‘Nipple confusion’, ‘nipple preference’ or ‘flow preference’ is often used to describe a change in a baby’s sucking pattern or their willingness to breastfeed following the introduction of a bottle or dummy. A baby may have difficulty latching or staying on the breast, be fussy or reluctant to … [Read more...] about Nipple Confusion
Breastfeeding Information
Hand Expression of Breastmilk
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, milk expression by hand is a useful technique to learn. It’s a handy way to relieve engorged breasts. You can also use it to stimulate milk production and provide milk for a baby who is not breastfeeding well or needs more milk. Why hand expression? If you … [Read more...] about Hand Expression of Breastmilk
Nipple Pain
You’ve probably heard a few stories about nipple pain. Some people have horror stories about cracked, bleeding nipples. Others warn you that breastfeeding hurts until your nipples “toughen up.” Some say nursing should never hurt at all, and if it does, you’re “doing it wrong.” So where does this … [Read more...] about Nipple Pain
Engorged Breasts – avoiding and treating
Engorged breasts are painful. They feel heavy, hard, warm and sensitive —as if they are ready to burst! As well as being painful, engorgement can lead to other breastfeeding problems if not treated. Being able to recognise engorgement will help you to … [Read more...] about Engorged Breasts – avoiding and treating
Safer Sleep & the Breastfed Baby
“In most parts of the world... babies sleep close to their mothers, as they have through most of history.” - The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding A baby is born expecting to stay in close contact with his mother night and day, in order to keep safe, warm and well-fed. It is perfectly normal for … [Read more...] about Safer Sleep & the Breastfed Baby
Breastfeeding at a Swimming Pool
Women are sometimes told that breastfeeding at, or in, a swimming pool is prohibited. The reasons for this are often cited as hygiene or contamination fears. Fears that breastmilk will 'pollute' the pool Fears that a baby will vomit in the pool It is unhygienic for the baby No eating rule … [Read more...] about Breastfeeding at a Swimming Pool
Expressing & Storing Milk
There are many reasons you might need or choose to express your milk. In this article, we’ll explore different ways to express, how to make it as easy and effective as possible, and how to store and handle your milk safely. Reasons for expressing How do I express? How often and when should … [Read more...] about Expressing & Storing Milk
Supporting a Breastfeeding Mother
New parents need time to adjust to their new roles. Life may change dramatically, especially for a first time mother—many women say they didn’t feel prepared for the emotional upheaval they experienced on becoming a mother. Even experienced mothers can have difficulties juggling the needs of the new … [Read more...] about Supporting a Breastfeeding Mother
Twins and More
Learning you are pregnant with twins, triplets or more changes your expectations and plans. But you can still plan to breastfeed. Breastmilk is a complete and perfect food for your baby. It is especially important for multiples, who are often small at birth. Breastfeeding also helps you create a … [Read more...] about Twins and More
Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement
Mastitis (breast inflammation), includes a wide range of symptoms, from a small, tender area (often called a blocked duct), through to severe infection. If your breasts are inflamed or swollen, it’s important to act quickly to relieve discomfort and stop it getting worse. You may also … [Read more...] about Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement