It's 2 am. Your first night home from the hospital. The baby is crying and you're exhausted. Is she hungry, wet, tired…aaahhh! You've read all the must-have parenting books. You thought you were prepared. But nothing can ever completely prepare you for the crazy but exciting ride ahead. All parents have questions (lots of them!) the first few days at home with their newborn and here are some of the answers to get you started.
1. Why should I breastfeed my baby? Is it going to hurt?Breastmilk is best! Mother's milk provides immunity against bacteria and viruses, is easy for your baby to digest, is less expensive and requires no prep time. It is demanding because of the large time commitment required, but the benefits are well documented. Studies show that breastfed babies have fewer ear, respiratory tract, and diarrheal infections. They are also at lower risk for many childhood diseases. Breastfeeding also benefits mom by decreasing your risk of cancer and helping you get back to your prepregnancy shape.
Persistent pain during breastfeeding is not normal. Although breastfeeding is natural, it's not always easy at first. It's ok to ask for help from your pediatrician or lactation specialist. Improper latch on and vigorous or prolonged sucking can be painful and may lead to sore, cracked nipples. In the beginning, brief pain can occur while your infant latches on. Count to 10 and if the pain continues, remove the baby and reattach him so that the baby's mouth covers as much of the areola (the dark brown area around your nipple) as possible. If the pain occurs during a feeding, switching breasts may help. If a burning or stabbing pain is experienced later in breastfeeding, call your physician because you might have an infection that needs treatment.
Most of your milk comes down in the first 5-10 minutes, so after 15-20 minutes on one side, take your baby off. You are not a pacifier! Prolonged sucking can dry out your nipples and cause soreness. Allow your nipples to air-dry after you feed your baby or shower. Then apply a lanolin cream. Wear a cotton bra or loose fitting top and remove plastic liners from your bra. Continue breastfeeding! Your baby will appreciate you for sticking it out through the discomfort.
2. Which type of formula is best for my baby?
If you can't breastfeed or choose not to, there are many good infant formulas that will provide your baby with all the nutrients he needs to grow and develop normally. Whichever brand you choose, always use formula with added iron—important for blood and brain development. DHA and ARA are Long Chain Fatty Acids that also play an important role in your baby's growth and development. Your baby receives DHA and ARA from you during pregnancy and by breastfeeding. Although your baby can make DHA and ARA from nutrients in infant formula, some infant formulas are now adding DHA and ARA at levels similar to breast milk. Talk to your Pediatrician about the different brands and which she recommends for your baby.
3. How do I know if my baby is gaining enough weight?
Babies normally lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first few days after they are born. Then they start gaining weight and by two weeks should be back at birth weight. Your pediatrician will see your baby frequently after birth to make sure the weight gain is appropriate. After that, babies usually gain ½ to 1 ounce a day. Most babies double their birth weight by six months and triple it by one year.
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