Tag: lactationpanel

I recently attended an event put on by the Raleigh Moms Blog, called Bloom. The event is geared towards new and expectant mothers. This is the fourth year in a row that the Bloom event has been held in Raleigh. Wake Med was a partner for the event, so naturally it was held at Wake Med North. The event was amazing and super informative. There were several local vendors in attendance from swim lessons, counseling services, child care, photographers and many more! It was the perfect one stop for any mom looking for local support services. I highly recommend Bloom to any mom who feels overwhelmed, and does not know where to start when preparing for baby. 

The event had two main sessions, one of which was a lactation panel. Being a breastfeeding mother, I felt it was appropriate that I sat in and learned more from a local lactation consultant. Sandy Arnold, Certified Lactation Consultant and Dr. Alisha Davis lead the session, as new and expectant moms asked a series of questions regarding breastfeeding. I decided to share these questions with you all, in hopes that any mommas considering breastfeeding ,or who are breastfeeding ,may gain a little insight!

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“Ask the Experts Session: Lactation Care & First Year Needs for Baby and Mom” 

What kind of lactation problems can you experience?

Sore nipples

Latching issues

Tongue ties

Low milk supply

Side preference- which can result in decreased milk supply and sore nipples

Is it common to have issues with the rooting reflex?

If there is any misalignment in the cervical vertebrae a baby can struggle to turn their head properly  and there maybe issues with the rooting reflex.

Breastfeeding pillow, helpful?

Yes! My Brest-friend is the most helpful because it gets closer and  snugger to the body! Often times little babies can get lost in the Boppy pillow. The Boppy is great for when the baby gets older and bigger. 

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Is there a difference when you introduce solids and a latch?

Oh yea, sometimes babies will hold their tongue back when eating from a spoon. So they will do the same while breast feeding. Therefore struggling to latch properly. Just continue to breast feed and this problem should work itself out.

Is there anything you can do during pregnancy to help milk supply?

Not during pregnancy, no.

Foods to produce milk flow?

You don’t have to change your diet. You want to make sure you are eating and drinking. Oatmeal, granola bars, Kind bars, the “Pink Drink” at Starbucks. Drink half of your body weight in any liquid, water, juice, tea.

After birth suggestions.

At the hospital get all the lactation help you can get. Make sure the latch is right and the baby is gaining weight. Get your rest. STAY OFF GOOGLE (that is my personal advice)

Should you pump at the hospital?

If there are serious issues, yes. But what is more helpful is hand expression. The lactation consultant at the hospital can help teach you how. Most times they will encourage you to continue trying to nurse while at the hospital. Only add pumping if the baby is not nursing well.

Best Breastpump?

Madela Pump In Style (this is the pump that I use)

Spectra S1 and S2, these pumps are hospital grade, and they have a ton of positive reviews from mommas.

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First year needs for baby and mom?

Make sure that mom is taking care of herself. A lot of moms forget to take care of herself because she is so focused on baby. Make sure that she is eating and staying hydrated, this is so important to maintain milk supply.

Make sure baby is hitting all of the proper milestones. Don’t sit in the house every day, get out. Postpartum anxiety can become worsened if you isolate yourself from others. Make new friends, find a mom tribe. Fit4Mom is a great way to get out of the house, and connect with other moms.

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I know that there are a ton more questions that you may have, so feel free to let me know in the comment section, and I will try my best get you an answer!

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