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Breastfeeding: Milk Production

3/16/2019

Milk Production After Delivery
Mothers produce colostrum for the first few days after delivery (not breastmilk). Colostrum is a yellow fluid that contains all the essential nutrients and antibodies for the baby's first few days of life.

Two to five days after delivery, milk production begins. At this time, the breast fluid will turn whitish and breasts may become heavy and tender, sometimes even lumpy.

In order to produce milk it is necessary to:

Nurse frequently.
In order for your baby to gain weight, they need to nurse 8-12 times a day in the early weeks.

Typical full-term babies commonly lose up to 10% of the birth weight in the first four days - not usually any cause for worry. The baby usually returns to the birth weight within two weeks of birth, often at a rate of 1-2 ounces of weight gain per day.

During the day, wake your baby to feed every two to three hours or on demand, whenever your baby is fussy. Count the interval from the beginning of one feeding to the beginning of the next feeding. If your baby cries and less than two hours have passed, try rocking him or carrying her in a sling. Babies may have periods of rapid growth during which feedings may be as often as every 1-2 hours (cluster feeds). Night feeds should initially be every 3-4 hours. Once we have confirmed that weight gain is established, you needn’t wake the baby at night to feed. Your baby’s sucking stimulates milk production and you must feed frequently, “on demand,” the first few weeks of life. A feeding schedule will usually start to form by four months of age.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Drink at least double your normal intake.

Rule of thumb: drink a large glass of water with each nursing (about 2 quarts per day)
Eat a healthy diet.
- Make sure to consume 1200mg of calcium and 400IU of phosphorus and vitamin D daily.

We recommend mothers take a calcium supplement equivalent to 1200mg of elemental calcium per day and to continue taking your prenatal vitamins or a multi-vitamin.

Occasionally, certain foods (for example, chocolate, cabbage, garlic, citrus and spicy foods) may cause problems for your baby such as gassiness or upset stomach. If so, simply eliminate these foods from your diet as you recognize them.

Milk and milk products should be minimized in the mother’s diet as they can give the baby colitis. Caffeine, beer or wine in moderation and sushi may be reintroduced into the mother’s diet.
Relax both physically and mentally.
Stress and fatigue can hinder milk production. It is very important to arrange for plenty of rest between feedings, especially in the first few weeks. Newborns generally do not sleep long periods of time and you will not have long rest periods until your baby grows and sleeps longer hours. Try to sleep when the baby sleeps.

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Should I Breastfeed?

3/16/2019

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We are strong advocates of breastfeeding and will help you succeed at it.

Studies have confirmed that Babies who are breast-fed have fewer infections (SOURCE) and allergies during the first year of life than babies who are fed formula. Anecdotal evidence as experienced pediatric physicians confirms this first-hand over the past few decades and thousands of patients.

Some advantages:

Breast milk is inexpensive and served at the perfect temperature.
It becomes especially convenient when you are traveling with your baby.
It provides total nutrition for a baby.

Note: Babies who are exclusively breastfed should take 1mL or 400IU of Vitamin D drops.

Many mothers find breast-feeding one of the most rewarding aspects of baby care.

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Getting Started: Newborns*

3/7/2019

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First Exam
Baby born at Sibley or George Washington (GWU) Hospital?
We will usually see him/her at the hospital within the first 24 hours.

Baby born someplace other than Sibley or GWU Hospital?
We would like to see you in the office within 3-4 days after discharge. We usually schedule the first office visit anywhere from 3-5 days after birth to check the baby’s weight, presence of jaundice and to assist with any feeding issues.

Next Exams
Please bring the Discharge Summary papers from the hospital to your first visit in the office.

In the beginning, check-ups will be relatively frequent while we are following the baby’s initial growth and development.

We administer important immunizations during the early months in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines (see schedule of immunizations* link coming soon).

Also, parents usually have the most questions during this period and we're here to support you too!

Other Preparation
You can also prepare in advance by stocking your medicine cabinet.

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Tips to Stay Healthy: Winter

3/3/2019

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For Everyone
General tips to keep you feeling good.

Remember to wear plenty of layers and keep your child's feet warm and dry.
A warm pair of gloves is essential and can be clipped on to your child's jacket
Drink plenty of fluids. Hot cocoa and herbal teas are great
A moisturizer with sunscreen will protect your child from winter glare.
Use a lip moisturizer daily.

Mental Health
Mental health is important too! Here are some tips to keep you feeling good mentally as well.

Stay active during the dark winter months
Consider a sunlamp
Try to keep involved with plenty of social activities

For Babies
For you parents of little ones, keep this in mind!

Make sure to put Vaseline or Aquaphor on your baby's cheeks to prevent chapping

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Breastfeeding: Milk Production

Should I Breastfeed?

Getting Started: Newborns*

Tips to Stay Healthy: Winter

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Breastfeeding: Milk Production

​Should I Breastfeed?

Getting Started: Newborns*

Tips to Stay Healthy: Winter

Author

Categories

Archives

HOURS

CONTACT US

ADDRESS

POLICIES

Should I Breastfeed?