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PARENTING IN MANITOBA

PARENTING IN MANITOBA

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Lan

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding – Common Questions

Posted on by Lan

You may have some questions about breastfeeding/chestfeeding. Find the answers to some frequently asked questions below.

What is triple feeding?

Triple feeding is when you do three things to feed your baby – feed at the breast/chest, express milk by pumping and feed the expressed milk or formula to your baby. It is meant to be a temporary measure to increase breastmilk/chest milk supply and help babies gain weight. If you are looking for more information read our breastfeeding/chestfeeding resources.

Why is paced feeding important?

Paced feeding is a method of bottle feeding that mimics feeding at the breast/chest. Holding the baby upright and the bottle parallel to the ground ensures a slower milk flow out of the bottle. If the baby pauses to breath or because they are full, you can tilt the bottle down.

Paced feeding:

  • protects direct breastfeeding/chestfeeding
  • prevents using up more breastmilk/chest milk stash or formula than needed
  • prevents overfeeding the baby.

Watch this video to learn how to feed your baby with a paced bottle.

Do I need a special bra?

  • On average, you can expect to go up one cup size, and one band size, by the time you are breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
  • Not everyone finds that a maternity or nursing bra is necessary. Some breastfeeding/chestfeeding parents just use an inexpensive and comfortable sports bra.
  • Nursing bras have clasps or panels that allow easy access to your breasts/chest for breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
  • For comfort, choose a bra with wide straps, extra hooks and eyes on the band and comfortable breathable material (such as cotton).
  • Wear a comfortable and supportive bra that is not too tight. Avoid underwire bras as they can block your milk ducts.
  • If you were binding prior to pregnancy, you may already have stopped due to increasing chest sensitivity while pregnant. While you are breastfeeding/chestfeeding, wearing something less restrictive with more flexibility than a chest binder can be helpful in milk production and lower the risk for mastitis.

Did you know?

You may leak breastmilk/chest milk in between feedings. Breast/chest pads can help absorb the milk. You can find breast/chest pads in the baby section at most stores.

Be sure to change wet breast/chest pads often so they don’t grow bacteria which can lead to thrush. See below for more information on thrush.

breast pad

Are sore nipples common?

It’s common to feel some pain when your baby latches on for the first few days. This happens because your baby stretches your nipple deep into their mouth while breast/chest feeding and your body is not used to this sensation. The pain happens when the baby first latches on and should go away within a minute with a good latch.

You should no longer feel this pain with latching by four to seven days.

What you can do:

  • You can get some relief by rubbing colostrum or breastmilk/chest milk on your nipples and letting it dry.
  • If your nipples continue to be sore, try changing how you hold your baby while breastfeeding/chestfeeding, and get help with the latch.
  • Pure lanolin products can also help heal nipple pain.

Did you know?

If your nipple pain continues throughout the entire feed- you should get help with your latch. Contact your Public Health Nurse, Health Care Provider, nursing station or health centre. Check out our breastfeeding/chestfeeding resources.

Should I take medications to help increase breast milk?

Get breastfeeding/chestfeeding support if you are having trouble breastfeeding/chestfeeding. Personal help can make all the difference. For a list of places that can help, see Breastfeeding/chestfeeding resources.

Domperidone is a prescribed medication that can increase breastmilk/chest milk supply. It is generally safe and can be effective in increasing breastmilk/chest milk supply, along with adequate breastfeeding/chestfeeding or expressing breastmilk/chest milk. Speak to your health care provider to see if this medicine is right for you.

  • Domperidone can react with other medications so be sure to tell your health care provider that you are using it if you are being prescribed other medications.
  • This drug can have some side effects so take only as prescribed. Be sure to taper slowly if you want to stop taking the medication.
  • Seek help if you experience mood and or anxiety symptoms anytime before, during or after pregnancy.

Why do my breasts feel like they are going to explode?

In the early days of breastfeeding/chestfeeding it is common for your breasts/chest to swell up with milk. This is called engorgement. Your breasts/chest may feel full, heavy and at times be painful.

Engorgement can also happen after you have been breastfeeding/chestfeeding for many weeks if feedings are missed. To avoid this:

  • Breastfeed/chestfeed on demand (on baby’s cue) day and night
  • Express your milk if you miss a feeding
  • If you are starting to wean- do this slowly

Tips for easing engorgement:

  • Soften your breast/chest by expressing milk for a few minutes, either by hand or with a breast/chest pump (this will make latching easier).
  • Make sure your baby is latched on well, and feeds long enough until your breasts/chest feel soft.
  • Gently massage your breasts/chest (also called breast/chest compressions) while breastfeeding/chestfeeding. This will keep your milk flowing. Watch this video to learn more.
  • Between feedings, apply cold (cold towels, a diaper soaked in cool water, cabbage leaves) to your breasts/chest for 15-20 minutes. This will help to lessen swelling and pain.
  • If engorgement is not lessened with the above methods:
    • Express your breastmilk until you feel comfortable. (by hand, or with a pump)
    • Use cold compresses to lessen swelling and pain.
    • If necessary, take medications as advised by your health care provider.

Did you know?

  • The good news is engorgement generally only lasts a couple of days. 
  • Feed your baby at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, and at least every 3 hours during the day. Continue night feedings. 
  • As you and your baby learn to breast/chest feed your body will adapt to meet your baby’s needs. 
  • Feeding your baby early and often helps to prevent and relieve this discomfort. Feed your baby whenever they show early feeding cues.

Mastitis (breast/chest inflammation): 

Mastitis is painful inflammation in the breast  tissue/chest tissue which can affect parents who breastfeed/chestfeed or exclusively pump.  Mastitis can cause pain, swelling, warmth and redness on your breast/chest and can make you feel run down and tired. Some parents may consider weaning their baby sooner then they intended. The good news is you do not need to wean. You can continue to breastfeed/chest feed while your mastitis is healing. For more information on mastitis click here.

What is a nipple bleb or milk blister?

  • A nipple bleb forms because of inflammation of the tissue in the nipple.
  • It usually shows up as a painful white or yellowish dot on the nipple or areola.
  • If you squeeze your breast/chest, the bleb or blister will typically bulge outward.

What to do if you have a nipple bleb or milk blister:

  • Do not pick the nipple bleb or milk blister.
  • Continue breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
  • Talk to your health care provider to discuss if you need a prescription for a steroid cream to help with healing.
a baby breastfeeding/chestfeeding

Plugged Ducts

A tender lump that does not go away with breastfeeding/chestfeeding may be a plugged duct.

What you can do to prevent:

  • Breastfeed/chestfeed your baby on demand on both of your breasts 
  • When unable to breastfeed/chestfeed, express breastmilk/chest milk at the same frequency you would breastfeed/chestfeed (with a breast pump/chest pump or by hand)
  • Avoid pressure on the area (wear a comfortable bra, avoid sleeping on the side where you feel pain)

How to treat a plugged duct:

  • Apply cold to your breasts/chest for a couple minutes (a cold towel, a clean disposable diaper filled with cold water, a shower)
  • Breastfeed/chestfeed your baby on demand on both of your breasts 
  • When unable to breastfeed/chestfeed, express breastmilk/chest milk at the same frequency you would breastfeed/chestfeed (with a breast/chest pump or by hand)
  • Gently massage the area with your fingertips while you breastfeed/chestfeed
  • Contact your health care provider as necessary.

Oral Thrush (Yeast Infections)

Cracked nipples or mastitis can lead to a yeast infection on your nipples.

You may have thrush if you have:

  • a shooting, burning pain in the nipple, areola (dark part around your nipple) and breast/chest
  • pain that happens while feeding, even with a good latch, and continues after you breastfeed/chestfeed
  • pinker than usual nipples
  • nipples that are very sensitive to touch
  • nipple cracks that are not healing

Thrush can spread back and forth between you and your baby.

a close up of baby’s tongue with oral thrush. The tongue appears to have a white coating.

Your baby may have thrush if:

  • they have small white patchy spots on their tongue, gums and/or roof of mouth that look like milk but do not rub off
  • they are fussy while breastfeeding/chestfeeding
  • they come on and off your breast/chest while feeding
  • they are gassy and cranky and may have slow gain weight

If you or your baby have any of these signs and symptoms, see your health care provider as soon as possible. You will both need to be treated for yeast infections at the same time. Antifungal creams are used to help clear up thrush.

To prevent reinfection:

  • Wash your bras daily and avoid using breast/chest pads if possible.
  • If you are using a breast pump/chest pump, boil the parts that touches the milk daily.
  • A soother can carry thrush back into your baby’s mouth, if possible, try not to use it and/or replace it frequently. Boil it daily.

What is “tongue-tie”?

Tongue-tie is a fairly common condition that runs in families. It occurs when a thin web of skin under the tongue “ties” the tip of the tongue to the floor of the mouth.

Signs of tongue-tie in the infant include:

  • When the tongue looks heart-shaped or notched when stuck out
  • Difficulty sticking the tongue out past the lower teeth or up to the upper teeth
  • Difficulty moving the tongue from side to side of the mouth
close up of a baby’s open mouth, showing a baby with a tongue tie (a tight piece of skin under their tongue

How a tongue-tie may affect breastfeeding/chestfeeding:

  • Tongue-tie is a problem for somebreastfeeding/chest feeding people and babies.
  • This is because your baby uses the tongue to get milk from the breast/chest.
  • The tongue-tie prevents the baby’s tongue from extending far enough to get a proper latch. This is what can cause a person to feel pain during breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
  • Your baby may have trouble getting enough milk out of the breast/chest.
  • Mothers often complain about very sore nipples and the baby may be hungry and fussy.

How to treat tongue-tie?

  • Sometimes a tongue-tie will stretch over time, allowing the tongue to move better as the baby grows.
  • If you have early and ongoing breastfeeding/chestfeeding problems, a simple procedure called a frenotomy may free the tongue and help your baby to feed. This procedure can be done on an out-patient basis with minimal if any bleeding or pain.
  • Your health care provider can assess the tongue-tie and provide information on where to get frenotomy.

References:

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What’s in My Breastmilk/Chestmilk?

Posted on by Lan

At about 21 weeks of your pregnancy, your body starts making milk which you may not notice until after delivery. Breasts/chests of all shapes and sizes can make milk. Your breasts/chest are designed to make as much milk as your baby (or babies – twins, triplets) needs. The more often your baby feeds, the more milk you make (also known as supply and demand). Your breastmilk/chestmilk changes daily to meet the nutritional needs of your growing baby. 

Your breastmilk/chestmilk has three different stages: 

Colostrum: 

  • Your first breastmilk/chestmilk is called colostrum. Your body starts to make colostrum when you are around four months pregnant, and it will last up to four days after you give birth. It is either yellowish or creamy in color. Colostrum is high in protein, fats, vitamins and antibodies. Consider colostrum your baby’s first immunization. This is the first milk your baby will get when you breastfeed/chestfeed. 
  • At this point many parents worry that they are not producing milk, and they are concerned that their baby is not getting enough. 
  • Colostrum provides all the nutrients your baby needs for the first few days of life. Your baby’s tummy is the size of a dime at birth so they will only need a little bit at a time. This is why babies need to feed so often. 

Transitional Milk 

  • Three to four days after you give birth, your breasts/chest will become fuller and heavier. Birthing parents often refer to this as their milk “coming in.” Transitional milk looks like milk mixed with orange juice. It has less antibodies and protein than colostrum but has more sugar, fats and calories, which your baby needs for growth. 

Mature milk 

  • This will come in about 10 days after you give birth. It looks like watery skim milk because it is 90 per cent water. This will keep your baby hydrated. The other 10 per cent is made up of the carbohydrates, proteins and fats your baby needs for growth and energy. 
a closeup of a nipple with milk flowing from it

Our bodies are amazing! They make the right type of milk our babies need as they grow and develop. 

Check out this video!

Note: Other videos may be recommended by the host channel (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo). These suggestions may be based on your personal search history and other factors. The Manitoba Government does not control these suggestions and is not responsible for and may not endorse the content.

Need help getting started with breastfeeding/chestfeeding? See Breastfeeding – Getting Started. 

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RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus)-What to Know, When to Get Help

Posted on by Lan

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is usually mild and doesn’t need any treatment. Most children do not need to see a doctor. If you are not sure if your child needs to see a doctor, call Health Links – Info Santé (204-788-8200 or toll-free 1-888-315-9257). 

RSV is the most common virus that can infect the lungs and breathing tubes. RSV infection is most serious in young babies. Almost all children get the virus at least once before they are two years old. Older children and adults also get RSV at least every few years, but do not usually get very sick from it. 

How is it spread? 

RSV is very contagious. The virus is most common between late fall and early spring. RSV spreads the same way as a common cold: 

  • By touching something that has the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes with unwashed hands.  
  • By being close (less than two metres apart) to someone with the infection who is coughing or sneezing. Droplets from the infected person can reach another person’s nose or mouth. 

What are the symptoms of RSV? 

Children with RSV have the same symptoms as a common cold, which may include: 

  • coughing
  • runny nose
  • fever
  • decreased appetite and energy
  • irritability

Some children (most often very young babies) may have bronchiolitis – an infection of the tiny airways that lead to the lungs that causes wheezing and difficulty breathing. 

How is RSV treated? 

RSV is usually mild and doesn’t need any treatment. Most children get better within a week or two.  Sometimes children need to be hospitalized so that they can be watched closely and given fluids or oxygen if needed. Because RSV is a virus, antibiotics will not help a child get better faster (antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses). 

How can I protect my children from RSV? 

Keep babies under six months old away from people with colds, if possible. 

  • Wash your hands and your children’s hands often to reduce the spread of germs. 
  • Breastfeeding /Chestfeeding. Breastmilk/chestmilk contains antibodies and other immune factors that help prevent and fight off illness. 
  • Don’t smoke. Make sure that your children are not around cigarette smoke, especially in the car or in your home. 
  • Make sure your child receives all recommended immunizations. Vaccines won’t prevent your child from getting RSV or other viruses that cause colds, but they will protect your child from some of the complications a cold can cause. 
  • Infants and young children who are at risk of severe RSV infection, such as those with heart or lung disease or those who are born very early, are eligible to receive an antibody medication to protect against RSV through the Manitoba RSV Prophylaxis Program.  

What can I do if my child is sick? 

Keep your child at home and as comfortable as possible. Offer plenty of fluids. 

  • Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever. Ibuprofen should only be given if your child is drinking reasonably well. Do not give ibuprofen to babies under six months old without first talking to your doctor. Speak to a health-care provider if you are unsure of what to take or are unable to use these medications.  
  • If your baby is having trouble drinking, try to clear nasal congestion gently with a bulb syringe or with saline (salt water) nose drops. 
  • Do not give over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to a child younger than six years old. Although these drugs do not need a doctor’s prescription, they are not safe in young children. 
  • If you are using cough and cold medicines for children older than six years, read instructions carefully and give only the recommended dose. 

When should I seek immediate medical care? 

Take your baby to an emergency department if your child: 

  • has trouble breathing or has lips that look blue,
  • is younger than three months old and has a fever 
  • is no longer able to suck or drink and is showing signs of dehydration (dry mouth, less urine output) 

See a doctor if your child: 

  • has had a fever for more than 72 hours
  • is not eating or is vomiting
  • is not having wet diapers
  • is coughing so bad that they are choking or vomiting

If you have questions about RSV, speak with your primary care provider – your doctor, registered nurse, public health nurse, nursing station or health centre , or call Health Links – Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free 1-888-315-9257.  

For more information on where and when to seek health care, see Cold and Flu – When to Seek Healthcare . 

Reprinted with permission from the Caring for kids (cps.ca)

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Home Safety Checklist

Posted on by Lan

Use this list to go through your home to make sure it is safe for your child. Get down at your child’s level to see things from their perspective. 

Kitchen

  • Chairs and step stools are away from the counters, sink, microwave, stove and open windows 
  • Household cleaners, medications, vitamins and other poisons are out of reach or locked up 
  • Knives, scissors and other sharp utensils are out of reach or in a drawer with a child safety latch 
  • Anchor the stove to the floor with an anti-tip bracket 
  • The stove’s back burners are used when cooking 
  • Hot food and drinks are kept away from edges of tables and counters 
  • Appliance cords are out of reach 
  • Plastic bags and food items small enough to cause choking are kept away from babies and toddlers 
  • A fire extinguisher is conveniently located and you know how to use it

A first aid kit with a key in the lock.

Bathroom

  • Medicines and cleaners are stored in a locked medicine cabinet or well out of a child’s reach
  • Use protective plug covers on electrical outlets 
  • Hair dryers, curling irons and other electrical appliances are unplugged and out of a child’s reach 
  • Non-slip mat or decals are used in the bathtub 
  • An infant bath ring or bath seat is not used 
  • The hot water is no hotter than 49 C (120 F) 

Child’s Room

  • The crib is in good condition, made after 1986 and has been checked for recalls 
  • Mattress fits snugly without gaps to prevent a small head from getting caught 
  • No bumper pads, pillows, quilts, duvets or toys in the crib 
  • Beds and cribs are placed away from the window and any electrical cords 
  • Dresser and bookcases are anchored securely 
  • Diaper changing products (e.g., pins, powders, wipes, oil, etc.) are stored away from babies and small children 
  • Window coverings are cordless or secured using a tie-down device up high on the wall. Securely attach tension devices supplied with corded window coverings 
  • The toy chest has ventilation holes and a lid that can be opened from the inside
Check out Health Canada’s Is Your Child Safe? Sleep Time for more information.

Living Room

  • TV sets, bookcases and furniture are anchored securely to the wall 
  • Sharp corners and edges on tables have been covered with soft cushioning 
  • Fireplaces and wood stoves have fixed safety guards around them 
  • Matches and fire starters are out of reach of children 
  • Windows and sliding doors have safety locks 
  • Poisonous houseplants have been removed 
  • Blind and drapery cords are cut or tied up high 
  • Furniture, such as side tables and couches, is away from windows 
  • Non-slip mats are used under rugs

Around the Home

  • Smoke alarms are installed outside all sleeping areas and on each level of your home. Test them monthly by pressing and holding the test button. Change batteries every six months. 

Safety Tip

Having a smoke alarm in each bedroom is the safest choice.

A person tests their smoke alarm.

  • Carbon monoxide detectors are installed outside each sleeping area and on each level of your home
  • Electrical cords are secured out of reach
  • Outlet covers are used on electrical outlet
  • Window coverings are cordless or secured using a tie-down device up high on the wall. Securely attach tension devices supplied with corded window coverings. 
  • Damaged window screens should be replaced; every window should have a screen 
  • Hazardous products like medications, cleaners, laundry pods, chemicals, alcohol, cigarettes and marijuana products are kept locked up and out of child’s reach 
  • Child’s surroundings have been cleared of small objects that could cause choking
  • A wall-mounted safety gate is installed at the top of stairs and a pressure-mounted gate is used at the bottom of stairs 
A baby standing next to a safety gate blocking the stairs

  • Doorknob covers are placed on doorknobs to stop a child from opening doors to unsafe areas 
  • Hot tap water temperature is no hotter than 49 C (120 F) 
  • Wading pools and buckets are emptied when not in use
  • Swimming pools are surrounded by four-sided fencing with a self-closing and locking safety gate. Check your local bylaws for fencing and gate requirements. 
  • Emergency phone numbers, including Manitoba Poison Centre (1-855-776-4766), are kept in or near your phone. 
  • Fans should always have a front cover on them to avoid injuries

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Protect Your Family From the Flu

Posted on by Lan

What is the flu (influenza)? 

The flu is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It is most common between October and April. 

What are the symptoms of the flu? 

Typical influenza symptoms include: 

  • sudden fever 
  • chills and shakes 
  • headache 
  • muscle aches 
  • extreme fatigue 
  • dry cough and sore throat 
  • loss of appetite 
  • nausea and upset stomach may also occur, especially in young children 

Visit Caring for Kids for information on how you can help your child if they have the flu. Click here to know when to care for your child at home and when to seek medical attention. 

How can I keep my child safe?

Flu viruses change from year to year, so people do not stay immune for very long. That’s why it’s so important for you and your family to get the flu shot every year. Flu shots provide protection throughout the flu season. The flu vaccine is safe for children six months of age and older. It is also safe and highly recommended for pregnant people. 

Note: Other videos may be recommended by the host channel (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo).  These suggestions may be based on your personal search history and other factors. The Manitoba Government does not control these suggestions and is not responsible for and may not endorse the content.

How can I help prevent the spread of the flu? 

Frequent handwashing and keeping your kids home from school/daycare when they are ill are two important ways to reduce the spread of viruses and germs. It is important to teach kids to wash their hands after coughing, sneezing or wiping their nose. Teach your kids how to wash their hands with these four easy steps. Other ways to prevent the spread of the flu include: 

  • Teaching your child to cover their nose and mouth with tissues when they sneeze or cough, or to cough into their upper sleeve or elbow 
  • Avoid sharing cups, utensils or towels until they have been washed 
  • Making sure your child receives all the recommended vaccines 

(reprinted with permission of Caring for Kids) 

Where can I get a flu shot in Manitoba? 

Everyone aged six months and older can get a seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Manitoba’s online vaccine finder and Protect our People shows locations where vaccines are currently available, including:  

  • Doctors’ offices 
  • Call your local pharmacy:
    • to find out if they are giving the flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccines 
    • to ask if you need to make an appointment 
    • to ask what age they provide vaccines to adults and children 
  • Walk-in clinics 
  • Nursing Stations or Health Centres 

You can also book an appointment at a public health-run vaccine clinic online through the Petal System or by calling the vaccine line at 1 844 MAN VACC (1 844 626 8222) Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

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Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding – Good for Baby, Good for You

Posted on by Lan

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding gives your baby the best possible start and is good for you as well. Exclusive breastfeeding/chestfeeding is recommended for your baby for the first six months of life. You can continue to breastfeed/chestfeed your baby for two years or longer. 

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding is more than just feeding your baby. It provides closeness and warmth which helps to create a special bond between you and your baby. This nurturing helps your baby grow and develop. 

Breastmilk/Chestmilk – Nature’s Superfood 

Breastmilk/chestmilk provides almost everything your baby needs to grow healthy and strong. 

Breastmilk/chestmilk:  

  • is easiest for your baby to digest 
  • is always available and ready to go – no preparation is required 
  • has all the nutrients, calories and fluids your baby needs to grow and develop 
  • changes over time to meet the needs of your growing baby 
  • helps protect your baby from lung, ear and stomach infections 
  • helps prevent allergies, diabetes, eczema, some cancers and obesity 
  • can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)  

Your breastfed/chestfed baby does not need any water, juice, pop, sugar water, cereal, formula or any other foods. The only extra thing you need to give baby in the first six months is vitamin D daily. Once your baby is six months old, you can keep breastfeeding/chestfeeding and start introducing solid foods. 

Did you know? 

It is safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine when you are pregnant or breastfeeding/chestfeeding.

Evidence shows that antibodies are passed through the placenta, umbilical cord and breastmilk/chestmilk which protects your baby from COVID-19. So, if you haven’t got the shot, see COVID-19 Vaccine – Province of Manitoba  for more information, including where you can get it. 

Why Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding is Good for You 

  • Breastfeeding/chestfeeding helps your body recover from childbirth. You will have less bleeding and it helps your uterus return to its normal size. 
  • It may help protect you from breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis later in life. 
  • Breastfeeding/chestfeeding can delay the return of your period and temporarily be used as a form of birth control. This is called the Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM). Lactation means your body is making breast milk/chestmilk and amenorrhea means you aren’t having a monthly period. Breastfeeding/chestfeeding hormones may stop your body from releasing eggs. When you don’t release eggs, you can’t get pregnant. However, LAM only works if:
    • your baby is less than six months old 

AND 

  • your baby is only getting breastmilk/chestmilk (no formula, other type of liquid, or other type of food) 

AND 

  • your period has not returned. (This means you have not had vaginal bleeding for two or more days in a row (not counting bleeding during the first two months after giving birth) 

LAM does not work well if you don’t have all three of the above. Talk to your health-care provider to see if LAM is right for you. For more information see Alberta’s webpage on LAM. 

The longer you breastfeed/chestfeed, the greater the benefits will be to you and your baby. Breastfeeding/chestfeeding is recommended by: 

  • Health Canada
  • Canadian Paediatric Society
  • Dietitians of Canada 
  • Breastfeeding Committee for Canada

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding can go smoothly or take time to get the hang of. It is different for everyone and can take some practice. This is perfectly normal. If you need help, ask your nurse, doctor or midwife while you are still in your birthing centre or hospital. 

Once you go home you can ask your public health nurse, midwife, lactation specialist, primary care provider, knowledge keeper, health centre or nursing station pediatrician for help. 

Check out all our breastfeeding/chestfeeding information here  

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Resources 

  • Dial-a-Dietitian  

For more online breastfeeding/chestfeeding information visit: 

References: 

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Tips for Self-Care

Posted on by Lan

Pregnancy and having a new baby can be both exciting and stressful at the same time. You may be surprised by the time and energy it takes to look after your baby, even if it is not your first child. 

There are many ways of taking care of yourself that promote well-being and good mental health. Doing simple things every day can have a big impact on your well-being. This can help you prevent mental health challenges, cope with mental illness, and improve your quality of life overall. Many things that are good for our mental health and well-being are free and only take a few minutes! 

Here are some simple things that you can do: 

  • Take short breaks. Set aside time every day, even if it’s only 10 minutes, to care for yourself. Do something you enjoy, such as going for a walk, taking a bath, or reading. Even a short break can make a difference in your ability to cope. 
  • Build rest into your day: When you lack sleep, it is harder to function. Try to rest/sleep when baby sleeps. Even a short rest can help improve your day. For more tips, see How to build rest into your day.
  • Be kind to yourself. At times you may feel exhausted, frustrated, angry or irritable. It is normal to feel this way. Try to be patient with yourself and your baby as you are both learning. There are no perfect parents or babies, so try not to compare yourself to anyone else. Caring for your new baby is a process of learning – take it one day at a time. 
  • Breathe: Breathing is an amazing coping tool. Take three to 10 slow deep breaths in and out through your nose. This can help you feel calm and better able to handle tough situations. 
  • Think positive thoughts. Celebrate your accomplishments, even minor ones like bathing the baby. Keeping a positive outlook can help you bounce back from disappointments and challenges. Negative thinking tends to wear us down. Try keeping a journal to keep track of your accomplishments. 
  • Stay connected. It can be a challenge to get out of the house with a new baby. Many new parents feel isolated and lonely. If you are feeling this way, make a list of the people you can connect with. Reach out to others for company and support. There are also many parenting groups available. Check with your local Public Health Nurse, community centre or see Healthy Baby Community Support Programs. 

For more tips on self-care, check out: 

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Abuse in Pregnancy

Posted on by Lan

Abuse can happen any time, but it often starts or gets worse during pregnancy.  Abuse is when the abuser asserts power and control over another person. Gender-based violence is one term that is often used to describe different types of abuse, including that between romantic partners, family, social circles and others.

Abuse can take many forms, including verbal, emotional, psychological, sexual, physical, or financial. Emotional abuse can hurt just as much as physical violence; it can lower self-esteem and cause anxiety or depression. Living in an abusive environment can also lead to physical health problems from constant stress.

If this sounds like something that is happening to you or someone you know, it is important to get help now before the abuse gets worse.  

  • If you feel like you are in danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
  • If you are in a crisis situation, or would like confidential support or information, call the Government of Manitoba’s 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Crisis and Information Line (24 Hour) at 1-877-977-0007 or visit their website, Stop The Violence

Types of abuse

Abuse can be physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, social, financial and digital (online).

is when someone:

  • hits you
  • holds or restrains you
  • uses a weapon or other objects to threaten or hurt you
  • takes away your assistive devices for a disability such as your guide dog or a cane
  • denies you access to a health care provider such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, midwife, or dentist

is when someone:

  • makes it hard for you to see your friends and/or family
  • blames you for the abuse
  • questions everything you do
  • controls how you spend your time
  • threatens to hurt a person or animal you care for
  • scares and threatens you

is when someone:

  • calls you names or puts you down
  • makes fun of you in the presence of others
  • will not talk to you (giving the silent treatment)
  • yells and calls you names

is when someone:

  • forces you to continue a pregnancy or have an abortion
  • demands sex or gets angry if you don’t want sex
  • unwanted sexual touching, forcing you to perform or submit to a sexual act

Even if you are married or engaged, a partner cannot force you to have sex

is when someone:

  • belittles you about your spiritual beliefs 
  • does not allow you to attend your place of worship 
  • forces you to participate in religious activities or organizations 

is when someone:

  • limits your access to your family finances
  • spends all the family money

is when someone:

  • stalks you on the internet
  • constantly texts you to know what you are doing
  • tracks your phone and your phone calls without your consent
  • emails or texts you inappropriate pictures
  • verbally or emotionally abuses you online (through social media)

If you are being abused, you may:

  • feel sad and alone
  • feel scared
  • suffer pain and injuries
  • lose your baby (miscarry)
  • blame yourself
  • feel bad about yourself
  • turn to drugs, alcohol or food to cope
  • develop depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder
  • suffer from sleep disorders, eating disorders, panic disorders, substance dependence, antisocial personality disorders, psychosis.
  • not have the option to ask your partner to use condoms during sex. This can increase the chance of exposure to a sexually transmitted infection. When pregnant, these types of infections can impact your baby’s health. If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection, ask your doctor to test you (this testing can happen during pregnancy or at delivery).

If you are being abused, your baby:

  • may be born prematurely; 
  • may be underweight; 
  • may have health problems.

After birth, your baby may experience violence or see violent acts. Abuse can harm your baby’s emotional well-being and health. Once abuse starts, it usually gets worse. You may feel like you have to “walk on eggshells” in order to keep the peace and stay safe.

Resources

Reference

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What is Tummy Time? Why Should my Baby do it?

Posted on by Lan

As a new parent you probably have heard about putting your baby on their back for every nap and sleep. What you might not have heard, is that you also need to put your baby on their tummy everyday while they are awake. This prevents your baby from developing a flat spot on their head (also known as plagiocephaly).

The soft spots on your baby’s head

  • Your baby’s skull is made up of many bones that protect and support the brain. At birth these bones are not joined together firmly. This allows baby’s head to change shape so it can pass through the birth canal.
  • Babies are born with “soft spots” (called fontanelles) on their heads to allow for rapid growth of their brains and skulls. 
  • Your baby will have two main soft spots:
    • one on back of the head, which generally closes by one to two months of age.
    • one on the top of the head, which generally closes between nine to 18 months of age.

Did you know?

  • You may be able to see your baby’s pulse when you look at the top soft spot.
  • If your baby is very dehydrated the top soft spot will look sunken.

Why do flat spots happen?

  • Because newborns neck muscles are weak and their skulls are not firmly joined yet.
  • When your baby lays in one position for too long it puts pressure on their bones which cause the flat spot. This can happen if they sleep for long periods in one position. 
  • This can also start before the baby is born from the way they are positioned inside your uterus.

A baby lying on their tummy, looking up at a stuffed giraffe.

What can I do to prevent flat spots?

When your baby is awake

  • Give them supervised tummy time every day for two to three minutes at a time. Many babies will not like tummy time at first, but as they grow stronger, they will enjoy it. You can start this the first day you get home from the hospital.
  • Make it fun by getting on the floor and playing at their level.
  • Put a toy or mirror in front of them.
  • As your baby gets used on being on their tummy, do it a bit longer each day. Don’t be afraid to do it a few times a day.
  • You can try lying on your back with baby on your chest facing you; this encourages them to lift their head to look at you.

Position changes throughout the day

  • Try holding your baby or wear your baby rather than putting them in a carrier seat. This allows your baby to be close to you and look around.
  • Try putting your baby in a side lying position when playing on the floor with them. You can put a rolled towel behind their back to prop them up. Be sure to change sides and supervise.
  • Alternate which hip you use to carry your baby. This encourages looking, turning and balancing.

When your baby is asleep

Always put them to sleep on their back. Your baby will naturally turn their head towards you, so alternate the direction your baby lies in the crib. This will encourage them to turn their head in different directions and avoid resting in the same position all the time.

Tummy time helps your baby develop head control and strengthen their upper body. This prepares them for pushing up onto their hands and knees, which leads to rolling and crawling. This leads to more exploring and learning!

A baby doing tummy time while lying on an adult.

What if my baby doesn’t like tummy time?

  • Make sure they are not hungry or tired before you start.
  • Try laying your baby on your chest.
  • Keep your baby company by getting down to their level and talk to them.

How will I know if my baby has a flat spot?

  • You may be able to see it.
  • If you notice your baby always looks in one direction, check to see if a flat spot is forming.
  • Your health care provider will check during your baby’s regularly scheduled appointments.
  • If you are concerned ask your public health nurse or health care provider to assess your baby’s head and neck.

What can I do if my baby has a flat spot? 

Not all flat spots can be prevented. Most can be. If your health-care provider notices a flat spot, they will check the muscles in your baby’s neck. If needed, your baby may be referred to physiotherapy.

Reference

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