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Welcoming a newborn into your life is a beautiful experience, filled with joy, love, and numerous adjustments. Those early months are also filled with what will feel like a million feeding sessions. Fear not! A well-organized feeding station can reduce stress and make this task much more enjoyable. Whether you choose to breastfeed, bottle-feed, or a combination of both, setting up a feeding station with essentials will make your routine run more smoothly. Here’s how you can set up a feeding station to ensure every session is comfortable and efficient.

Essential items for your feeding station

A dedicated feeding station helps keep everything you need within arm’s reach, making feeding times smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your baby. A cozy and organized space can also help turn feeding sessions into special bonding moments. Here are some must-have items:

• Comfortable seating: Choose a spot that’s comfortable for you. This could be a chair, rocking chair, sofa, bed, or even a spot on the floor with lots of pillows. Ensure it offers good back support and comfort for extended periods.
• Feeding pillow: A feeding pillow can help position your baby correctly and provide support for your arms, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
• Footstool or elevated surface: Having a small stool or an elevated surface to raise your knees above your hips can help you maintain a comfortable posture.
• Hydration: Keep a large glass of water (or your Stanley!) within reach. If you are breastfeeding, you may find that nursing can make you very thirsty, so staying hydrated is crucial.
• Burp cloths: Have towels, burp cloths (we love these super soft muslin burp cloths), receiving blankets, or a box of tissues on hand to catch any milk spills or baby spit-up. A wastebasket nearby is also helpful.
• Access to an outlet: Whether you are charging your breast pump, bottle warmer, or your phone, being close to an outlet can spare you a lot of aggravation.

Optional but handy items

• Diapering supplies: If you like to multitask, keep some diapers, wipes, and a changing pad at your station. This makes it easy to handle diaper changes without leaving your cozy spot.
• Snacks: Feeding can make you hungry. Keep some healthy, one-handed snacks like cheese, crackers, fruit, granola, seeds, and nuts within reach.
• Entertainment: Long feeding sessions can be a good time to catch up on reading or watch your favorite shows. Keep books, magazines, toys for an older sibling, a TV remote, and/or your phone handy.
• Nipple cream and breast pads: If you’re breastfeeding, nipple cream can soothe sore nipples, and breast pads can help manage leaking milk.
• Nightlight: A dim nightlight can help with nighttime feedings without fully waking up your baby.

Nursing carts: A practical solution

If you find yourself constantly searching for your pump, snacks, or cleaning supplies, a nursing cart might be the perfect solution. A nursing cart is a centralized spot to store and organize feeding, pumping, diapering, and other baby care supplies. Think of it as a customizable one-stop shop for all things related to feeding and caring for your little one.

Here’s how to get started:

• Choose your cart: Look for a utility cart with several tiers for maximum storage capacity. Portability is key, so choose one with wheels or casters for easy movement. Right now, moms are loving this utility cart from IKEA and this one from The Container Store.
• Organize by tiers: Use the top tier for items you need most frequently, like your water bottle, breast pump, bottle warmer, and other feeding supplies. Use the middle tier for diapering supplies and the bottom tier for snacks and additional baby care items.
• Personalize it: Tailor your cart to fit your needs. If you’re breastfeeding, pack it with all the essentials for feeding. If you’re using it mainly as a changing station, focus on diapering supplies.

Setting up a feeding station can make a big difference in your feeding journey. It ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips, making each feeding session more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you choose a stationary setup or a mobile nursing cart, the goal is to create a space where you and your baby can relax and bond. Happy feeding!

Whether breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or both, nearly every mom has wondered if her baby is  getting enough milk. This question can cause tremendous anxiety in new parents. At nfant®, we want to reduce this anxiety by designing technology that gives you more information about how your baby is feeding. While using our nfant Thrive devices provides feeding data, it is important to use the other functions of the nfant Tracker App like growth metrics and recording diapers. 

Understanding the significance of adequate weight gain during infancy is vital for fostering healthy growth and development, particularly during the crucial first year of life when a baby’s brain is rapidly evolving.

It’s crucial to differentiate between a ‘natural slow gainer’ and a ‘slow weight-gain’ problem. Let’s delve into the characteristics of the ‘natural slow gainer’:

• A ‘natural slow gainer’ exhibits a steady albeit slow weight gain, staying consistently on their unique growth curve.
• They instinctively wake up and display a desire to feed approximately 8 to 12 times within a 24-hour span.
• Their number of wet and dirty diapers is comparable to that of other babies.

However, if concerns arise about ‘slow weight gain,’ it is advisable to promptly contact your healthcare provider. Warning signs of ‘slow weight gain’ include:

• A noticeable drop in the rate of growth, whether it’s in terms of weight, length, or head circumference, as compared to their previous growth trajectory.
• Failure to regain their birth weight within 2-3 weeks after birth.
• Not gaining at least a pound per month during the initial 4 months of life.

While emphasizing volume intake is important to ensure your baby gets the necessary nutrients within a specific timeframe, it is equally critical to pay attention to the cues and signals your baby communicates during feedings. Recognizing and responding to these cues is essential, as it enables us to strike a delicate balance between the quantity and quality of feedings, taking into account the individual needs of each baby at various stages of their development. For more guidance on understanding feeding cues, you can explore our [link to feeding cues education].

What occurs when we solely focus on volume without considering the baby’s feeding experience?

• We run the risk of the baby having an unpleasant feeding experience, which could lead to a reluctance to engage in future feeding sessions.
• Such an approach may disrupt the infant’s ability to establish a sense of safety and efficiency during feedings.
• It may inadvertently result in aversive feeding events, such as coughing and choking.

In conclusion, nurturing your baby’s healthy growth and development involves a delicate interplay between monitoring weight gain, recognizing cues, and ensuring a positive feeding experience. By adopting a holistic approach that combines quantity with quality, we can provide the best possible care for our little ones.

Choosing the right thermometer for your baby is an essential part of your parenting toolkit, especially in those early years when children are most vulnerable to fevers and illnesses. As a parent, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the array of options available in the market. 

For infants under three months, a rectal temperature measurement (using a rectal thermometer) is the only reliable way to assess their temperature. For older babies and children, you can use digital thermometers under the arm, forehead or ear thermometers. Proper usage and consideration of your baby’s comfort are essential, and it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional when in doubt about your baby’s health.

Here’s what you need to know when choosing a thermometer for your household.

Rectal temperature reading on a digital thermometers

A standard digital thermometer inserted into the baby’s rectum provides the most accurate temperature reading, according to pediatricians. That said, undressing your sick baby in the middle of the night to insert a cold probe into their bottom may not go over so well. 

• May be used on: Anyone. Safe for babies less than three months old. 
• Pros: Accurate. Inexpensive. Often available at a grocery store or drug store open late.
• Cons: Slow readings can take up to ten seconds. Difficult to execute. Necessary to wake baby. Must re-insert the thermometer to get a second reading for confirmation.   

Good to know: If you choose to use a digital thermometer for rectal readings on your newborn, don’t forget to label the thermometer “Rectal” and purchase another thermometer to use for oral temperature readings.

No-contact forehead thermometers

Also known as infrared or temporal artery thermometers, no-contact forehead thermometers are a top choice for a sleeping baby* — these may be aimed at the baby’s forehead for a non-invasive, quick temperature reading of your baby’s skin. Stay less than one inch away without touching the forehead. Don’t forget that some doctors add .5 – 1.0 degree to the temperature to make a no-contact reading equal to a rectal reading.

• May be used on: Anyone. 
• Pros: Easy to use, quick temperature reads. Most comfortable option for the baby. Less intimidating for babysitters or other caregivers.
• Cons: Can be expensive. May be less accurate than contact oral or rectal temperature readings.
• Good to know: For the most accurate readings, turn on your thermometer and let it warm up for fifteen minutes. If your thermometer has an “alert” setting, don’t forget to turn it off for noise-free temperature taking in the event your baby is asleep. If your baby has been wearing a hat, remove the hat for fifteen minutes to get a more accurate reading. The key with these thermometers is consistency. They can be sensitive to environmental temperatures as well as skin temperature.

*Keep in mind that fevers usually spike at night because there is less cortisol in the blood, which means the white blood cells can detect infection more easily.

Forehead touch thermometers

A great choice for a baby or child of any age, these thermometers have a metal sensor on the end that must be in contact with your baby’s forehead in order to get a reading. 

• Pros: Inexpensive, accurate (as long as your baby can be still). Quick readings. 
• Cons: Difficult to use on a wiggling baby. Will wake a sleeping baby. Requires your baby to stay still for the highest level of accuracy.

Good to know: Plan to do three or four forehead swipes to compare the numbers

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Additional options for babies over three months

Here are a few more options for taking the temp of a baby who is over 3 months old:

Ear Thermometers: For all the parents out there who love a good medical drama, using an ear thermometer for temperature readings can make you feel like you’ve got your own M.D. These thermometers measure heat coming off the eardrum. 

• Pros: With some finesse, may be used on a sleeping baby. Takes less than 2 seconds. Does not require child or baby’s cooperation. Does not cause discomfort. 
• Cons: Can be tricky to use at first. We do not recommend using an ear thermometer for the first time in the middle of the night. Trust us!
• Good to know: Baby must be inside for at least fifteen minutes to get a good reading. 

Underarm temperature readings: Using a standard digital thermometer to take your baby’s temperature can be a great option – with a catch. Underarm readings, if done correctly, indicate fever for a reading over 99 F (37.2 C) or higher. 

• May be used on: Babies over six months for most accuracy
• Pros: Inexpensive digital thermometer
• Cons: Sensor must stay in contact with baby’s underarm for ten seconds. Baby’s torso must be undressed in order to get skin contact. If your baby moves or rejects the thermometer, starting over can be difficult. 
• Good to know: Hug your baby while the thermometer is running to ensure contact with the sensor is maintained.   

NOTE: It’s never safe to use a mercury glass thermometer. Contact your local sanitation department to dispose of your mercury thermometer if you find one at home. 

Ultimately, the most important thing is to use the thermometer correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have concerns about your baby’s health or are unsure about how to use a particular thermometer, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician or a healthcare professional for guidance.

Breastfeeding is an intimate, nurturing experience that bonds you to your child. It is a unique period filled with challenges, triumphs, and profound emotional connections. However, all breastfeeding journeys eventually come to an end. 

If you are considering weaning your baby from the breast, it may be for various reasons. Maybe your baby is showing less interest in breastfeeding, displaying signs of wanting to explore and taste new foods. You may have personal health or lifestyle reasons to call it quits. Whatever your reason for weaning may be (and all are valid!), it’s important to know that the transition can be surprisingly emotional and even physically challenging for many moms. In fact, for some mothers, it can lead to depression and/or anxiety. Understanding the emotional and physical factors at play can help make the break-up with breastfeeding smoother and less painful.

The emotional impact of weaning

When it’s time to wean, whether by choice or necessity, you may experience a whirlwind of emotions. From sadness and loss to relief and freedom, it’s a complex mix that can catch you off guard. The end of breastfeeding marks the closing of a significant chapter in you and your baby’s life. It’s not just about the physical act of nursing; it’s about letting go of a unique form of closeness and dependency.

The process of weaning can also trigger feelings of guilt or doubt. Questions like “Am I doing this too soon?” or “Am I being selfish?” are common. It’s important to remember that weaning is a natural progression in your child’s growth and your relationship with them. The bond you’ve formed through breastfeeding will not diminish; it will simply evolve into new forms of connection and affection.

Weaning a baby may also make you feel like you’re having a bit of an identity crisis, as you transition from being his or her primary source of food and comfort. Finding new ways of bonding, like walking or playing, can stir feelings of sadness and worry about your significance in your child’s life. It’s vital to remember that your baby still needs you deeply, and this change marks an opportunity to explore and establish new forms of connection and purpose.

Understanding the role of hormones

The two primary hormones associated with breastfeeding also help regulate our moods. One is prolactin, which stimulates milk supply and helps you sleep. The other is oxytocin, which is released when your milk lets down and floods you with feelings of love — hence it is often referred to as the “love hormone”. When breastfeeding ends, both prolactin and oxytocin drop to pre-pregnancy levels, and any protective effects against mood disturbances may be lost. 

Combined with the psychological stress of weaning, the drop in hormones can lead some mothers to experience post-weaning depression, symptoms of which can include anxiety, hopelessness, irritability, and insomnia. There is not a lot of research or awareness about post-weaning depression, but it has been noted in scientific studies on postpartum health as far back as 1988, and there has been an uptick in media coverage about this phenomenon. More research on the effect of breastfeeding cessation on Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) is needed. (See additional article links below.)

Tips for weaning

Just being informed about post-weaning depression and anxiety can help you plan for this transition process. Knowing that you will go through hormonal and emotional changes is a great first step. Here are some other tips for navigating the weaning process. 

• Take it slow. Try dropping a breastfeeding session every few days, decreasing the time spent on a session daily, or even one session a week at first, to see how you feel both physically and emotionally. While post-weaning depression can still occur when you wean very gradually, it’s more likely to happen when you wean suddenly. Start by going easy on your hormones! 

• Acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay to feel sad, anxious, relieved, or even conflicted. These emotions are a natural part of the transition. Permitting yourself to grieve the loss can be a healing process.

• Seek support. You don’t have to navigate this transition alone. Reach out to significant others/partners, friends, family, lactation consultants, or breastfeeding support groups who can offer empathy and understanding. Sharing your experiences with others who have gone through the same thing can be incredibly comforting. If you’re struggling with intense feelings of sadness, depression, or anxiety it might be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider or therapist. They can offer strategies and support to help you navigate this challenging time.

• Create new bonding rituals. As breastfeeding ends, find new ways to bond with your child. Reading books together, cuddling during story time, or establishing a new bedtime routine can help maintain that close emotional connection.

• Take care of your physical health. Exercise, even gentle forms like walking or yoga, can boost your mood and help regulate your hormones. Eating a balanced diet and ensuring you get enough rest is also crucial during this transition.

The end of breastfeeding is a significant milestone, marking the end of an intimate chapter and the beginning of a new phase of independence for both you and your child. Remember, it’s okay to seek support and create new ways to connect and bond with your child. This is not the end of your journey together, it’s simply the start of a new chapter.

Additional Resources

Post-Weaning Depression Is a Thing, And It’s Time We Start Talking About It (Parents)

Depression after weaning can be a serious concern for some new moms (Washington Post)

Post-Weaning Depression: Symptoms, Causes, & How to Cope (Choosing Therapy)

Breastfeeding cessation and symptoms of anxiety and depression: a longitudinal cohort study (BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth)

Beyond Postpartum Depression: New thinking about anxiety and depression in moms (Child Mind Institute)

You probably know the routine for your baby’s wellness visits: The nurse has you undress your baby to be weighed on the office scale. Your pediatrician closely tracks your baby’s weight because growth is an important measure of your baby’s development and nutrition in the first few months.

Did you know that you can utilize a scale at home? Weighing your baby at home is a good way to monitor your baby’s growth as well as determine how much he or she has consumed during a feeding.

What baby scale should I use?

There are several baby scales on the market today for parents and caregivers to use at home. These baby items became especially popular after the COVID-19 pandemic made regular checkups difficult for families. You can source scales specifically designed for infants from a medical supplier, but it’s not necessary. They are also widely available on Amazon and at stores that sell baby gear, like Wal-Mart and Target.

You can also use a kitchen scale or bathroom scale, but make sure they are able to calculate weight down to the ounce, not just to a fraction of a pound. Using a scale designed specifically for infants is the best way to ensure the most accuracy.

Weighing your baby with a baby scale

Here are the steps you should follow to track how much your baby consumes during feedings with a scale designed specifically for infants:

1. Record the pre-feeding weight: Before the feeding, remove any heavy clothing or blankets and place your baby on the scale. Record the weight.
2. Feed your baby: Feed your baby as usual, whether through breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
3. Record the post-feeding weight: After the feeding has finished, place your baby on the same scale. Make sure they are wearing the same amount of clothing and layers as during the pre-feeding measurement. Record the weight.
4. Calculate the difference: The final step requires some quick math. Subtract the pre-feeding weight from the post-feeding weight. The difference represents the approximate amount of milk your baby consumed.

Keep in mind that this method provides an estimation and may not be necessary for every feeding. If you have concerns about your baby’s feeding or weight gain, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized guidance.

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You’ve just fed your baby breast milk or formula, only to watch him or her spit up what seems like the entirety of that precious meal. It’s not the first time, and you’re pretty sure it’s not the last. Spitting up is messy, confusing, and it might even be making you wonder if your little one is receiving enough nutrition. What is going on?

Spitting up is a common occurrence in healthy babies. In fact, during their first three months, about half of all babies experience their stomach contents coming back up into the esophagus. In most cases, spitting up is harmless and resolves on its own as the baby’s digestive system matures. However, if it becomes frequent, excessive, or accompanied by other symptoms such as poor weight gain or irritability, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Here are a few of the reasons spitting up occurs:

Immature digestive system: In the early months, a baby’s digestive system is still developing and may not be fully able to handle and process food. The muscle at the top of the stomach, called the lower esophageal sphincter, is not fully developed in infants, leading to the regurgitation of milk or formula. Additionally, a baby’s esophagus is shorter and more horizontal than the esophagus of a toddler, for example, making it easier for stomach contents to flow back up.

Overfeeding: If a baby is fed too much or too quickly, their stomach may become overly full, leading to spit-up.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER): GER occurs when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus. It is a common condition in infants and can cause spitting up. Most cases of GER resolve on their own as the baby grows.

Food intolerance or allergy: Sometimes, babies may have difficulty digesting certain proteins found in formula or breast milk, leading to spitting up. In some cases, this may be due to a food allergy or intolerance.

Improper feeding technique: If a baby is not positioned correctly during feeding or if the bottle nipple or breastfeeding latch is incorrect, they may swallow air along with the milk, leading to spitting up.

Teething: When babies start teething, they may produce more saliva, which can increase the likelihood of spitting up.

It’s important to note that occasional spit-up is generally not a cause for concern, especially if your baby is otherwise healthy, gaining weight, and not showing signs of discomfort. However, if your baby is consistently spitting up large amounts, projectile vomiting, experiencing weight loss, or showing signs of distress, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

How do I know which of these reasons is the cause?

Determining the exact cause of your baby’s spitting up can sometimes be challenging, as there can be multiple factors involved. However, by observing your baby’s behavior and discussing the symptoms with a healthcare professional, you can gain a better understanding of the possible causes. Here are some steps you can take to help identify the cause:

Observe feeding patterns: Pay attention to how your baby feeds. Is your little one eating too quickly or taking in large volumes? Consider adjusting the feeding technique, such as using smaller, more frequent feedings, burping your baby during and after feeds, and ensuring they are in an upright position during feeding.

Rule out overfeeding: Work with your healthcare professional to determine the appropriate amount of milk or formula for your baby’s age and weight. Make sure you are following the recommended guidelines for feeding.

Monitor your baby’s behavior: Take note of any additional symptoms or patterns associated with the spitting up. Does your baby seem uncomfortable or in pain? Are there specific triggers, such as certain foods or positions? Documenting these observations can provide useful information for your healthcare provider.

Consider possible allergies or intolerances: If you suspect a food allergy or intolerance, you can try eliminating certain foods from your diet (if you’re breastfeeding) or switching to a hypoallergenic formula (under the guidance of a healthcare professional) to see if the spitting up improves. Your doctor may also recommend specific tests or evaluations to identify any underlying allergies or intolerances.

Consult a healthcare professional: If your baby’s spitting up is frequent, forceful, accompanied by other symptoms like poor weight gain, or causing significant distress, it is important to consult your pediatrician or a healthcare professional. They can assess your baby’s overall health, review the feeding habits, and may recommend additional tests or investigations if needed.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. By working closely with your healthcare professional and sharing your observations, you can receive appropriate guidance to help determine the cause of your baby’s spitting up and ensure their well-being.

How can I help prevent or minimize spit up?

Here are some strategies that might help to minimize the occurrence or reduce the amount of spit-up your baby is experiencing.

1. Ensure that you are using proper feeding techniques. Hold your baby in an upright position while feeding, and burp them frequently during and after meals. This can help release any trapped air and prevent excessive air swallowing, which can contribute to spitting up.
   
2. Pace feedings. If your baby tends to eat too quickly, try paced feeding. This involves slowing down the feeding process by allowing your baby to take breaks and rest during the feeding session. You can pause the feeding every few minutes and burp your baby before resuming.
   
3. Offer smaller, more frequent feedings. This can help prevent your baby’s stomach from becoming overly full, reducing the likelihood of spitting up. Talk to your healthcare provider about an appropriate feeding schedule and portion size for your baby’s age and needs.
   
4. Keep your baby upright for about 30 minutes after a feeding. This can help prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.
5. Avoid overfeeding. Sometimes, babies may continue to suck even when they are no longer hungry, leading to overfeeding and increased spitting up, so try to be mindful of your baby’s cues. (You can learn more about cue-based feeding here.)
   
6. Monitor your own diet: If you’re breastfeeding, certain foods or beverages in your diet could potentially contribute to increased spitting up or digestive discomfort in your baby. Common culprits include spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, dairy products, or gas-inducing foods like cabbage or beans. Try eliminating suspected foods one at a time to see if it makes a difference.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to consult with your pediatrician or a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your baby’s specific needs and circumstances.

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If you are a first-time parent, you may be surprised by how challenging feeding can seem. Even if this is not your first child, every baby is different and has different feeding abilities, which may feel confusing—and sometimes scary. If you find yourself wondering if your baby is getting enough food or digesting milk properly, you are not alone. It is completely normal to have such questions, and your pediatrician can be a trusted partner in this journey.

Asking questions can sometimes feel awkward, but remember, there are no silly questions when it comes to your baby’s health. Maybe you aren’t sure when to introduce solid foods, why your baby is refusing certain foods, or how to deal with allergies. These are all valid concerns, and your pediatrician has certainly heard them before. Don’t shy away from getting into the specifics. Each baby is different, and you’re the one who knows your baby best. If your baby seems fussier than usual after feedings, or you’ve noticed any unusual changes, such as changes in his or her bowel movements, mention these details during your appointment.

If you’re breastfeeding and are concerned about your baby getting enough nutrients, your pediatrician can guide you. They can give advice on when to introduce complementary foods or help you if your baby isn’t gaining enough weight.

Formula feeding can have its own challenges, too. You might wonder which formula is best for your little one or how to sterilize bottles properly. Your pediatrician can help guide you through these decisions and even show you safe preparation methods.

Furthermore, if you’re dealing with a picky eater or facing food allergies, your pediatrician will offer strategies and solutions to manage these situations effectively. They will also give you guidance on how to monitor your baby for signs of discomfort, allergic reactions, and more.

Questions for your pediatrician

Here are a few feeding-related questions you may consider asking your pediatrician.

What is the recommended feeding schedule for my baby’s age?

1. What is the recommended feeding schedule for my baby’s age? While opinions may differ on feeding schedules, many parents find a basic feeding framework helpful. Each baby’s needs can vary depending on their age, weight, and overall health. A pediatrician can offer guidance about how often your baby should be eating and how much they should consume at each feeding. You can also ask them how to identify hunger cues—reliable signals that your baby wants to feed soon. You can read more about cue-based feeding here.

2. How can I ensure my baby is getting enough nutrition? Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of a baby’s growth and development. A pediatrician can explain the signs of proper nutrition and growth, such as consistent weight gain, alertness, and regular bowel movements. They can also advise on nutrients crucial for your baby’s development and ways to ensure your baby receives these through breast milk, formula, or solid foods.

3. Are there any specific feeding techniques or positions I should be aware of? There are certain feeding positions and techniques that can make feeding more comfortable for your baby and for you. These positions can also help reduce the risk of issues such as gas or spit-up. Your pediatrician can demonstrate these techniques, guiding you on how to position your baby during feeding times, making this bonding experience more pleasant and efficient.

4. How can I address any breastfeeding difficulties or concerns I have? Breastfeeding can be challenging for many new mothers. If you are struggling or have concerns, speak up. By voicing your concerns or difficulties, your pediatrician can provide support and practical solutions, whether it’s improving latching, dealing with sore nipples, or addressing concerns about milk supply. They can also refer you to a lactation consultant for more specialized help if needed[1] .

5. When is it appropriate to introduce solid foods? The transition to solid foods is a significant milestone in a baby’s first year. Your pediatrician can recommend the appropriate age for introducing solids, based on your baby’s developmental readiness. They can also suggest which foods to introduce first, how to introduce them, and signs of readiness to watch for in your baby.

6. Are there any specific dietary restrictions or allergies I should be aware of? This question helps safeguard your baby’s health. Your pediatrician can guide you on the common allergenic foods and the safest way to introduce them. They can also educate you on the signs of a food allergy or intolerance, ensuring you’re well-equipped to respond if your baby has an adverse reaction. For babies at high risk of allergies, your pediatrician can also create a customized feeding plan.

Don’t worry if feeding your baby feels like a tricky puzzle at times. Your concerns are valid, your questions are important, and your pediatrician is there to support you every step of the way.

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There is no “right” way to feed a baby. Some mothers may choose to exclusively breast feed, and there are many reasons why other moms may choose to use a bottle, either with pumped milk or formula. Yet another large group of parents falls somewhere along this spectrum and opts for a combination of both methods.

In fact, one out of three breastfeeding moms in the U.S. chooses to supplement breast milk with formula, according a study by the Centers for Disease Control. This method is known as combination feeding and is sometimes referred to as mixed feeding.

There are many reasons why parents may adopt this feeding method:

• Baby needs extra nutrition: Infants born prematurely, at a low birth or those who struggle to feed or gain weight may benefit from supplementation with formula.
• Low breastmilk supply: Moms may struggle to achieve or maintain adequate milk supply, sometimes due to medical reasons, such as certain hormone or endocrine conditions.
• Struggles with breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is not easy and may not be the best feeding method for all moms and babies, whether due to latching problems, physical challenges like inverted or flat nipples or conditions such as blocked ducts or breast infections
• Medications: Some moms may need to take or resume certain medications after childbirth that are not safe for baby.
• Returning to work: Some mothers may opt for combination feeding to allow more flexibility when they return to work or as they prepare for this transition.
• Personal preference: Moms may simply choose combination feeding simply because it supports their lifestyle, family structure or personal need for more flexibility.

How to maintain breast milk supply with combination feeding

There is some strategy to successfully implementing a combination feeding approach. Physically feeding your baby at the breast is what signals your body to make more milk. So, if you reduce your total number of daily breastfeeding sessions, your body will make less milk and your supply will decrease over time.

Here are some strategies to help maintain your supply:

Establish your breast milk supply first: Unless a medical professional advises otherwise, it’s a good idea to wait 4-6 weeks after birth to begin a combination feeding program to establish your own breast milk supply. Regular breastfeeding (approximately 8-12 times a day) is the best way to ensure a healthy milk supply after birth.

Begin gradually: Start by replacing one breastfeeding session a day with a bottle, and then increasing over time. This conservative approach allows both your baby and breasts time to adjust. This time allows you space to observe your baby’s preferences with the bottle and also helps to prevent painful conditions for you, such as engorgement or mastitis. Read more: When should I introduce a bottle to my breastfed baby?

Pump or express in place of breastfeeding: If you (or your partner, or another caregiver) gives your baby a bottle, plan to pump or hand-express breast milk at the same time. This practice will continue to signal your body to make milk when your baby typically feeds. Review the best practices for safely storing pumped breast milk: How to store breast milk.

Incorporate bottle feeding at night: Some parents adopt combination feeding to share the burden from nighttime feedings, so the wakeups (and resulting sleep deprivation) don’t fall on one parent. A breastfeeding mom’s levels of prolactin – the hormone that stimulates milk production – are highest at night, which explains why you often wake up with very full breasts. If you skip a nighttime breastfeeding session, you may follow your first morning breastfeed with pumping to fully empty your breasts.

In conclusion, maintaining breast milk supply while practicing combination feeding requires careful planning and consideration. By following these strategies and seeking support from healthcare professionals, parents can successfully navigate combination feeding while maintaining a healthy milk supply.

If you’re reading this bleary-eyed and exhausted, it may be hard to believe that adjustments to your baby’s feeding routine can potentially help improve their sleep patterns. But it’s true! While it’s important to keep in mind that individual babies have unique sleep needs and patterns, optimizing feeding practices can play a role in promoting better sleep for your baby. Here are 7 feeding suggestions for the best night sleep for your baby.

1. Establish a consistent feeding schedule: Try to establish a regular feeding routine for your baby. Consistency can help regulate their internal clock and make them more predictable when it comes to sleep.
   
2. Feed your baby before sleep: If possible, feed your baby shortly before putting them down to sleep. This can help ensure that they are well-fed and comfortable, reducing the likelihood of waking up due to hunger.
   
3. Avoid overfeeding: While it’s important to make sure your baby is adequately nourished, overfeeding can lead to discomfort and disrupt their sleep. Pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues and feed them until they are satisfied but not overly full.
   
4. Encourage full daytime feeds: During daytime feeds, try to ensure that your baby consumes enough milk or formula to meet their nutritional needs. This can help reduce nighttime hunger and promote longer stretches of sleep.
   
5. Adjust feeding techniques: If your baby tends to fall asleep while feeding, try different techniques to keep them awake and engaged during the feeding session. For example, gently stroking their cheek or changing their position can help keep them awake for a full feed. Unswaddling can also be beneficial, as can stroking baby’s feet from toe to heel.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to observe your baby’s cues, adapt your feeding routine accordingly, and consult with a pediatrician if you have specific concerns about your baby’s sleep or feeding habits.

Is your baby cranky or fussy after feedings, instead of sleepy or happy? If feeding seems to cause discomfort or agitation in your baby, they may need your help to release any air they swallowed with the gold-standard cure for gas: A big burp.

There are many ways to effectively burp a baby. Your parents or relatives may have their own tricks and methods they use or have taught you. If your burping methods don’t seem to be cutting it, try these five strategies taught by pediatricians and feeding specialists.

5 Methods for burping your baby

1. Patting: Pat or rub your baby’s back with a cupped hand and rhythmic motion. Your goal is to move the trapped gas up and out, so start with gentle patting and increase the intensity if needed. You can also try rubbing or stroking their back in an upward motion.
   
2. Sitting position: If your baby can sit up with support, place them in an upright position on your lap. Cup their chin between your index finger and thumb. Lean their chest into your palm with one hand, creating a stable and supported position. Make sure to keep your baby’s belly and back as straight as possible, as slouching can make it harder to release a burp. While in this position, you can try patting or rubbing their back with the other hand, using a cupped hand and a rhythmic motion.
   
3. Bicycle kicks: Lay your baby down on your lap, with their face and chest facing up. Experiment with gentle bicycle kicks by moving their legs up and down one at a time. You may also briefly lift your baby and let them straighten out.
   
4. Upright position: Hold your baby in an upright position against your chest, supporting their head and neck with one hand. Pat or rub their back in an upward, rhythmic motion with the other hand.
   
5. Over the shoulder: Alternatively, place your baby over your shoulder with their tummy against your chest. Support their head and neck with one hand and pat or rub their back with the other.

Top 5 early infant hunger cues

Lucky for us, babies share a common language. These non-verbal cues are reliable signals that your baby wants to feed soon:

• Sucking: Your baby may start sucking on hands or actively sucking on a pacifier.
• Hands to Mouth: Your baby may bring a hand or fist to his mouth.
• Alertness: A baby who is ready to feed may appear more alert or active, as opposed to sleepy or relaxed. Their eyes will be open.
• Tongue/Mouth Movements: Your baby may smack or open his lips or move his tongue. Some babies may make an mmmmm sound.
• Turning to Breast or Bottle: Often called “rooting,” this refers to a baby instinctively turning her head to find her mother’s breast or a bottle. A baby may root on any object near the mouth, such as an arm, finger, etc.

If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes, try switching positions and repeating the process. Some babies respond better to different positions, so experiment to find what works best for your baby.