Common questions about breastfeeding

As natural as breastfeeding is, first-time mothers approach it with trepidation. Does it hurt? What if I don’t produce enough milk? Do I say goodbye to spicy food?

“We always reassure mom (that) her body is an amazing thing,” said Wendy Whitford, a lactation consultant at Medical City Alliance Hospital. “She has made a whole baby. Her body is able to produce enough milk to support that human.”

Like most things in life, breastfeeding takes practice. For new moms and babies, there’s some trial and error but both of you will quickly master this new skill.

A few reassurances:

• Baby’s tummy, at first, is the size of an almond, so you don’t need much milk to fill it up.
• It’s not uncommon for baby to lose a few ounces of weight the first few days. 
• Wet or poopy diapers are a good sign you’re doing fine.
• If you eat healthfully, drink plenty of water and nurse often, baby will usually have plenty of milk. 

Trust that your breastmilk provides everything, including water, your baby needs for the first 6 months. No supplements or cereals are needed. All major health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend that infants exclusively receive breast milk for their first 6 months, with continued breastfeeding for at least the first year. 

Is this going to hurt?

Breastfeeding pain usually comes from something as simple as an incorrect latch, said Whitford. Despite the horror stories new moms hear, painful breastfeeding is not the norm. Taking a breastfeeding class during your pregnancy or working with a lactation consultant can be helpful in getting you started and keeping you going through the next months.

Am I doing this right?

When your baby is positioned well, baby’s mouth will be filled with breast; you’ll see little or no areola. Baby’s tongue is cupped under your breast and their lips turn outward like a fish’s. Baby’s chin should rest on your chest. As your mature milk comes in, you may hear or see baby swallow or even see baby’s ears wiggle. The latch should feel comfortable and not hurt or pinch you.

Start by creating a calm environment where you can be relaxed. And let your baby lead. Signs that baby is hungry include:

• Head turning toward your breast
• Fist gnawing
• Lip smacking
• Squirming and attempting to make eye contact
• Crying, a hungry baby’s last resort

Your body and baby stay in harmony as baby grows. Your first milk, colostrum, is called “liquid gold” for its deep yellow color. It’s thick and rich in nutrients and antibodies to protect your baby from infections. Colostrum helps newborn’s digestive system to work. Within a few days, your body will produce mature milk that contains the right amount of fat, protein, water and sugar your baby needs to grow. As baby continues to grow, your body will adjust to produce the right amount and supply of nutrients.

You can usually tell if your baby is getting plenty. They are mostly content and switch between short sleeping and wakeful, alert periods. Their diapers have clear or pale yellow urine. Your breasts feel softer after feeding. After the first week, babies typically gain about 2/3 to 1 ounce a day for the first four to six months. If you’re worried or if something doesn’t seem right, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant.

But what about me?

Breastfeeding is good for you, too. Nursing releases oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, which helps you feel close to your new baby. It can help you lose weight and get your uterus back into pre-pregnancy condition. Nursing may help your health long term, as well. Some studies have shown that moms who nurse for baby’s first year have decreased rates of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and ovarian and breast cancer. 

What else should I know?

• Breastfeeding saves money, an estimated $1,500 a year over formula. 
• Breastfed babies are portable – no bottles, no powders to pack.
• You don’t have to put your life on hold to breastfeed. Yes, you can usually have a cup of coffee, eat spicy Tex-Mex or enjoy an occasional glass of wine. 
• You don't need a special diet – just a healthy one – and do not need to drink milk to make milk.
• Despite the myth, breastfeeding doesn’t make your breasts sag – pregnancy does that by stretching the ligaments in your breast tissue. Age, genetics and how many pregnancies you’ve had also play a role.
• Nursing in public isn’t a big deal. If you’re worried about being embarrassed, here are some tips for being discreet. Texas law says you can legally breastfeed or pump anywhere that you have a right to be, including work.

Any caveats?

• Breastfeeding is not a reliable stand-in for birth control. Talk to your doctor about methods suitable for nursing moms.
• Do talk to your doctor first about any alcohol use.
• Do not use marijuana or illegal drugs. They can pass to your baby.
• Always consult your doctor before taking any medicine while breastfeeding.

Sometimes, for a variety of reasons such as certain illnesses or rare infant conditions, new moms have to turn to formula. Some women feel uncomfortable with the idea of breastfeeding and some are just overwhelmed. It’s ok if you decide not to breastfeed. Don’t beat yourself up. As a new mom, you deserve support no matter how you feed your baby.

August is National Breastfeeding Month. Our Mommy & Me book includes an easy-to-understand guide on breastfeeding. You can also check out local sources, such as Tarrant County or the North Texas Area Breastfeeding Coalition.

Medical City Healthcare delivers healthier tomorrows for moms, babies and families.

Find the perfect doctor for you or your baby with our Find a Doctor search. You can also visit our Ask a Nurse Hotline website or call our free, 24/7 hotline at (833) 612-1999.