Author name: Meghan

Colostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is nature’s remarkable gift to newborns. This precious fluid, secreted by mothers in the initial days after giving birth, is a powerhouse of nutrients and immune-boosting compounds. Rich in antibodies, vitamins, and essential nutrients, colostrum is like a superhero for a newborn’s immune system, providing the armor needed to face the world. It’s not just a meal; it’s a magical potion, its importance extends beyond nutrition, as it helps fortify a baby’s fragile immune system, shielding them from infections and setting the stage for a lifetime of health and vitality. Colostrum is a testament to the wondrous complexity of the natural world, reminding us of the awe-inspiring way in which our bodies nurture and protect the next generation. The best way for a baby to have colostrum is directly from the breast, however if that is not possible due to separation from the Mother or sleepiness then the next best thing is hand expression and collected in a syringe . This can also be performed antenatally from 36/37weeks and frozen, to be given after birth. There is a great video here https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/breastfeeding-resources/hand-expression-video/ that can help you, or give me a call if you are struggling.

I’m thrilled to be your guide on the incredible journey of breastfeeding. As a lactation consultant with years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless new mothers embark on this beautiful path of nourishing their little ones with the liquid gold that is breast milk. Today, I’ll be sharing some valuable insights, tips, and guidance to make your breastfeeding experience as smooth and rewarding as possible. Conclusion: Breastfeeding is a unique and beautiful experience that fosters a deep bond between you and your baby. As a lactation consultant, I’m here to offer guidance, support, and encouragement throughout your breastfeeding journey. Embrace the journey with patience and love, and remember that every drop of breast milk is a gift to your little one. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy breastfeeding!

Breastfeeding is a remarkable journey that weaves together science, nature, and love. It’s nothing short of magical! Here is why it’s so amazing: 1. Tailored Nutrition: Imagine your body as a high-tech factory, customising the perfect milk recipe for your baby. It adapts to their needs, providing the exact nutrients, fats, and antibodies required for their growth and health. It’s like a personalized nutrition plan delivered straight from the source! 2. Superhero Immunity: Breast milk is your baby’s shield, an invisible fortress of antibodies and immune-boosting superpowers. It fends off invaders, like a team of tiny, relentless defenders, protecting your little one from infections and diseases. 3. Emotional Connection: Every time you feed, it is an intimate moment where you and your baby connect on a profound level. It’s like a warm, cuddly love potion that strengthens the bond between you two. 4. Natural Healer: Breast milk soothes and heals like a magic elixir. Sore bum? Apply some breast milk. Itchy skin? Breast milk it is. It’s nature’s all-purpose balm! 5. Earth-Friendly: It’s not just good for your baby; it’s good for the planet. No formula production means fewer cans and packaging waste, so you’re an eco-warrior while you feed! In the grand story of motherhood, breastfeeding is your superpower. It’s your magical connection, your secret weapon, and your gift to the future. 💫🌟🦸‍♀️🍼💖

Mastitis is the name given to any inflammation within the breast. This inflammation can cause a buildup of fluid within the breast that stops the milk flowing because the fluid is putting pressure on the milk ducts, causing them to narrow. This is what causes the milk to stop flowing so freely and can often cause a blockage. The blocked milk duct is typically the first sign of inflammation building. You may see on your breast: These are all signs of INFLAMMATORY Mastitis. This does NOT require antibiotics. Bacterial Mastitis (which requires antibiotics) takes at least 24 hours from the symptoms above to develop. HOWEVER, if you use the techniques below to help resolve things as soon as the blocked duct appears, you may be able to stop bacterial mastitis from developing. How to treat inflammatory mastitis: If you are not feeling any better within 24 hours, see your GP. Or if you start to feel worse in this time, seek medical attention immediately. You will need a course of antibiotics for at least 10 days, sometimes up to 14 days to prevent recurrence and abscess formation. Seek breastfeeding support from your midwife, lactation consultant, health visitor or public health nurse in this time as typically the latch needs improving in these instances.

One piece of advice that is frequently given is that it’s “normal” for a breastfed infant to not poop much, even during the first few weeks of life. Breastfeeding is a journey that is full of well-intentioned advice and tales. Infrequent bowel motions can be a warning sign for newborns, although this may not be the case for older babies (after six weeks or so). Let’s break down why.   What’s Normal for a Newborn’s Bowel Movements? In the early weeks, a baby’s output is one of the most important indicators of feeding success. Here’s what you should expect from a breastfed baby’s nappies: ●      Day 1–2: 1–2 meconium nappies (black, sticky stools). ●      Day 3–4: 2–3 greenish transitional stools as milk begins to come in. ●      Day 5 onwards: At least 2 soft, yellow poos a day about the size of a £2 coin. By the end of the first week, your baby should have frequent, soft yellow stools—usually after every feed. If they’re not pooing this much, it could signal they’re not getting enough milk.   Why Frequent Pooing Matters in the Early Weeks Breast milk is designed to nourish your baby and keep their digestive system moving. When milk is transferring well, it naturally stimulates your baby’s digestive tract, leading to regular bowel movements. This is why healthcare professionals monitor output closely in the first weeks of life. Fewer bowel movements in a newborn could suggest:   Where Did This Myth Come From? This belief probably originates from what occurs after six weeks. By that time, breastfed infants may start to poop less frequently as their digestive systems develop and they take in more nutrients from the breast milk. Newborns, who should be voiding multiple times a day, are exempt from this sporadic mutation.     Why Early Intervention Is Crucial Waiting too long to address infrequent bowel movements in the early weeks can lead to complications such as poor weight gain or supply issues for the breastfeeding parent. Monitoring output is one of the simplest ways to ensure breastfeeding is going well.   What to Do If Your Baby Isn’t Pooing Enough If your baby isn’t meeting the expected pooing milestones:   The Bottom Line While older breastfed babies might go days without pooing, this isn’t typical or healthy for newborns. Regular bowel movements in the early weeks are a vital sign of effective feeding and sufficient milk intake. If you notice your baby isn’t pooing much in the first six weeks, don’t hesitate to seek help—it could make all the difference in your breastfeeding journey.

Drinking and breastfeeding Alcohol consumption with breastfeeding is a topic that many nursing parents are quite interested in. Understanding how alcohol affects breast milk and how to safely consume it can help protect the health of the infant as well as the caregiver. Effects of Alcohol on Breast Milk If a nursing parent drinks alcohol, the alcohol enters the breast milk at levels comparable to those in the blood. But because the body metabolises alcohol, the levels gradually drop. As the blood alcohol content of the parent decreases, the alcohol does not “stay” in breast milk forever. This process is not accelerated by pumping and discarding milk, also known as “pumping and dumping.”   Timing and Safe Consumption An occasional drink is unlikely to harm the baby, particularly if there is time for the alcohol to metabolise before the next feed. For example: ●      A unit of alcohol (such as a small glass of wine) takes about 2 hours for an average adult to process. ●      Planning feeds around this time frame can help minimize exposure. However, for there to be any negative effects for the baby such as mild sedation, you would need to be 3.5x OVER the drink drive limit in the UK! The Breastfeeding Network advises that consuming alcohol immediately after breastfeeding or expressing milk allows more time for the alcohol to leave the system before the next feed. The highest alcohol levels in breast milk typically occur 30 to 90 minutes after consumption. Strategies for Breastfeeding Parents ●      Don’t bedshare: If having any alcohol at all, do not bedshare. Doing this has an increased association with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). ●      Limit intake: Keep alcohol consumption to low or moderate levels, ideally one or two units at a time. If you plan to binge drink ensure your baby is under the care of a sober adult. ●      Express milk beforehand: Store expressed milk to use while waiting for alcohol to clear from your system. ●      Use caution: If the baby is premature, has low birth weight, or has health issues, it is especially important to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming alcohol.   Really important to remember! Mothers who have been drinking alcohol should never let themselves be in a situation where they might fall asleep with the baby; on a bed, chair or couch. Drinking alcohol reduces the ability of the mother to be aware of her baby’s needs, whether she is breastfeeding or not. It is safest to ask someone else to care for the baby. Sources: