Infant Nutrition Center
The LMH Health Infant Nutrition Center provides guidance and support to breastfeeding and bottle-feeding families. The Perfect Fit, a retail store within the Infant Nutrition Center, gives families access to breast pumps and other pregnancy and breastfeeding items for rent or for sale. Additionally, we have a team of certified lactation consultants and educators offering advice and assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I nurse my baby?
Right after birth, babies need to be fed every 2-3 hours to get adequate nutrition. As soon as the milk "comes in," usually between the second and fourth days, you may nurse your baby on demand. Feeding should continue at least every 2-3 hours until your baby's weight has returned to the weight at birth (usually around two weeks of age).
My baby won't wake up to nurse. What should I do?
If your baby is within one day to two weeks old and not up to birth weight, you MUST nurse your baby every 2-3 hours. Sometimes babies cluster feed (eat at shorter time intervals), and that can be okay as long as they are eating at least eight times in a 24-hour period. If your baby is less than two weeks old, especially if only 3-4 days old, and you cannot wake the baby up, call your baby's doctor or a lactation consultant. If the baby is up to birth weight (usually around two weeks of age) do not be alarmed – be prepared to cluster feed!
How do I know that my baby is getting enough breast milk?
About a day after your milk comes in, you should see 3-4 yellow bowel movements and 6-8 wet diapers in 24 hours.
I think I might need a breast pump. What are the reasons I might need one?
Breast pumps are always nice to have if you are going to be separated from your baby for any length of time. Pumps for occasional pumping are great for being away a short time. Efficient, electric, double-pumping machines, such as the ones offered in the Perfect Fit store, are recommended for full-time working mothers.
My breasts are swollen and hard. What should I do?
Can your baby latch on and nurse? If so, nurse, nurse, nurse. If not, and you cannot get anything to come out after a warm shower, massaging breasts, pumping or hand expression, call a lactation consultant for assistance.
If you have questions about breastfeeding and don't see the answer above, our team will be happy to help and answer all your questions. Call us at 785-505-6398.
