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Have you seen headlines recently about a study showing that feeding babies at 3 months helps them sleep better at night? I have. The nonmedical press is not very good at reporting on medical studies and tends to put out sensational headlines with very little data. I was curious about this study, because this directly contradicts the recommendation to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months with no other foods introduced. I took a look at the original study, and here’s what I found.
Going Back to WorkAs a pediatrician who specializes in breastfeeding, I have worked a lot with working, breastfeeding moms. I was a working, breastfeeding mom myself. I went back to work when each of my kids was 6-7 weeks old and spent a LOT of quality time with my breast pump. Going back to work can be one of the hardest times for new moms. Some moms want to stay home but can’t because of finances or other obligations (in my case, I had a Navy contract that required that I go back to work). Some moms like their jobs and want to go back to work. Whatever the reason, there is often (but not always) guilt and stress with going back to work and maintaining breastfeeding. Will the baby take a bottle? How will you find time to pump? What if you have a problem with breastfeeding?
Maternity Leave and Preparing to Go BackAs a pediatrician who specializes in breastfeeding, I have worked a lot with working, breastfeeding moms. I was a working, breastfeeding mom myself. I went back to work when each of my kids was 6-7 weeks old and spent a LOT of quality time with my breast pump. Going back to work can be one of the hardest times for new moms. Some moms want to stay home but can’t because of finances or other obligations (in my case, I had a Navy contract that required that I go back to work). Some moms like their jobs and want to go back to work. Whatever the reason, there is often (but not always) guilt and stress with going back to work and maintaining breastfeeding. What equipment and supplies do I need? When should I start pumping? What if I don't get any milk?
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About the blogA look at some topics in breastfeeding, medicine, and kids health. Archives
December 2019
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