10 common breastfeeding questions from mothers

Breastfeeding can be a complex topic, where mothers are sometimes left with more questions than answers. Whitney Noble, RN, CCE, IBCLC, certified lactation consultant with Bailey Medical Center (BMC), shares some of the most common inquiries she hears from mothers.

How long should each feeding take?

I feel like the length to feed is the least important part. Sometimes it will be five minutes, sometimes it will be an hour. My best advice is to not put a time limit on it because every feed is going to be different. Look for a comfortable latch and a calm and relaxed baby after the feed instead of the clock.

What should I do if breastfeeding irritates my nipples?

The first thing is to make sure we are using good positioning and getting a good, deep latch. If you’re having trouble with this, please reach out to a lactation consultant. A little bit of tenderness, especially the first couple of weeks, is normal, but pain and damage never are.

When should my breast milk come in?

We like to see the mature milk transition in about 72 hours (three days) after delivery. Frequent feeds with a good latch will help the breast milk transition in faster and establish a strong milk supply.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough breast milk?

If you are getting a comfortable latch where you feel a strong tug and pull at least eight times a day, a calm and relaxed baby at the end of most feeds, and baby is having plenty of wet and dirty diapers and gaining weight as expected, then your baby is getting exactly what they need.

What if my baby is favoring one side over the other?

That is totally normal. Be patient and work with their least favorite side when baby is calm and not overly hungry. Try different positions on that side. If needed, start on the favorite side and transition when baby is calmer.

What are the best holds to try?

My favorites are the cross-cradle and the football holds early on. However, there isn’t one hold that works for every mom. Find a position that is most comfortable for both mom and baby.

What is your advice on pumping?

Don’t stress about it. I usually recommend to only pump as needed to help prevent engorgement early on or if baby is not consistently latching. When baby is a couple of weeks old, set aside three or four times a day to pump following feeds to begin building a freezer supply.

What do I do about feedings if I’m ill?

As mom is able, keep feeding on demand. It isn’t uncommon to see a dip in supply following an illness. This may mean more frequent feeds for baby if mom is able. If mom gets to the point where she can’t feed the baby, supplement with expressed milk or formula as needed and pump often to prevent breast engorgement, infection or a further decrease in supply.

What do I do with excess milk?

Store the excess according to milk storage guidelines. If you feel like your baby is getting too much milk when latched, see a lactation consultant. If you continue to have more milk than your baby needs, organizations like Oklahoma Mothers’ Milk Bank welcome donations.

Will breastfeeding impact my baby’s sleep?

Breastfeeding or not, when it comes to infant safe sleep, we encourage you to remember the ABCs: Alone on their Back in a Crib. For more details, view the Infant Safe Sleep section on BMC’s labor and delivery page.

For additional breastfeeding questions, call BMC lactation department at 918-376-8268 or labor & delivery at 918-376-8240. The Oklahoma Breastfeeding Hotline is also available 24 hours a day at 1-877-271-6455 (MILK). BMC breastfeeding classes are available as well.