Q and A

Ask Anne… Question: How long do you need to nurse in order for your baby to receive the brain-growth and immunological benefits of breast milk? And, though I’m sure it varies widely from mom to mom, how seldom can you nurse and still maintain a milk supply? Is it possible to maintain a steady-state of milk, or does the supply gradually, …

Ask Anne… Question: I nursed my first child for a year and plan on breastfeeding my new little bundle of joy. However, I can’t remember when I first gave him a pacifier, so that it would not interfere with breastfeeding and cause “nipple confusion.” How long should I wait before introducing a pacifier? Answer: Many babies switch forth effortlessly between …

Ask Anne…   Question: My baby is 3 months old and I have just returned to work. I’m afraid I’m losing my milk because she isn’t gaining weight well. Will Fenugreek increase my milk supply? Is it really safe to use while I’m nursing? If so, how much do I need to take? Answer: Fenugreek is a herb that has been …

Ask Anne… Question: My first baby was born three days ago. My milk has come in and breastfeeding is going well. My nipples are tender but not sore, and my breasts are full but not engorged.   However, today I noticed something strange and I’m worried. I have what looks like a little nipple underneath my left breast.  It’s been …

Ask Anne… Question: I’m expecting our first child next month, and my partner and I are thrilled. However, I’m concerned because I  have to go back to work full time (including some overnight travel time) when she is six weeks old. My partner is self employed, and  wants to be involved in every step of the birth/bonding process, so he plans to be …

Ask Anne… Question: I’m nursing my 3 month old and haven’t had any nipple soreness since the first few days after she was born. However, for the past week  my right nipple has been very sore. At the end of every feeding, the tissue at the center of my nipple is white. There isn’t any pus or discharge, but it is very painful.  …

Ask Anne… I am currently trying to relactate. I work full time Monday thru Friday from 8-5, and my job doesn’t allow me much time to pump. I hand express whenever I can, and then I try to latch her on as soon as I get home. The problem is that she gets really mad when not much milk comes …

Ask Anne… Question: I’m nursing my three month old baby, and I’m having a hard time getting over a head cold. Now I’m developing a cough. Is there any medicine that’s safe to take while breastfeeding? Answer:  Most medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers. In  nearly all cases, the risk of side effects in your baby is extremely small. When taking any medication during pregnancy …