Breastfeeding is a natural thing. But as a mother, you have to get used to it. Sometimes, unexpected problems can arise. So, in this article, we are going to answer some of the common questions you may have about breastfeeding. Let's take a look at these things one by one.
Can I breastfeed my baby if I am sick?
Most of the time, yes! You can breastfeed your baby even if you are sick. Most illnesses are not dangerous to your baby. Just think, when your body produces antibodies to fight off the illness, those antibodies pass to your baby through your breast milk. That means your baby is protected from that illness too. Isn't that great?
However, if you have something like `(Coronavirus)` , the chances of it passing to your baby through breast milk are very low. However, the virus can be passed to your baby through small droplets that are released when you talk, cough, or sneeze. Therefore, you should talk to your doctor and decide whether to continue breastfeeding or express the milk and have someone healthy feed it to your baby.
If the doctor says it's okay to breastfeed, wear a face mask while breastfeeding and wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the baby. Or, have a healthy person in your household feed your baby the milk you've expressed. That person should also wear a face mask and wash their hands before and after handling the baby.
If you have other medical conditions or are taking certain medications, they can also affect breastfeeding. Therefore, you should definitely talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor before stopping breastfeeding. It is not a good idea to stop suddenly.
Why doesn't my baby want to drink milk? (Nursing Strike) What do we do?
Sometimes babies suddenly stop breastfeeding. It's like a strike! We call this a sudden refusal to breastfeed . There are many reasons why this can happen. For example, a baby may be teething, or they may be uncomfortable with an ear infection, or they may have an oral thrush . Or they may have a cold and a stuffy nose, making it hard to breathe.
Another thing is, if you use a new type of soap or perfume, your scent may change and your baby may not like it. Or if you change your eating habits, the taste of your milk may change and your baby may not like it.
Whatever the reason, this is only temporary, and you and your baby can get over it. Don't worry. Here are a few tips that may help you:
- Make the breastfeeding experience as enjoyable as possible for your baby. Praise your baby, stroke him/her lovingly, and soothe him/her. When your baby is upset or upset, stop and comfort him/her.
- Try to breastfeed when your baby is sound asleep, or a little sleepy. At that time, they are more likely to breastfeed without much reluctance. Breastfeed in a place where there are no noises or distractions.
- Before feeding, stimulate the milk flow by expressing a little milk with your hand or using a pump. This will make it easier for the baby to get milk as soon as he starts sucking.
- Try feeding your baby while gently rocking him or while walking with him strapped to your body.
Remember, it is normal for babies to refuse to breastfeed (a nursing strike). This usually resolves within a few days. Until your breastfeeding pattern is back to normal, don't forget to pump to keep your milk supply up and to make sure your baby is getting enough milk. When your baby is really ready to stop breastfeeding, it will be done gradually over weeks or months.
Is it good to give soup to a baby?
Mothers also ask a lot of questions about pacifiers. In fact, it has been found that using pacifiers can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in babies. Also, pacifiers can soothe a baby and satisfy his desire to suck something.
Therefore, doctors recommend that you start giving your baby soup at bedtime and during naps when they are about 3-4 weeks old, when breastfeeding is well established. You can continue giving your baby soup until they are about a year old. However, if your baby doesn't want to eat soup, don't force it.
Some mothers worry that if they introduce solids before 3-4 weeks, their baby will develop ' nipple confusion' and refuse to breastfeed. Or that it will be difficult for the baby to recognize when he is hungry. However, it is okay to give solids occasionally in the first month of life, for example, when a circumcision is performed. It will not harm breastfeeding efforts.
Is it possible that the baby is not sucking because he is hungry? (Non-nutritive Sucking) Is that a problem?
Sometimes you may think, 'My baby has had enough milk, but he's still sucking for an hour!' This may be because the baby is sucking for comfort rather than nourishment. We also call this ``Non-nutritive Sucking'' or sucking for comfort .
So, how do you know for sure? Here are some things you can do while a well-fed baby is still at the breast:
- You seem very happy.
- They stop sucking and swallowing milk.
- Playing with your nipples.
If you notice this, you can let your baby suck his thumb or hand. Or, you can consider giving him a pacifier once breastfeeding is well established. This is not a big problem, and it is normal for babies to do this.
What do you think about giving formula milk instead of breast milk?
Breast milk is the first choice of pediatricians for newborn babies. That's true. But, the truth is, breastfeeding doesn't work for every new mother. You have the right to choose what works best for you and your family.
Many new mothers are unable to breastfeed due to medical conditions, medications, work, travel, or scheduling issues. While breastfeeding comes easily to some mothers, it can be very difficult for others. Even with the help of a lactation consultant, it can feel like your baby isn't getting enough milk. The desire to breastfeed and the stress of trying to do so can be overwhelming, especially with the many changes in life that come with having a baby.
Some new mothers express breast milk and bottle-feed. But some choose to give formula milk. If you do, be sure that the infant formula available on the market is a good, nutritious alternative to breast milk for your baby. Bottle-feeding also has its own advantages. It allows fathers, grandparents, and other caregivers to be involved in feeding your baby and build that precious bond. Because formula milk is digested more slowly than breast milk, formula-fed babies don't need to feed as often as breast-fed babies.
So, you're not doing your baby any favors by using formula. You're doing everything you can to help your baby grow well.
If you have any questions about feeding your baby, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.
Mom, remember these things! (Take-Home Message)
Breastfeeding is a very special experience for a mother, but it's normal for you to encounter problems along the way.
- You can often breastfeed your baby even when you are sick. However, it is essential to seek medical advice, especially in a situation like `(Coronavirus)`.
- If your baby suddenly refuses to breastfeed (a ``Nursing Strike''), don't panic. There's a reason for it, and it's temporary. With a little patience and love, you can get over it.
- Don't be afraid to give a bottle. Once breastfeeding is well established, regular feeding can also reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Sometimes, your baby may suckle for comfort (non-nutritive sucking). This is also normal.
- If you can't breastfeed, don't feel guilty about giving formula milk. Choose what works best for your situation. The most important thing is that your baby gets love and nutrition.
Always remember, you are not alone. Whatever your concerns, talk to your doctor, midwife, or lactation consultant. They will help you!
` Breastfeeding, baby health, breastfeeding problems, nursing strike, soups, formula, newborn babies
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