Natasha Lunn

Understanding the Use of Stickers During MammogramsWhen you arrive for a mammogram, you might notice that technicians place small stickers on your nipples. While this may seem unusual or even a bit awkward, these markers serve a crucial purpose in the imaging process.Enhancing Image ClarityThe primary reason for using nipple stickers is to improve the … Read more

Understanding Breast Milk RefillThe process of breast milk production and replenishment is a fascinating aspect of lactation that many nursing mothers often inquire about. Contrary to common belief, breasts are never truly “empty.” Instead, they continuously produce milk, with the amount available varying based on several factors, including the timing of the last feeding or … Read more

The Importance of Hydration While BreastfeedingFor new mothers, the journey of breastfeeding is both rewarding and demanding. One of the most critical aspects of this experience is staying hydrated. Breast milk is composed of approximately 90% water, making adequate hydration essential not only for the mother’s health but also for maintaining a sufficient milk supply … Read more

Understanding and Managing Gas in Breastfed BabiesBreastfeeding is often heralded as the best source of nutrition for infants, but it can come with its own set of challenges, one of which is gas. Many mothers find themselves grappling with the discomfort their babies experience due to gas, leading to questions about causes and solutions. Understanding … Read more

Understanding Hand Expression of Breast MilkHand expressing breast milk is a valuable skill for nursing mothers, particularly in the early days of breastfeeding. The time it takes to effectively hand express milk can vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as experience, comfort level, and individual physiology.Time Frame for Hand ExpressionOn average, … Read more

IntroductionCombining breastmilk and formula in one bottle is a topic of significant interest for many new parents. As they navigate the complexities of feeding their infants, questions often arise about the safety, nutritional implications, and practical considerations of mixing these two feeding options.Safety ConsiderationsMixing breastmilk and formula in one bottle is generally considered safe, but … Read more

Understanding Breastmilk Intake for a 7-Month-OldAs your baby reaches the age of seven months, their nutritional needs evolve significantly. At this stage, breastmilk remains a crucial component of their diet, even as solid foods are introduced. Daily Intake RecommendationsFor a 7-month-old, the average daily intake of breastmilk is typically between 24 to 32 ounces. This … Read more

Increasing Breast Milk Supply While Exclusively PumpingFor mothers who are exclusively pumping, maintaining and increasing breast milk supply can be a challenging yet crucial task. The process requires a combination of effective pumping techniques, proper nutrition, and understanding the body’s signals. Here’s a detailed look at how to enhance milk production while exclusively pumping.Understanding the … Read more

Understanding the Impact of NyQuil on Breast Milk SupplyNyQuil, a popular over-the-counter medication used to relieve cold and flu symptoms, raises important questions for breastfeeding mothers regarding its safety and effects on breast milk supply. The primary concern revolves around its active ingredients, particularly doxylamine, an antihistamine, and phenylephrine, a decongestant.Effects on Milk SupplyResearch indicates … Read more

Understanding the Safety of Warmed Breast MilkBreast milk, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is a precious resource for nurturing infants. However, once it has been warmed, it is crucial to understand how long it remains safe for consumption. According to guidelines from health experts, warmed breast milk should ideally be used within two hours … Read more

The Transition from Breastfeeding: What Happens to Your Milk?When a mother decides to stop breastfeeding, a complex physiological process begins that affects both her body and her milk supply. Understanding this transition can help ease the emotional and physical challenges that may arise during weaning.The Supply-and-Demand SystemBreast milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis. This … Read more

Understanding Why Babies Fall Asleep While BreastfeedingFor many new parents, the sight of their baby drifting off to sleep during breastfeeding can be both heartwarming and concerning. This phenomenon is quite common and can be attributed to several physiological and environmental factors that create a perfect storm for sleepiness.The Comfort of BreastfeedingOne of the primary … Read more

Understanding Breast Milk SufficiencyFor new parents, the question of whether their breast milk is sufficient for their baby’s needs is a common concern. While it can be challenging to measure breast milk intake directly, there are several indicators that can help you assess whether your baby is getting enough nourishment.Key Signs Your Baby is Getting … Read more

Understanding Drinks That Can Increase Breast Milk SupplyFor new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, the quest to enhance milk production can often lead to questions about dietary choices, particularly beverages. While scientific evidence on specific drinks is somewhat limited, several options have emerged as popular choices among breastfeeding mothers, each with potential benefits for … Read more

Understanding Breast Milk BathsBreast milk baths have gained popularity not only for their soothing properties but also for their potential benefits for a baby’s skin. These baths can be particularly helpful for addressing issues like dry skin, diaper rash, and general irritation. But how much breast milk should you actually use for an effective milk … Read more

The Critical Periods for Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive OverviewBreastfeeding is a vital aspect of infant nutrition, offering numerous health benefits for both the baby and the mother. While the journey of breastfeeding can vary significantly from one family to another, certain age milestones stand out as particularly important for establishing a strong foundation for a child’s … Read more

Understanding the Breastmilk Plug: A Common Concern for Nursing MothersIn the journey of breastfeeding, many mothers encounter a phenomenon known as a breastmilk plug. This term often refers to a blockage in the milk ducts, which can lead to discomfort and complications in milk flow. Understanding what a breastmilk plug is, its causes, and how … Read more

Understanding Colostrum and Its ImportanceColostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is the first form of breast milk produced by mothers during pregnancy and shortly after childbirth. This nutrient-rich fluid is packed with antibodies and essential nutrients that play a crucial role in building a newborn’s immune system. It is typically produced in small quantities, … Read more

Understanding the ChallengeGetting a two-year-old to sleep without their mother can be a daunting task for many parents. This age is often characterized by strong attachments and a desire for comfort, making bedtime a battleground for independence. If your toddler is accustomed to falling asleep with their mom, the transition to sleeping alone can be … Read more

Understanding Breast Changes After BreastfeedingBreastfeeding is a transformative experience for many women, not just in terms of nurturing a child but also regarding physical changes to the body, particularly the breasts. After weaning, many women notice alterations in size, shape, and firmness. These changes can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, prompting some to seek ways … Read more

Understanding the Safety of Breast Milk in Bottle WarmersWhen it comes to feeding your baby, ensuring the safety and nutritional quality of breast milk is paramount. One common question among new parents is: How long can breast milk safely remain in a bottle warmer? Recommended Time LimitsAccording to expert guidelines, breast milk should not be … Read more

The Role of Cabbage in Drying Up Breast MilkCabbage leaves have long been touted as a natural remedy for women looking to reduce or dry up their breast milk supply. This practice, often rooted in traditional wisdom, has gained attention for its potential effectiveness, though scientific backing remains limited.How Cabbage WorksThe primary mechanism by which … Read more

Understanding Reflux in Breastfed BabiesReflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a common condition in infants, characterized by the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. While many babies experience this condition, it can be particularly concerning for breastfeeding mothers who want to ensure their diet does not exacerbate their baby’s discomfort. Certain foods consumed by … Read more

Understanding Freshly Pumped Breast Milk StorageWhen it comes to the safety and storage of freshly pumped breast milk, parents often seek clarity on how long it can remain at room temperature before it becomes unsafe for consumption. The guidelines are straightforward but crucial for ensuring the health of your baby.Room Temperature GuidelinesFreshly pumped breast milk … Read more

Understanding Breastfeeding Needs at 10 MonthsAs babies grow, their nutritional needs evolve significantly. By the time a baby reaches 10 months, the dynamics of breastfeeding change as they begin to incorporate more solid foods into their diet. Frequency of Breast Milk FeedsAt this age, most babies typically have 2 to 4 breast milk feeds per … Read more

Feeding Guidelines for a 3-Week-Old BabyWhen it comes to feeding a 3-week-old baby, understanding their nutritional needs is crucial for their growth and development. At this age, babies are typically transitioning from very small amounts of milk to slightly larger feeds as their stomach capacity increases.Recommended Amounts For a 3-week-old, the general guideline is to … Read more

Understanding Postpartum OvulationAfter childbirth, many women wonder about their menstrual cycle and ovulation, especially if they are breastfeeding. It’s crucial to understand that the postpartum period can vary greatly from person to person, influenced by several factors, including hormonal changes and lactation.The Role of HormonesFollowing delivery, the body undergoes significant hormonal adjustments. During pregnancy, the … Read more

Understanding Your Baby’s Restlessness During FeedingFeeding time can often be a challenging experience for new parents, especially when their baby seems restless or fussy. This behavior can stem from a variety of factors, and understanding these can help ease the feeding process for both the baby and the caregiver.Common Causes of RestlessnessOne of the primary … Read more

The Safety of CBD Gummies During Pregnancy: A Cautionary TaleAs the popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) products continues to rise, many expectant mothers are left wondering whether these gummies, often marketed for their potential health benefits, are safe to consume during pregnancy. However, the consensus among health authorities and experts is clear: it is not safe … Read more

Understanding Breast Milk Storage: How Long Can It Sit Out?Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing their expressed milk, particularly when it comes to storage and safety. One common question is: How long can breast milk sit out before it needs to be refrigerated? According to guidelines from health authorities, freshly expressed breast milk … Read more