Health Matters

When is it ok to Supplement?

While you are both learning to breastfeed, you may be tempted to supplement with formula (especially at night when patience runs thin and exhaustion creeps in). Proceed with caution. Studies show that just one
bottle can interfere with breastfeeding by raising the baby’s milk intake expectations. 

You're Not Alone!

Severe engorgement can be avoided by feeding your baby frequently, using a deep latch and not restricting the time spent at the breast. Cabbage leaves may be used to help decrease persistent engorgement. Ice packs and cold compresses may also help. Some studies suggest cabbage may accomplish this quickly. If you are unable to get the baby latched on, start cabbage leaves, express your milk and give the expressed milk to the baby. Of course, get help quickly if the problem continues.

Healthy Eating

Many new mothers wonder if they should be on a special diet while breastfeeding, but the answer is no. You can take in the same number of calories that you did before becoming pregnant, which helps with weight loss after birth. There are no foods you have to avoid. In fact, you can continue to enjoy the foods that are important to your family and those special meals you know and love. 

The First Few Days of Feeding

At birth, a baby’s stomach is the size of a pea or small marble and can hold around 1 (5ml) teaspoon. At 2 days of age, a baby’s stomach is about the size of a walnut. Gradually, the stomach increases in size and by the time the baby is 7-10 days old, it is approximately the size of a golf ball and holds anywhere from 1-2 (30-60ml) ounces. 

Congratulations are in order, but are your bags?

Planning to bring home a new bundle can be a bit surreal, but packing for your hospital stay doesn't have to be. I've cared for new moms and newborns for more than 40 years,  so I've got some experience with what you'll need (and what you won't) while in the hospital.

It doesn’t really matter how your baby arrives

Whether your baby arrives vaginally or by C-section breastfeeding your newborn, or at least attempting to, as soon as possible after delivery can be the key to success. It's important to start early, be aware of common issues and learn some tips for success. 

Breastfeeding is much like a “dance” between mom and baby

Both have to do their part—and each has to practice to triumph. The first few days of new motherhood are a whirlwind, but keep in mind that patience and repetition can help. If breastfeeding is your goal, the following are very important first steps to take just after delivery.

Breastfeeding is nature-made, but it doesn’t always come naturally

Chesapeake Regional Healthcare offers lactation support in the hospital and in our Lactation Store, because it is only natural for new moms to need guidance with something they have never done before.  

The short answer: no. At any age, starting a family is a personal decision only you can make (with the help of your physician).

Today women are delaying their childbearing for various reasons. Many are marrying later in life, are furthering their education and having successful careers before starting a family. If you fall into one of these categories, do not be ashamed or afraid. Having a healthy baby may very well be in the cards for you.