Breastfeeding Basics: Answers to Five Common Questions

By Lisa Pecos

Most new mothers who choose to breastfeed discover almostimmediately that little instruction is required. The act of nursing isinstinctive for both mother and baby, and even without outside help the processusually goes relatively smoothly. But even when things go relatively smoothly,it is common for problems to arise. If you are encountering breastfeedingproblems or are worried about issues you may face in the future, here are some ofthe most common questions that might arise.

Is breast milk enough?

Many mothers worry that their breast milk will not be enoughto satisfy all of a baby�s nutritional needs. Set this worry aside. A mother�sability to produce copious, vitamin-rich milk is backed by millions of years ofevolution, and the body has an almost incredible ability to produce good milk,even if it means the mother has to miss out on some nutrients herself. Try notto let this happen, though. While breastfeeding, make sure to eat a variety ofhealthy foods, and be sure to eat a few hundred extra calories per day.

What if my baby will not nurse?

There are any number of reasons why a baby might refuse totake the breast. If your baby is otherwise healthy, reluctance to feed may indicatesleepiness, fullness, or too much gas in the belly. Initially, try to havefaith in your baby, and trust that he or she will take the breast when it istime. But if the problem persists and the baby goes several hours withouteating, get in touch with your doctor or a lactation consultant.

What if I do not produce enough milk?

For a healthy mother who is breastfeeding, milk supply isbased on demand. The more your child eats from the breast, the more milk youwill produce. Once you get through the initial week or two of breastfeeding,you may even find that your body produces milk on a set schedule, making attimes of day when the baby tends to be most hungry. Try not to worry. Manymothers are initially worried that they will not produce enough milk. Moreoften than not, within a week or two they are producing more milk than they canuse (in which case pumping becomes necessary).

How do I prevent spitting up?

First, accept that your baby is going to spit up sometimes.All babies do it. Some do it more than others, and this does not necessarilyindicate any failing on the part of the parents. However, spitting up can beminimized by (1) making sure the baby does not eat too much, and (2) burpingduring and after the feeding process. For the first point, try to read yourbaby�s signals. When she pulls away or slows down drastically, she might bedone. As for burping, try to do it once halfway through the feeding and once atthe end. You will become quite good at it after a few weeks.

What if my baby falls asleep while feeding?

Newborns are especially wont to fall asleep during feeding,but some older babies continue to do it for months. Think of it as a good sign.It shows that your baby is so soothed by your milk and your presence that herelaxes to the point of sleep. However, it is important to make sure that hegets enough. When he falls asleep, gently pat him, tickle his feet, talk tohim, sing to him, or break the mouth suction. Do whatever it takes to keep himsucking until he has had his fill.

Lisa Pecos is a wife and well accomplished writer on naturalremedies and natural approaches to family health. She�s written numerous articles for NaturalHealth Journals.com, Parenting Journals.com and Baby Care Journals.com.