FIRST FEEDING BOX

First Feeding Box Instructions for use

Everything you need...

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FIRST FEEDING BOX

Welcome to BabyDoc's First Feeding Box. All the essentials you need when you start your infant feeding journey, regardless of the path you take.

The BabyDoc Club is Ireland’s leading online Mum and baby community. We’re there for every step of the way, from pregnancy through to toddlerhood and beyond...

Real Mums with real experience, we’re PASSIONATE about helping those of you who are new to this!

At the BabyDoc Club, we support Mum’s journey, regardless of the path they take. We encourage Mums to breastfeed when possible. We are not here to judge, we recognise and acknowledge that every individual is different. The path you choose does not define you as a “good” or “bad” mother. Ultimately we are all united in trying to do our very best for our baby.

Fed is best

Why breastfeed?Breastfeeding is amazing for both Mum and baby on so many fronts. Nutritionally, breastmilk is like liquid gold, it’s rich in nutrients and contains antibodies from Mum. Breastfeeding also helps Mum shake that baby weight, you might even feel uterus contractions while feeding! It helps deepen the bond between Mum & baby and it can provide such a psychological boost through a sense of achievement.

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Our First-Feeding Box – supporting Mums and ENCOURAGING 1 MORE FEED!We assembled this First-Feeding Box to provide you with the tools you need to feed your baby. If you’re breastfeeding, our mission is to help you get through that feed when it all seems a little bit too much. 1 more feed - You’ve got this!

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Breasfeeding optionsIf you’re breastfeeding, you have 2 options:Exclusively Breastfeed – baby is fed directly from the breast.Combination Feed – baby is fed by both breast and bottles (with expressed milk and/or infant formula).

How you choose to feed is your choice. Our advice is to exclusively breastfeed until you establish a routine. Then if you wish, you can introduce a bottle to give Mum a break or help your partner get in on the act.

Absolutely not! There are a wide number of reasons that may make breastfeeding difficult or even impossible. Baby might have problems latching or milk might not be of sufficient quality or quantity. Mums can often feel “less than” and blame themselves, despite it being no fault of their own. They may even feel judged by others. Rest assured, there are fantastic quality infant formula options available to ensure your baby is well fed and nutritionally satisfied. Remember we’re all doing the best we can, judging yourself or others can be damaging to mental well-being.

"If I can’t breastfeed, am I a bad mother?"

Throughout your breastfeeding journey, it’s almost guaranteed you will hit some rocky patches – whether it’s those first few days at home, a lack of sleep or perhaps your nipples feel completely banjaxed! “Am I doing this right?” “Am I good enough?” “Is this worth it?” Doubt can set in but what we’re asking Mums to do is this…

That first time you feel like stopping your breastfeeding journey, pause for a moment and take a step back. Look at what you’ve achieved so far. Be aware that challenges are often short-lived. Ask a medical professional for advice. Push through this one time, then make your breastfeeding decision from a position of power.

Be prepared for the challenge!

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FIRST FEEDING BOX

A breast milk collector does exactly what the name suggests, it collects breastmilk from the “other” boob while feeding or pumping. It ensures no precious liquid is wasted so you can build up enough of a stash to take a break from feeding from time to time (if you wish).

Lansinoh Milk Collector

This lightweight, comfortable milk collector is a breastfeeding essential! Designed to work without any fuss, its BPA/BPS free, 100% silicone, dishwasher safe and easy to clean so it ticks all the boxes. It’s the portable option for busy Mums on the go - easy to fit in any bag, discreet and fits all breast sizes! No plugs, wires or batteries in sight!

Why Lansinoh?

Throw it on your opposite breast when feeding or pumping. It uses a simple suction method that collects every drop of milk. Follow the instructions and make sure to use the neck strap for extra security too!

OUR TIPS FOR USE: (ALWAYS READ INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE!)

NUK Milk Storage BagsNot much to explain here. Any surplus breast milk you collect can be poured into these BPA/BPS free milk storage bags and frozen for use on a later date. Made from hard-wearing material and include a leak-proof double seal.

Milk collection &

storage

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Your nipples will take a bit of time to get used to breastfeeding. Preventing pain caused by sore, swollen and chapped nipples is much better than trying to cure it. It gives you a much better chance of success.

MultiMam Nipple Cream

Based on highly purified, natural wool fat, MultiMam Lanolin is 100% natural and hypoallergenic. It helps to replace and supplement the natural skin fat removed by breastfeeding, safe for Mum and baby!

Why MultiMam Lanolin?

Use at any time and regularly throughout the day. Don’t worry about the mess as your breast pad will absorb any excess! 100% natural and feeding safe - so you don’t need to worry about removing before your baby feeds. Gently wipe away before baby latches on for comfort reasons, but it’s totally safe.

HOW TO USE:

When your nipples are just in need of extra TLC! Sore, chapped, bleeding and cracked nipples... OUCH! These little packs of magic relief are genuine life savers and will help to repair and restore your nipples in no time.

Multimam Compress Pads

Full of repairing goodness, these are cooling and soothing for a nipple in need! They help reduce inflammation and swelling, plus the added 2QR ingredient prevents infection.

Why we picked Multimam

Wear inside you bra or breast pad for 1) up to an hour, 2) up to twice a day. Don’t forget, they're feeding friendly too.

HOW TO USE:

Nipple care

MUMMYSAVER HACK: Cut each

pad into quarters, the pack will last

much longer!

FIRST FEEDING BOX

Post birth, you may find your breasts have a mind of their own. Overproduction and leakage of milk happens. Perfectly natural but it can be annoying, especially when you’ve just put on a fresh top!

NUK Disposable Breast Pads

Protection, comfort and absorbency are key! These cover it all, keeping you dry and confident.

What’s so good about them?

Pop these realistically shaped pads inside your bra, use the sticky tab to secure - just remember to change them regularly! They feel almost invisible, simple and effective.

HOW TO USE:

You may or may not need these, (speak to a lactation consultant first). Nipple shields can help with feeding/latching difficulties in the short term. This may include feeding a small baby, having flat or inverted nipples or trying to give nipples a chance to repair and heal. They can end up being a life-line! Breastfeeding your baby isn't always easy, that’s the truth. It can be frustrating and painful at the best of the times! If you encounter a feeding hurdle, first of all speak with a lactation therapist who may recommend nipple shields.

Super thin, flexible and BPA free, NUK silicone nipple shields have been designed to ensure that baby can still smell Mum’s breast.

Why NUK?

NUK Nipple Shields

Place a freshly sterilised nipple shield over Mum’s nipple before feeding. Designed to feel as natural as possible, although some practice will be needed, the benefits are staggering!

HOW TO USE:

MUMMYSAVER HACK: Don't bin the protective case. Its handy for transport &

sterilising!

Nipple care

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Sterilisers are needed for at least the first 12 months to ensure anything that comes into contact with baby’s mouth is safe and GERM FREE. That includes soothers, bottles, teats and feeding equipment. There is no "5 second rule" when it comes to your baby and their little immune system needing protection.

NUK Microwave Steriliser

The award winning NUK Microwavable Steriliser uses the quick and effective method of steam sterilisation (the hospital choice FYI)! It's compact, meaning it's portable and won't take up too much counter space.

Sterilising

So simple and easy to use, add a little water as directed and your baby bits are ready to use in just 4 minutes. Read the instructions and make sure to practice before baby comes along, its as easy as A, B C!

HOW TO USE:

Why NUK?

FIRST FEEDING BOX

Babies can be very fussy when it comes to feeding. Whatever direction your First Feeding journey takes you, our goal is to give you every chance of what you define as success. Having a bottle at hand for that first time you feel overwhelmed and you feel like throwing in the towel or need a break – it’s fantastic peace of mind and it might just get you through to the next day.

NUK Nature Sense Bottle 0-6mths

You can take confidence from:The acceptance rate, 92% of babies accept NUK bottles.The anti-colic vent - prevents baby guzzling air while feeding (considered to be a major cause of wind and colic).The design of the teat - the flat shape is highly unusual but ingenious. Designed to replicate mother’s nipple during feeding and to help avoid nipple confusion, AND it contains multiple openings at the tip to mimic natural breast flow.

Why NUK Nature Sense?NUK Nature Sense bottles are amazing! Designed to replicate mother’s breast, they’re ideal for breastfed and combination fed babies as well as formula fed. The key is to avoid disrupting baby’s feeding routine.

This depends on the route you’re taking. If you’re breastfeeding, avoid the bottle for the first couple of weeks to allow baby to settle into a routine. Talk to your midwife, GP or public health nurse.

HOW TO USE:

Experiencing problems? Worried about your first-feeding journey? Always check in with either (or both) your 1) GP 2) Public Health Nurse. Helpul resources:www.facebook.com/BabyDocClubIRL/videoswww.BabyDocClub.ie, or see below CUIDIU www.cuidiu.ie/supports_breastfeedingLa Leche League Ireland www.lalecheleagueireland.comAssociation of Lactation consultants Ireland www.alcireland.ieHSE website www.hse.ie/babies-and-toddlers/breastfeedingBreastfeeding Support Ireland www.breastfeedingsupport.ie

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“Oh I wouldn’t like to rely on a soother”. Time to set the record straight - the right soother can have huge benefits for baby, helping baby’s oral development from birth and promoting self-soothing. Yes, they’re suitable for newborns!

NUK Genius Soother

Why NUK Genius95% baby acceptance rate. You’ll notice the unusual flat shape of the teat. Modelled on mum’s nipple, this helps avoid nipple confusion. It’s orthodontist approved so you don’t have to worry about crooked teeth or jaw misalignment later on down the line, AND it comes with a handy self-sterilising case!

Once you establish your first feeding routine (maybe a week or so), you can then start introducing the soother for short periods under supervision.

HOW TO USE:

Vitamin D helps us build and maintain strong bones and teeth. While our bodies can technically make vitamin D from the sun (when it appears), your baby needs vitamin D because:their skin is very sensitive and should not be in direct sunlighttheir food may not contain enough vitamin Dbetween 0 to 12 months babies grow very quickly and have a greater need for vitamin D to form strong bones

Colief Vitamin D Drops

HSE Advice on Vitamin D and infantsAlways seek medical advice if you are unsure. The HSE stipulate (accurate as at May 2020) Give your baby 5mg of vitamin D3 as a supplement every day from birth to 12 months if they are:1) breastfed or 2) taking less than 300mls or 10 fluid oz (ounces)of infant formula a day

Follow the dosing instructions. Once per day, add the required number of drops directly to your baby’s mouth.

HOW TO USE:

Vitam

in D

Soothers

FIRST FEEDING BOX

Vitam

in D

Other bits

You’ll find a whole range of use for Muslin cloth. Whether it’s wiping baby’s face after a feed or helping baby feel snug and warm. Stock up on these, they’re a newborn essential!

Muslin cloth

Our recommended detergent for newborn’s sensitive skin. Loved by BabyDoc Mums, Persil Non-Bio is accredited by the British Skincare Foundation. The capsules are super quick and convenient, very helpful when it comes to living with a newborn!

Persil Non-Bio Capsules

Washing clothes without fabric conditioner can leave them coarse and rough – not what you want rubbing against newborn’s delicate skin. We recommend using Comfort Pure. It’s hypoallergenic, accredited by the British Skincare Foundation and it will leave fabrics super soft and smelling amazing!

Comfort Pure Concentrate

The perfect nappy for newborns. Hypoallergenic and fragrance free – they’re the only Pampers nappy enhanced with premium cotton (just feel how soft the outside of the nappy feels). The inside top sheet includes a soft plant based material that comes from sugarcane.

Pampers Pure Nappies

The best bit – you’re still getting the tried and trusted Pampers absorption – in fact these nappies will keep your baby’s bottom dry for up to 12 hours.

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Here are some of the most common obstacles to breastfeeding: Breast engorgementYour breasts will become rock hard as your milk supply really cranks up. The worst pain should fade within a couple of days and be virtually gone within a few weeks of breastfeeding. Until then, nurse frequently, use a warm compress before feeding and a cold compress after, massage your breasts while feeding, switch up positions and order yourself a well-fitted nursing bra.

Cluster feedingNo way around this, it's going to happen so brace yourselves and give in to your babies feeding needs. Don't forget the feeding pillow for your back! This often coincides with growth spurts (one seems to be every week with newborns). Sit down, feed, watch TV, eat dinner one handed if needs be! At least your milk ducks will be fully drained and at less risk of mastitis.

MastitisIf there is something more painful than birth, it's mastitis! An inflammation of the breast, it can happen when the breast isn’t drained sufficiently. One (or both) breast will be sore and red, you will have flu-like symptoms - including fever and fatigue. ACT FAST and continue to feed through the pain (sorry!) and make a phone call to your dotcor as antibiotics are probably needed, which will make you feel better quickly.

Latching difficultiesThe proper latch can be tricky to get at first, but it’s key to ramping up your milk production and keeping baby well-fed. Practice really will make perfect. Get into a comfortable feeding position, then squeeze your areola between your fingers. Tickle baby’s cheek to open their mouth wide, then bring your baby right up to the breast. When baby latches on, the mouth should cover the nipple and the areola (if yours is larger it may not cover all of it), and your infant's chin and nose should touch your breast with their lips flaying outward. Underlying issues such a tongue tie can be diagnosed and corrected all before you give up.

Troubleshooting

FIRST FEEDING BOX Troubleshooting

Mouth problemsYour baby might have trouble latching due to being tongue tied. This occurs when an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue tethers the bottom of the tongue's tip to the floor of the mouth. Check with your GP or midwife.

Poor milk supplyYour milk supply should be ok if baby is producing dirty nappies (6+ wet ones and at least 3-4 poops a day for the first few weeks), seems content after feeding and their weight is in-creasing. If you think your milk supply is low, check if baby is latching on correctly and feeding on demand. Allow baby to drain each breast when you feed, you may even consider pumping between feeds. Be sure that you are well-fed, rested and hydrated too.

Sore or burning nipplesSore, cracked nipples are, unfortunately, the norm! However, if they’re particularly sensitive, check that baby is positioned correctly and latching onto both your areola and nipple. Give your breasts some fresh air after feeds (if possible), rub Lanolin cream or even your own breast milk on your nipples to help with discomfort. Check with your GP if the problem persists.

Nipple confusionMost babies have no trouble switching between the breast and the bottle. However, some babies balk at one or the other! If your baby prefers bottle-feeding, check you’ve got the basics sorted (position, latch), breastfeed on demand, pump before you feed to get things flowing and maybe skip the bottle for a while until baby gets the hang of nursing. If baby prefers breastfeeding, get your partner involved with feeds, switch up positions and make feeding at the bottle feel more like the breast by switching arms and adding more interaction.

Blocked milk ductsSometimes a milk duct gets blocked, causing milk to back up and causing a painful lump. Don’t give up! Breastfeeding keeps milk flowing, which will eventually unblock the duct. In the meantime, check your bra isn’t too tight, use a warm compress before nursing, drain the breast every feed and massage the lump before and during each feed.

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