How can I tell my baby is getting enough?

During the first week you will see many changes in your baby including the number of wet and dirty diapers and feeding patterns. In the early days it is important to look at the feeding cues of your baby and to look at wet and dirty diapers. Newborns should eat 8-12 times in 24 hours. Your baby should be satisfied after feedings. On Day 1we expect a minimum of 1 wet diaper and 1 dirty diaper. On Day 2 we expect a minimum of 2 wet and 2 dirty diapers. On day 3 we expect a minimum of 3 wet and 3 dirty diapers. On day 4 we expect a minimum of 4 wet and 4 dirty diapers. On day 5 we expect a minimum of 5 wet and 4 dirty diapers. On day 6 we expect a minimum of 6 wet and 4 dirty diapers. Baby's will initially lose weight but once they start gaining you should see weight increasing by ½ to 1 ounce per day. Please call your health care provider if: Your baby is not making any wet or dirty diapers The number of wet or dirty diapers do not keep up with the minimums listed. There is dark colored urine after day 3. There is dark colored stool after day 5.

What should I do for breast engorgement?

Breasts will sometimes become engorged in the early days as they fill with milk. The goal is to have your breasts produce the correct amount of milk for your baby. You can take a warm shower or apply warm compresses such as washcloths for 2-3 minutes before feeding. Make sure your baby is latching onto the breast correctly or use a pump if your baby cannot latch on well. Make sure you are wearing a well supporting bra that is not constricting. Rest and breastfeed frequently, at least 8-12 times per day. Use cool or cold compresses between feedings. Consult your health care provider if you develop a fever greater than 100.4°F, you develop redness or hot streaks on your breasts, or you develop flu like symptoms.

What can I do for sore nipples?

The most common cause of sore nipples in the first few days is improper latch of the baby. There are some remedies that can be tried but you must fix the problem. Expressed breastmilk can be applied to the nipples after feeding. Also, remember to air dry nipples after feeding. Topical lanolin products that are safe for breastfeeding may also be applied such as Lansinoh or PureLan. Breast shells for sore nipples also help to allow air to circulate while keeping you clothing and breast, pads away from the irritated tissue. If the problem doesn't resolve please contact a lactation consultant in your area. There is no reason for any mother to suffer while breastfeeding.

How do I know if my baby is going through a growth spurt?

Growth spurts occur sporadically as your child continues to grow and develop. Growth spurts usually occur somewhere between 10 days and 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. At these times you will notice your baby wanting to feed more frequently for 24-48 hours. After this time your baby may sleep more and go back to their pattern normal feeding pattern. You may also notice fussiness in your baby.

How do I store breastmilk?

Breastmilk can be stored in either bottles or breastmilk collection bags. Be certain to use only containers that are meant for storage of breastmilk. Freshly expressed breastmilk can be stored at room temperature (<77° F) for 4-10 hours. Milk can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Milk may be stored in a freezer at home for 3-6 months. Milk can be stored in a deep freeze for 6-12 months.

How do I thaw frozen breastmilk?

Frozen breastmilk can be thawed by placing the sealed container in a bowl of warm water for approximately 30 minutes, or under running warm water. Milk may also be placed in the refrigerator overnight t to thaw. This may take 8- 12 hours to thaw. Thawed milk is good for 24 hours. NEVER MICROWAVE BREASTMILK!