Happy Breastfeeding Week!

At MoBap, we recognize that every mom has her own personal goals and expectations with breastfeeding, and we want you to know that we’re here to support you in any way we can. We commend all new moms, especially those who’ve chosen to provide such a healthy start for their little ones. You’ve already done so much for your baby on this journey, so now’s the time to celebrate YOU!

This week (August 1-7), we’re honoring breastfeeding moms by celebrating World Breastfeeding Week 2013. This year’s theme is “Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers,” which promotes the importance of breastfeeding peer counseling, including mother-to-mother support, as well as support from trained healthcare workers, lactation consultants, community leaders, and friends and family.

At MoBap, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable peer counseling is for breastfeeding moms. More importantly, we value the wonderful support that moms provide to one another in our breastfeeding support groups. It’s just one more reason why we’re incredibly proud of each and every one of you!

So, from the lactation consultants at MoBap, we hope you enjoy your special week that celebrates breastfeeding, not only here, but worldwide! Be sure to take a moment to celebrate yourself and all that you’ve done for your little one.

Introducing Solid Foods

Parents often get conflicting and confusing advice about introducing solid foods to their infants. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six month before slowly introducing solid foods. However, some Western countries, like the United States, introduce solids as early as four months. 

There are a number of solid foods you can introduce to your baby, including cereal, fruits, veggies and meats. Normal, healthy babies should be given a variety of foods. In order to help maintain your milk supply, consider offering solids after your baby has nursed. Also, whatever solid foods you offer should include two important minerals – iron and zinc. 

So how do you know when to introduce solids? Your baby will usually display some signs of readiness: 
• Hand-eye coordination
• A developed immune system
• A mature digestive system
• The presence of teeth
• A growth spurt that’s unresolved with more frequent nursing

Introducing solids can be a fun, pleasant experience for both moms and babies. Whether you introduce solids at four months or six months, breast milk will still be your baby’s primary food source until the age of one, offering continued protection from illnesses. 

-Sue, IBCLC

Proper Breastfeeding Positions

Breastfeeding, one of the most natural acts in the world, takes practice. And learning how to support and hold your baby takes coordination and patience. During the first several weeks postpartum, positioning your baby at the breast is an important first step in achieving a successful latch. In fact, achieving a proper position and successful latch can help prevent sore nipples (a common complaint among many breastfeeding moms).

There are four main types of breastfeeding positions: 1) the cradle hold, 2) cross-cradle hold, 3) football hold, and 4) side lying. However, the most important factor in any breastfeeding position is to make sure both you and your baby are comfortable.

The following are a few suggestions to help you establish a successful, comfortable breastfeeding relationship with your baby, regardless of which nursing position you use:

• Bring your baby to your breast – not the other way around.
• Support your breasts using either a C-hold (four fingers underneath the breast and thumb on top) or a V-hold (support your breast between your splayed index and middle fingers).
• Use your arm and hand – plus pillows or folded blankets – to support your baby’s head, neck, back and hips, while keeping them in a straight line.
• Experiment to find a nursing position that you find most comfortable.

Finally, consider alternating between different breastfeeding positions. Many women find that this is the best way to avoid getting clogged milk ducts. 

Now, relax, take a deep breath, and nurse your baby.

April (IBCLC)