Feeding Baby
  • Physicians recommend that babies be breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months.  Babies should still be breastfed up through the first year of life, but after the first 6 months, you can start introducing supplemental foods as you continue breastfeeding.  Any amount of time you can breastfeed even if it’s only the first few weeks of life is still better for the baby than not breastfeeding at all.  Babies rarely need vitamin supplements while breastfeeding, but talk to your doctor about this, because each case is different.
  • Make sure you get a good, supportive bra.  Also, you should alternate between breasts while feeding.  Physicians recommend feeding the baby 8 to 12 times per day with around 10 to 15 minutes on each breast.
  • You can also breast pump.  Milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  It can be stored in a normal freezer for up to 3 months and can be stored in a deep freezer for up to 6 months.  Be sure to write the date on each bottle before storing and use the oldest milk first.
  • Please talk to your doctor early in the pregnancy about breastfeeding.  If you decide to breastfeed, make sure when you go to labor and delivery that the nurses know you want to breastfeed.  You should write on the paper work that the nurses are not to give your baby a bottle or pacifier while in the hospital. 
  • Every hospital has a lactation consultant.  If one does not come to see you, make sure to request that the lactation consultant visits your room.  The earlier you can start breastfeeding the better.  If possible, take a class about breastfeeding before delivery.  Make sure the lactation consultant sees you before being discharged.
  • Once you leave the hospital, if you have problems breastfeeding, don’t give up.  You can contact the lactation consultant at the hospital.  If you are a member of WIC, there is a lactation consultant on staff there who can help you.  There are also various other community resources for breastfeeding women.  See the resource section for more resources.
  • Make sure to let your doctor know that you are a breastfeeding mom.  Talk to your doctor and/or your lactation consultant before taking any medications.  Many drugs such as Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and antibiotics are all safe while breastfeeding.

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Disclaimer:  This information is meant for educational purposes only and cannot replace medical advice.  Contact your doctor about any concerns you have.