Resources & Education

Essential Breastfeeding Information

Getting Started: The First Few Days

What to Expect in the Hospital

  • Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth

  • First feeding within the first hour when possible

  • Frequent feeding (8-12 times in 24 hours)

  • Room-in with your baby when possible

  • Avoid supplementation unless medically necessary

Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough Milk

  • 6 or more wet diapers after day 5

  • Yellow, seedy stools by day 5

  • Weight gain after initial weight loss

  • Baby seems content after feeding

  • You can hear swallowing during feeding

Common Challenges & Solutions

Sore Nipples

  • Often caused by poor latch

  • Usually improves with positioning changes

  • Should not persist beyond the first week

  • May indicate need for professional assessment

Low Milk Supply Concerns

  • Most common concern, but rarely an actual problem

  • Frequent, effective milk removal is key

  • Consider factors: stress, sleep, nutrition, hormones

  • Professional assessment can determine true vs. perceived low supply

Engorgement

  • Common when milk "comes in" (days 3-5)

  • Frequent feeding or pumping for relief

  • Cold compresses between feedings

  • Warm compresses just before feeding

Blocked Ducts

  • Tender, localized lumps in breast

  • Continue frequent feeding on affected side

  • Massage gently toward nipple

  • Rest and avoid tight clothing

Pumping & Storing Milk

Choosing a Pump

  • Hospital-grade for exclusive pumping or supply concerns

  • Personal electric pumps for occasional use

  • Manual pumps for backup or travel

  • Insurance coverage often available

Milk Storage Guidelines

  • Room temperature: 4 hours (fresh milk)

  • Refrigerator: 4 days

  • Freezer: 6-12 months

  • Previously frozen milk: Use within 24 hours after thawing

Pumping at Work

  • Know your rights under federal law

  • Establish routine before returning to work

  • Pump every 2-3 hours during work day

  • Maintain supply with consistent schedule

Nutrition During Breastfeeding

Maternal Nutrition

  • Extra 300-500 calories per day

  • Focus on nutrient-dense foods

  • Stay well-hydrated

  • Continue prenatal vitamins

  • Limit caffeine and alcohol

Foods to Emphasize

  • Lean proteins

  • Whole grains

  • Fruits and vegetables

  • Healthy fats (omega-3s)

  • Calcium-rich foods

When to Seek Professional Help

  • Persistent pain during or after feeding

  • Concerns about weight gain or milk supply

  • Recurring blocked ducts or mastitis

  • Baby refusing to latch or feed

  • Returning to work challenges

  • Any time you have questions or concerns

Helpful Resources

  • La Leche League International: llli.org

  • Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine: bfmed.org

  • CDC Breastfeeding Information: cdc.gov/breastfeeding

  • Workplace Pumping Laws: usbreastfeeding.org/workplace

Emergency Contacts

When to Contact Healthcare Provider Immediately:

Signs of mastitis (fever, flu-like symptoms, red streaking)

Severe persistent pain

Baby not having adequate wet diapers or stools

Significant weight loss in baby

Concerns about baby's health or development