Showing posts with label Breast milk. Show all posts

Sunday, February 26, 2012

50 best Breastfeeding resources

Great list! From: Cafemom

There are many more out on the web. This list seems to have something for everyone!

Here are the 50 best breastfeeding resources online:

La Leche League -- LLL are the forerunners in breastfeeding aid and education. Not only do they have some of the most comprehensive and accurate info, but you can find a local group to or nearby leader to come to the hospital and/or your house for one-on-one help.
Kellymom -- No frills on this site and most easily used when searched via Google (i.e. "Kellymom pumping and work"), but they are very informative, covering just about anything you can think of, in multiple ways, in easy layman's terms. I have never been let down by this website or their extensive list of sources at the end of every page.
Breastfeeding.com --The abundance of breastfeeding information, videos, and stories from breastfeeding moms make this site a great resource.
Best for Babes Foundation -- This amazing Facebook group and web page are really ground-breaking in promotion of breastfeeding, and always on top of the most current news and studies. No pressure, no judgement, just help.
The Austrailian Breastfeeding Association -- Not just for Aussies, this website has a large, comprehensive guide of breastfeeding info, and is the leader in Australia's campaigns to promote breastfeeding.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine -- This American organization leads in news and research in regards to breastfeeding, and their Facebook page is very informative and supportive.
Dr. Jack Newman -- Perhaps one of this continent's (he's Canadian) most educated doctors on breastfeeding -- Dr. Newman's entire website is dedicated to breastfeeding information and videos. He's one of the main go-to-guys for everything breastfeeding.
Dispelling Breastfeeding Myths -- This Facebook group is dedicated entirely to discussing and debunking rumors about breastfeeding, breast milk, and formula.
Dr. Sears -- If you've ever heard of attachment parenting, you've heard of Dr. Sears. But even if you aren't an attachment parent, his website has a large, easy-to-use list of lots of different breastfeeding concerns with helpful suggestions.
Nursing Freedom -- This blog discusses current breastfeeding topics, as well as providing PDF support cards to hand out to mothers you see NIP, and some pro-breastfeeding gear.
The Feminist Breeder -- The amazingly intelligent and witty blogger behind TFB is educated in pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. And she used to be in Veruca Salt.
phD in Parenting -- Another educated blogger spreads the word. This site has a lot of info on breastfeeding support and aids, and dispels myths.
Low Milk Supply -- This website is dedicated entirely to identifying and working with a low milk supply to increase your success.
Breastfeeding support groups -- There is a lot to learn from moms who have successfully breastfed for at least two years.
World Health Organization (WHO) -- The leaders in health information for the entire world, WHO really cares about breastfeeding success.
New Beginnings -- This is LLL's bi-monthly magazine which features helpful information and stories from other nursing moms.
Centers for Disease Control -- The focus of the CDC is "the herd" as a whole, but the facts remain the same -- breastfeeding saves lives, prevents disease, and is way more than just a feeding choice. Check out their most recent releases and studies about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Moms Unite! -- This Facebook group and website is just for breastfeeding moms. There is unity and success in numbers.
Cindy of Euphoric Birth Services -- A certified breastfeeding peer counselor and natural birth advocate, Cindy is passionate about helping women breastfeed.
DSHS/womenshealth.gov -- This website by our own federal government has breastfeeding information, as well as lists of government programs to help breastfeeding moms, including phone support on the National Breastfeeding Hotline.
Historic Photos and Prints of Breastfeeding -- Dedicated to normalizing breastfeeding through exposure, this Facebook group also shows breastfeeding photographs and art throughout history. Also big supporters of breastfeeding information and myth debunking.
For Babies' Sake -- A ton of information can be found on this Facebook group and website that also has a hotline for breastfeeding help.
Breastfeeding Online -- Great book recommendations, and stories and experiences from breastfeeding moms can be found here.
International Lactation Consultant Association -- If you want to find a certified lactation consultant who can really give you specialized help, check out this site that also contains a lot of great takeaway.
Nancy Mohrbache r: Breastfeeding Reporter -- Nancy is a certified lactation consultant and author who has been recognized for her lifelong dedication to breastfeeding education and support.
The Leaky B@@b -- Sometimes the best advice is from others in the same situation as you and this Facebook group for breastfeeding moms discusses the newest issues breastfeeding moms face.
Breastfeeding After Breast and Nipple Surgery -- This specialized site is for moms who have had any form of breast or nipple surgery and want to/are breastfeeding.
The Adoptive Breastfeeding Resource -- Adopting mothers can breastfeed and this website is dedicated to helping moms who want to nurse their new babies.
Dr. Mercola -- Though the website can be a little hard to navigate (you have to search for specifics), Dr. Mercola is recognized as one of the leading doctors in natural medicine -- and what's more natural than breastfeeding?
Evenflo/Ameda -- Evenflo's Ameda line outsources their content to breastfeeding experts so the information is sound and helpful. And they often have great breastfeeding campaigns that raise awareness and give support.
Blacktating -- This brilliant blog is written by an African-American lactating mom, hence the name. Witty and informative for everyone.
Mocha Milk -- This blog is specifically aimed at African-American, bi-racial, and other minority moms who are nursing.
Breastfeeding and Attachment Parenting Twins -- Nursing twins can present different challenges, but this site will help moms who want to breastfeed and practice attachment parenting.
Work and Pump -- For many, breastfeeding also includes pumping. This website for working moms or any woman who pumps offers help and support.
United States Breastfeeding Committee -- The main American resource for breastfeeding information is full what you need to know when it comes to lactation. If only more of this was shared with Americans and their pediatricians.
Dr. Hale, Texas Tech -- Let's involve science! Dr. Hale gives a more scientific view on breastfeeding questions, including drug and vaccine interactions and current news and studies.
Sixty Second Parent Breastfeeding -- Don't have time to read through long articles? This website has a bunch of quick posts and videos on breastfeeding, as well as parenting tips for pregnancy, infancy, toddlerhood, and big kids.
Hathor the Cow Goddess -- Heather Cushman-Dowdee is hilarious and if you want your info to come with a laugh, then read the Cow Goddess. We all have our struggles and she'll help ease your stress.
MOBI Motherhood International -- MOBI stands for Mothers Overcoming Breastfeeding Issues, and is all about getting past struggles with stories of women overcoming their breastfeeding hardships. Inspirational.
International Breastfeeding Journal -- For research junkies like me, these journals can be fascinating and educating as they cover a wide variety of issues and topics.
National Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy -- NABA's website fights against misinformation and sabotage, and promotes breastfeeding advocacy.
Dr. Jay Gordon -- First-time moms can find great information from Dr. Gordon. His resources also help pregnant moms wanting to nurse and he features lots of personal stories.
Dr. Momma -- This aggressive, activist blogger has no qualms with attacking anyone who gets in her way, including formula companies. Want to know the truth? She'll tell you.
International Baby Food Action Network -- IBFAB is a group that helps promote the sharing of accurate, non-financially-biased baby feeding information, and speaks out actively against formula companies and pharmaceutical companies intervening or sabotaging moms.
The Lactivist -- Don't be turned off by the store-front look -- check out the blog on the right-hand side that features reviews of breastfeeding products and delves into discussions about common breastfeeding barriers.
Mothering Magazine -- This online magazine also includes useful forums and they are dedicated to natural birth, parenting, and full-term breastfeeding.
World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action -- This global networks focuses on education and promotion of breastfeeding knowledge around the world.
Just for Mom - Ameda -- This breast pump maker also has a sub-site with a lot of emphasis on the need for breastfeeding. Their info comes from well-known and respected breastfeeding books and those on the international board of lactation consultant examiners.
BreastfeedingCommunity.co.uk -- These forums support UK mums, but there are lots of details that are helpful to all. Those in the UK will also find lists of resources and places to get breastfeeding help near them.
MumandMemagazine.com -- This online magazine (and physical one too) is the sister site born out of the Breastfeeding Community above.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

You are still breastfeeding?

When people find out I am still nursing Mini Man (who is 16 mths), I have head shakes, puzzled looks, laughs and "Seriously?!"

I find I have to defend my choice for doing so more often then not and what surprises me more is so many Moms tend to give a disapproving look to me. I almost feel bad to the point where I feel I should look at my feet as though I was 4 years old! I also feel a bit sad that the world around has such a box idea at how long a woman should nurse her children.

I have found many view breastfeeding a child as a exhausting or chore. Or "Wow! Don't you want your boobs back?" Or "Isn't he old enough to drink from a cup or something?".

I enjoy the bonding that I share with my child. I enjoy the comfort as well as the good start he has as he grows! Sure, you can save a bunch in your pocket book! The true reason I breastfeed is more of the nurturing side of motherhood that I love.

My Alex, that is now 12 years old, was breastfed until she was 3 years old. I told myself that when my child is old enough to pull my shirt up for a sip or in public I would cut her off. Sure enough, we were at the park and she ran up to me, sweaty and hot, looking for a sip. I was chatting with someone and next thing you know my shirt was up to my neck and she was in process of whipping my breast out. Oh, yes thank goodness the woman I was with thought it was hilarious and no one else seemed to notice! I laugh about it now but at the time I was so embarrassed!

I nursed my first until he was 10 mths, for some reason my supply dried up on it's own. With my second, Jessica, I was only able to nurse her for a few days, due to the high blood pressure meds I was put on, but that was enough for her to ingest the ever important colostrum. And Alex, well you just learned the story about her being weaned abruptly! So, right now I am in no hurry to wean Kalven.

In many countries breastfeeding is done from birth until they are 7 years old or a wee bit older! I don't believe that will catch on here. But for a woman to give it a notion to try even if it is for a few days is a wonderful thing!

Eat more and lose weight faster: A breastfeeding mother needs 500 extra calories a day because the body burns that amount while breastfeeding. She'll be back in her pre-pregnancy shape quickly.
It's easy and convenient: There's nothing to buy or prepare so it gives the mother much more freedom. Breasts are always there and the milk is always warm and ready.
The mother can snooze during night feedings and it's a wonderful thing!
There's a very special bond between Mother and Baby and it's the natural way to feed
There's less spitting up, no stains and the poop doesn't smell!

Protects against some breast and ovarian cancers: While breastfeeding, estrogen levels are very low. Research has shown that the longer you breastfeed, the risks for these cancers goes down
MAY delay menstrual period: Again, estrogen levels are low and many women think they're well protected from conceiving, but ovulation may still occur

Studies have shown breastfed babies have less allergies and ear infections!

So! Think about! Visit La Leche League for information, www.llli.org/nb.html , about breastfeeding your little one!

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Breastfeeding- Nursing your Newborn, what to expect in the early weeks

Nursing your newborn — what to expect in the early weeks

This information is also found as part of the professional Breastfeeding Logs.

By Kelly Bonyata, BS, IBCLC

The First Week

How often should baby be nursing?
Frequent nursing encourages good milk supply and reduces engorgement. Aim for nursing at least 10 - 12 times per day (24 hours). You CAN'T nurse too often--you CAN nurse too little.
Nurse at the first signs of hunger (stirring, rooting, hands in mouth)--don't wait until baby is crying. Allow baby unlimited time at the breast when sucking actively, then offer the second breast. Some newborns are excessively sleepy at first--wake baby to nurse if 2 hours (during the day) or 4 hours (at night) have passed without nursing.
Is baby getting enough milk?
Weight gain: Normal newborns may lose up to 7% of birth weight in the first few days. After mom's milk comes in, the average breastfed baby gains 6 oz/week (170 g/week). Take baby for a weight check at the end of the first week or beginning of the second week. Consult with baby's doctor and your lactation consultant if baby is not gaining as expected.
Dirty diapers: In the early days, baby typically has one dirty diaper for each day of life (1 on day one, 2 on day two...). After day 4, stools should be yellow and baby should have at least 3-4 stools daily that are the size of a US quarter (2.5 cm) or larger. Some babies stool every time they nurse, or even more often--this is normal, too. The normal stool of a breastfed baby is loose (soft to runny) and may be seedy or curdy.
Wet diapers: In the early days, baby typically has one wet diaper for each day of life (1 on day one, 2 on day two...). Once mom's milk comes in, expect 5-6+ wet diapers every 24 hours. To feel what a sufficiently wet diaper is like, pour 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of water into a clean diaper. A piece of tissue in a disposable diaper will help you determine if the diaper is wet.
Breast changes
Your milk should start to "come in" (increase in quantity and change from colostrum to mature milk) between days 2 and 5. To minimize engorgement: nurse often, don’t skip feedings (even at night), ensure good latch/positioning, and let baby finish the first breast before offering the other side. To decrease discomfort from engorgement, use cold and/or cabbage leaf compresses between feedings. If baby is having trouble latching due to engorgement, use reverse pressure softening or express milk until the nipple is soft, then try latching again.

Call your doctor, midwife and/or lactation consultant if:

Baby is having no wet or dirty diapers
Baby has dark colored urine after day 3
(should be pale yellow to clear)
Baby has dark colored stools after day 4
(should be mustard yellow, with no meconium)
Baby has fewer wet/soiled diapers or nurses less
frequently than the goals listed here
Mom has symptoms of mastitis
(sore breast with fever, chills, flu-like aching)

Weeks two through six

How often should baby be nursing?

Frequent nursing in the early weeks is important for establishing a good milk supply. Most newborns need to nurse 8 - 12+ times per day (24 hours). You CAN'T nurse too often—you CAN nurse too little.
Nurse at the first signs of hunger (stirring, rooting, hands in mouth)—don't wait until baby is crying. Allow baby unlimited time at the breast when sucking actively, then offer the second breast. Some newborns are excessively sleepy—wake baby to nurse if 2 hours (during the day) or 4 hours (at night) have passed without nursing. Once baby has established a good weight gain pattern, you can stop waking baby and nurse on baby's cues alone.

The following things are normal:

Frequent and/or long feedings.
Varying nursing pattern from day to day.
Cluster nursing (very frequent to constant nursing) for several hours—usually evenings—each day. This may coincide with the normal "fussy time" that most babies have in the early months.
Growth spurts, where baby nurses more often than usual for several days and may act very fussy. Common growth spurt times in the early weeks are the first few days at home, 7 - 10 days, 2 - 3 weeks and 4 - 6 weeks.

Is baby getting enough milk?

Weight gain: The average breastfed newborn gains 6 ounces/week (170 grams/week). Consult with baby's doctor and your lactation consultant if baby is not gaining as expected.
Dirty diapers: Expect 3-4+ stools daily that are the size of a US quarter (2.5 cm) or larger. Some babies stool every time they nurse, or even more often--this is normal, too. The normal stool of a breastfed baby is yellow and loose (soft to runny) and may be seedy or curdy. After 4 - 6 weeks, some babies stool less frequently, with stools as infrequent as one every 7-10 days. As long as baby is gaining well, this is normal.
Wet diapers: Expect 5-6+ wet diapers every 24 hours. To feel what a sufficiently wet diaper is like, pour 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of water into a clean diaper. A piece of tissue in a disposable diaper will help you determine if the diaper is wet. After 6 weeks, wet diapers may drop to 4-5/day but amount of urine will increase to 4-6+ tablespoons (60-90+ mL) as baby's bladder capacity grows.

Milk supply?

Some moms worry about milk supply. As long as baby is gaining well on mom's milk alone, then milk supply is good. Between weight checks, a sufficient number of wet and dirty diapers will indicate that baby is getting enough milk.

Page last modified: 10/10/2005
Written: 2/27/03