Frequently Asked Questions: Breastfeeding/Postpartum

• How can I tell if my baby is getting the appropriate amount of milk
• Will I return to my normal weight faster if I breastfeed?
• Do I need to eat more when breastfeeding?
• Does diet has any effects on milk production?
• Can exercise have an impact on my milk production?
• Are there any foods to avoid eating while breastfeeding?
• Should I take a vitamin supplement while breastfeeding?
• What should I do to relieve inflamed hemorrhoids after giving birth?

How can I tell if my baby is getting the appropriate amount of milk?

Many breastfeeding women are concerned that their baby is not drinking enough milk or the milk supply is inadequate. The best way to determine if your baby is drinking enough is to monitor his or her growth. If your baby is gaining weight normally or wets at least 6 to 8 diapers a day, all is well. Each baby has his own drinking schedule: some drink a large quantity of milk a few times a day; others drink small amounts frequently (every 1½ hours). Also, it is appropriate to feed your baby more often during periods of rapid growth.

Will I return to my normal weight faster if I breastfeed?

Breastfeeding stimulates the uterus to return to its normal size, however this will not guarantee weight loss in the short term. Do not expect to return to your pre-pregnancy weight in less than a month. Most women will find their pre-pregnancy weight in the range of a few months. It is important that you maintain a balanced diet as you had during pregnancy.

Do I need to eat more when breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding women need to increase their caloric intake slightly more than non-breastfeeding women. As in pregnancy, the quality of food you eat is more important than the quantity. Continue following Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating and taking a prenatal vitamin supplement.

Does diet has any effects on milk production?

Your diet has a direct effect on your milk production. If you are following the Food Guide's recommendations and your child is tracking to a normal growth curve, you do not have to be concerned about milk production. If you are unsure about milk production or your child's growth, consult your healthcare professional.

Can exercise have an impact on my milk production?

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) and the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) released the first ever Clinical Guideline for Exercise in Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period in June 2003. It states that moderate exercise during lactation does not affect the quantity or composition of breast milk or negatively affect infant growth.

Are there any foods to avoid eating while breastfeeding?

It is recommended to follow Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating. There is no need to avoid any specific foods. Also, there is no scientific evidence to date linking the mother's diet to the development of a colic condition in the baby.

Should I take a vitamin supplement while breastfeeding?

Because pregnancy and childbirth depletes iron stores most healthcare professionals recommend the continuation of prenatal vitamin supplementation.

What should I do to relieve inflamed hemorrhoids after giving birth?

Pregnancy is a common cause of hemorrhoids and approximately 80% of women will have this condition during or after delivery. Talk about this problem with your physician. Do not suffer needlessly as there are effective treatments available.