Many first-time moms new to breastfeeding struggle to understand why baby feeds often.

Baby may feed for 20 minutes. Again for 40 minutes. And then cry for more shortly after.

It can be quite confusing and make any new mom assume baby is just not getting enough milk…or worse yet, that she is doing something wrong.

You might wonder why your breastfed baby is always hungry or question your milk supply too!

But the truth is, this is all very normal and to be expected while breastfeeding a newborn.

Why we doubt our breastmilk is enough

So besides the newness of breastfeeding and frequent feedings, what is it that contributes to moms questioning whether baby is actually taking in enough milk from our breast?

Well, it could be a number of things including:

• The latching and unlatching
• Baby fussing at the breast
• The comparison to formula-fed babies who may appear “chubbier”
• Or our breast just feeling “empty” after feeding

All of these things lead to concerns about baby’s satisfaction.

Ways to Tell Baby is Getting Enough Breast Milk

So how can you really tell if your breastfed baby is taking in what he needs to be full? Let’s look at the top indicators.

Weight Gain

The most obvious way to tell if your new baby is getting enough breast milk is by weighing. Those early baby check-ups are so key for many reasons, including being able to track growth progress. At every visit, your pediatrician will weigh your newborn to determine if he or she is taking in milk properly.

If you’re worried that baby is NOT getting enough milk, but then the scale indicates he/she is gaining weight, you shouldn’t worry too much. If on the other hand, baby isn’t gaining enough weight, you should keep digging — is baby not latching properly? Or does he/she have a tongue-tie?

NOTE: It is completely normal for a baby to lose weight the first few days after birth, as you adjust to breastfeeding. However, after about two weeks baby should be back at birth weight.

Wet Diapers

Remember those little dolls back in the day (or today’s equivalent doll) that would pee immediately after eating? Well, as funny as they were, they certainly got it right! Because the more baby takes in, the more baby will let out. Meaning, if you’re changing many diapers (every 2-3 hours) those first few weeks then it’s another indicator that baby is in fact getting enough breast milk.

Use the chart below to keep track of wet diapers and alleviate some of those new mom worries.

A Good Latch

Another sign that your baby is getting enough milk is to check the latch on your breast.

• Are baby’s lips covering the entire breast/areola (and not just nipple)?
• Is the baby swallowing?
• Are baby’s lips turned out?
• Is breastfeeding comfortable and pain-free (for the most part)?

A good latch ensures that baby is actually properly attached to the breast and therefore taking in the right amount of milk needed.

Now if you’re struggling to properly latch or are unsure if baby is latched well, look out for things like…lots of pain while breastfeeding, baby sucking on only the nipple, your baby’s lips are not out like a fish, or baby is making smacking noises while trying to suck.

Feeds on Demand

One of the most tried-and-true ways to really tell that your baby is getting enough breastmilk is by there feeding habits. Newborn babies will breastfeed frequently — that’s just the truth. Breastmilk is easily digested so once they take in and push out, there will be more room to replenish.

If you think about the size of a baby’s stomach and feeding capacity, visualize this:

• Day 1: 5-7 ml is about the size of a large marble or a cherry
• Day 3: 22-27 ml is about the size of a ping pong ball or a walnut
• One week: 45-60 ml is the size of an apricot or plum
• One month: 80-150 ml is about the size of a large chicken egg

So when you start to question why baby is always nursing…and take that to mean baby just isn’t getting enough milk, let this sink in. Your newborn nursing at least 10-12 times in 24 hours is actually very normal. Baby takes in what he/she needs — so while frequent feedings may seem excessive, they are exactly what their tummy AND your milk supply need.

Fullness Cues

According to the idea of responsive feeding from the American Academy of Pediatrics, we can use baby’s cues and respond warmly and promptly. So to determine if baby is getting enough milk, we can watch for fullness cues and respond accordingly. In this video, you can see some cues baby gives to indicate fullness. This includes things like:

• Starting and stopping feeding often
• Spitting out or ignoring the breast
• Unlatching often while feeding
• Closing mouth or turning head away
• Slowing down or falling asleep

If you’ve noticed these signs before and simply attributed them to another issue, take note. Baby is trying to tell you he/she is actually full and getting all they need (for now!).

The next time you find yourself asking Is baby getting enough breastmilk? know what signs to look for. Because then you can stress a little less and enjoy that precious bonding time together!

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

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The post Is My Breastfed Baby Getting Enough Milk? 5 Ways to Tell! appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

When I first started my breastfeeding journey over seven years ago, I didn’t think much of it. It felt like the right thing to do and I wanted to do it, so I went in without preparing to breastfeed (or even worrying too much for that matter, an anomaly for me!).

Like many moms, I thought it was just something that came as a given after the pregnancy journey because I knew it was the best nourishment I could provide my baby with. So I went ahead and learned to breastfeed day-by-day.

And while I have absolutely no regrets in choosing to breastfeed all three of my children, I do wish I had known a little more of what the breastfeeding life would entail. Not just how to be successful at it, producing enough milk or finding ways to make breastfeeding easier, I also WISH I had been given first-hand accounts of everything breastfeeding could entail — the good and bad from moms themselves. Because although the lactation consultants at the hospital were helpful, I could truly be ready for the day-to-day life of a breastfeeding mom.

Things Every New Mom Should Expect While Breastfeeding

So what are a few things that moms can expect as they begin to breastfeed? Well below are a few starters to shed light on some of the realities of breastfeeding early on. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think they were out-of-the-ordinary. But the reality is, they can be quite common.

Pain.

Breastfeeding will take some practice early on. Although it shouldn’t be excruciating, the early days will be a bit painful as you learn how to properly latch and position the baby to the breast. Your nipples will also get sore from the feedings, cracking and sometimes even a little bleeding can occur as you learn to get it right.

Leaky breasts.

No matter how hard you try, you are bound to have some milk leakage. While you breastfeed from one side and let down begins on the other. When your body is telling you it’s time for another feeding session. When you are away from baby and missing her. Just be prepared for the unexpected.

Engorgement.

The first time your bundle of joy sleeps through the night or you’re away from baby and can’t pump, you will experience a bit of engorgement in your breast. Keep something handy for on-the-go relief or get baby to feed as soon as you get home to reduce the likelihood of mastitis.

Hunger.

Most people expect a big appetite during pregnancy, but what they don’t always know is that you will be even hungrier while breastfeeding. A breastfeeding burns calories fast and therefore needs to keep refueling herself with plenty of water and healthy foods throughout the day.

The Biggest Piece of Advice I Wish Someone Told Me About Breastfeeding

I often think back to the very first days of breastfeeding, what I wish I could go back and tell myself as a first-time breastfeeding mom struggling to feel 100% confident. Surely, I’d want to give some tips and tricks to breastfeeding.

But the ONE piece of advice I would want to whisper into my ears more than anything to shed some light on the reality of breastfeeding is simply this:

You are NOT alone in your breastfeeding struggles.

Not just the physical struggles, but the mental exhaustion you feel of having to be the sole source of food and nutrition for baby. Because the truth is, so many new moms (and repeat breastfeeding moms) struggle along the way. Feeling lost or afraid to talk about how they truly feel.

How no one around them truly gets how much she wants to be successful at it.

How they have no breastfeeding support around them, are made to feel guilty or even shame for choosing to breastfeed past the one year mark.

How they want to beat the odds against them and breastfeed or pump breast milk for their new baby.

How they wish they didn’t have to hide or cover-up when feeding baby in public.

OR even…

How they just wish they could get a break some days.

How they want to keep going to reach a breastfeeding milestone but also are tired of the long journey.

How they just want to take more time to care for themselves and appear less frumpy.

Because the truth is every mom struggles to breastfeed…her struggles may be less, her struggles may seem different, but they are there. And she either learns to better problem-solve or understands when it’s okay to stop breastfeeding when she wants to.

That’s what I would tell myself…and every other breastfeeding mother wondering if she’s the only one. Because she is NOT.

If you want to read a true accounts from other breastfeeding moms sharing first-hand stories about their breastfeeding journeys, including the successes and failures check out our Breastfeeding Anthology which includes 16 stories to touch your heart!

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

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The post The One Thing I Wish I Knew Before I Started Breastfeeding appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Many new moms start breastfeeding, only to realize how challenging breastfeeding truly can be. Because breastfeeding is natural, we think “of course our body can handle this, it was made to do this”…

So preparing for it doesn’t get much of a second-thought. You decide you will figure it out once baby arrives….

While this is of course what most of us do (I did)…it leaves many moms wondering if they actually need to prepare to breastfeed.

And the short answer is, NO. You don’t technically need to prepare to breastfeed a baby before the baby arrives.

But the full truth? YES, of course you can prepare! And preparing makes the process that much easier when you know what to expect and how to troubleshoot common breastfeeding problems.

As a first-time mom, I never realized I could do much to prepare for breastfeeding…I thought it was just something you practice in real-time. But I learned that a little knowledge in your back pocket can help you get through those hard breastfeeding days, so you can decide if it’s something you can keep trying to work at, or knowing when it’s actually time to re-evaluate.

So how can you actually start early and prepare to nurse your baby before the big arrival?

Well, it starts with a little education to help get you ready to breastfeed.

Breastfeeding Tips to Prepare For Nursing Baby

Take a breastfeeding class

One of the easiest ways you can prepare for breastfeeding, is through a bit of education. Learn what breastfeeding entails through a class. While you might not even consider this at first, it really does make a lot of sense. Pregnancy prep typically involves packing a hospital bag and getting your birth plan in order, but it should also include a bit of breastfeeding education if want to be successful at breastfeeding. You can start by reading books on the subject at first, but soon you’ll see why signing up for a breastfeeding class for real-life examples in action is so useful. You wouldn’t just wing preparing for birth (in most cases, we take a birthing or lamaze course) so breastfeeding should be no different.

Milkology is one very affordable option moms have today to get ready to nurse. It’s an on-demand breastfeeding class you can take from the comfort of your home to better understand the mechanics of breastfeeding, including proper latch, feeding positions and how to increase milk supply from a lactation educator. These are all good skills to have when you find yourself struggling with a newborn baby.

You can get several versions of the course, depending on your breastfeeding goals:

• The Ultimate Guide to Breastfeeding is a great overall introduction for moms breastfeeding for the first time.
• Back to Work Pumping Class for breastfeeding moms going back to work and looking to keep their milk supply up
• Exclusive Pumping Class for exclusively pumping moms

The course creates a foundation in understanding all the basics about breastfeeding so you are better prepared to have a successful experience with a new baby.

If you are still experiencing difficulties after baby arrives, a lactation consultant who you can work with one-on-0ne is another option to consider. They can take a look at what you are doing and help make suggestions.

Keep a healthy lifestyle

Eating well and getting plenty of rest are a big part of pregnancy, and not just for your growing baby. Your body is working hard to meet baby’s nutritional needs, so be sure you aren’t suffering from any major health issues or deficits that could affect your milk supply.

And once baby arrives, it’s equally important to take care of your postpartum body. Not only is it essential for your recovery, but also a healthy body and mind will increase your chances of being more successful at breastfeeding, with a healthy milk supply.

Be sure to eat a balanced diet (plenty of fresh fruits, veggies and protein) and hydration is essential. And don’t toss out your prenatal vitamins just yet — they are so important to keep taking while breastfeeding to help you feed your body (and baby).

Stock up on breastfeeding essentials

After delivery, you want to be ready to breastfeed your baby as soon as you can — so stocking up on must-have breastfeeding items is a great tip.

At the very minimum you should have the following items handy those first couple weeks:

• Nursing bra
• Nursing pads
  • You can get the disposable kind which are great for avoiding that sticky messes or
  • The reusable ones to toss in the laundry and save money )
• Nipple cream
• Electric pump (if you plan to use a bottle)
• Milk saver (to build up a stash)

After the first month, start investing in more breastfeeding essentials, especially to help make your experience more comfortable as you venture out with baby:

• Nursing Cover
• Nursing Scarf
• Hands-Free Pump (This is still handy to have if you are away from an outlet or in emergencies! )
• Bottles for breastfed babies

BONUS: Another great thing to have handy, as you start the breastfeeding journey is stories from other nursing moms, sharing their very own experience. You can read 16 very personal accounts about the good and the bad in this Breastfeeding Anthology!

Know your breasts

Another breastfeeding tip to help you meet your breastfeeding goals is to address any issues with your breast beforehand.

You know your body best, so if you have any concerns regarding your breast and milk production abilities, now is the time to address them. This includes worries about how inverted nipples or breast surgery will effect your ability to breastfeed.

But from someone who’s dealt similar issues personally, I can tell you there is usually a solution you can plan ahead for. Things like stocking up on nipple shields can help make the transition easier those early weeks. Also knowing that breastfeeding after implants is still highly possibly as long as there is no damage to the nerves (which can occur if implant is done via areola). And finally, rest assured that breast size does NOT affect your ability to breastfeeding is important!

Start your research early, and talk directly to your doctor to see how you can address challenges now.

Be patient

When you’re new to breastfeeding, it’s so important to understand it takes TIME…time for mom and baby to learn what works best. Because with each new baby you breastfeed (even if you’ve previously breastfed) the experience is unique. Having patience with any new endeavor is critical…and no different when it comes to breastfeeding. Give yourself time to learn the skill, perfecting the latch, finding what position baby responds to best.

And don’t be too hard on yourself if you struggle a lot in the beginning…most moms who quit breastfeeding for one reason or another, tend to do so early on…because of the struggle. Knowing that there will be a bit of a learning curve can help mentally prepare you and set you up for success.

Remember that it does get easier the more you do it!

Find a breastfeeding support system

Although breastfeeding is one of the best ways possible to nourish your baby those early months with proven benefits, it isn’t an easy endeavor. That’s not to say breastfeeding is bound to be hard, but rather that along the way it’s completely normal to experience some ups and downs — physically and mentally.

Breastfeeding can be painful leaving your nipples cracked and sore. Breastfeeding can be exhausting as you try to perfect your latch. Breastfeeding relies solely on mom which can make it hard to take a break causing more of a mental load.

Knowing this, it’s so important to find support throughout the experience, especially early on. Whether by having supportive family and spouse or identifying a lactation consultant or support group to turn to for more help. Join our Breastfeeding Mamas Group here for support too!

Because the truth is, the more support and encouragement you get from those around you, especially early on in the process, the more likely you are to keep going and be able to breastfeed past the 6 month mark…past the 1 year mark…for as long as you want!

You may also like:

The Pros and Cons of Breastfeeding

How to Breastfeed in Public Without Shame

Breastfeeding Tips to Succeed the First Few Days at Home

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

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The post How to Prepare to Breastfeed a New Baby, Even When You’re Still Pregnant appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

As a breastfeeding mother of three, I only had one main regret throughout the experience: I just wish I had introduced the bottle a little sooner. You see ALL of my boys preferred the breast to bottle — which is the case for most breastfed babies — but their continual refusal to drink from a bottle meant I couldn’t get a break when I desperately needed one. My kids would rather fuss and cry than get it any other way those early months.

But there comes a time in the breastfeeding journey when a mother must step away and help her baby transition to a bottle. Whether she’s returning back to working outside of the home, needs some time to herself or is finally weaning baby from breast milk. Whatever the reason, this new stage in a child’s life can be very challenging if done without careful consideration. Because let’s face it, food isn’t the only thing a baby gets from nursing; the breast becomes a big source of comfort for them as well. After struggling with each one of my boys as we made the change from breast to bottle, I’ve learned a few weaning tips other breastfeeding moms may want to keep in mind.

Tips for Transitioning from Breast to Bottle

Choose the right bottle.

I cannot stress enough the importance of choosing the right bottle for your baby. As a new mom, you may receive a plethora of baby bottles as gifts — which at first seems amazing. However, if you think a breastfed baby will just latch on to any old bottle you’re in for a rude awakening. The mechanics of breastfeeding and bottle feeding are quite different. For one, a breast has a unique feel and shape. The mechanics involved in latching and sucking are very different as well. According to Dr. Sears “when baby latches onto the breast, he opens his mouth wide and draws the very stretchable nipple and areolar tissue far back into his mouth. When bottle feeding baby doesn’t have to open his mouth as wide and milk flow is continuous whether or not baby sucks.” This means the bottle you choose should be a natural transition and mimic the breast mechanism.

One bottle I found to make the transition easier is the new Philips Avent Natural bottle, a trusted brand recommended by moms worldwide.

The Philips Avent bottle has many features that make it stand out as a natural choice. It’s wide breast-shaped nipple and flexible spiral design make latching more organic. This design, combined with the comfort petals makes for a comfortable feeding, similar to breastfeeding. Moms can choose from a range of different nipple softness and milk flow to meet baby’s development needs.

If you’re looking to reduce colic as well, the Philips Avent Natural bottle has a unique anti-colic Airflex vent that relieves discomfort by keeping extra air away from baby’ tummy.

As a mother transitioning to the bottle, I found this bottle to be a very breastfeeding-friendly option with fewer interruptions of milk flow. Because one problem I know many moms face is collapsing nipples that cause discomfort during the sucking.

Take your time.

Obviously introducing the bottle as early as possible is paramount to your success in getting baby to transition. But it’s not the only way. In fact, my youngest was 7 months before he even accepted a bottle, and again that was by choosing a bottle that closely mimicked the breast.

But when I was looking to wean, I found that setting a spacious timeline — and working backwards — was a more realistic way to reach my goals. So if you want to wean baby completely by 18 months, it’s best to start the process a couple months earlier, AFTER you’ve already introduced the bottle and established a routine. Because if you are introducing the bottle and trying to wean at the same time, it’s going to be an uphill journey.

Distract

When you want to stop breastfeeding, one tactic that many pediatricians recommend is distraction. Keep baby busy whether it’s singing songs, playing games or getting outside the house. I found this to work best for when baby was older and on more of a schedule so I could sneak in fun activities and reduce feedings, as nutritional needs changed.

Food

One of the best forms of distraction from the breast, is food. As your baby grows past 6 months and gets introduced to more and more baby foods, it will become easier to wean. They’ll still need milk or formula to meet their nutritional needs, but introducing different baby foods is another step for getting them to transition away from the breast without tears.

Get Help

Although finding help isn’t always easy, having an extra set of hands from a spouse, friend or caregiver can work wonders towards your weaning efforts. Because we all know, our own baby is less likely to take a bottle from mommy — it’s as though they can smell your breast milk in the room.

I weaned my youngest, after a long journey of 22 months breastfeeding by having others use the bottle and sippy cup while I was out of sight.

Here is my happy big boy, finally enjoying a Philips Avent bottle.

You can learn more about the Philips Avent Natural bottle on their website.

Disclaimer: Compensation was provided by Philips Avent via Momtrends. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of Philips Avent or Momtrends.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

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The post How to Wean and Transition a Breastfed Baby to Bottle appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

This post was sponsored by Philips Avent as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

I remember feeling a bit lost as a first-time mom dealing with the incessant cries of my newborn baby. I would feed him, burp him, change him and then struggle to find a solution for the incessant cries in between feedings. I was certain that one or two big burps surely meant it couldn’t be a gas issue. But when the cries persisted I was baffled.

This is a scenario many breastfeeding moms face. We think gas issues are restricted to formula-fed babies, so rule that out as a possible symptom when looking to treat colic. But it’s important to look deeper when you’re a mom trying to understand why your baby won’t stop crying.

What is Colic?

According to the experts, colic is inconsolable crying in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. Babies with colic can cry more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week for more than 3 weeks.

The differentiating criteria is that there is no cure for colic — so nothing you do to console baby seems to provide relief.

So technically if there is a specific culprit for why baby is inconsolable – like gas – it’s not considered colic. Gas is typically a symptom of colic but not the cause. Meaning, if you have a constantly fussing baby he or she may appear that way due to a specific issue, like gas.

As a breastfeeding mom of three little boys, I learned that when my boys appeared to be colicky it was actually gas at the root!

So it got me thinking, what causes gas in breastfed babies and how can I treat it?

Gas Symptoms in Babies

When your baby appears colicky, first look for the signs of gas which often include things like:

• Excessive fussiness
• Spitting up often
• Burping (more than one or two times)
• Passing Gas
• Pulling up legs towards the body
• Bloated or hard abdomen

Gas pain in newborn babies is generally common and can increase in severity as babies begin solid foods or experience discomfort from food passed through after nursing. When baby is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding the swallowing of air bubbles can exacerbate the condition even more, so it’s important for moms to find ways to reduce the excess air that remains trapped. (The Philips Avent Anti-colic bottle with AirFree vent is one solution that works really well — I get into detail below!)

Treating Gas in Breastfed Babies

Oversupply Issues

One issue that breastfeeding moms may face that leads to gas is an oversupply of milk. While many moms struggle with their milk supply, producing an abundance of milk can also be somewhat of a problem if baby is taking in more milk than he can handle at any given moment. When too much milk is taken in from an overactive milk duct or a forceful sucking, baby can swallow more air leading to gassiness.

I experienced some of this to a small degree, as my kids would often prefer one breast over the other — the one breast that had a more active letdown. To remedy the issue, I found that feeding while lying down on my back helped regulate airflow. This way I was also able to control how fast or slow baby fed.

Some moms also find that switching breasts frequently can often help.

Burping

One of the most obvious ways moms can reduce gas in a fussy or colicky baby is to burp them. It’s important to burp baby after feeding from each breast and often — not just at the end of a feeding session. For me, I found that with an overactive milk supply on one side, I had to adjust my latch or interrupt the feeding even on one breast to burp when I felt baby was taking in milk to quickly. It’s tough to do but a good way that helped relieve discomfort.

I also found that one burp didn’t mean I was done. Oftentimes, kids have gas bubbles stuck deep within and need a little extra help getting it all out. As a three month old, my middle child would have what seemed like outbursts after I fed/burped so I was often struggling for hours to help him release that gas. It amazed me when it took three or more burps to calm him.

Foods

Many moms who struggle with a fussy baby ask themselves, “Is my diet causing gas pains in baby?”

As breastfeeding mothers it’s a good idea to keep an eye on our diet and the foods we eat. Although there is some disagreement as to whether or not certain foods consumed by moms contribute to baby gas, when your baby’s digestive system is still developing it makes more sense to avoid any gas-inducing foods that contribute to the air inflow. This includes high-fiber veggies like broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, legume, peppers; dairy foods like cow’s milk, soy, wheat, corn, eggs, peanut and even caffeine.

If you’re worried that your diet may be a factor, keep a simple journal to track what you ate and how baby felt one to three days after. This was one way I personally was able to see what foods weren’t sitting well with baby and also eliminated any possible allergens.

Bottle-feeding

Oftentimes mothers who breastfeed, must also bottle feed — whether it’s because they are returning to work and pumping or simply need to get a break and transition baby to the bottle. This is when choosing a bottle becomes of utmost importance because not just any bottle will work.

During bottle-feeding the goal is to ensure the bottle nipple is full of milk. When air enters the nipple, baby will swallow it leading to gas issues. One way to help ensure the nipple is full of milk is to tilt the bottle upright. This can be hard to do as baby swallows more and more milk and less remains in the bottle.

One way to ease the transition from breast to bottle is to find a bottle that doesn’t trap excess air into the nipple area during feedings, like the Philips Avent Anti-colic bottle with AirFree vent.

The bottle includes a unique AirFree vent that is designed to keep the nipple full of milk instead of air throughout a feeding. So even when the bottle is positioned horizontally (which would normally mean the nipple isn’t full) the vent helps baby swallow less air by drawing air away from the nipple. This reduces colic, gas and reflux, keeping baby calm and comfortable during feeding.

As a breastfeeding mother struggling to transition to bottle, I found it to be amazingly helpful. The nipple is designed to allow for a secure latch with ribbed texture to prevent collapse for uninterrupted feeding, similar to breastfeeding.

I have personally found that the Philips Avent Anti-colic bottle even works well with growing babies who might not have even had bottle aversion!

Here’s my 1.5 year-old drinking from it! After having struggled for months to get him to adapt to most bottles, this is a huge relief.

The next time you wonder why your baby appears to be colicky with no relief in sight, keep in mind these feeding tips to help reduce gas pains and other discomforts your little one may be unable to communicate directly.

You may also like:

9 Must-Try Tips for Getting a Breastfed Baby to Take a Bottle

Top Reasons Babies Cry + Easy Solutions to Soothe

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post How to Avoid and Soothe Colic in Breastfed Babies appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

One common myth that breastfeeding moms hear, is that wearing underwire bras can cause mastitis. But is this truly the case?

A Nursing Moms Journey

I got mastitis twice when breastfeeding both my boys and I did NOT wear underwire bras.
My breastfeeding journey was painful both times. Like many women, breastfeeding did not come naturally to me. It took a lot of practice and patience and I navigated my way the best I could with the use of pillows to help support the boys when I fed them.

I found feeding covers hard to use, so I avoided them and would find a quiet place to feed if out and about.

Read: How to Feel Comfortable Breastfeeding in Public

My nursing bras never felt like they fit me properly. Nursing bra fabrics used to be rigid, the foam stiff and I tended to spill out over the top closer to feeding time. My breasts never felt comfortable with the standard bras.

A vivid memory during my breastfeeding days that comes to mind was mastitis and the pain it caused. I didn’t know what hit me the first time around. Feeding on demand was a struggle with my cracked nipples and throbbing breasts, ill-fitting bras, tiredness — and not to mention the fevers.

After going to the doctors and getting some much needed antibiotics, the infection began to subside.

As time went by, breastfeeding became easier, but I will never forget the start. Part of that was because no one warned me about it. I just assumed it would come naturally and that it was easy.

What is mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue caused by a blocked milk ducts. Milk ducts can become blocked when they are not properly drained. Think: when baby refuses to finish nursing for one reason or another or you are away from baby and suffering from engorgement. As a result, the milk spills into the breast tissue causing infection.

Symptoms of mastitis

If you develop mastitis, you will not feel well.

The initial symptoms are similar to that of the flu and include:

• High temperatures, aching body, shivers
• Red swollen area on the breast
• Breast is hot and painful to touch

Treating Mastitis

If you do experience any flu-like symptoms, it is recommended you see your help care provider as an antibiotic may be needed to treat the infection.

The doctor will typically recommend:

• Plenty of rest
• Draining the breasts after each feed — this may mean pumping if baby refuses to nurse
• Using cold packs to help sooth the swollen area (cabbage leaves are also a welcome relieve and can be worn in side your bra)
• Removing your bra and any restrictive clothing

How to avoid mastitis

Early on in your breastfeeding journey your breasts are full and will usually produce an over-supply of breast milk. Neglecting to empty the breast fully can cause blocked ducts and sore, hard, swollen breasts. Even if you are weaning earlier than expected, it’s important to be careful how you do so as you want to avoid developing mastitis during the process.

Avoid tight restrictive clothing and bras that cut into your breast tissue. They will not only feel uncomfortable but could exacerbate developing mastitis.

Seamless bras are a great option as they will stretch and move with your changing body – especially initially. A good seamless bra will provide just enough support and will also provide room for growth.

Ensure your baby feeds well. Alternate and feed baby on both breasts ensuring you drain at least one breast well at each feed. Use a breast pumps after feeds should one breast still be full.

Breastfeed baby exclusively. Try not to supplement in order to ensure baby is hungry and will feed well.

And most importantly, feed on demand to ensure you aren’t missing a feeding and thus making it less likely to develop mastitis.

Guest blogger

Like many women out there, Tracey Montford is an exceptional multitasker! Apart from steering a global business, managing 2 young boys & keeping the clan clean and fed, Tracey still finds time to provide creative inspiration and direction to the exceptional designs of Cake Maternity. From the branding, presentation and delivery, creativity is a big part of what Tracey does so naturally and effectively. Find out more at www.cakematernity.com or catch up with her on social @cakematernity

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post A Breastfeeding Myth or Truth? Underwire Bras and Mastitis appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Are you gift-shopping for a breastfeeding mom and unsure what she actually wants? You can buy her the standard generic gifts for moms like a sweater and candle — which are nice gestures of course, but not truly gift ideas to help her survive this motherhood stage. Or instead, if you know her well, present her with something to help her along her breastfeeding journey.

As a mom who breastfed three babies, I know all too well how valuable it is to have products or resources to help make breastfeeding a little easier. A thoughtful gift basket with breastfeeding goodies can make such a big impact when you’re struggling.

So I’ve compiled some of my favorite must-have gift for a breastfeeding mom – gifts she can truly appreciate. Because life with little ones is tough enough, providing useful and seriously helpful gifts can make all the difference during the holidays.

Related: Gifts for pregnant moms and Gifts for the stressed out moms

This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

Gift Ideas for the Breastfeeding Mom

Nursing Tops

One of the most useful gift ideas for nursing moms is practical clothes mom can feed baby in. Most moms can of course make their everyday clothing work — but shirts, sweaters and tops tend to take some beating as the material stretches to accommodate baby. That’s why a nursing shirt (knit sweater or even hoodie if it’s winter) makes a perfect gift idea. I personally love this shawl because it doubles as a warm blanket during the cold. V-necks and stretchy, comfy tops are details to keep in mind when shopping.

You can even find pajamas that are easy to breastfeed in like this one.

For something extra special, check out this pretty floral nursing-friendly maxi dress that got great reviews!

Nursing Covers

Another really useful breastfeeding gift, is a nursing cover or blanket mom can use for a little privacy when nursing. I used the BeBe Au Lait brand – made of breathable cotton. The pretty design, recommendations and  flexible neckline that made it easy to keep an eye on baby’s breathing and latch sold me! However, there are SO many options these days for nursing covers — even a breathable muslin blanket makes a good choice.

I also found these trendy infinity scarves double as a cute fashion scarf and nursing cover when you’re in a jiffy.

               Related > How to Feel Comfortable Breastfeeding in Public {Free Printable}

Breastfeeding Door Sign

Along with a little privacy that a nursing cover provides during breastfeeding, another useful gift idea for the nursing mom is a door sign she can use when using a shared space. This is especially useful when she is pumping at work in a mother’s lounge or simply feeding baby in a room accessed by others — perhaps at a friend’s house or family gathering where she just wants to feed behind closed door.

>>Grab a FREE printable door sign here for a limited time!

Breastfeeding Board

When you’re a nursing mom, getting the proper support is key to a successful experience. You want your family to be there for encouragement and ongoing support. Because the truth is breastfeeding is a full-time, demanding job. You are sacrificing so much of yourself to do what you feel is best for baby. That’s why I absolutely LOVE this printable that you can set up as a dry-erase board to not only keep track of feedings but also get the support you need from your spouse and family. A MUST for breastfeeding moms!

Breast Pump

If you’re feeling really generous and know your breastfeeding friends needs one, a breastfeeding pump makes an incredible helpful gift idea. It not only ensures mom can pump quicker than with a hand-pump, but also helps her do so a little less painfully especially if she is a mom going back to work or trying to build an extra milk stash for when she needs help bottle feeding.

The Medela model is a top-rated brand and one I used while breastfeeding all three of my kids. It’s not cheap, but sure helps make things a little less stressful.

Breastfeeding Pillows

Anything that helps make breastfeeding easier like breastfeeding pillows that add support to the body are great gifts for a new nursing mom. I received the My Brest Friend nursing pillow as a baby shower gift and really loved the back support and positioning it provided. You can read my full review from a few years ago HERE.

Another super popular breastfeeding pillow is the Boppy — I never owned this one, but wish I had. After I tried it during my hospital visit with a lactation consultant I understood why it was the go-to pillow for many moms. It was super comfy, big enough to support a growing baby and versatile so moms could use it to help prop up baby during playtime.

Breastfeeding Jewelry

Most people might give you a strange look when you say “breastfeeding jewelry” but the truth is most nursing mothers will understand what this truly means. If you’ve ever dealt with a grabby baby or scratching and pinching fingers during nursing you’ll understand how painful that experience can be. Breastfeeding jewelry like teething necklaces act as a great distraction and “toy” babies can reach for (instead of the breast) while feeding. This cute and colorful necklace made from silicone has a variety of fun shapes to keep those wondering fingers busy. I found a teething bracelet to work better – it was smaller and more convenient to pop on vs the necklace which at times can get tangled in hair.

Breastfeeding Goodie Basket

If you’re still undecided as to what your breastfeeding pal would like best, simply go with a breastfeeding basket where you can include a few different “goodies” or breastfeeding essentials. This will make life easier as she goes from room to room and needs a quick little basket to keep all her things…it’s also another way to stay prepared as she nurses at night!

Below are some great ideas to include in the basket:

• Organic breastfeeding creams and deodorants for nursing moms
• Nursing pads to help prevent leaky messes
• Milk savers can replace the nursing pad to catch every drop from the opposite breast – because breast milk is liquid gold!
• Breastfeeding journal so she can record milestones and track baby’s progress
• Lactation cookies or drink mix to help increase her milk supply
• BPA-free water bottle for replenishing
  • LOVE this fun one that keeps mom motivated!!
  • And this one with measuring to help her keep track of how much more water she needs — we also have a simple printable tracker you can get here.

BONUS GIFT IDEA FOR BREASTFEEDING MOTHER

Why not gift a breastfeeding mother with an intro to breastfeeding course — so she can easily troubleshoot any breastfeeding issues and do it from the comfort of her own home?? This video course run by a Lactation Educator, is an excellent gift for a breastfeeding mama needing a little more support! It’s super affordable too at $19. Check it out –>

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Want more on breastfeeding?

• 10 Breastfeeding Hacks the Nursing Mom Needs in Her Life
• Breastfeeding in the Summer: How to Survive the Heat with Baby
• Breastfeeding Truths: The Pros & Cons Every Mom Should Know

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Breastfeeding Must-Haves: 16+ Super Useful Gifts for the Nursing Mom appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

If you’re a pumping mama, the one thing that’s always on your mind is time.

It takes time to carve out pumping sessions.
It takes time to wash the shields and bottles.

And worst of all, it takes time to actually sit there strapped to a breast pump and away from your baby (and all the other items on your giant to-do list!)

So when you’re taking the time to sit down and pump, you want to make sure your results won’t be in vain and that you are going to be pumping enough milk to store up and feed the baby with.

This post contains affiliate links.

The Best Tips to Pump More Milk for Your Baby

Did you know that a baby’s sucking mechanism is able to pull more milk from a mother’s breast than a pump can? For the exclusively pumping mom, this can be a hard reality.

Because sometimes breastfeeding from the breast isn’t an option; breastfeeding baby via pumped milk in a bottle is what they choose instead.

For those moms seeking to pump more milk for baby, below are several ways to maximize your milk output during those long pumping sessions.

1. Choose the right pump.
You’ll get the best and fastest results from a high-quality electric double pump. While manual pumps work well, they take a lot of time and effort. To minimize your pump time and maximize your output, choose an electric double pump. Many moms rave about the Medela Pump in Style which I also think is an excellent pump.

You can also read my guide on how to find the best pump for your specific situation.

2. Get the right breast shields.
You need properly-fitted breast shields to stay comfortable and to properly stimulate milk let-down. Most pumps come with a standard size, but you may have to purchase larger ones. Be advised that breast shields are not based on the size of your breasts, but rather the size of your nipples. Your nipples should be able to move freely while pumping while still maintaining a seal around the areola. Use this image from Medela to help you understand what the correct fit should look like.

3. Reduce pumping stress.
Not only does stress inhibit let-down and milk production, but some of the peripheral stress around frequent pumping (like washing that darn pump again) can cause us to be our own worst enemy and cause us to delay or skip a pumping session altogether. Set yourself up for success by making things easy on yourself. Put your pump (or at least the parts that contact milk) in the fridge after each use so you only have to wash them once a day, not once an hour. Invest in a hands-free pumping bra so your posture is healthy and you can relax. And pick a good book to read while you’re pumping so it’s an enjoyable little “mommy break” instead of another tedious item on your to-do list.

4. Set and keep a regular pumping schedule.
Your body is amazing, and it automatically adjusts its milk supply to your baby’s need. Trick your body into thinking your baby is regularly eating at new, set times by pumping at consistent times each day. After a few days, your body will respond by producing a full serving of milk for your baby’s faux “feeding” session.

It’s also worth noting that most women produce considerably higher volumes of milk in the morning, as opposed to at night. If you’re trying to pump as much as possible, add pumping sessions to your morning routine – you’ll likely get a whole lot more than you will from a post-bedtime session.

Read: Pumping Hacks for the Breastfeeding Mom: Tips to Build a Milk Supply

5. Pump longer & more frequently.
In order to increase milk production, your breasts must be completely emptied at each pumping session. Make sure you’re pumping long enough to stimulate multiple let-downs, and that after you have stopped releasing milk you continue to pump for about two minutes. Not only will this ensure that the breast is empty, but it will also send the message to your body that there is still a need to produce more milk, which will encourage it to increase production in future sessions.

If pumping longer is not helping to increase your supply, pump more frequently instead. For about a week, pump at two-hour intervals instead of three to boost your production and increase the amount of your milk at each pumping session. It’s a short-term annoyance but will result in a long-term payoff in the form of boosted supply and output.

6. Try power pumping.
Simulate a baby’s constant need to feed like they do during growth spurts, to trick your body into ramping up its milk production. For three days, add a pumping session that looks like this: 20 minutes of pumping, 10 minutes of rest, 10 minutes of pumping, 10 minutes of rest, and then a final 10 minutes of pumping.

7. Pump and nurse simultaneously.
Nothing is better at stimulating let-down than your baby, and what’s more efficient than pumping and nursing at the same time? While you’re nursing at one breast, connect your pump to the other. Let your little suckle away while the pump works its magic on your other side.

8. Take care of your breasts.
If your milk ducts become clogged, your ability to pump will be negatively affected. Use warm compresses and massage your breasts while pumping. Not only will this keep ducts from becoming clogged, but it will also ensure every last drop of milk is removed from your breasts, helping to maintain – or even increase – your milk production.

9. Stimulate let-down with these tricks.
If you find yourself sitting at the pump for several minutes before your milk lets down, it can be frustrating and feel like you’re wasting time. Instead, scroll through pictures of your baby on your phone, massage your breasts, or hop in the shower immediately before pumping to let the steam relax you and help release the milk.

10. Eat lactation-friendly foods & watch your diet.
Some women struggle to find time to eat sufficiently after baby, while others intentionally cut calories in an effort to fit back into their pre-pregnancy jeans. If you’re trying to increase your milk production or pump a sufficient volume of milk, it’s critical that you eat enough calories from a healthy, well-balanced diet to maintain a good supply.

Women who are breastfeeding need more water than non-lactating women. In order to maintain a good milk supply, it’s recommended that nursing women drink between 96 and 104 ounces of water each day. Avoid liquids that contain alcohol and caffeine, as they can actually dehydrate you.

There are also certain foods that have been shown to increase milk production. Oatmeal, brewer’s yeast, fenugreek seeds, carrots, spinach, and almonds are all great dietary additions. And eating foods to boost your milk production doesn’t have to be bland or boring; if you head over to Pinterest and search for “lactation cookies,” you’ll see what I mean.

The Bottom Line
It would be wonderful if we could just sit attached to our breast pumps and produce exactly as much milk as we need for our baby without stressing about it, but the truth is that it’s a tricky business. Fortunately, with these strategies, you can begin to maximize your milk output and pump more milk — while minimizing the time you have to dedicate to pumping.
Keep at it, mama. Your little one thanks you.

If you’re looking for some more pumping tips, especially as you return to work, do not miss this Pumping Course from our friends at Milkology–>

****

About the Author 

Jenny Silverstone is the mother of two, a coffee addict, a breastfeeding advocate and a mommy blogger. You can find her sharing her journey through motherhood, and giving little tips and tricks to become a more well-rounded parent on her blog MomLovesBest.com or sharing all the memes on Facebook.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Pump More Breast Milk: 10 Powerful Pumping Tips to Increase Your Output appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

It’s a sad, but common reality when a mother is shamed or made to feel uncomfortable for trying to feed her child in public…whether by someone’s rude remarks or by her own internal fears. As if feeding your baby is something out of the ordinary and offensive.

But so goes the stigma that is often attached to breastfeeding in public.

*UPDATE: Breastfeeding in public is now legal nationwide in the United States!

Breastfeeding Your Baby In Public

A bad first experience

And there I was at a new mom’s group. Everyone facing each other in a circle sharing their different birthing experiences, time management struggles and advice for soothing a crying baby. A place where first-time moms should feel comfortable breastfeeding openly.

But I didn’t.

Instead I resorted to feeding my baby in a bathroom one afternoon.

I had forgotten my nursing cover…the one I was so excited to have learned about during our first session.

My eyes scanned the room. No boobs exposed. Moms were either devotedly bottle-feeding their little ones, nursing baby under a fashionable nursing cover or rocking baby to sleep.

My little one was hungry and began to fuss. I rummaged through my diaper bag to see if I had ANYTHING I could use. A blanket. A towel. Anything.

But nothing. And I felt the eyes around me…glaring.

Wasn’t this a judgement-free zone?? At least that’s what it’s supposed to be!

I was ill prepared…and embarrassed. You see I was using a nipple shield — something I felt ashamed to use in front of the other new moms. A nurse had recommended I try a nipple shield to help baby latch on easier at the hospital and because at the time, I didn’t know any better, I gave in and used one, instead of struggling to get a proper latch.

But my baby had to eat. My engorged breasts were crying for relief too. I didn’t want him to starve so I made my way out the door towards the lady’s room.

The Second, and last time

I was out shopping and baby was growing fussy. Lips rooted. Head tossing and turning. Hunger striking once again.

I reached for my cover and fidgeted to get it in place properly. It was the middle of winter, but felt about 85 degrees indoors with the heat blasting from ahead and I struggled to be sure baby was getting adequate air while nursing. When I finally managed to make it work, baby wasn’t liking it one bit. Flailing his arms, bobbing his head and arching his body incessantly, as if to tell me: NO, MAMA! I don’t like this, I don’t want this, I don’t need this!

I was perplexed. I just wanted to feed my little man comfortably, but he wasn’t into this thing over his head.

I just didn’t get why exposing part of a breast to feed a baby wasn’t appropriate in the eyes of society, but the exposed breasts, cleavage spilling out all around me was. It didn’t seem right.

Why the Stigma?

If we’re looking at breasts from a biological standpoint, breasts have one sole purpose: to nourish baby. In fact, after you’ve given birth or delivered via c-section your body begins producing milk (and even before that for many)!

It’s our society that creates this stigmatism about breastfeeding in public…because it can make some people feel awkward and uncomfortable seeing a boob exposed.

I get it…breasts have been overly sexualized. Everywhere we turn, there are boobs: displayed in ads in the stores, on magazine covers, on tv…and sometimes in public. People associate them with things other than feeding a baby. And that’s how the problem starts.

Because those who may be offended forget what breasts are really there for.

Normalizing Breastfeeding

You might have seen the hashtag (#normalizebreastfeeding), which is a positive trend to expose the true purpose of breasts and make sure everyone knows it. Because when a mother reaches for her breast to nurse, it’s not to “expose herself” to others, but just to FEED HER HUNGRY BABY. Simple truth. We therefore, shouldn’t feeling like it is an oddity or strange thing to do.

Read More:Breastfeeding Baby at Night

Tips to Feel Comfortable Nursing in Public

With that being said, I still want to help other nursing moms feel comfortable feeding baby wherever they may be. So whether it’s to help allay some of their own fears or to squash the anxiety of onlookers, below I’ve included a list of some easy ways to help a mom get to that comfort level.

Wear a nursing bra.

The first and easiest option to make a mom feel more at ease about breastfeeding in public is to simply make accessing the breast easier by wearing a nursing bra. A nursing bra that opens at the side or with a snap is ideal and makes it so you don’t have to struggle with or adjust straps uncomfortably under your top.

Wear a nursing shirt.

Coupled with a nursing bra, a top that is stretchy and made to nurse like this one makes feeding baby a breeze. You literally just pull down your top at an angle and go at it. Even if you don’t have something that is specifically designed as a nursing bra you can opt for the two-shirt DIY nursing cover that lets you pull one shirt above the breast and the other below the breast, making breastfeeding more discreet.

Use a nursing cover.

Of course the most popular option a mom has for keeping worries at bay when nursing in public is to use a nursing cover. Depending on the one used, a nursing cover covers the entire breast and most of baby, helping mom to feel at ease from any stranger comments. Even though a nursing mom is protected by law (in most states) when nursing in public, she can still feel awkward and uncomfortable from the glares of those who feel that nursing in public is somehow inappropriate.

However, there also comes a downside to using a nursing cover. It makes it hard for BABY to feel comfortable when feeding. And we’ve all been there.

Try an infinity scarf.

An infinity scarf acts just like a nursing cover but is more discreet…so people may not even know your breastfeeding. This would be more of an ideal option for the Fall, Winter or Spring — you simply add the scarf as an accessory, wearing it throughout the day and it’s super accessible when baby shows hunger cues. Most infinity scarves are light and airy like this one and help keep baby super comfortable. And we all know a breathable blanket goes a long way!

Know your rights.

They say that knowledge is power and that certainly rings true when it comes to feeling empowered and entitled to nursing in public. That’s why it’s important to be familiar with the exact breastfeeding laws from state to state. For example, being armed with the knowledge that it is in fact lawfully okay to nurse anywhere you need to can help make a nursing mom stay strong and confidently feed her baby (covered or not). Even if a particular restaurant or store prohibits a mother to breastfeed, she can point to the law to know she is in the right. However, if a mom chooses to indeed stay at such a place after being treated one way is another story. It is up to her to decide where she feels safest. But knowing the law should help her feel prepared and more comfortable if anyone does try to deny her that right.

To help nursing moms feel empowered and a little more comfortable breastfeeding in public, know the law — it is your right to breastfeeding in public to nourish your baby!

Remember your why

Even knowing the laws, you may still feel a bit timid exposing a boob or dealing with unfriendly glares. It helps to remember the basics and WHY you are nursing in public — to simply give your baby the food he requires to grow strong and healthy. It really does come down to that, despite some sickos who may think otherwise. You are doing amazing things for your child, nourishing them with the best thing you can for their health needs.

Don’t let negative people or comments take that away from you!

*

Knowing what I know now I can’t believe how I didn’t just follow my gut and just feed my baby, nursing cover or not. But feeling ill-prepared and not knowing your rights can deter many well-meaning mamas who don’t want to be in an uncomfortable situation.

I’ve come a long way since that first time. Now 16 months into feeding my youngest, I am confident breastfeeding wherever I need to as long as BABY and I are happy.

Related Post: 

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post 6 Clever Tips to Feel More Comfortable Breastfeeding in Public appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

I fidgeted in my seat, drenched in sweat under the party tent, along with other guests.

The late August sun scorching down on my body and baby under the sky blue nursing cover.

It was a hot one for sure. And baby wasn’t having it…hands flailing in the air, pulling on the obtrusive nursing cover, as a worried new mama nervously rocked baby back to the soothing breast.

Even though we were seated in a relatively shady area, the summer heat was too much of a challenge to grapple with while breastfeeding. I needed to seek refuge in the air conditioned house and excuse myself.

This post may contain affiliate links.

Breastfeeding a baby in the summer is serious business.

Not only is 80-90 degree weather quite uncomfortable to endure, but it also makes it complicated to comfortably feed a hungry baby.

You’re most likely left with no other choice but to lock yourself indoors.

I remember feeling this way, time after time, as a nursing mom of three little boys. And it made it a little less exciting to get out and play with baby in the heat.

It wasn’t like I was the ONLY breastfeeding mama in the summer. I’d certainly spot moms with infants out…only they were bottle-feeding. So I definitely felt a bit alone at times.

But this isn’t a unique situation. Many nursing moms find themselves in these less-than-comfortable moments when they have to make do and feed baby in public…because like every human being, baby’s gotta eat!

Should a nursing mom, just go inside and feed her baby in a private room? I mean, why endure the uncomfortable heat to breastfeed?

Sure, if she wants to. But here’s the thing. Breastfeeding usually isn’t a 2 minute job. It typically takes anywhere from 10-45 minutes…depending on how old baby is.

So if a nursing mom wants to enjoy the company of others and participate in life as it happens, it usually means she has to find ways to make herself comfortable exactly where she is.

Of course there will be those unbearable moments when she just has to head inside to cool off with baby, but for the most part she will be okay breastfeeding where she is…despite the controversy of feeding in public.

If you’re looking for ways to keep yourself and baby cool while breastfeeding in the summer, here are my top tips.

Drink plenty of water.

Hydration is incredibly important for everyone come summer. But for nursing mothers it is ESSENTIAL.

Nursing in the summer requires even more water intake. If you’re not getting the minimum 8 glasses, you’ll surely feel it. Baby typically gets what he or she needs from your body, so if mom isn’t refueling throughout the day, dehydration symptoms and heat exhaustion become a real concern. And naturally if baby is thirsty and feeding on demand, you’ll be reaching for that water bottle frequently. Make sure to drink plenty liquids and get a convenient water bottle you can take on-the-go

Wear light, breathable clothing.

To help regulate your body temperature, and keep cool it’s also crucial to dress comfortably. This means light, breathable clothing. Try sun dresses, airy tops, cotton shorts etc. Try to avoid the tight, restrictive clothing like denim or heavy layers. It also helps to have an elastic band or hair piece to tie-back your hair to keep even cooler while nursing.

Choose nurse-friendly tops.

You might think this is obvious, but a sleep-deprived mom, might not always remember to wear a nurse-friendly top when heading out to a summer family event. Sometimes you’re so determined to beat the mom frump and finally fit into that cute dress you bought last summer (or just wear a new tank top) that you overlook the essentials.

A top which you can easily nurse in does TWO things: it allows you to easily feed baby anywhere in public and still feel comfortable AND it makes it less likely you’ll need to cover baby with a heavy or annoying nursing cover. Because let’s face it, anyone who’s used a nursing cover before knows baby doesn’t always take too kindly to being barricaded in one.

Wearing tops (this ruffle top is ) and dresses you can easily breastfeed in, simplifies everything!

Dress baby in comfortable clothes.

Just as mom should feel comfortable while nursing, so should baby. A cotton onesie with shorts or layette work well.

Oftentimes, new moms want to dress baby in the cute little outfits she received from our baby showers. Think: bunny overalls, hand-knit sweaters and baby hats, but those innocent little moves can lead to heat rash. Opt for simple when taking baby out in the heat.

Find shade.

Summertime means spending lots more time outdoors at family gatherings and parties, so it’s likely you’ll be be doing so with baby in tow. And again, while sunlight is important for many reasons (Vitamin D, health, happiness etc.) baby needs some sun protection those first few months. Always try to find shade when taking baby out to nurse…especially for infants that can’t yet wear sunblock. A tree, awing, or umbrella usually do the trick just fine.

Refresh.

On hot days, everyone could use a dip in the pool or ocean. When you can’t make that happen, spraying yourself with a little water and air combo like this portable fan, can help you feel a lot more comfortable. And don’t be afraid to give baby a little spritz too!

Also, make sure to accept those water ices, fresh fruits and natural juices as well.

Take frequent breaks from the heat.

Let’s face it. Breastfeeding. Is. Exhausting.

There’s nothing like going on a marathon-breastfeeding, nursing around the clock and feeling completely drained.

With temperatures rising, it’s important to take frequent breaks. Whether you alternate with a bottle, supplement or just tag out for a moment to take care of yourself, find a way to rest when you need to.

Because a healthy mama, means an even healthier baby!

You may also enjoy:

Prepare to Breastfeed Before Baby Arrives

How to Survive Breastfeeding at Night

How to Keep Your Breastfed Baby Full

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Breastfeeding in the Summer: How to Survive the Heat with Baby appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.