Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding: A Healthy Start for Baby and Mother
Supporting Families with Information and Encouragement

Introduction
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and effective ways to promote a newborn's health and development. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods up to 1 year or longer.

Despite the clear benefits, many new mothers face challenges. As a healthcare team, we are here to provide education, encouragement, and support during this important journey.

Why Breastfeeding Matters

For Baby:

• Ideal Nutrition: Breast milk contains the perfect balance of nutrients, enzymes, and antibodies tailored to your baby's needs.
• Stronger Immunity: Babies who are breastfed have lower rates of respiratory infections, ear infections, diarrhea, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Brain Development: Breastfeeding is associated with improved cognitive development.
• Digestive Comfort: Easier to digest than formula, breast milk reduces constipation and gas.

For Mother:

• Faster Recovery: Helps the uterus return to its normal size and reduces postpartum bleeding.
• Lower Risk of Diseases: Decreases the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
• Emotional Bonding: Promotes closeness and emotional connection with your baby.
• Natural Calorie Burn: May help with postpartum weight loss.

How Long Can You Store Breast Milk?

Proper storage of expressed breast milk is important to keep it safe and nutritious. Below are general guidelines from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention):

Common Challenges and Support Tips

1. Latching Difficulties: A proper latch is key to effective feeding. Lactation consultants or nurses can provide hands-on guidance.
2. Sore Nipples: Often due to poor latch or positioning. Solutions may include nipple cream, correcting latch, and ensuring the baby empties the breast properly.
3. Low Milk Supply: Staying hydrated, feeding frequently, and avoiding unnecessary supplementation can help boost supply.
4. Returning to Work: Planning ahead with pumping, storage, and workplace support can help you continue breastfeeding after maternity leave.

Tips for Successful Breastfeeding

• Feed your baby on demand, not on a strict schedule.
• Ensure skin-to-skin contact in the first hours and days after birth.
• Avoid offering bottles or pacifiers in the early weeks unless medically necessary.
• Ask for help early if you feel discomfort or frustration. You're not alone!

When to Reach Out to Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider or lactation consultant if you notice:

• Baby isn’t gaining weight after the first week
• Baby has fewer than 6 wet diapers a day by day 5
• You experience breast pain, swelling, or fever
• Your baby seems excessively sleepy and uninterested in feeding

 How we can Help

Dr. Sima Stein of Sima Stein, MD, located in San Jose, California, is a board-certified physician who can help your child determine if your child has a problem with feeding and need help to manage it, we are here to help. Learn more about breastfeeding and the ways Dr. Stein can help you and your child manage their condition. Our team can assess underlying causes, recommend dietary changes, and provide safe, age-appropriate treatments—including anti diarrheal agents when necessary.

If you're concerned about your child’s bowel habits, we’re here to help. Call our office to schedule an evaluation. Sima Stein, MD, or request an appointment online today.