frequently asked questions

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Initially, nursing can be uncomfortable, and even painful! That pain can come from sensitivities due to hormone production, engorgement as the mature milk begins to come in, and sensitivity from the new action of nursing. This should subside in a few days, but if it doesn't there are things that can be done to help!

A good indicator of an infant getting enough to eat, are multiple wet and messy diapers. This means their body is processing the nutrients from the milk and removing waste. 

First, cluster feeding is completely normal. Second, it is when the infant feeds for short periods of time and falls asleep or seems uninterested and then soon after, wants to feed again. This typically happens at times of low hormone production, therefore, low milk production, such as the evenings. This also happens when the infant is going through a growth spurt. This allows the body to stimulate more milk production to adjust to the infants increasing need for milk. 

Second night syndrome is just what it sounds like. The second night of life, the infant begins to "wake up" and recognize that it is no longer getting a constant supply of nutrients from the placenta. They begin to cluster feed and typically seem very fussy and unable to regulate but it is important to know that it is completely normal and they are not starving! They will adjust and this is just the beginning of the learning journey of breastfeeding that you and your baby will face together!

Certain medications are not considered safe for breastfeeding, both over-the-counter and prescribed. Some, you will have to discuss with your doctor to make sure they are safe and will not transfer to the infant through breast milk, and other medications such as Sudafed and some types of cold medicines can cause your milk supply to drop, so they are not recommended to take unless absolutely necessary.  

There are a lot of products that advertise being great for breast feeding, such as lactation cookies or drinks but those are never the answer. You should focus on hydration and getting a sufficient amount of calories from the food you eat each day. There are indeed certain foods that are said to help with milk supply such as oats and brewer's yeast, but supplementation can be more specific to the person in some cases so it is best to work with a lactation consultant to help you figure out which will work best for your specific needs.

Absolutely not! the main reason that moms choose to pump, aside from medical reasons such as tongue/lip ties, or personal preference, is for moms that intend to go back to work or want their partners to be able to take over a feeding once in a while. Breastfeeding is completely up to you, your baby and your lifestyles needs! If there is something making your breastfeeding journey more difficult or you have questions, speaking to a lactation consultant can help you decide what tools would be useful to you.