The value and benefit of breast/chest feeding for both baby and parent are undeniable. There are countless studies out there to substantiate why breastfeeding is advantageous. But what happens when breastfeeding hurts? How do you continue? Painful breast/chest feeding is one of the main reasons parents abandon feeding altogether and switch to artificial feeding. Let’s…
A nipple shield is an ultrathin, silicone nipple used to assist with breastfeeding. Typically, they are used if a baby isn’t latching well if the latch is causing pain or nipple damage, or for premature babies who need a little help with feeds. Nipple shield use for breastfeeding has grown quite a bit in the…
The art of the tattoo is at least 6,000 years old and tattooing is the sixth fastest-growing American industry. Of those who have tattoos, 70% have more than one tattoo and 20% have more than five. 36% of Americans between the age of 18 and 29 have at least one tattoo. 72% of adults with…
I have noticed over the last several years that breastfeeding problems seem to come in waves. I might have one month when most of the issues are sore nipples and latch problems. Other months I might see more babies with slow weight gain. More recently, I have had several mothers complain about teething and biting…
If there’s anything breastfeeding mothers fear (besides teeth, that is) it’s plugged milk ducts and mastitis. Mothers ask about plugs and mastitis prior to the baby being born. Just because you’re breastfeeding, doesn’t mean that these things are a guarantee. Some mothers will go their whole breastfeeding relationship without ever experiencing either one of these…
You finally get into the hang of breastfeeding and guess what? You’re told it’s time to start solids. How did that happen so quickly? Weren’t you just being discharged from the hospital last week and figuring out how to get the latch down? Don’t panic. I agree, it is confusing. Starting solids can feel really…
Best name ever, right? Very descriptive. This came from a podcast listener who wrote to us asking for an episode on the very real, common phenomena of one side being bigger than the other when breastfeeding. Sound familiar?? I’m sure to some of you it does. It is something mothers will ask about a lot~ one…
Not just any vitamin. Specifically Vitamin D and iron. Have you ever wondered if you should be giving your baby extra anything? I mean, as adults it always seems like we need something extra, right? I could probably name several vitamins or nutrients I am deficient in as I sit here and type. Does that…
Breastfeeding myths are like a favorite pastime for me. I love hearing the old wives tales and outdated information that is still being passed around. Sometimes it seems like the breastfeeding world is the only medical entity that is subject to folklore labeled as truth. My most recent bout with myths are under the heading…
I hate reflux. Especially if I have it. Now if we are talking about reflux in babies, that’s a different frustration. Parents don’t want to see their baby uncomfortable, and reflux can definitely cause discomfort for new babies. I talk with parents about reflux ALL. THE. TIME. It is so common. What makes the difference…