As I wrote, it dawned on me that I could practically pen a feeding manual. Instead, I've distilled it down to the top 5 questions I'm frequently asked as a Doula. In this post, I will share my feeding journey over the last decade with four kids. I'll also touch upon crucial points to consider if you embark on a similar journey. Questions like how do I know if the baby is eating enough, how to approach feeding goals, and making schedule changes are among the topics I'll address. Having experienced breastfeeding and formula feeding firsthand, I wholeheartedly support whatever method works best for your family. While breast milk undeniably offers incredible benefits, formula feeding has its own merits, including benefits for maternal mental health. I aim to provide encouragement and support for those seeking it while ultimately recognizing that you are the best judge of what suits your family's needs.
Setting feeding goals
Ten years ago, when I was expecting my first daughter, I had a feeding goal in mind. Breastfeeding was definitely on my radar, but I also had a formula stash in case things didn’t go as planned. My ultimate goal was to breastfeed for a whole year. But let's be honest, setting that goal from the get-go felt like aiming for the stars. I knew hitting a snag on day one could lead to a significant letdown. So, instead of putting all my eggs in that one-year basket, I broke it down into smaller, more manageable chunks. First, I wanted to make it through that first month. Once I hit that mark, I stretched it to three months, then six, and finally, nine. Taking it step by step helped me stay grounded and celebrate each milestone.
Remember to factor in what you need—are you getting enough sleep, showering, eating well, and taking care of yourself? Also, consider if your partner is getting to spend quality time feeding the baby. Asking yourself these questions can help you figure out how to balance and set your feeding goals.
How do I make changes to our schedule?
You'll hear many mixed opinions about schedules—some swear by them, while others can't stand the rigidity. I've found that having a loose schedule can be a lifesaver, giving you a sense of structure in the chaos of those early weeks. Even when your little one is calling the shots with on-demand feedings, it helps to carve out time for yourself to eat, catch some fresh air, or take a breather. Flexibility is key here—if your plan needs tweaking, make changes! As your baby grows, their feeding patterns and your schedule will evolve. You’ll know if they are getting enough milk if they are peeing and pooping and gaining weight. The rule of thumb is one diaper per day of life up to day 5. From day 6 onward, it is 6-8 wet diapers daily. They should also gain 5-7 oz per week, which you can find out when you visit your pediatrician appointments.
For the first couple of weeks, it's about feeding on demand, roughly every 2-3 hours. You want to focus on ensuring they get plenty of feeds during the day to keep them satisfied, which hopefully means longer stretches of sleep for you at night. Beyond these initial two weeks, I cobbled together a routine that suited us using bits and pieces from various baby sleep resources. Still, it was about making minor adjustments every couple of weeks. One of my biggest challenges? Figuring out when I could get more sleep at night! Once I felt confident that my baby was gaining weight and stretching out those nighttime stretches, I gradually spaced out our feeds. We aimed for a "sleeping through the night" phase around the 10-12 week mark, and I kept up with pumping right before bedtime until around month 10. After that, the pump got the boot once I realized we were nearing the 12-month milestone and had a little stash of milk saved up.
How do I test out formula and bottles?
I had kids who loved bottles, hated bottles, loved formula, hated formula. Truthfully, the only way you will know is to try different options. I have a rule of 3 so I don’t lose my sanity - try three things before panic sets in. We would try three bottle types or three formulas - and if nothing worked, which was the case with my 4th, I couldn’t stress about one more thing, so we figured out how to make myself available…at all times. Truly, you do want to introduce these things early. There can be “nipple confusion,” as they say - but I think our babies are more intelligent than we are making them out to be. If you have a baby on a bottle by a specific time, introduce them to options in the first few weeks while also maintaining regular breastfeeding.
How can I take care of myself during these long feeding sessions?
Do yourself a favor and set up a basket or rolling baby cart in the room you feed in most often. Keep all your feeding essentials, comfort measures, diapers, and wipes within reach. Before you sit down to feed, fill up your water, grab a snack or a meal, and something to pass the time like a book or a podcast. Have them close by in case you get nap-trapped. Check out my post on Postpartum Self-Care for more ideas.
After feeding, I love to use coconut oil on the nipple to soothe (and did you know it is antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral, too?). Heat is your friend if you are breastfeeding, whereas ice is better if you are not. You can also do a combination of both - I find that ice on the nipple and warmth on the breast felt the most relieving. Also, do not squeeze out milk if they feel too full; it will only tell your body to produce more according to the rules of supply and demand!
How can I stay nourished?
Your body experiences significant changes following pregnancy and childbirth, including losing fluids and electrolytes. As you transition into the postpartum phase, it's essential to prioritize your recovery by ensuring sufficient rest and nutrition. These foundational elements restore your energy levels, promote milk production, mitigate the risk of postpartum depression, and support your body's healing process. Adequate hydration is crucial—strive for ample fluid intake, particularly those containing electrolytes, to replenish what has been lost. I like to get in three large bottles full each day at a minimum, with one containing electrolyte powder. Psst - Mommy’s Bliss Lactation Hydration Drink Tablets are the perfect solution - they are made with electrolytes, vitamin B and fennel to support hydration and energy for lactating moms.
Incorporating protein aids in tissue repair, while healthy fats help maintain essential Omega-3 levels to combat inflammation. Additionally, emphasize fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide crucial nutrients for recovery and reduce inflammation. By nourishing your body with these essentials, you're caring for yourself and ultimately laying the groundwork for your baby's well-being. Make your meals convenient for grab-and-go situations. Crackers and bread offer easy options for snacking while on your feet with the baby or during breastfeeding. Instead of complex cooking, consider organizing your meals into categories. For example, consider having three protein options in the fridge (such as hummus, grilled chicken, and cheese cubes). Pair them with veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or lettuce cups. Then, think about the easiest way to consume them, whether in a wrap, with chips, on crackers, or with bread.
This site is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Please consult your physician or other health-care professional.
