Fed is Best: Tips for Moms Feeding Newborns

A key item in the typical “Preparing for Baby” list is feeding.

When your new baby is hungry, will you offer your breastmilk, formula or some combination?

Breastmilk is proven to benefit both mother and baby, but breastfeeding is easier for some mothers than others. Remember: fed is best. Whether it comes easy or you get help from a lactation specialist, the main goal is always to keep your baby fed.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can lower baby’s risk of a number of illnesses ranging from ear infections and stomach troubles to RSV and long-term conditions such as asthma and diabetes. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends mothers breastfeed:

• Exclusively for the first six months
• Breastmilk combined with food until at least 24 months or older

But experts will also tell you that any length of breastfeeding is beneficial, be it a day, a week or a month. It’s easy to digest and helps build baby’s immunity.

Lactation Experts Can Help with Breastfeeding

Avera offers expertise in breastfeeding and newborn nutrition. Moms can make the most of this advice before, during and after pregnancy. Lactation specialists and your primary care provider are available to answer questions. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center employs International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants. That’s the highest level of certification available for lactation consultants.

Barbara Giles, RNC, IBCLC, CFCP, is among the Avera lactation professionals who hold this certification.

“We encourage all nursing moms to be patient; there is a learning curve, and there will be some bumps along the way,” she said. “That’s normal.”

Giles said the most common challenges include:

• Latching problems
• Sore nipples
• Milk production and proper feeding positioning
• Breast pump selection and proper use

“Women typically know in two to three weeks what to expect in terms of milk production,” Giles said. “If it takes a little longer for you, that’s OK. Show grace to your baby – and yourself.”

Breastfeeding Worries, Guilt and Frustration Are Normal

Some moms have trouble producing enough milk. When you work with a breastfeeding expert, you can find the best option. Some moms use breastmilk and supplement it with formula. In other cases, formula alone may be best.

“The idea that breastfeeding is natural and easy for all moms is a myth,” Giles said. “Don’t get too stressed out. Fed is best – but the path you and your baby take is yours alone.”

Remember: exclusive breastfeeding is a great goal, but any amount of breastmilk is good for baby.

“When I talk to moms about breastfeeding goals, there’s no right or wrong,” said Giles. “It’s individual for each mom and baby. That’s why we don’t want anyone to make too many comparisons.”

Mothers can consider the few months after delivery like a “fourth trimester.” Many factors play into what works best for you and your baby:

• Work schedules
• Chronic conditions
• Family size
• The baby’s health
• Stress, fear or worries of the nursing mother

Specialists and providers in breastfeeding and obstetrics can help you reach your goals and adjust them as needed. “No two moms or babies have the same journey,” Giles said.

Nursing Benefits for Both Mom and Baby

A decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as lower rates of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes are some of the benefits of breastfeeding – for moms. The many good reasons for babies also play a role. They include:

• Fewer respiratory infections (colds, pneumonia and RSV)
• Reduced incidence of asthma
• Fewer upset stomachs and diarrhea
• Fewer ear infections and allergies (eczema, food allergies and others)

These are just a few of the benefits that come with breastmilk.

Make Time to Enjoy the Bonds You’re Building 

Little sleep and lots of worry are organic parts of your experience with your new baby. Apprehension – “Am I doing this right?” is something every mom experiences, Giles said.

“Lean on your spouse, friends and family,” she said. Feeding times provide important bonding moments with your baby, said Giles. “Enjoy the snuggles while you can, give yourself some patience and seek help when you have questions.”

Most moms say the newborn period slips past so fast, they sometimes forget how much connection is made between child and mother. “Relish this time,” Giles said. “It soon will conclude.”