Breastfeeding offers a simple, cost-effective way to feed your baby and can bolster your son or daughter's immune system. Your child's Newark, DE, pediatricians, Drs. Kerry Kirifides and Bonni Field, can answer your questions about breastfeeding and offer suggestions should you encounter any problems.
How breastfeeding benefits you and your baby
In addition to offering a convenient feeding method, breastfeeding provides important advantages for you and your baby. Breastfeeding may lower your child's risk for ear and respiratory infections, asthma, allergies and eczema.
How long should I breastfeed?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you feed your baby breastmilk only for at least the first six months. Once your child is six months old, you can begin to slowly introduce soft foods. Breastfeeding is recommended for the first year of your child's life, although many women continued to breastfeed longer.
How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk?
Most babies simply stop sucking when they're full. If your baby is eating regularly, gaining weight and seems alert and active, he or she is probably getting plenty of milk. During the first few weeks, breastfeed babies usually produce six to eight wet diapers every day.
Signs that your baby isn't getting enough milk may include lethargy, long feeding times, difficulty latching on or not regaining birth weight by two weeks. Dehydration may also be an issue. Signs of dehydration include dark urine, jaundice, and dry mouth. If you're concerned that your baby is underfed or dehydrated, call our office right away.
Do I need to change my diet while I breastfeed?
You can continue to eat the healthy foods you enjoy while you breastfeed, although you may want to eliminate some foods if they seem to make your baby gassy. Common culprits that cause gas include beans, broccoli, fruit, onions, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. You'll need to eat about 500 more calories than usual to ensure adequate milk production.
Do you have a breastfeeding concern? Call your child's pediatricians in Newark, DE, Drs. Kirifides and Field, at (302) 918-6400.