Having a newborn is one of the most exciting and stressful times for new parents and families. And how best to feed your baby is a frequent concern during this postpartum period. To better understand the options and important considerations, we spoke with Dr. Maya Fisher, pediatrician at Ridgefield Pediatric Associates. Dr. Fisher says one of her special interests is new parents “because I know personally how difficult it can be.”
There are two main feeding options for your newborn: breast milk and formula. Dr. Fisher says they always encourage breastfeeding, if possible, but she stresses how it is a complex decision with many factors. In addition to personal preference, there are some medical conditions, infections, and medications that preclude breastfeeding. They take it on a case-by-case basis, and many parents do a combination of formula and breast milk.
“Mom guilt is very real and very common, but I like to share the phrase ‘A mother’s love is not measured in ounces.’ I also remind parents that your relationship with your child will span decades, and the newborn feeding part is a blip on radar even though right now it feels like everything. In a few months, they will start eating solids and you will forget all about this era.”
Formula is a great option if mom cannot breastfeed, or as a supplement if she isn’t making enough milk or wants a break. Dr. Fisher says to use it however works for your family. Some do a 50/50 combination, some do one bottle per day, and others use formula for overnight feedings. The most important thing is that your baby is full and happy. On that note, Dr. Fisher says one of her top pieces of advice is to not restrict your baby’s milk based on charts shared at the hospital or any other guidelines. She says those are loose recommendations and that some babies can take double the amount of milk listed. Go by their cues first and foremost.
The two signs that your baby is well fed and hydrated are: number of wet diapers per day and weight gain. Weight is checked at every pediatrician visit, and for wet diapers, a good rule of thumb is one wet diaper for each day of life. One is expected on day 1, two on day 2, and so on, up until six to seven wet diapers per day on day 6 (after which they usually plateau).
Dr. Fisher says feeding a newborn is a full-time job at first, as they typically nurse every two to three hours around the clock. And each session can last up to an hour, especially when both mom and baby are adjusting to the process. For that reason, partners and other family members can help with chores like cooking, cleaning, and diaper changes so mom has an opportunity to rest.
When it comes to specific formula types, Dr. Fisher says they are similar and you should stick with what works for your baby. They all adhere to the same regulations in terms of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Some are organic, some are conventional, but there is not a lot of long-term evidence that one is better than another.
Most people get a lot of unsolicited advice about their newborn from friends, family, social media, and more. While support is crucial, Dr. Fisher says sources for trusted information should be your pediatrician and other medical professionals like lactation consultants. Her team often recommends local lactation consultants because they are one of the best ways to optimize the experience. It can be all consuming, and a professional resource can help make the process as efficient and comfortable as possible.
A newborn is a life-changing milestone for parents, and most need a lot of guidance at the beginning, says Dr. Fisher. “That’s what we’re here for, to give reassurance. We expect to see new parents and babies every few days initially.”
Schedule an appointment with your BCHP pediatrician now.