Feeding Options for Infants and Families

When working with clients or even consulting with potentional clients, its important to explore their expections in feeding their baby. To do this, I like to help them formulate a plan by setting some long term and short term goals. To flesh this out a bit, I like to start with what the needs might be of the parents first in order to create a level of sustainability in feeding methods. For example, starting with how the birth went, if a c-section happend, if the baby was premature, etc. because these can all be factors with milk production if the plan might be to breastfeed and/or pump milk. Once we assess needs, we can then look at different options (not too many- we don't want to overwhelm new parents). Once we have our plan intact, I like to observe the feed so that we can troubleshoot the decisions that were just made and make any adjustments that may be necessary ie. the latch, is there a tongue tie, etc. Then once we have a bit of a rhythm going, I keep it positive and affirm how well it's going to build confidence. Doing periodic check-ins with a family on how the feeding is going and how they are feeling is always super important as things can change very quickly not only with a baby, but also with moms changing hormones, which can also affect milk production. A new mother should always be well nourished to maintain energy, but also to get in extra calories so that milk production is successful. A good idea to ensure this is to maybe have the family setup a meal train in advance of the birth.

These are just some highlights in outlining a plan for how to feed your baby as there are many ways: breastfeeding, bottle feeding with pumped milk and/or formula, cup feeding, finger feeding etc. There are also various formulas, bottles and nipples on the market to accommodate baby's needs and preferences. Just remember, fed is best, and a postpartum doula is there to help you figure out just which method of fed is right for you and your family!