Every breastfeeding journey is unique. These FAQ's can help give basic information, but the answers don't know your whole story. For tailored answers and more information, please reach out to your peer or call WIC to have a peer reach out to you!
A baby who is eating enough should have three stools a day for the first 4 weeks. By day 5, they should have at least 6 wet diapers daily. It is normal for a baby to lose a little weight after birth, but this should be monitored by a doctor. We expect a healthy baby to gain 5oz of weight per week for the first 3 months of life.
Breastfeeding shouldn't be painful. In the first few days, your nipples may feel sore. This is normal. If you still feel pain after a few days, your baby's latch might need adjusting.
At least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours or every 2 to 3 hours. The best way to feed is "on demand" or whenever your baby shows signs of hunger.
The flange is the part of the pump that goes over your nipple. Having the right flange size helps prevent pain, milk blisters, low milk output, or clogged ducts. If you have questions about flange sizes, talk to your doctor or call WIC.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the size and shape of breasts. Common changes include sagging or drooping. This can happen whether you breastfeed or use a bottle. These changes are normal.
In the first few weeks of having a baby, you may need to breastfeed often. This can make it hard to go out and do other things. But this time is important! It lets you rest, recover, and get to know your baby.
Leaking can happen a lot in the early weeks when babies feed at different times. The good news is that leaking is easy to manage. WIC can help you work through this, give us a call.
You will want to limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine. But you do not need to follow a special diet while breastfeeding, unless your doctor says so.
Please talk to your healthcare provider.
Some mothers may not feel like having sex because they are tired, worried about getting pregnant again, or afraid it might hurt. Some mothers are excited to start having sex again. It's important to talk openly with your partner about your feelings.
When you have sex, your body may release a hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin help release milk from your breasts. To help avoid leaking during sex, try breastfeeding your baby before making love.
Mothers who breastfeed can sometimes delay pregnancy for the first 6 months after having a baby. If you breastfeed less often or use baby formula, you might get pregnant sooner. If you don't want to get pregnant, it's a good idea to use a safe method of birth control. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best method for you.
Many mothers continue to breastfeed while they are pregnant. During this time, meeting the nutritional needs of yourself, your baby, and your young child can be tough. It's important to eat healthy foods, drink enough water, and take naps when your babies do. Your breastmilk does change during pregnancy and may cause your older child to lose interest in breastfeeding. This is called child-led weaning. Discuss your breastfeeding plans with your healthcare provider.
Spangler, A. (2021). Breastfeeding: A Parent's Guide (10th ed., pp7-10).