TrieBios Baby & Mama

Breastfeeding has been an incredibly special and emotional journey for me and my baby. Over the past 21 months, we have shared countless moments of bonding, comfort, and love. I As I officially wean my baby off breastfeeding, I reflect on this beautiful journey with a heart full of gratitude. Here, I share my experiences and offer tips for other breastfeeding mothers, covering essential topics such as foods to increase milk supply, foods to avoid, drinking coffee while breastfeeding, using a breast pump and milk collector, and tips for weaning your baby off breastfeeding.

The Breastfeeding Journey: A Bond Like No Other

Breastfeeding creates a unique and intimate bond between mother and child. For me, it was a time of closeness and connection, providing not just nourishment but also comfort and security for Jayden. Each feeding session was a special moment, and I cherish the heartwarming memories we created together.

I still remember the first moment Jayden sought out my breast during our initial skin-to-skin contact after labor. Within an hour of being born, he started looking for the source, amusingly deciding on his own which side to go for. It was all amazing and new to me! Almost all our baby-and-me time in the first two years involved breastfeeding. I feel incredibly fortunate that my breastfeeding journey went smoothly, supported by loved ones, and I am forever grateful for this experience.

My initial plan was to breastfeed Jayden until he turned two. However, due to a sudden need for wisdom teeth extraction and the accompanying antibiotics, we decided to wean Jayden off breastfeeding when he was 21 month old. Given that I was exclusively breastfeeding him and Jayden is a spirited, determined child—especially when it comes to my breasts for both nutrition and comfort—we expected a challenging transition for all of us.

Surprisingly, Jayden adapted quickly. He was a bit confused and fussy on the first day, but by the second day, when he asked to nurse and I gently offered a hug instead, he no longer insisted. We waited for a week to ensure he had truly forgotten about breastfeeding. Today, I am officially breastfeeding-free, and the transition has been smoother than I ever imagined.

Breastfeeding Essentials

Throughout my breastfeeding journey, I have learned so much about it. The science and biology behind breastfeeding still blow my mind. Reflecting on the journey, here are a few breastfeeding tips I want to share:

Breastfeeding Schedule

While some might suggest nursing a baby on a strict schedule, I believe every baby is unique. Those suggested schedules didn’t fit Jayden. He couldn’t handle waiting four long hours for the next feed, so I learned to read his hunger cues and nurse him on demand. This approach was healthier for both Jayden and me.

Cluster Feeding

Cluster feeding is when a baby wants to breastfeed very frequently, often seeming unsettled and wanting to be held a lot. Luckily for us, Jayden was very punctual (he was born on his exact due date). We noticed his cluster feeding periods usually occurred halfway through the month. Despite the fatigue of constantly breastfeeding, I was happy to see him gaining weight during these times.

Establishing Milk Supply

In the first few days after labor, establishing milk supply is crucial. My experience was uncomfortable—my breasts were very tense and felt like they might explode. I needed to consume foods that helped increase milk quantity and improve quality, and staying hydrated was essential. I drank water not just for myself but also to support my milk production. Once my supply stabilized, I began to enjoy breastfeeding immensely.

Determining Milk Quantity

How much breast milk is enough for a baby? While breastfeeding, it’s hard to measure the exact amount per session. I learned to gauge this by the number of diaper changes. After the first week, Jayden had about 6-8 wet diapers and 2-3 yellow poop diapers daily, which is considered healthy. I also monitored the duration of each feeding session. Newborns often nurse for about 20 minutes per session, which should be sufficient. Jayden typically nursed for less than 20 minutes but fed more frequently, every 2.5-3 hours instead of 4, which worked well for him. Monitoring weight gain is also essential to ensure your baby is getting enough milk.

Latch and Position

Ensuring your baby latches well and is in a comfortable position is crucial. It is recommended to learn how the correct latch would look like and adjust for yourself. I found it challenging to nurse Jayden on my right side but natural on my left. As a result sometimes he did not latch well on my left one. Some babies may have a tongue-tie, making it difficult for them to latch. If you encounter latching issues, seek advice from a lactation consultant or your doctor promptly, as proper nutrition from breastfeeding is vital in the first few months.

There are many breastfeeding positions, each beneficial for specific situations. For example, if you’ve had a C-section, the side-lying and football hold positions are particularly helpful. My favorite position is the side-lying, which I used even though I had a natural birth. This position allowed both Jayden and me to continue sleeping while he nursed. The five basic positions you should know are the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, laid-back position, and side-lying. I recommend trying all of them to find the one that is most comfortable for both you and your baby, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable nursing session.

Mixing Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding

One big lesson I learned was about mixing breastfeeding with bottle feeding. After the first month, my milk supply stabilized, and we established a nursing schedule, so I exclusively breastfed Jayden. However, when he turned three months old, he refused the bottle, which was stressful since I had to return to work soon. My biggest tip: if you plan to mix breastfeeding with bottle feeding, start early. Introduce the bottle with your breast milk alongside breastfeeding to avoid any issues later on.

Food to boost milk supply

Maintaining a healthy milk supply is a common concern for many breastfeeding mothers, including me. Drawing from modern science, cultural traditions from my Vietnamese heritage, and advice from my Dutch maternity supporter, I’ve found several foods that helped increase my milk production:

1. Normal Eating Diet and Routine:Even though I was often too tired or lacked appetite due to sleepless nights, I tried to maintain my normal eating diet and routine from before having a baby. Since milk production relies on the nutrition available in our bodies, it’s crucial to continue eating a balanced diet and not skip meals for both your health and your milk supply.
2. Oats: Oats are often suggested to help increase milk supply due to their rich iron content. Oats boost milk supply because they are rich in iron, which supports lactation, and contain beta-glucan, a fiber that can increase prolactin levels, a hormone essential for milk production. They also provide energy and reduce stress, both of which are beneficial for breastfeeding. While I’m not a huge fan, I incorporated oats into my breakfast, topping them with fruits for an extra vitamin boost.
3. Fennel seeds: My maternity supporter recommended fennel seeds steeped in warm water to make fennel tea. This comforting drink became a regular part of my breastfeeding routine. Fennel seeds are believed to help boost milk supply due to their content of phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that mimic the hormone estrogen. Estrogen plays a role in milk production, and the phytoestrogens in fennel can help stimulate the production of breast milk. Additionally, fennel has been traditionally used for its galactagogue properties, meaning it can help increase milk supply in breastfeeding mothers.
4. Beschuit met muisjes: In the Netherlands, it’s traditional to eat muisjes on top of beschuit to celebrate a baby’s birth. The anise in the muisjes symbolizes fertility and is believed to stimulate lactation. Anise boosts milk supply due to its phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen and stimulate milk production. It also has galactagogue properties traditionally used to promote lactation. Upon learning this, my husband promptly bought several baskets of muisjes and packs of beschuit for me :p
5. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens boost milk supply because they are rich in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and folate, which support overall health and lactation. They also contain phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen and can stimulate milk production. Additionally, their high water content helps with hydration, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy milk supply.
6. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, macadamia nuts, flaxseeds, and sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats and essential nutrients that support lactation. They also contain phytoestrogens, which can help stimulate milk production. Additionally, their nutrient density provides the extra calories and energy needed for breastfeeding. Incorporating these into my diet helped boost my overall nutrition.
7. Porridge with pork feet: This may not appeal to everyone, but it was my comfort food during the first few months of breastfeeding. In Vietnamese culture, pork feet are believed to support lactation. According to my husband, who has a background in biology, pork feet contain a lot of collagen and gelatin, which can help boost milk production. Collagen and gelatin in pork feet are thought to support overall health and recovery postpartum, which can indirectly support lactation by improving maternal well-being. Additionally, pork feet are often cooked with other nutritious ingredients in soups or broths that provide essential vitamins and minerals, further promoting a healthy milk supply. The warmth and hydration from these broths can also be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. My favorite recipe is the one my mama cooks, and it’s super easy to make.

Photo: Beschuit met muisje

By incorporating these foods into my diet, I found a noticeable improvement in my milk supply. Every mother’s body is different, so it’s important to find what works best for you and enjoy the journey of nourishing your little one.

Foods to Avoid While Breastfeeding

Certain foods can negatively impact your milk supply or upset your baby’s digestion. It’s best to avoid:

1. Alcohol: It can pass through your milk and affect your baby’s development and sleep patterns.
2. Caffeine: Excessive caffeine can make your baby irritable and disrupt their sleep.
3. Spicy Foods: These can cause digestive issues in some babies.
4. Certain Fish: High-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel should be avoided as mercury can pass through breast milk and potentially lead to neurological and developmental issues in the baby.

Drinking Coffee While Breastfeeding

Moderation is key when it comes to coffee consumption during breastfeeding. It’s generally safe to have one to two cups of coffee a day. However, monitor your baby for signs of irritability or sleeplessness, as caffeine can affect them.

Breastfeeding Essentials Tools

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and rewarding experience, but it can also come with its challenges. Having the right tools can make a significant difference in making the journey smoother and more comfortable for both mom and baby. Here are some essential breastfeeding tools that I have used and found invaluable:

Photo: Medela Freestyle Breast Pump (Source: Medela)

1. Breast Pump: A good breast pump is essential, whether you’re returning to work, want to build a milk stash, or need relief from engorgement. Electric pumps are efficient for regular use, while manual pumps are more portable and convenient for occasional use. I used the Medela Freestyle Double Electric Breast Pump and found it very convenient, easy to use, and comfortable with different pump levels. Nowadays, many moms prefer wearable breast pumps. Innovative options like hands-free, super lightweight pumps designed for on-the-go moms are now available. Based on my experience with Medela, I recommend trying the Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump.
2. Milk Collector: These handy devices can collect leaking milk from one breast while you feed from the other, preventing waste and increasing your milk storage. I personally used the Haakaa Milk Collector, which can also be used as a manual breast pump.
3. Nursing pillow: A nursing pillow supports your baby and helps position them correctly, reducing strain on your back and arms. It can make long feeding sessions much more comfortable for both mom and baby.
4. Nursing Bra: Investing in comfortable, supportive nursing bras is crucial. Look for ones with easy access for feeding, proper support, and comfort. Seamless and wireless options are often more comfortable for everyday wear.
5. Nursing Pads: Nursing pads help absorb any leakage, keeping you dry and comfortable. Disposable pads are convenient for quick changes, while washable pads are eco-friendly and cost-effective. I highly recommend using washable pads inside your bra while going out; they help manage leakage when it’s time for your baby to nurse and you can’t express milk.
6. Nursing cover: A nursing cover provides privacy and helps create a calm feeding environment when you’re breastfeeding in public. There are various styles available, from apron-like covers to poncho-style options.
7. Nipple cream: Nipple cream is a lifesaver for soothing and healing sore or cracked nipples, especially in the early days of breastfeeding. Look for natural ingredient options that are safe for both you and your baby.
8. Storage bags/bottles: For storing expressed breast milk, you’ll need storage bags or bottles. Look for BPA-free options with secure seals to prevent leaks and contamination.
9. Bottle warmer: A bottle warmer gently heats stored breast milk to the appropriate feeding temperature, preserving the nutrients and making it easy to prepare a bottle quickly. We used the Philips Avent Bottle Warmer, which offers smart temperature control and a fast warming solution.
10. Burp cloths: Burp cloths are essential for keeping both you and your baby clean during and after feeding. They can handle spit-up, drool, and milk dribbles, making them a must-have in your breastfeeding toolkit. Look for organic fabric that is gentle on your baby’s skin.
11. Breastfeeding app (Optional): A breastfeeding app can help you track feeding times, durations, and which side was last used. This can be particularly useful in the early days when you’re trying to establish a routine and ensure your baby is feeding enough.
12. Lactation consultation access (Optional): Having access to a lactation consultant can provide professional support for any breastfeeding challenges you encounter. They can offer personalized advice and solutions, making your breastfeeding journey smoother and more enjoyable. While not essential, it’s helpful to research and have a consultant in mind in case any issues arise. Preparation is key.

Tips for Weaning Your Baby Off Breastfeeding

Weaning is a gradual process and can be an emotional transition for both you and your baby. Fortunately, my experience was surprisingly smooth and easy. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

1. Take It Slow: If possible, wean at a slow pace. Gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions, replacing them with solid foods or formula (for baby less than 1 year old), or plain whole cow’s milk (for baby older than 1 year old). Encourage your baby to drink from a cup instead of a bottle to ease the transition. This gradual approach helps your baby adjust and prevents engorgement.
2. Offer Comfort: Provide extra cuddles and attention to reassure your baby during the transition. Jayden often sought my breasts for comfort, so my husband and I prepared him by talking to him daily for a week in advance, believing he understood what was coming. Whenever he sought my breast, I offered hugs, played with him, or made him laugh.
3. Distraction: Engage your baby in activities during usual feeding times to distract them from wanting to nurse. Avoid staying around the usual nursing spots, as babies remember routines and associate specific places with breastfeeding.
4. Stay Consistent: Maintain consistency with the new routine to help your baby adapt more quickly. Consistency reinforces the new habits and makes the transition smoother for both of you.

Breastfeeding has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, filled with love, bonding, and countless precious moments. As I move on from this chapter, I am filled with gratitude for the journey we shared. For all the mothers embarking on or continuing their breastfeeding journey, I hope these tips and insights help you navigate this beautiful experience with confidence and joy. Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and what matters most is the love and care you provide for your little one.