Breastfeeding and dental caries

Today we will discuss one of the myths about breastfeeding. You have probably heard that night feedings cause tooth decay. No, that is wrong. 

A number of studies have not found any effect of night breastfeeding  and breastfeeding at all on tooth decay.

Here are some more statements about dental health in children:

• Breast milk contains antimicrobial components.
• Lactose, the main carbohydrate in breast milk, is broken down into galactose and glucose in the intestinal tract (not in the mouth cavity).
• It is worth considering the method of feeding the baby (with breast milk, formula feeding, mixed feeding, breastfeeding or with bottle).

The health of a child's teeth can also be affected by:

• genetics;
• mother's diet during pregnancy;
• baby's early nutrition (complementary feeding, presence of sweets in the diet, presence of a number of vitamin, macro- and microelement deficiencies);
• maintaining dental hygiene in the child.

And remember that breastfed children can also get caries. Therefore, it is worth evaluating the diet and not forgetting to brush your teeth!

There is an opportunity to sign up for a FREE 20-minute consultation on breastfeeding and complementary feeding in March. There are still a few free places available. Write to me WA +37128149072 or e-mail [email protected]

Sources:

Abbasoglu, 2014. Early childhood caries is associated with genetic variants in enamel formation and immune response genes.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Free consultation on breastfeeding in March!

With the beginning of spring I decided to make a gift to everyone who needs my help as a lactation consultant. And what can I give, being a certified breastfeeding specialist?  First and foremost, support and knowledge.

To every mom who has any questions about:

• breastfeeding,
• formula feeding,
• mixed feeding,
• infant care,
• infant sleep,
• colic,
• complementary foods,
• potty training,
• weaning from a bottle,
• weaning from a pacifier,

I am offering a FREE 20 minute online mini-consultation in MARCH.

You can always write to me!

Also

WA: +37128149072

facebook @Laktkursi

Instagram @aleksandra.laktkursi

*The number of free consultations is limited.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Baby stool color: when to see the doctor

I recently encountered a change in the colour of the baby's stools at a breastfeeding consultation, which required medical advice. I will tell you about three colours that all parents of babies should be aware of.

Consult a doctor if you see the following three colors of baby stool:

• Black (except for the first days after birth, when black meconium is normal).
• White (or grey).
• Red (completely or with streaks and specks).

The causes may vary, but always consult a doctor in these cases.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Coffee and lactation

At almost every breastfeeding consultation, I get the question: “Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?”. Many are convinced that coffee and breastfeeding are incompatible. In this article, we will figure out whether a nursing mother can drink coffee and how much to limit herself to.

In coffee, we are primarily interested in caffeine.

There are recommendations for safe doses for a nursing mother of 200-400 mg of caffeine per day. At the same time, it is recommended not to consume more than 200 mg of caffeine at a time.

For a breastfeeding mum, the recommendations are close to the general adult recommendations of 400 mg of caffeine per day. It's just that coffee and caffeine require moderation in consumption for everyone.

This is approximately 2-4 cups of coffee. It is important to remember that the caffeine content of coffee depends on the type of coffee, the method of preparation, and the degree of grinding. Therefore, the number of cups of coffee will depend on the type of coffee and what other caffeine-containing foods you consume.

There is a study that showed no stimulating effect on babies (aged 3 weeks and older) if the nursing mother consumed 5 cups of coffee per day.

However, another study concluded that more than 450 ml of coffee per day can reduce the iron content of breast milk, and this in turn can lead to moderate iron deficiency anemia in some babies.

Therefore, adhering to the principle of dietary moderation is also beneficial in relation to caffeine. An average of 300 mg of caffeine per day, or up to 2-3 cups of coffee per day, is optimal and supported by many experts and recommendations.

Can caffeine affect a baby?

Most often, symptoms can appear with very large doses of caffeine, as well as in premature babies, children under 6 months and children with certain diseases due to slow metabolism and caffeine elimination.

If you observe in your baby:

• fussiness;
• irritability;
• poor sleep,

and associate this with coffee consumption, try to reduce caffeine consumption, and also do not consume caffeinated products a couple of hours before feeding before the baby's bedtime. This is because caffeine levels in breast milk peak 1-2 hours after consuming a caffeinated product.

Remember that the baby's fussiness may be caused by something else. So watch and draw conclusions!

And coffee is not the only source of caffeine.

Other sources of caffeine (besides coffee):

• tea,
• cola,
• energy drinks,
• mate,
• guarana,
• cocoa,
• chocolate,
• some medications.

Tea usually has about 2 times less caffeine than coffee, and chocolate even less.

And here we come to the question: "Can you eat chocolate when you're breastfeeding?".

I think you can guess. I'll definitely write about it in another article.

What breastfeeding restrictions have you heard? Share in the comments!

If you want to ask questions about breastfeeding and receive scientifically based answers, then apply for a consultation. I will be glad to answer all your questions! A consultation during pregnancy is also possible, in which we will discuss the first days with the baby and you will receive recommendations on how to more successfully lay the foundations for breastfeeding in the first days after giving birth. Write!

Sources:

Berlin, 1984. Disposition of dietary caffeine in milk, saliva, and plasma of lactating women.

CDC, 2022. Maternal diet.

Findlay, 1981. Analgesic drugs in breast milk and plasma.

Hale, 2021. Medications & Mothers’ Milk.

James & Lawrence, 2011. Can consuming caffeine while breastfeeding harm your baby?

Muñoz, 1988. Coffee consumption as a factor in iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women and their infants in Costa Rica.

Reyes & Cornelis, 2018. Caffeine in the diet: country-level consumption and guidelines.

Ryu, 1985. Effect of maternal caffeine consumption on heart rate and sleep time of breast-fed infants.

Stavchansky, 1988. Pharmacokinetics of caffeine in breast milk and plasma after single oral administration of caffeine to lactating mothers.

The European Food Safety Authority, 2015. EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products Nutrition and Allergies (NDA). Scientific opinion on the safety of caffeine.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Development games for babies: "peekaboo" game

The game of peek-a-boo is not only one of the first games you can play with an infant, but it is also a good game for development, especially the development of a skill such as ‘object permanence’.

Babies are born without the understanding that objects are permanent. If mum has left the room, she is gone. The baby cannot yet realise that she has gone into the other room and will be back soon. If you cover a toy with a blanket, that toy is missing for the baby. He is not expecting to see it under the blanket again. During the first year, this important skill for the baby is developing - recognising the permanence of objects.

This game will also be useful to prepare for separation anxiety and during this stage of development, when the baby suddenly becomes more anxious when separated from mum and reacts more sensitively to strangers.

• Gives the baby social interaction with an adult.
• Allows to create eye contact between the baby and an adult.
• Develops the brain and helps in making new neural connections.
• Familiarises the baby with facial expressions and emotions. Be artistic. Show interest, surprise, joy on your face. Because of mirror neurons, your baby learns from you to express and recognise emotions.
• It helps to create a bond with your baby and brings fun.

Gradually, the baby will be able to become more involved in the process and, closer to the age of one, initiate the game himself. And also, with the development of new motor skills, he will be able, for example, to pull a blanket off a hidden toy.

At what age to play?

This game is 0+. Even a baby of a month or two can enjoy it. The optimal age to start is usually 3-6 months. You can start earlier, you can start later. This is one of the basic games for a child of the first year of life. After a year, the baby will gradually move on to more complex games, such as "hide-and-seek".

How to play?

The rules are very simple. Hide your face with your palms or a shawl, then open it and happily say "peek-a-boo". You can also hide the toy under a blanket or a shawl and then open it.

It is important that the scenario of the game does not change. That is, surprises such as a long-term loss or complete loss of a toy that was not found can upset the baby. It is important that the outcome of this game is predictable.

A little older children can open toys themselves or hide their faces with their palms themselves.

Remember, that this is a fun game. And it is a game. Most kids really enjoy it. But if today is not the time when your baby is ready to dive into it, do not insist. Try it another time, when your baby is in cheerful mood and nothing is bothering him.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

How do I know my baby is getting enough breastmilk?

Low milk supply is one of the main fears for breastfeeding mum. And often women start to fear of breastfeeding problems even before giving birth.

One study* shows that only 5% of women have a medical reason that makes it unlikely they will produce enough milk and need to supplement or feed their baby with formula or donor milk. Although the study was conducted quite a long time ago, it generally reflects a trend.

Considering that lactation is a reversible process, we can often establish the process of milk production.

Signs the baby is getting enough milk will be:

• Weight gain. Weight gain is monitored using growth scales. For exclusively breastfed babies, these are the WHO** scales.
• Contents and frequency of filling the diaper. We monitor urination, wet diapers, and the color, volume, consistency, and frequency of stool. These indicators are also related to the age of the baby.

**WHO - World Health Organization.

Source:

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Galactagogues: increasing breast milk supply

Galactogogues are food products, herbs and medicines that increase the volume of milk during breastfeeding and lactation. 

What you need to know about galactogogues:

1. Galactogues are generally consumed in the following forms: food products, teas, capsules, tablets.

2. Many galactogogues, their effects on the body, and mechanism of action have not been sufficiently studied.

3. The use of many galactogogues is rather traditional in a certain region, as many ‘traditional’ galactogues have not been found to have effects on milk production.

4. Galactogogues are not necessary for all breastfeeding women.

5. Each galactogogue (‘active’, proven galactogogue) has its own mechanism of action. Therefore, the right galactogogue is chosen depending on the situation.

6. Use may have side effects (in case of herbs and medications).

7. Use of a galactagogue without other measures aimed at increasing milk supply will most likely not bring the expected result.

8. Foods-galactogogues can be an excellent source of essential nutrients for the breastfeeding mum.

Depending on the form of galactogogues, recommendations can be as follows:

The first recommendation in case of temporary "risky" situations (temporary separation, going back to work, illness, stress) are galactagogues-food products.

In cases of reduced milk production, galactogogues-herbs in the form of teas or capsules can be used.

We usually adjust the dose and the galactogogue itself depending on the situation and individual factors. I always inform the breastfeeding mum about side effects. Mummy's homework is to consult a doctor or pharmacist about the use of a particular supplement and read the instructions on the package.

In rare cases, most commonly relactation (return lactation back after a break) or lactation induction (inducing lactation without labour) medications can be used.

Several medications are available, but they have serious side effects. If a woman has the desire, such therapy is prescribed by a doctor.

There is no need for routine use of galactogogues-herbs and even less medications. Galactogogues-food products are healthy to eat, unless you have hyperlactation or allergy to them! 

In other cases it is better to seek advice. 

If you think that you have reduced milk supply, or you observe slow weight gain or no weight gain in your baby, write to me! Together we will sort out the situation, support lactation and improve baby's weight gain!

Let me remind you that this information is general, introductory in nature and does not replace a consultation with a doctor! To choose the right medicine and/or food supplement for you, be sure to consult a doctor or pharmacist! A food supplement does not replace a complete and balanced diet! You should consult a specialist about nutrition during the breastfeeding period.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

The first 3 minutes rule

I will share a rule I try to follow. This is the "rule of the first 3 minutes". It is applicable when meeting with a child after separation. It also has a good effect on family relationships, so it applies to a partner as well. 

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Benefits of Breastfeeding for a Nursing Mother

As a lactation consultant, I have noticed that the topic of the benefits of breastfeeding for a woman is often overlooked. We, mothers, are often ready to do a lot to give our children the best. And breastfeeding lays a huge foundation for the health of the baby. But what about us, women? Is there any benefit from lactation for nursing mothers?

If I start listing all the points, you may not forgive me for such a long article. Therefore, I will shorten it to 5 points.

1. Reduces the risk of several diseases in later life for a breastfeeding woman.

First and foremost. Cancer. Ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of these two types of cancer. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. Many may be encouraged by the fact that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer in women without a genetic predisposition, as well as in those who have a genetic predisposition in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

The next health issue that lactation can affect is diabetes. If a mother has relatives with diabetes in her family or if she herself was diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy, then breastfeeding or feeding with expressed breast milk can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future for both her and her baby. Of course, you should not neglect healthy diet, physical activity and monitoring your weight.

Cardiovascular diseases are among the top causes of death. And here, breastfeeding protects both the nursing mother and the baby, reducing the risks of these diseases.

Impressive? But that's not all.

2. Breastfeeding reduces postpartum haemorrhage.

This is due to the release of the hormone oxytocin during breastfeeding, which is also responsible for the contraction of the uterus. Thus, the recovery of the uterus size and the woman's recovery after childbirth is faster. Nature has thought of everything!

3. Another helpful bonus of breastfeeding is losing weight and getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight.

If you're looking for diets and ways to get in shape after giving birth, lactation can help. It does not require gruelling workouts and dietary restrictions. All you need to do is breastfeed your baby on demand!

Scientists have calculated that feeding a baby 600-900 ml of breast milk per day is equivalent to moderate running for an hour or ‘- 400-600 kcal’ per day.

However, it is worth considering that it takes time to regain weight. Studies show that weight loss from 1 to 12 months postpartum was significantly higher in women who breastfeed than in women who formula feed. At the same time, breastfeeding increases weight loss in the postpartum period if breastfeeding continues for at least 6 months.

4. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of postpartum depression.

Depression affects not only the mum's emotional wellbeing, but also the mental development of the baby and the whole family. Severe maternal depression, unfortunately, can threaten not only the health but also the life of the baby.

The mechanisms of the protective effect of lactation are still being studied. Most likely, they are of both hormonal and psychological nature. The body of a woman who does not breastfeed her newborn perceives this as a signal that something has happened to the baby. Perhaps the child is no longer there, since there is no breastfeeding? This happens deeply on the unconscious level. We see the baby, take care of him, but the processes intended by nature do not occur in the body. This is why often after an abrupt cessation of breastfeeding in the early stages after childbirth, a woman is overcome with grief and sadness. This is the body's reaction. It is natural for a woman to feed her baby. And if this does not happen, then a failure occurs and postpartum depression may appear.

In case of suspicion of depression please consult a specialist!

5. The next effect of breastfeeding on the mother's body is that breastfeeding improves postpartum bone mineralization.

During lactation, when calcium is needed not only by the mother, but also in milk production, an amazing adaptation of the body takes place. Calcium for the baby's needs is taken from mum's bone tissue and compensated from food.

That is, the mother replenishes the losses through her diet. Studies have found a higher metabolism in the bones of nursing women compared to non-nursing mothers. And what is surprising is that despite the increased calcium consumption, because calcium is needed by both mother and baby, bone mineralization after the end of lactation is higher than before pregnancy. That is, a nursing woman has strengthened her bones during breastfeeding due to special compensatory mechanisms and changes in metabolism. What does this give, besides the fact that the body copes with the need for increased calcium absorption in bones? For example, that these processes occurring in bone tissues have a long-term effect. Don't want to break bones often in old age or have bone diseases? Breastfeeding is helping again. The study showed that the longer the duration of breastfeeding, the lower the risk of fractured neck of femur.

As we can see, lactation has both short-term and long-term positive effects on a breastfeeding mum's body. Of course, I have not listed all the effects, but only the most essential ones.

What if we shift our focus and look at it from a different perspective? It's not lactation giving us some bonuses that are optional. On the contrary. Lack of breastfeeding increases a number of health risks for mum and baby. The positive effects of breastfeeding are inherent in us, both in the behaviour and health of children and women.

I wish you that your experience of breastfeeding is as positive as possible! And if there are any pitfalls along the way, I will help you deal with them. Do not hesitate to contact me for advice and help!

Sources:

Anderson, 2014.  Reproductive risk factors and breast cancer subtypes: a review of the literature.

Borra, 2014. New Evidence on Breastfeeding and Postpartum Depression: The Importance of Understanding Women’s Intentions.

Carranza-Lira & Mera, 2002. Influence of number of pregnancies and total breast-feeding time on bone mineral density.

Cumming & Klineberg, 1993. Breastfeeding and other reproductive factors and the risk of hip fractures in elderly women.

Danforth, 2007. Breastfeeding and risk of ovarian cancer in two prospective cohorts.

Dewey, 1993. Maternal weight-loss patterns during prolonged lactation.

Dewey, 1993. Maternal weight-loss patterns during prolonged lactation.

Feltner, 2018. Breastfeeding Programs and Policies, Breastfeeding Uptake, and Maternal Health Outcomes in Developed Countries. Comparative Effectiveness Review, No. 210.

Gunderson, 2010. Duration of lactation and incidence of the metabolic syndrome in women of reproductive age according to gestational diabetes mellitus status: a 20-Year prospective study in CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults).

Gunderson, 2015. Lactation and Progression to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus After Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Yamagata, 1996. Changes in bone mass as determined by ultrasound and biochemical markers of bone turnover during pregnancy and puerperium: a longitudinal study.

Jonas, 2008. Short- and long-term decrease of blood pressure in women during breastfeeding.

Kotsopoulos, 2012. Breastfeeding and the risk of breast cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Lancet, 2002. Breast cancer and breastfeeding: collaborative reanalysis of individual data from 47 epidemiological studies in 30 countries, including 50 302 women with breast cancer and 96 973 women without the disease. Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer.

Lovelady, 2000. The effect of weight loss in overweight, lactating women on the growth of their infants.

Luan, 2013. Breastfeeding and ovarian cancer risk: a meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies.

McKinley, 2018. Weight loss after pregnancy: challenges and opportunities.

Polatti, 1999. Bone mineral changes during and after lactation.

Stuebe, 2009. Duration of lactation and incidence of myocardial infarction in middle-to-late adulthood.

Stuebe, 2011. Duration of lactation and incidence of maternal hypertension: a longitudinal cohort study.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

How to dress a baby in winter?

Winter has arrived and the question of how to dress an infant in winter arises. The most important rule to keep him from overheating and cold is to dress baby in multiple layers.

1. Dress your child in multiple layers. The first layer is home clothes made of natural materials. A sleepsuit with socks or a bodysuit, trousers and socks. You can also use thermal underwear for babies. Unlike cotton, such clothes will not get wet in case of overheating, when the baby sweats.

2. The second layer is a light romper (wool, fleece) or a jumper and trousers. 

3. The third layer is a romper or envelope. The romper should cover baby's hands and feet.

4 It is also better to have a blanket with you.

5. Hats. Up to 3 months it is better to put on 2 hats - a light cotton hat on the bottom and a warm winter hat on the top. If the winter hat has a cotton bottom layer sewn in, one hat will be enough. For older children, one winter hat is also enough.

6. When transporting an infant in a car, it is better to remove the top romper so that the baby does not sweat and the car seat belts fit better. If it is cold, you can cover the baby with a blanket.

7. Also refer to the temperature ranges indicated on the romper at which it is recommended to wear it. 

8. For newborns, there is no need for windproof and waterproof rompers, as they are in the pram.

9. You can walk with a newborn up to a temperature is minus 15 degrees Celsius. Increase the time of walks gradually. Pay attention not only to the actual air temperature, but also to the perceived temperature. In case of wind and humidity, it may feel colder than the actual temperature.

10. If it is very cold and the weather is damp, then you can pull a light, breathable scarf or shawl over the cradle of the newborn pram, constructing a "tent". Also, in very cold weather, you can cover the cradle with an additional blanket.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2025 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

How to understand if a baby is hot or cold?

Today we will talk about how to determine whether the baby is hot or cold. This is especially true now during a walk, when it is colder outside. 

To determine this, you should check the back of the head and the top of the back. At the same time, your hands should not be cold.

• If it is cool there, then the baby is most likely cold.
• If the baby is sweating or hot there, then the baby is most likely overheated.
• If the back of the head is normal and dry, then the baby is neither hot nor cold. Also, signs that the baby is comfortable can be a homogeneous, normal skin colour of the face, warmth under the blanket or top layer of clothing.

The hands and nose may be cooler, since these parts of the body are quite far from the heart.

If the baby is cold, the signs may be:

• The baby is restless and crying.
• The skin around the mouth has turned pale or blue.

In this case, you can wrap up the baby, go home, check if the baby has sweated and is cold from sweating. When you get home, the baby will most likely want to eat - feed him.

If the baby is overheated, the signs may be:

• The baby is sweaty, hot to the touch, behaves restlessly, refuses to eat, there is sweat on the forehead and under the hat.

In this case you should go home, change the baby's clothes and feed him at home.

More important rules:

• Always dress for the outdoors first you and then the baby (so that the baby does not sweat).
• After coming home, undress your baby gradually.

Enjoy your walks! If you found this article useful, don't forget to share it with others.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Second night syndrome

Second night syndrome may appear as a newborn's restlessness and constant desire to be at the breast about 24 hours after delivery or on the second night after birth.

It looks like this: the baby constantly wants to breastfeed, suckles the breast and falls asleep quite quickly. When moving the baby in the crib, he often wakes up and asks to be breastfed again and is restless.

Please note that the second night syndrome is a short-term phenomenon, it appears at a certain time. If the newborn is constantly sleepy and stays on the breast for a short time, after which he falls asleep, it is worth consulting a doctor and a breastfeeding counsellor for advice. In this case, it is likely that the baby eats little due to sleepiness, falls asleep quickly and lacks the energy to stay at the breast longer.

Tips for second night syndrome can be:

• skin-to-skin contact,
• having help, for example from a partner,
• try to rest when your baby sleeps,
• check the proper latch and offer the breast as often as the baby needs it.

The night will pass, and with it the second night syndrome. The baby is with you. He has arrived in the world. He needs time to get used to it.

If you have any questions or doubts, be sure to consult a breastfeeding specialist to minimize the risks of lactation problems.

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Breast refusal

Perhaps, breast refusal and low milk supply are two of the most acute and difficult topics for a nursing mother.

Refusal affects the mum's emotional state very much. It is very difficult to receive such a rejection from the beloved and long-awaited baby. And mum becomes afraid to receive it again, afraid to latch baby on the breast, may begin to think that the baby rejects her, or that she can not cope and thereforeis a "bad mum".

It's not like that! Your baby loves you and you are a wonderful mum. Breast refusal just happens and has its reasons. Baby really needs your help and patience.

All this gives you uncertainty and leads to confusion. It is good to have someone who will tell you what to do and will give you emotional support and hope that this is a stage and it will pass, that there is a way out. The support of family and dads at this time is invaluable.

Breast refusal can happen immediately after birth due to various factors, such as medication, breast swelling, severe breast engorgement, or suddenly after successful breastfeeding period.

Until an age of one year, the baby does not refuse the breast for no reason. There is a reason. Not always the reason is immediately obvious. Let me remind you that in the first year of life, breast milk is the main source of nutrition, and in case of refusal, help should be sought.

In the case of breast refusal and difficulty in latching immediately after delivery, there are a number of techniques to help with swelling, overfilled breasts during engorgement. There are tips on how to help those with large breasts, what to do in case of flat or inverted nipples. There are ways to promote lactation and feed your baby by alternative methods that do not further affect the success of breastfeeding. You can always contact a lactation consultant both before and after labour.

Sudden refusal can also be due to a number of reasons. For example, a cold, illness or teething. The most important thing in this case is to support lactation, feed the baby in another way that will not affect breastfeeding and find the reason.

Breastfeeding refusal is difficult period. Both mentally and physically requires a lot of resources. But as the wise man said: "All things pass, and this will pass."" It will!

If you need help, I am always ready to help. Write!

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

A woman's recovery after childbirth: the 5-5-5 rule

The first 6-8 weeks after childbirth are a time for the woman's body to recover. In order for this stage to go more calmly and smoothly, helpers are needed to feed, clean the house, walk the dog, listen and support.

For a smoother recovery, the 5-5-5 postpartum rule can be helpful.

• That is 5 days in bed. Mum mostly rests and feeds the baby on demand.
• 5 days in bed. All activity takes place on the bed so mum can lie, sit and sleep more.
• The next 5 days are around the bed. Mum gets more involved in activities, but still rests from time to time.

Of course, in the first weeks after childbirth, a woman will not only have to recover her body, but also rebuild both physiologically and psychologically. Such adaptation will be easier with the support of loved ones and a team of specialists (pediatrician, gynecologist, breastfeeding consultant, midwife, postpartum doula), whom you can contact if necessary.

For yourself or your relatives and friends who are expecting a baby, online support from a lactation consultant can be a valuable gift. A counsellor will be on hand to answer all your questions. Together you can lay a more successful foundation for breastfeeding and motherhood. See you at the counselling!

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Fourth trimester of pregnancy

The fourth trimester of pregnancy is the first 3 months of the baby's life.

It is a period of adaptation for both parents and infant.  It is a kind of bridge for the baby between life in the womb and life in the world. Inside the mother's belly the right temperature was maintained, the baby received food and oxygen through the umbilical cord. When he is born, he needs to breathe on his own, he needs to eat on his own. He has so much to master and so much to learn about the world around him. The new and slightly frightening world is more relaxing to explore with someone he already knows so well, with his safety guarantor - his mum.

The baby usually sleeps a lot, often latch on to the breast, wants to be close to his mother, to be on her arms, in close contact with his parents. He is not yet so interested in the world around him. He still needs to get used to bright and loud, to the fact that there is day and night. There's still so much he can't do on his own. And he has a lot to learn.

For parents, this is a stage of restructuring their lives. Lactation is also just being set up and the skills of breastfeeding are being laid.

Time will pass, and the baby will start to roll over, become more interested in the world, and get distracted during feedings. The mother will establish lactation and the breast will begin to produce milk as much as needed, without excess. The mother will begin to better understand the baby's crying. She will be able to distinguish when he cries from fatigue, when he wants to eat, when a wet diaper bothers him. But for now, mastering this skill is ahead. And the main place of comfort for the baby in the first three months of life - it's mum's breast and parents' hands.

And the lactation crisis of three months, familiar to many, will come. But this is a story for another article.

If you wish to consult about breastfeeding during pregnancy and get advice on how to establish successful lactation, let me know!

Author of the article: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

When to take medication for a nursing mother during breastfeeding?

Medicines are excreted from the body at different rates. Their ability to pass into breast milk also varies. Some medicines have side effects not only on the mother but also on the baby. This is why it is worth considering each medication individually.

I recommend that you always consult your doctor and pharmacist about the compatibility of the medicine with lactation. A breastfeeding counsellor can also tell you whether the medicine passes into breast milk and what recommendations exist for its use during lactation, after analysing the available information, studies and recommendations.

Once the breastfeeding mum has established that the chosen medicine is approved by her doctor and is compatible with breastfeeding:

1. General recommendations may include the use of the medicine by a nursing mother immediately after a breastfeeding session or after pumping, if the mother is pumping.

2. In cases of drugs with a long half-life and drugs taken once a day, the mother is recommended to take the medicine immediately after feeding before the baby's longest sleep.

3. In some cases, milk expression may be necessary: in advance, to form a milk stash for the baby, and while taking the medicine, to reduce the risk of clogged milk ducts.

Allergies of a nursing mother and breastfeeding

Allergy is a common chronic disease and the most common chronic disease in Europe (EAACI, 2016). Globally, the World Health Organisation estimates that between 10% and 40% of the total population suffer from allergies (Pawankar, R., 2013). If this condition is so prevalent, there is a high probability that a breastfeeding mother may be faced with the dilemma of how to treat her allergy symptoms and combine breastfeeding of the baby. If it is easy to give up a particular food product, what about seasonal allergies to pollen or insect stings? In this case, allergy symptoms are worth treating, because most allergy medications are compatible with lactation. But not all!

We can divide allergy medications into the forms in which they are used.

Nasal sprays and eye drops are a good choice because they act locally and do not pass into breast milk. You can also try nasal rinsing with physiological saline solution for allergic rhinitis.

I will highlight two medications used for allergic reactions that reduce milk production. They should be avoided if possible during breastfeeding.

This is pseudoephedrine, which is found under other brand names, so I recommend reading the ingredients of medicines. Pseudoephedrine is also sold in combination with other medicines, such as in cold powders. For breastfeeding mums, especially those with problems or risks of decreased milk production and in the late stages of lactation, should be careful when using pseudoephedrine and use safer alternatives if possible. And there are alternatives. Also, pseudoephedrine can adversely affect a baby's sleep and feeding patterns, which can lead to weight loss or worse weight gain. In general, pseudoephedrine falls into the L3 category. These are drugs that are moderately safe/probably compatible with lactation and should only be prescribed if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk (Hale, T. W., 2021).

The next antihistamine to avoid is diphenhydramine, also known as Benadryl. It may decrease milk supply. There is not enough research on this at the moment. Benadryl is also a sedative, causing drowsiness in both mother and baby. Therefore, it is recommended to either use it for a short time only or use safer alternatives. It is categorized as L2, which means that this drug may be compatible with breastfeeding without increasing side effects in the baby, but there is not enough research and the evidence is limited (Hale, T. W., 2021).

I would like to remind you that the information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor! You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist to choose the right medicine for you!

If you want to know about the effects of a particular medicine on breastfeeding and your baby, you can ask for help from a lactation consultant. Lactation consultant cannot treat or prescribe a medication, but the specialist will inform you about the available information, studies and recommendations. After such counselling, it will be easier for you to work with your doctor or pharmacist to choose the right treatment for you and, if necessary, to find an alternative that is compatible with breastfeeding. 

Do you have any questions? I will be happy to answer them. Write!

Sources:

Pawankar, R., 2013: World Allergy Organisation (WAO) White Book on Allergy: Update 2013

EAACI, 2016: The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Advocacy Manifesto, 2016

Hale, T. W., 2021: Thomas W. Hale. ‘Hale's Medications & Mother's Milk.’ 2021. 19th Edition.

Article author: Aleksandra Ņekrasova

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Colds and breastfeeding

Autumn is the time of colds, acute respiratory infections. A lot of people get sick. Including breastfeeding mums. Colds and breastfeeding are compatible, provided that you check medicines for compatibility with breastfeeding. Remember that many medications are compatible with lactation. Breastfeeding is not a reason to endure pain and other unpleasant symptoms of illness.

Here are a few more tips:

1. Remember to empty your breasts.
2. Drink enough fluids.
3. Don't tolerate pain. It reduces milk production. There are painkillers and antipyretics compatible with lactation.
4. Warning! Pseudoephedrine may reduce milk production. It is used in the treatment of colds, for example, in powders or tablets with other components. Therefore, double-check the composition of medicines.
5. Herbal teas and herbal medicines are NOT EQUALLY compatible with lactation. They also should be checked for compatibility with breastfeeding. Not all herbal remedies are research-proven.
6. Get as much rest as possible. It's time to call someone for help. Mum's illness is a reason for dad or relatives to take a day off or come home early from work and help out, reducing the strain on mum as much as possible. Ideally, it is a few days for mum to only feed the baby on demand and rest.
7. Breast milk will protect your baby from acute respiratory infections, through the antibodies produced in your body, as well as the increase in white blood cells in the milk.
8. If your baby gets infected, it will be quicker and easier to cope with an infectious disease if he or she is breastfed.

Consult your doctor and/or pharmacist about taking medicines!

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

Breastfeeding and heart health

September 29th was World Heart Day. Can breastfeeding promote heart health?  As it turns out, yes. A number of studies have found that breastfeeding has long-term health effects for both the baby and the mother.

For a nursing mother:

• the risk of heart attacks and strokes during her lifetime is reduced, as well as the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of high blood pressure and the development of hypertension. 
• In addition, lactation has a beneficial effect on the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood of the breastfeeding mother.

The beneficial effects of breastfeeding on heart health are provided by at least some period of lactation. Breastfeeding for 12 months and longer has greater beneficial effects.

For babies:

• breastfeeding contributes to lower systolic blood pressure and cholesterol in adulthood.
• Also, in the case of breastfeeding, babies with congenital heart disease grow better.

Take care of your heart health! Breastfeeding can give you a healthier foundation for health, but whether you lead a healthy lifestyle and check your health is up to you!

And if you have any questions about maintaining breastfeeding, I am always ready to answer your questions. Write me!

© 2024 Aleksandra Nekrasova. All Rights Reserved.

When to contact a lactation consultant?

Who is a lactation consultant?

A breastfeeding counsellor or lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist is a professional who has the knowledge and skills to help a nursing mother throughout the breastfeeding period. 

Many breastfeeding counsellors have knowledge of mixed feeding and artificial feeding. Medical professionals often tend to focus on treatments and diseases. Also the limited time is available at the doctor's visits, so usually there is not enough time to go over the basic, yet very important points about infant feeding and development. Lactation consultants become invaluable sources of knowledge that parents lack. However, breastfeeding consultant provides not only practical support, but also emotional and psychological support, increasing the mother's confidence and faith in her abilities, supporting and encouraging in the most crisis moments and during the period of adaptation to the new life as parents. Breastfeeding consultation can dispel parents' fears, worries and anxieties.

This is a relatively new profession that appeared about 40 years ago as a need to help breastfeeding mothers. Due to many factors, such as living in mono nuclear families away from mothers, grandmothers and other relatives who could tell and show how to breastfeed. In addition the increase in artificial feeding in the 20th century did not facilitate the transfer of knowledge. Even if the grandmothers were nearby, they often could not teach anything since they themselves did not breastfeed. It is because of the break in the transfer of knowledge and the appearance of lots of women who wanted to feed their children with their own breast milk, a new specialty appeared - a breastfeeding consultant. This was facilitated by the development of science confirming the value of breastfeeding.

A breastfeeding specialist has interdisciplinary knowledge in the field of lactation physiology, anatomy, psychology, pharmacology, nutrition, and child development in the first years of life. 

When can a breastfeeding consultant help?

Breastfeeding and lactation is a period in a woman's life, which causes a huge number of changes in the organism of a nursing mother at the level of physiology, anatomy, psychics, hormones and emotions. The birth of a child leads to the necessity of adjusting to a new role. For this reason, a large number of questions arise, which can often be answered by a breastfeeding counselor. The specialist will inform you about life with an infant and the development of the baby. 

Such related topics as sleeping, crying, infant care and behavior, indicators of successful development and growth of the baby, introduction of complementary foods are topics of consultations on a par with typical topics such as:

• Proper latching and effective breast latch;
• Problems with effective sucking and latching;
• Questions about the duration and frequency of the infant's naps/sleep and feedings;
• Increasing milk supply, low milk supply, lack of milk;
• Relactation;
• Lactostasis (blocked ducts, plugged ducts), mastitis, breast abscess;
• Oversupply, hyperlactation;
• Fast let-down;
• D-MER reflex (feeling on negative emotions during start of breastfeeding session);
• Engorged breasts;
• Problems with breastfeeding in the first days after delivery;
• Nipple or breast pain;
• Cracked or sore nipples;
• Nipple blister/white spot on nipple;
• Teething;
• Biting;
• Lactation induction;
• Weaning;
• Milk expression, pumping and storage of breast milk;
• Growth spurts and breastfeeding crisis;
• Introduction of complementary foods and breastfeeding;
• Sleep and breastfeeding;
• Crying baby, unsettled baby at the breast, unsatisfied baby after feeding;
• Breast refusal;
• Suspicion of food intolerance or allergy to mother's food in infant;
• Illness of mother or child during breastfeeding;
• Flat and inverted nipples;
• Redness and itching of the breast;
• Contraception and planning pregnancy during breastfeeding;
• Breastfeeding after breast surgery;
• Hypoplasia (lack of breast tissue);
• Breastfeeding after previous negative experience of breastfeeding;
• Breastfeeding twins, triplets;
• Issues on the use of donor milk;
• Pacifier and bottle using when baby breastfed (paced bottle feeding);
• Colic;
• Maintaining lactation and establishing breastfeeding of premature baby/babies;
• Breastfeeding in case of anatomical and physiological characteristics of the baby (chronic diseases, tongue tie, low muscle tone, cleft palate or lip, etc.);
• Cluster feeding (frequent feedings in the evening);
• Slow weight gain or no weight gain of the baby;
• Breastfeeding after caesarean section, traumatic labour, instrumental delivery, induction or stimulation of labour, analgesia with epidural anaesthesia in labour;
  
• Breastfeeding and medications, smoking, alcohol;
• Breastfeeding and diet/nutrition of nursing mother;
• Co-sleeping, safe sleep for babies, night feedings;
• Supplementation with expressed milk, donor milk or infant formula;
• Alternative feeding methods;
• Consideration of individual situations (return to work, hospitalization, chronic illness of the mother or baby, pregnancy, tandem feeding of an older child).

A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional but is not a doctor or medical professional and therefore cannot diagnose, prescribe medications or treat. The area of competence of a breastfeeding specialist is healthy breasts in the period of preparation for lactation and during breastfeeding.

However, the consultant will be able to advise which specialist to contact, tell which galactagogues, nutritional supplements, medications or medical procedures are usually used in certain problem situations associated with lactation, their benefits for lactation and risks. After consulting with both a breastfeeding consultant and a doctor, a nursing mother will be able to more successfully cope with the problem. Also, a lactation consultant can, based on his/her knowledge, competence and availability of scientific information, inform a nursing mother about the passage of certain medications into breast milk and compatibility with breastfeeding. Often, after treatment recommended by a doctor or medication suggested by a pharmacist or doctor, a nursing mother begins to worry about the compatibility of treatment and breastfeeding. Then consultation and support from a breastfeeding specialist is indispensable for overcoming fears, anxiety and maintaining breastfeeding.

In cases of breast surgery, retracted or flat nipples, chronic diseases of the mother, risk of premature birth, risk of hypoglycemia in the baby, expectation of twins, wish to express the colostrum before delivery, wish to prepare and start lactation as successfully as possible, counselling will be helpful before delivery. You can take your time to figure everything out and get ready!

If you want to consult or ask a question, write to me!