Obstetrics » Breast Feeding Introduction Prenatal Visit Information Infertility Nutrition Exercise Childbirth Classes Post Partum Care Newborn Care Bottle Feeding Breast Feeding Miscarriage Eat a balanced diet, 500 to 600 more calories per day Continue prenatal vitamins until you stop nursing Increase fluid intake Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine The baby may react to certain foods you eat (spicy) Check with your pediatrician about medications, many pass through the breast milk Breastfeeding can delay return of menstruation and fertility, but this is not a dependable form of birth control Certain birth control pills are safe to use while breastfeeding, check with your gynecologist for recommendations Wear a good supportive bra Expect to breastfeed baby every 2 to 3 hours Expect some discomfort (twinges) in your breast for 3 to 4 weeks Uterine cramping is normal for the first 3 to 4 weeks Breast milk usually comes in 3 to 5 days after delivery, your breasts will produce colostrums until then Always wash your hands before breastfeeding Nurse from both breasts with each feeding Begin feeding on the breast where last feeding was completed Keep nipples dry after feedings Use lanolin cream on nipples 3 to 4 times a day after feeding to keep the nipples from becoming dry and cracked If you have inverted nipples you may be able to wear nipple shields after 37 weeks of pregnancy If your baby sleeps longer than 4 hours, you need to wake the baby for a feeding Signs baby is getting enough breast milk: At least 6 wet diapers in 24 hours and 2 to 5 loose yellow stools in 24 hours Steady weight gain, after the first week of life Pale yellow urine, not deep yellow or orange Baby sleeping well, yet baby looks alert and healthy when awake Take a breastfeeding class, watch videos, and read as much as you can about breastfeeding. Keep a positive attitude Lourdes lactation consultant is available for your assistance during your hospital stay Your baby’s pediatrician will give you more specific information related to breastfeeding your baby Lourdes Lactation Consultant is Sue Ellen Ragsdale (270) 444-2640

Lourdes Hospital • Marshall Nemer Pavillion • 1532 Lone Oak Road • Suite 245 • Paducah, Kentucky 42003 • (270) 538-5700 © 2005 Dr. Lisa Chaney Lasher, OB/Gyn • All Rights Reserved • Website Developed by Innovative Technical Solutions Lourdes Disclaimer • Lourdes Privacy Statement • Lourdes Notice of Privacy Practices This information provided is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician(s). The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.