Breastfeeding Specialist

What is breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is a natural way to feed your baby with milk your body naturally produces toward the end of your pregnancy and after delivering your baby. 

Breastfeeding offers a variety of health benefits for both mom and baby, but it’s difficult for some women. Neighborhood Pediatrics specialists assist with breastfeeding and provide an in-house lactation consultant.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding?

Some of the many benefits you can experience by breastfeeding your baby include:

• Cost savings
• Superior nutrition
• Bonding for mom and baby
• Illness protection through antibodies
• Convenience 

Breastfeeding has its challenges, especially if you’re a working mom, but it offers an exceptional experience for you and your baby if you can make it work. If breastfeeding isn’t for you, your baby can still receive proper nutrition by drinking formula. 

Is breastfeeding right for me?

Your provider discusses your lifestyle and the challenges you may face with breastfeeding. They also assess your baby’s growth, weight, and development and let you know if you’re a candidate for breastfeeding. Your pediatrician can assist you if you have any challenges. 

The Neighborhood Pediatrics team also offers breastfeeding education to help you and your baby have a successful experience.

You might not be a candidate for breastfeeding if you take certain medications or use drugs of any kind, as these substances transfer into breast milk.

What should I expect when breastfeeding?

If breastfeeding your baby, expect to feed them frequently when they’re a newborn (every few hours, even at night) and less often when your baby gets older and begins eating food. Initially, you might feel soreness or pain from breastfeeding, but over time, this subsides.

During breastfeeding, completely drain one breast before switching to the other breast to feed your little one. The number of months you breastfeed depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and your baby’s needs. 

You might need to pump your breast milk before giving it to your baby, especially if you’re a working mom or have a busy schedule.

Make sure to get plenty of sleep, drink a lot of water, get regular exercise, and eat nutritious foods when breastfeeding. Avoid drinking alcohol before you breastfeed, as it can get into the milk.

To learn more about breastfeeding or receive education and assistance from pediatric experts, call the Neighborhood Pediatrics office or schedule an appointment online today.