Q&A: How Can I Help Baby Nurse?

My baby had to stay in the NICU after having heart surgery, and now we're having trouble getting breastfeeding started. (He’s three weeks old and seven pounds.) They gave him my milk with a bottle while he was there, so that they could tell how much he was taking. How can I keep my supply up and help him learn to nurse now that we’re home?

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By Catherine Watson Genna, BS, IBCLC, Lactation Specialist

Updated January 30, 2017

It’s best to see an IBCLC (international board certified lactation consultant) for help with complex problems. Tips to make the transition: Gently offer the breast when your baby is not too hungry so he can practice. Express milk by hand or with a rental breast pump about eight times a day. And change the way you bottle feed so baby has to open wide for the bottle.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

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Q&A: How Can I Help Baby Nurse?

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