The Pennsylvania Department of Health is sharing information about what mothers may experience while breastfeeding and how breastfeeding changes as a baby grows.
Breastfeeding is a learning process for both the mother and baby. Babies learn to latch, suck and swallow, while mothers learn how to position the baby, recognize hunger cues and manage milk supply and breast health.
After birth, the breasts produce colostrum, a thick, yellowish substance containing nutrients and substances that support a baby’s developing immune system. Most babies receive the nutrition they need from colostrum during their first few days.
For most mothers, thinner and whiter breast milk begins to come in about three days after birth, although it may take longer for first-time mothers. Breasts may feel full, hard or warm, and babies may want to feed more frequently.
Breast leaking may occur but can decrease as the body adjusts. Disposable or cloth breast pads may help manage leaking.
During the first few weeks, mothers may also experience engorgement, which can cause the breasts to become larger, firm, warm and uncomfortable. Frequent feeding may help prevent severe engorgement and relieve discomfort.
Nipples may be sore or sensitive during the first weeks of breastfeeding. Mothers should contact a lactation consultant, doctor or nurse if the skin becomes cracked or damaged or if pain does not improve within one to two weeks.
Breastfeeding should not remain painful once the baby is properly latched. Pain may be caused by an improper latch, a plugged milk duct, mastitis or another condition. Mothers experiencing pain, especially with a fever, should contact a health care provider.
Mothers experiencing postpartum depression can usually continue breastfeeding. Anyone who suspects postpartum depression or has other mental health concerns should contact a doctor or nurse. Health care providers can also help identify treatments and medications that are safe while breastfeeding.
Breast milk provides recommended nutrition for most babies, including premature and sick newborns, although there are some medical situations in which breastfeeding may not be recommended.
Parents who use pacifiers may want to wait until breastfeeding is well-established. Pacifier use during naps and at bedtime can help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Breastfeeding can continue after a baby begins teething. Babies use their tongues rather than their teeth to breastfeed, although some may bite while teething.
Babies may temporarily refuse to breastfeed because of teething, illness, stress, environmental changes or changes in routine. Parents can continue offering breast milk, hold and cuddle the baby, offer feedings in quiet settings and pump or express milk to maintain supply.
Older babies may become distracted during feeding. Turning off televisions, dimming lights or feeding in a quiet place may help them focus.
Breastfeeding may continue for two years or longer when mutually desired by the mother and child.
More information is available at https://bit.ly/4uqpYha.
Photo credits to Pennsylvania Department of Health
