Category: Breastfeeding

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

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Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

September 20, 2023

You’ve gone to the trouble of pumping breast milk so don’t waste that liquid gold. Learn more about breast milk storage to ensure you’re serving up safe pumped breast milk.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines, breast milk bags, breast milk storage bags
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Welcome, new moms and seasoned pros alike, to a topic that’s as precious as it is practical: storing pumped breast milk. If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you already know the incredible benefits of breast milk for your baby’s health and development. And if you’re navigating the world of breast pumping, you’re likely finding that your “liquid gold” can sometimes feel more like a science experiment.

Fear not! We’re here to simplify the process and help you make sure that every precious drop of your breast milk is safely stored and ready to nourish your little one whenever they need it. Whether you’re pumping to build a freezer stash, preparing for a return to work, or just looking for some handy storage tips, we’ve got you covered.

Using stored breast milk might seem like a straightforward task, but there are some guidelines that can make the process clearer. Whether you’re planning a night out, heading back to work, or just want to let someone else share in the joy of feeding your little one, we’ve got your back.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Freshly pumped milk
Room temperature: up to 4 hours
Refrigerator: up to 4 days
Freezer: 6-12 months

Thawed, previously frozen
Room temperature: up to 2 hours
Refrigerator: up to 24 hours
Freezer: never refreeze breast milk after it’s been thawed

Left over from a feeding (meaning your baby did not finish bottle)
Room temperature: use within 2 hours after baby has finished eating
Refrigerator: use within 2 hours after baby has finished eating
Freezer: do not freeze

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Ready to use that breast milk? Take note of these general guidelines to ensure that your baby’s milk is served up properly!

Thawing frozen breast milk for immediate use

Warm the milk by running warm water over the bag or bottle and use it within the next 24 hours.

Warming refrigerated breast milk

Warm the milk by running warm water over the bag or bottle until it’s at room temperature.

Note: Never thaw or heat breast milk in the microwave.

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25-count Medela breast milk storage bags
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Medela breast milk storage bags, Medela 100-count breast milk storage bags
Medela 100-Count Breast Milk Storage Bags
Store, transport, and warm breast milk in these convenient, ready-to-use breast milk storage bags. They can also be used safely as freezing bags for breast…
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The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Proper Storage and Preparation of Breast Milk

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Maintaining or Increasing Milk Supply While Working

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Maintaining or Increasing Milk Supply While Working

June 10, 2023

Nursing is more than just providing nourishment for your baby; it is a time for bonding. Transitioning from being home to working again can be a difficult time for both you and your baby. Continuing nursing after going back to work can help with the transition of being apart during the work day.

increasing milk supply, how to get breast milk, how can I pump more milk

Returning to work will mean baby is at breast less, and you will likely have to pump to maintain your milk supply. It is recommended to express milk or pump every three hours while away from your baby. At first you may need to express/pump more frequently if you start to leak or feel uncomfortable. Full breasts and engorgement can slow milk production and are signs you may need to pump more often. Breasts are never truly empty of milk, so pumping and removing even small amounts of milk will increase production.

When you are with your baby, allow him/her to nurse on demand. The “in-between” comfort feeds can help your milk production. Once you are back to work, the first few weeks your baby will likely increase night-time feeds to make up for the lack of nursing during the day. Breastfeeding at night can help increase milk production since prolactin, the hormone that encourages milk production, is higher during night-time feedings. Breastfeeding on demand over the weekends and evening hours can help rebuild your supply, especially if you’ve noticed it decreasing when pumping during the week.

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Increasing Milk Supply

 

  • Adding one more pumping session can help with supply; a 5-minute pumping session is better than not pumping at all. If the pumping session you added is not producing milk, continue to pump at the same time each day, and within a few days you will see your supply gradually increase because pumping stimulates milk production.
  • Ideally, each pumping session should be about 15 minutes on each breast. Continue to pump for 2-5 minutes after the last drops of milk come out. (Worried about how to store and use your pumped milk? Check out this post.)
  • Try cluster pumping instead of pumping or nursing every few hours. Sit down with your pump and baby, and switch between nursing and pumping every half hour for several hours.
  • Breast compressions can help stimulate let-downs when pumping and will help to thoroughly drain all milk from the ducts. While pumping, use one hand to massage breast from the armpit towards the nipple, gradually increasing the pressure and finishing with a few firm squeezes of your breast.

Remember it will take time to increase your supply; it will not happen overnight. Maintaining proper hydration, nutrition, and rest are just as important as frequently pumping and nursing to increase your milk supply.

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternalinfanthealth/pregnancy-weight-gain.htm
• https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/pregnancy-weight-gain/
• https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm

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Breastfeeding Troubleshooting

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Breastfeeding Troubleshooting

April 07, 2022

Although breastfeeding is natural, it can be difficult. From sore nipples and engorgement to clogged ducts, here are some of the most common breastfeeding issues and how to cope.

Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW

Mastitis

Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

HOW TO HELP

In addition to treatment from your healthcare provider, it is recommended to:
• Heat, rest, and empty breast.
• Use a warm compress before a feeding.
• Get extra rest.
• Continue pumping or breastfeeding; emptying the breast reduces inflammation. If this hurts, detach baby and try again.

Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:
• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters
• Cracked nipples
• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings
• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

HOW TO HELP

It is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment, and it is necessary for both you and your baby to be treated since it is contagious and spreads easily. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your baby’s mouth. A baby may also have yeast rashes in the diaper area.

Forceful letdown

This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

HOW TO HELP

To manage a forceful letdown, you can press on the breast near the nipple just before latching your baby, and spray the initial streams into a cloth, bottle, cup, etc. Trying different positions such as laid back or side lying may also help slow things down.

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/153/managing-blocked-milk-ducts-and-treating-mastitis
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/88/comfort-for-mom:-treating-engorged-breasts
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/positioning/
• https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/hw103462
• https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/nipple-pain-remedies/
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/
• https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Falling-Asleep-at-the-Breast-Bottle.aspx
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/falling-asleep-at-the-breast/
• https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/141/4-reasons-babies-bite-while-breastfeeding
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/biting/
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/how-to-handle-oversupply-and-overactive-letdown/

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Breastfeeding Positions

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Breastfeeding Positions

April 07, 2022

There are many different positions that can work while breastfeeding. It is important to find one that is comfortable for both you and your baby. This will make feedings more enjoyable and successful! During the early weeks you and your baby will navigate and find what works best for you. There are several different positions you can try. You can use the tips below as a guide and modify to fit your needs. If you feel pain or discomfort, try a different position (also consider proper latch).

Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW

Mastitis

Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

HOW TO HELP

In addition to treatment from your healthcare provider, it is recommended to:
• Heat, rest, and empty breast.
• Use a warm compress before a feeding.
• Get extra rest.
• Continue pumping or breastfeeding; emptying the breast reduces inflammation. If this hurts, detach baby and try again.

Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:
• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters
• Cracked nipples
• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings
• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

HOW TO HELP

It is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment, and it is necessary for both you and your baby to be treated since it is contagious and spreads easily. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your baby’s mouth. A baby may also have yeast rashes in the diaper area.

Forceful letdown

This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

HOW TO HELP

To manage a forceful letdown, you can press on the breast near the nipple just before latching your baby, and spray the initial streams into a cloth, bottle, cup, etc. Trying different positions such as laid back or side lying may also help slow things down.

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/153/managing-blocked-milk-ducts-and-treating-mastitis
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/88/comfort-for-mom:-treating-engorged-breasts
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/positioning/
• https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/hw103462
• https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/nipple-pain-remedies/
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/
• https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Falling-Asleep-at-the-Breast-Bottle.aspx
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/falling-asleep-at-the-breast/
• https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/141/4-reasons-babies-bite-while-breastfeeding
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/biting/
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/how-to-handle-oversupply-and-overactive-letdown/

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Getting a Good Latch

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Getting a Good Latch

April 07, 2022

The most important part of successful breastfeeding is the latch. If your baby is not properly latched on to your breast, feedings could be painful, and milk may not be transferred efficiently and effectively. This may make for longer, less successful feeding sessions and can impact milk supply long term.

Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW

Mastitis

Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

HOW TO HELP

In addition to treatment from your healthcare provider, it is recommended to:
• Heat, rest, and empty breast.
• Use a warm compress before a feeding.
• Get extra rest.
• Continue pumping or breastfeeding; emptying the breast reduces inflammation. If this hurts, detach baby and try again.

Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:
• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters
• Cracked nipples
• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings
• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

HOW TO HELP

It is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment, and it is necessary for both you and your baby to be treated since it is contagious and spreads easily. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your baby’s mouth. A baby may also have yeast rashes in the diaper area.

Forceful letdown

This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

HOW TO HELP

To manage a forceful letdown, you can press on the breast near the nipple just before latching your baby, and spray the initial streams into a cloth, bottle, cup, etc. Trying different positions such as laid back or side lying may also help slow things down.

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/153/managing-blocked-milk-ducts-and-treating-mastitis
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/88/comfort-for-mom:-treating-engorged-breasts
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/positioning/
• https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/hw103462
• https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/nipple-pain-remedies/
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/
• https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Falling-Asleep-at-the-Breast-Bottle.aspx
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/falling-asleep-at-the-breast/
• https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/141/4-reasons-babies-bite-while-breastfeeding
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/biting/
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/how-to-handle-oversupply-and-overactive-letdown/

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Related Articles

Breastfeeding Basics

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Home          Shop Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         

Breastfeeding Basics

April 06, 2022

Expect breastfeeding to be a learning process. You and your baby are both learning; your baby is learning how to latch, suck, and swallow and you are learning your baby’s hunger cues, positioning for a proper latch, and managing your breast milk supply.

breastfeeding basics, how to prepare for breastfeeding

Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

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Mastitis

Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

HOW TO HELP

In addition to treatment from your healthcare provider, it is recommended to:
• Heat, rest, and empty breast.
• Use a warm compress before a feeding.
• Get extra rest.
• Continue pumping or breastfeeding; emptying the breast reduces inflammation. If this hurts, detach baby and try again.

Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:
• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters
• Cracked nipples
• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings
• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

HOW TO HELP

It is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment, and it is necessary for both you and your baby to be treated since it is contagious and spreads easily. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your baby’s mouth. A baby may also have yeast rashes in the diaper area.

Forceful letdown

This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

HOW TO HELP

To manage a forceful letdown, you can press on the breast near the nipple just before latching your baby, and spray the initial streams into a cloth, bottle, cup, etc. Trying different positions such as laid back or side lying may also help slow things down.

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/153/managing-blocked-milk-ducts-and-treating-mastitis
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/88/comfort-for-mom:-treating-engorged-breasts
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/positioning/
• https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/hw103462
• https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/nipple-pain-remedies/
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/
• https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Falling-Asleep-at-the-Breast-Bottle.aspx
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/falling-asleep-at-the-breast/
• https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/141/4-reasons-babies-bite-while-breastfeeding
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/biting/
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/how-to-handle-oversupply-and-overactive-letdown/

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Check out the benefits of breastfeeding

January 14, 2019

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide essential nutrients while also bonding with your child. However, it’s unrealistic to think you’ll be with your baby 24/7.

Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of various health problems for babies along with others, learn more below.

Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW
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