A nipple shield is a thin, silicone teat that can be placed over a mother’s nipple and may help a baby who is having difficulty learning to breastfeed. Holes in the tip allow milk to flow into the baby’s mouth. A nipple shield can be used temporarily to help establish breastfeeding or in some cases … [Read more...] about Nipple shields
Breastfeeding Information
My Baby Won’t Breastfeed
This page is about young babies who have never breastfed or who get very upset when offered the breast. If your baby was breastfeeding well but is now refusing, see our page on “nursing strikes”. Sometimes, a new difficulty with feeding is the first sign that the baby is becoming unwell. If you are … [Read more...] about My Baby Won’t Breastfeed
Jaundice in Healthy Newborns
If your new baby has jaundice, it's normal to be worried and concerned. Knowing more about newborn jaundice will help you decide if you need to see medical help and understand why tests may be needed. More than 80% of all newborns appear jaundiced during the first week of life. In most cases, this … [Read more...] about Jaundice in Healthy Newborns
Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?
How do you tell if your baby is getting enough milk? In a world where everything is measured, it can be nerve-wracking when you can’t see how much milk your breasts are making. Follow your baby not the book Weight gain Dirty nappies How frequently are you breastfeeding? Sleepy … [Read more...] about Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?
Inverted and flat nipples
Breasts and nipples come in many shapes and sizes, and most work well for breastfeeding. If one or both of your nipples are flat or inverted, getting started may take a little extra time and patience, but there are many ways to help your baby breastfeed. Summary On this … [Read more...] about Inverted and flat nipples
If You Leave Your Baby
When you and your baby have a satisfying breastfeeding relationship, preparing for any separation can leave you with mixed feelings. This is regardless of whether you’ll be away from your baby for just an hour or two, or longer. You may be concerned about whether your baby will take your expressed … [Read more...] about If You Leave Your Baby
Dummies and Breastfeeding
Sucking is a basic instinct that babies are born with. Babies suck for both food and comfort. Breastmilk also provides protection against disease so nature has made sure that babies love to be at the breast. They are comforted by the warmth, smell, delicious milk and reassuring sound of your … [Read more...] about Dummies and Breastfeeding
Caesarean Birth and Breastfeeding
There are many reasons why you may be considering, or already have had, a caesarean birth. (1) While a vaginal birth is biologically optimal for a healthy mother and baby, it’s not always the safest or most appropriate choice. (2) You might be facing complications in your pregnancy that make a … [Read more...] about Caesarean Birth and Breastfeeding
Beginning Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is normal and natural but it may take you and your baby time to learn. Breastfeed early Breastfeed often Colostrum Learn to breastfeed comfortably Allow them to take full feeds Watch for signs they are hungry After your milk comes in Give only your milk Night feeds are … [Read more...] about Beginning Breastfeeding
Antenatal Expression of Colostrum
Mothers start to produce colostrum (early milk) while pregnant. Being able to express colostrum is a useful skill to have. Saving your expressed colostrum may also be beneficial if your baby is likely to need special care after birth. Why express while pregnant? Being familiar with your breasts … [Read more...] about Antenatal Expression of Colostrum