Breastfeeding FAQ’s Part 3
In this third part of the most frequently asked questions I will cover some day to day practical breastfeeding advice. Including breastfeeding support when back at work or in public places.
Can I breastfeed while taking medications?
The majority of medications you can. Every medication comes with its own risk/benefit calculation that yourself and your healthcare provider must consider. On the most part, the benefit of breast milk for your baby will outweigh potential risk however I would always recommend looking on The Breastfeeding Network about medication in breastmilk before taking any medication.
How can I continue breastfeeding when I go back to work?
Employers have a legal obligation to allow you time and privacy to express in order to maintain your milk supply alongside expressed breastmilk storage. If going back to work before the baby is eating solids (6 months) you would need to express to achieve a minimum of 8 breast stimulations in a day. Over 6 months this might be when your baby would usually feed (although likely to be a similar amount in the early months of solids). You may find that your baby makes up feeds more on an evening and night time to keep your supply regulated.
How can I store and thaw breast milk properly?
Breast milk storage should be in accordance with either The Breastfeeding Network, UNICEF or NHS guidance. Breastmilk can stay at room temperature for 6 hours (if your baby is unwell or premature please seek specific guidance on storage from your health care setting). Timings vary in a hospital setting but in general in a home setting breastmilk storing expressed breast milk in a fridge 4 degrees Celsius or lower is optimum or can be frozen (which may affect some of the live ingredients of breastmilk but not all). Below 4 degrees Celsius breastmilk can be stored for up to 5 days in the main compartment of the fridge. Breastmilk can be stored in the freezer, in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Breastmilk can be thawed in the fridge (takes approx. 12 hours) or at room temperature. Never defrost breastmilk in the microwave as this is unsafe. Thawed breastmilk should be used as soon as defrosted if defrosted outside of the fridge. Once your baby has drunk from a cup or bottle of expressed breastmilk it should be used or discarded within an hour.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for both the baby and me?
Breastfeeding has a multitude of benefits for both mother and baby. For the mother it decreases her risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, cardiac disease, obesity and breast or ovarian cancers. For the baby it also decreases the risk of them becoming diabetic or obese. Breastmilk reduces a babies risk of readmission into hospital with vomiting, diarrhoea, gut or ear infections. Breastfeeding supports higher levels of oxytocin which is a vital part to developing a babies brain. For both mum and baby breastfeeding provides comfort, pain relief and a secure bond.
Are there any techniques to help with breastfeeding in public?
I would always recommend if you are nervous about breastfeeding in public you practice feeding in front of a mirror at home first, this way you can see how little others can see of your chest area whilst feeding. Wear comfortable easy access clothing. Feed around people you feel comfortable in front of initially and think about attending a breastfeeding group. You shouldn’t need to feel worried about feeding your baby in public and it is your absolute right to do so. Some mothers choose to feed more discreetly than others and neither is in the wrong.
Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a lactation consultant or specialist professional for personalised advice and support regarding breastfeeding