Jackson Hospital | Partners | Fall 2020

jackson.org 7 Can I use a pacifier while breastfeeding? It’s important to establish breastfeeding for at least a month before intro- ducing artificial nipples. Babies need to learn to open their mouths wide and feel for their mother’s nipple when learning to breastfeed to trigger the sucking reflex. Pacifiers can sometimes cause latch issues for babies, and the mother may notice their baby not drinking as much if they use a pacifier. A decrease in feeding can not only affect the baby’s weight gain but also the mother’s milk supply. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not introducing a pacifier until after a baby is one month old and only using a pacifier after a good feeding. The AAP also recom- mends not putting a pacifier back into your baby’s mouth if they spit it out. When should I use a breast pump? Ideally, you should not use a breast pump for at least the first month of your baby’s life. Babies increase milk supply over weeks to achieve the amount of milk they need, and pumping may disrupt this optimal supply. How can I increase my milk supply if it seems to be insufficient? Mothers should talk to a lactation consultant if they think they are experi- encing supply issues. Many times, milk supply is not actually low. If your baby is nursing, going to the bathroom and gaining weight, you are probably pro- ducing just enough milk for your baby. If you are indeed having issues with supply, the best way to increase supply is to increase milk removal. How long should I breastfeed my baby? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be exclu- sively breastfed for at least the first six months of life. As you begin adding foods to your baby’s diet, it is recom- mended to continue breastfeeding until at least one year of age. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least the first two years of life. Breast milk provides important health benefits, such as antibodies that help protect your baby. If you don’t want to breastfeed for that long, pumping is an option to continue providing breast milk to your baby. How do I get information on breastfeeding? Jackson Hospital offers lactation information via phone or in- person consultations from me, Liz Owens. I’m a registered nurse and an international board-certified lactation consultant. Q We’re here to support you. Call the Jackson Hospital Family Birth Center at 334-293-8497 to ask questions or if you need help after birth! Q Q Q Q