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Breastfeeding Tips From A OB/GYN

Breastfeeding is a great way to get your baby off to a healthy start in the first year of life, but not everyone can breastfeed, and even when you can, it can be difficult for the mother or the baby. August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month and many moms struggle with getting their child to eat, calm down, or latch. Dr. Christina Kramer, an OB/GYN with OSF Healthcare says that it is a common problem. 

 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) exclusively breastfeeding during the first six months provides all the nutrients a baby needs. At six months, babies can benefit from continued breastfeeding, while slowly incorporating other solid foods until at least 12 months, or as long as the mother wants to breastfeed. Dr. Kramer says those timelines can be negotiable.

 

 

There are plenty of benefits to breastfeeding and for mothers, that can include accelerating post-partum weight loss and decrease the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. It provides the baby with important nutrition, antibodies, and helps lower the risk of diabetes, asthma, and ear infections. Dr. Kramer says it’s important to let your baby lead each feeding. Every baby is different and some will be easier to feed than others. Dr. Kramer encourages mothers to look for signs of hunger in babies including turning the head side to side, licking or smacking lips, putting their hands to their mouth, and crying.

 

 

Dr. Kramer encourages you to seek help if you’re having issues breastfeeding.

 

 

Dr. Kramer says it’s fine to supplement a baby with formula if it’s too challenging.

 

 

For more information on breastfeeding, talk to your primary care physician.

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