difficult to self-diagnose, and your doctor can let you know if you should take steps to increase it. Some common approaches include:

• Relaxation techniques. Massage and meditation can help, and so can skin-to-skin contact and warm compresses.
• Drinking more water. Nursing parents need to increase their water intake, both due to their child’s fluid consumption and increased caloric intake.
• Changing your contraception. Top contraceptive options for maintaining breast milk production include nonhormonal IUDs or barrier methods. 
• Feeding and pumping often. With new babies, feed very frequently, as many as 8-12 times a day for the first few weeks. If you miss a session, pump to ensure your production keeps up.
• Getting support. Reduce your stress and ease other factors impacting milk production. This may mean obtaining extra help around the house from family members or therapy for parents struggling with postpartum depression.

What’s The Best Position For Breastfeeding?

The best position for you is the one where you and your baby are both comfortable and relaxed, and you don't have to strain to hold the position or keep nursing. Here are some common positions for breastfeeding your baby:

• Cradle position. Rest the side of your baby's head in the crook of your elbow with their whole body facing you. Position your baby's belly against your body so they feel fully supported. Your other “free” arm can wrap around to support your baby's head and neck or reach through your baby's legs to support the lower back. This position can be convenient for older infants but is often hard for newborns, as it offers limited support. Still, it might be worth trying if you haven’t had much success with other positions.
• Football position.If you’re recovering from a C-section, this position will help you find an ideal latch while avoiding pressure on your belly. It also works well for twins and premature babies. Line your baby's back along your forearm to hold your baby like a football, supporting their head and neck in your palm.
• Side-lying position. This position is great for night feedings in bed. Side-lying also works well if you're recovering from an episiotomy, an incision to widen the vaginal opening during delivery. Use pillows under your head to get comfortable. Then, snuggle close to your baby and use your free hand to lift your breast and nipple into your baby's mouth. Once your baby is correctly “latched on,” support the head and neck with your free hand so there's no twisting or straining to keep nursing. The side-lying position is often recommended if you're dealing with fast milk flow. Like the football position, this method may also promote greater comfort after a C-section.
• Cross-cradle hold. A go-to for many new parents, this approach works best in a glider or comfortable chair. Sit straight in a chair that has armrests. Hold your baby in the crook of your arm that's opposite the breast you will use to feed them. Support their head with your hand. Bring your baby across your body so your tummies face each other. Use your other hand to cup your breast in a U-shaped hold. Bring your baby's mouth to your breast and cradle them close, and don't lean forward.
• Laid-back position. Try this position if you have an oversupply or milk that comes quickly, as it will limit the flow of the milk and, in turn, reduce the chances of your baby pulling off or becoming fussy. It's meant to tap into the natural breastfeeding instincts you and your baby have. Lean back, but not flat, on a couch or bed. Have good support for your head and shoulders. Hold your baby so that your entire fronts touch. Let your baby take any position they're comfortable in as long as their cheek rests near your breast. Help your baby latch on if they need it…

(To be continued in our next article. See Next Post)

 

Rebecca Buffum Taylor and Katie Cameron work with WebMD

 

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