Is your milk supply really low? New mothers who are learning to breastfeed often worry that they might not be making enough milk for their baby. Their breasts might stop feeling full and their baby might sometimes be unsettled, or not want to be put down between feeds. There are many reasons for … [Read more...] about How to increase your milk supply
skin-to-skin
Getting breastfeeding on track after a difficult start – the “3 Keeps”
When you have early breastfeeding problems, it can feel as if it’s “all gone wrong” and the dreams you had about feeding your baby are in ruins. Fortunately, babies are very adaptable and resilient, and so are their mothers! With time, patience and, if necessary, skilled help, it is almost always … [Read more...] about Getting breastfeeding on track after a difficult start – the “3 Keeps”
Feeding late preterm babies
What is a “late preterm” baby? Late preterm babies are usually defined as those born between 34 and 36 weeks gestation. Because these babies are often well - most don’t need to spend time in Special Care - and because they look like full-term babies (just a bit smaller), it’s often assumed that … [Read more...] about Feeding late preterm babies
Meeting the needs of premature babies: Kangaroo Mother Care
Premature babies are born before 37 weeks of gestation. There are three main sub-categories in pre-term birth: extremely preterm (< 28 weeks of gestation), very preterm (28 to < 32 weeks) and moderate to late preterm (32 to <37 weeks). According to Born too soon, the World Health … [Read more...] about Meeting the needs of premature babies: Kangaroo Mother Care
What’s The Big Deal With Skin-To-Skin?
Lynsey Hansford looks at some of the amazing benefits of skin-to-skin in the hours and days after birth. Skin-to-skin has become a birth plan buzzword. The term has penetrated 'birthspeak' and, in my view, is at risk of being treated as a trend that is only paid lip service in the immediate … [Read more...] about What’s The Big Deal With Skin-To-Skin?
Birth & Breastfeeding
Whatever your birth options, your active participation is a big help in getting breastfeeding off to a good start. Making informed choices about where and how you give birth is the first step. Even when medical concerns limit your choices, there may be more options available than your medical … [Read more...] about Birth & Breastfeeding
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
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
Comfortable breastfeeding – quick read
Comfortable positioning and attachment are important for all mothers. You will have time to practice with your baby while your breasts are still soft before your milk increases. The earlier you start, the easier it is. Hold your baby in skin-to-skin contact right after birth -continue this for as … [Read more...] about Comfortable breastfeeding – quick read
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