A new mother must make so many decisions before the baby even arrives, but one of the most important decisions you will make is whether you will breastfeed or bottle feed.

I know there are some medical and physical reasons a mother might not be able to, but if you don’t fit into that category, please read…

austin-moms-blog-a-guide-to-breastfeeding

 

Here are 30 reasons why breast is best:

  • Breastfed babies have a decreased risk of developing childhood cancers
  • Breastfeeding improves vision
  • American Academy of Pediatrics recommends it over formula
  • Breastfed babies are less likely to have weight problems later in life
  • Breastfeeding protects against allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues
  • Breastfeeding protects against Hodgkin’s and Crohn’s disease
  • Breastfeeding decreases ear infections and sinus infections
  • Breastfed babies have higher immune systems
  • Breastfed babies have better digestion
  • Breastfed babies smell sweeter and have less foul diapers
  • Breastfeeding helps mother’s uterus shrink faster
  • Breastfeed babies have a decreased risk of SIDS
  • Breastfed babies have higher levels of iron, protein, and B12
  • Breastmilk is a natural antibiotic for wounds, eye infections, and UTIs
  • Breastfed babies are less likely to develop Multiple Sclerosis
  • Breastfed babies are less likely to struggle with infertility later in life
  • Breastmilk tastes better to babies
  • Breastfeeding can be done anywhere, anytime
  • Breastfeeding improves bonding and sleep cycles
  • Breastfeeding increases weight loss
  • Breastfed babies have less eczema and skin irritations
  • Breast milk provides perfect nutrition and adapts to baby’s needs
  • Breast milk is virtually toxin-free
  • Breastfed babies have higher IQs and motor development
  • Breastfed babies develop less cavities and dental needs later
  • Breast milk won’t be recalled, expired, or discontinued
  • Breastfed babies are sick less often
  • Breastfed babies are less likely to die before age 3
  • Breastfeeding enhances effectiveness of vaccines and antibiotics
  • Breastfeeding decreases the chance of endometrial & ovaria cancers in mom
  • Breastfeeding is free!
  • 101 Reasons found here

Tips for Breastfeeding Moms:

  • Connect with your baby, lessen distractions & background noise, and find a comfortable spot with good back support
  • Drink LOTS of water! In fact, when you think you’ve had enough, drink some more.
  • Have your placenta encapsulated after the birth to increase milk supply (purchase here if you live in Austin)
  • Some babies prefer to be swaddled, but some babies prefer skin to skin contact. Get to know your baby and recognize their needs.
  • Try the cradle hold, the football hold, sideline, or cross my heart hold (Pinterest and Youtube demonstrate these positions)
  • Bring baby to breast, not breast to baby
  • Latch is CRUCIAL! A lactation consultant can assist you with this and be sure your baby has much of the areola in his/her mouth. If their nose is pressed to breast, it’s okay. They will still find a way to suck, swallow, and breathe instinctively.
  • Avoid creating a schedule for baby & just wait for signs they’re ready to eat such as rooting or hands to mouth. It’s better to look for these signals than to wait on tears. A calm, happy baby will feed better.
  • Feed baby as long as they’re eating, no fakers, lol. Switch sides as necessary and use an app on your smart phone, a journal, or mark your bra strap with a clip or ribbon to remember which side you nursed on last.
  • Eat, eat, eat! You may want your pre-baby body back right away, but remember it takes time and breastfeeding burns anywhere from 300-500 extra calories a day. Eat healthy meals often throughout the day loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Don’t be afraid of spices either as they’re good for a developing palate.
  • Keep a mental note or daily journal of foods you’re eating and try to note if they’re causing gas in your baby. If so, avoid those foods.
  • Check healthychild.org or your local milk bank for instructions on storing & heating breast milk

Resources & Gear for Breastfeeding Moms:

Breastfeeding_blog_graphic

  • Spend quality time with the Lactation Consultant at the hospital or birth center and have questions prepared. Also, if you need to hire your own LC, check for updated credentials (IBLCE) , read their client reviews, and inquire about years of experience first
  • Most consultants recommend the MyBrest Friend nursing pillow, available with organic cover
  • Nursing stool
  • The Kiinde Twist & Store Collection System
  • Mimijumi Bottle is wonderful for switching between breast and bottle
  • Simple Wishes Hands-free pumping bra
  • Nontoxic/Organic Nipple Cream by Earth mama, Angel Baby
  • Swaddle sack such as a Woombie or a swaddle blanket that doubles as a nursing cover on-the-go like the marquisette
  • Milkin’ Cookies or find your own lactation cookie recipe (add whatever yummies you like) Here’s my favorite
  • Take fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel to increase supply naturally
  • Milkscreen by UpSpring Baby to test alcohol content in breastmilk
  • Shrinkx Belly Wrap (helps with posture and shrinking body back to pre-baby size naturally)
  • Keep a picture of your baby or a clothing item with baby’s smell handy when you’re pumping
  • Nursing Covers! We love Bebe au Lait!

    Like the bright lights and city streets of New York, the Bebe au Lait nursing cover in “Astoria” is contemporary and chic in shades of yellow and gray
    Like the bright lights and city streets of New York, the Bebe au Lait nursing cover in “Astoria” is contemporary and chic in shades of yellow and gray

Fashionable and Functional Products that Help Moms Nurse in Comfort and with Confidence.

BebeauLait-AMBBreast is best, but are you looking for a little privacy during feedings? Bebe au Lait Nursing Covers provide moms with a fashionable, functional option for breastfeeding on the go. The adjustable neck strap secures the nursing cover, ensuring privacy but still allows you to maintain eye contact with your baby. Only Bebe au Lait Nursing Covers have a patented open neckline that provides airflow, allows mom to maintain eye contact and see that the baby is properly latched, (key to breastfeeding success). Nurse in privacy, with confidence wherever you are with Bebe au Lait.

Celebrating 10 years of providing moms with premium nursing and newborn accessories.

 

Lactation Consultants love the My Brest Friend nursing pillow! The pillow is loaded with features moms love:

  • Wrap around design secures to the body helping mom and baby maintain positioning and latch-on
  • Back rest helps you maintain good posture during feeding and prevents sore back and neck
  • Firm, flat cushion keeps baby from rolling
  • Adjustable, silent-release strap fits Moms or Dads comfortably and unlatches without waking baby
  • Arm and elbow rests eliminate shoulder stress
  • Convenient pocket keeps water bottles, burp cloths, phone, and other items within reach

Did you breastfeed? Will you breastfeed?

 

How long did you breastfeed your baby?

 

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here