https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories daily 0.75 2025-07-31 https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/your-first-weeks-home-with-baby-a-practical-gentle-guide-for-new-parents monthly 0.5 2025-08-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753917489149-6XTF33ZVBQSNUFV79K34/unsplash-image-I0ItPtIsVEE.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Weeks Home with Baby: A Practical, Gentle Guide for New Parents - You are never "bothering" your baby's doctor — they are there to support you. Call if your baby: Has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C) Refuses to feed or feeds very poorly Has fewer than 4 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 5 Is very hard to wake or seems unusually floppy Is breathing fast, grunting, or pulling in at the ribs when breathing Vomits forcefully or green vomit Has a reddened or draining umbilical cord or circumcision site Has yellowing of the skin or eyes that worsens (jaundice) Trust yourself. If something feels "off" — call. You are the expert on your baby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753917375427-TOF9R6OKTID64NQU48KJ/unsplash-image-KPyJ6iEpDSI.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Weeks Home with Baby: A Practical, Gentle Guide for New Parents - Partners are essential. Your support, presence, and care make all the difference — for baby and the birthing parent. Learn baby's cues together — feeding signs, sleep needs, comfort tricks. Offer to help with diaper changes, baths, soothing, and burping — your hands and heart are just as good as anyone’s. Be the “keeper of the bubble” — gently limit visitors if needed, protect rest time, and make space for quiet bonding. Support the birthing parent: Bring water, snacks, or remind them to rest; notice when they seem overwhelmed and gently offer breaks. Watch for signs of postpartum mood struggles — anxiety, sadness, anger, overwhelm — and kindly encourage help if needed. Remind each other: This is hard. You’re both learning. You’re doing enough. You are a team. Your steady presence helps your baby feel safe — and helps your partner feel seen and supported. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/is-this-normal-when-to-call-your-advice-nurse-hint-anytime-you-want monthly 0.5 2025-08-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753918996088-QXD3CRYVUMZ896W2H4SI/unsplash-image-xkIQNjWwto0.jpg Guides & Stories - Is This Normal?! — When to Call Your Advice Nurse (Hint: Anytime You Want!) - Your gut matters. A lot. Your instincts are wired to notice when something isn’t right. Even if you can’t explain why something feels off, that alone is reason enough to call. Sometimes the reason you call is simply: "I don’t know what this is, but it’s making me nervous." And that is 100% valid. Calling because you just need to hear, “Yep, that’s normal!” is just as important as calling for a real concern. The advice nurse is there for all of it — big, small, and everything in between. So next time you find yourself staring at your baby wondering, “Hmm... should I call?” — go ahead and call. Your baby (and your peace of mind) will thank you. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/snug-as-a-bug-how-to-swaddle-your-baby-with-love-and-care monthly 0.5 2025-08-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753918031040-LXHU4SN0XODPUUMC14WM/unsplash-image-WbC9XIlQb4k.jpg Guides & Stories - Snug as a Bug: How to Swaddle Your Baby with Love and Care - Bringing home a new baby is a little like welcoming a tiny burrito of joy into your life—soft, squishy, and full of wonder. And just like any good burrito, some babies love being wrapped up nice and cozy! But how do you swaddle safely? When is it time to stop? This gentle, supportive guide will walk you through swaddling benefits and risks, when to transition away from swaddling, and simple safe sleep tips—all with plenty of encouragement for you, dear parent, as you care for your sweet little bundle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753923898367-Z4HJ1ZU7IK7ULS054DCG/unsplash-image-CgWTqYxHEkg.jpg Guides & Stories - Snug as a Bug: How to Swaddle Your Baby with Love and Care - When to Stop Swaddling It's time to say goodbye to the swaddle when your baby: Starts attempting to roll over Consistently wiggles out of the wrap Sleeps better without the swaddle or protests being wrapped At this stage, you can switch to a wearable blanket (sleep sack) that keeps baby cozy while allowing free movement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753918249626-TDH6JXSH0Q7G8APB02MF/unsplash-image-HqNlZJISak0.jpg Guides & Stories - Snug as a Bug: How to Swaddle Your Baby with Love and Care - Safe Sleep Reminders Swaddling is only part of a safe sleep routine. Here’s what else to remember: Back to Sleep: Always lay your baby down on their back—for naps and nighttime. Firm, Flat Surface: Use a crib, bassinet, or play yard with no pillows, bumpers, or loose blankets. Cool and Comfortable: Keep baby’s room cool and avoid overdressing to prevent overheating. Stop Swaddling Before Rolling: Babies who can roll should no longer be swaddled for safety. Tip: Not every baby loves being swaddled—and that’s okay! Some prefer their arms free or no swaddle at all. Follow your baby’s cues. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/splish-splash-a-newborn-bathing-guide-for-fresh-and-happy-babies monthly 0.5 2025-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753918531011-9IG82QPDAY7R9S7NW340/unsplash-image-_6eiZ9Mb9_8.jpg Guides & Stories - Splish Splash: A Newborn Bathing Guide for Fresh and Happy Babies Bath time with your newborn can be one of the sweetest parts of the day — a special chance to bond, soothe, and care for your little one. But it can also feel a bit intimidating at first! Don’t worry, we’re here to make newborn bathing simple, safe, and even fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/299d0aaf-9d48-45f8-99bb-959b96d08625/SwaddleBath.jpg Guides & Stories - Splish Splash: A Newborn Bathing Guide for Fresh and Happy Babies - What is Swaddle Bathing? Swaddle bathing is a gentle way to introduce your newborn to water while keeping them cozy and secure. It involves wrapping your baby in a thin, water-safe cloth (like a muslin wrap) that allows water to flow through but provides a comforting “swaddle” feeling. This method can help babies who feel overwhelmed by the sensation of water or sudden exposure. Swaddle bathing mimics the snugness of the womb, helping your baby feel safe. It’s a great option for early baths or babies who are sensitive to water. Always ensure your baby’s head is free and above water, and support their body carefully. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/carry-me-close-a-guide-to-babywearing monthly 0.5 2025-08-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1752705540399-B5R5DJ4Q8S44JS2MHTFT/unsplash-image-h2iXVd9jJgE.jpg Guides & Stories - Carry Me Close: A Guide to Babywearing - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1752705728780-SIAQB8ZS2LG4BTGJWB16/unsplash-image-0rDyjv0TJUQ.jpg Guides & Stories - Carry Me Close: A Guide to Babywearing - Tips for Safe Babywearing Follow the T.I.C.K.S. Rule to ensure safe positioning: Tight: Carrier should be snug with no slumping In view at all times: You should always see baby’s face Close enough to kiss: Baby's head is high on your chest Keep chin off chest: At least 1 finger of space under chin Supported back: Baby's back should be straight and well-supported https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/the-truth-about-pacifiers-what-parents-should-know-without-the-guilt-xctkk monthly 0.5 2025-08-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/cee4e688-ef10-401f-b113-63ac26d18901/Paci2.jpg Guides & Stories - The Truth About Pacifiers: What Parents Should Know (Without the Guilt) Reduced Risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) Here’s the big one: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends offering a pacifier at naptime and bedtime because research shows it may reduce the risk of SIDS. The exact reason isn't fully clear but theories include that sucking on a pacifier might help keep the airway open or prevent babies from falling into an overly deep sleep. Soothing and Comfort Babies have a natural sucking reflex. It's calming, it helps regulate their breathing and heart rate, and sometimes... it just makes the world feel less overwhelming. For babies who love it, a pacifier can bring great comfort. Helps with Sleep A pacifier can help some babies fall asleep or stay asleep without needing to nurse or bottle feed for comfort alone. And no, offering a pacifier for sleep does not mean your baby won’t sleep without it forever (even if it feels that way at 3 a.m.). May Satisfy Non-Nutritive Sucking Needs Some babies have a strong need to suck even when they aren’t hungry. A pacifier can meet this need without adding extra feeds they don’t actually require. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/7d570bd9-028d-45eb-b5b2-a320252bdf79/PurplePaci.jpeg Guides & Stories - The Truth About Pacifiers: What Parents Should Know (Without the Guilt) - A Few Notes for Parents You are not doomed to forever pop the paci back in at 2 a.m. (Even if it feels like it now.) Some babies adore pacifiers. Others act like you’ve offered them a lemon. Both reactions are normal. If you choose to skip pacifiers entirely, your baby will find other ways to soothe—like fingers, cuddles, or the ever-reliable snuggle with you. There is no trophy for doing pacifiers "perfectly." This isn’t a test. You’re allowed to do what works for your family. As our pediatrician said at one of our very first appointments, there are no gold stars in parenting. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/which-breast-pump-is-right-for-you-a-gentle-guide-for-new-parents-tsehj monthly 0.5 2025-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/caa14893-f6c1-462a-af40-512e33bc2649/Medela_Symphony.jpg Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Hospital-Grade Pumps These are the strongest and most efficient pumps, often used in the early postpartum days—especially if your baby isn’t latching or you're working on building your milk supply. Hospital-grade pumps are usually rented and offer powerful, consistent suction. They're a great choice when you need extra support in establishing or maintaining your milk supply. Unfortunately, “hospital grade” has become a marketing term for many manufacturers as it is not a regulated measurement. These pumps are especially helpful immediately after birth to encourage mature milk to come in quickly, if you had a premature or multiples birth, increase supply if you are having breastfeeding difficulties, or are experiencing a prolonged separation from baby. Most hospitals (including all the ones that I have worked in or be been a patient in) have these pumps for use while you are inpatient after baby is born, though you may not need to use one. You can often rent them after you are discharged too! Remember, these pumps are expensive to buy, bulky, and not conducive to being “on the go” but they are strong and effective for helping with your milk supply! Examples: Medela Symphony and Ameda Elite or Platinum https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/3dd9c658-107b-41e5-b702-6ccf9d91a48f/Spectra.jpg Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Traditional Electric Pumps Think of these as the middle ground between hospital-grade and wearable pumps. Traditional electric pumps are a tried-and-true option for many breastfeeding parents. These pumps are typically used at home and are a great choice for those looking to establish or maintain their milk supply with consistent, effective pumping. Most models offer double pumping and customizable suction settings, making them efficient and comfortable for regular use. While they’re not as portable as wearable or battery-powered pumps and usually require access to an outlet, their power and reliability make them a solid choice for daily use, especially in the early weeks or when returning to work. Examples: Spectra S1 or S2, Medela Pump in Style, and Motif Luna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/361b75e4-a225-48da-98a4-a82b838c841f/Pumpables.jpg Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Portable Electric Pumps Similar to traditional electric pumps, these serve as middle ground between hospital-grade and wearable pumps in terms of suction strength. Unlike traditional pumps though, they’re compact, lightweight, and run on rechargeable batteries, making them great for pumping on the go. You’ll still need to hold the flanges or wear a pumping bra, but they’re a convenient option for parents who need flexibility without sacrificing too much power. These portable pumps still have flanges like your traditional pump that connect to the motor via tubing, however that motor is usually about the size of your hand. Although the motors may be smaller, some of these portable pumps offer the same suction strength as your traditional pump! While there are many different hacks you can find online with these pumps, just remember that you risk voiding your pumps warranty if it breaks while using other pump brands parts. With that in mind, portable pumps are an amazing option especially if you won’t be able to be attached to the wall for your pump session. I will definitely be trying this option out as I get ready to have 2 under 2 this fall! Examples: Pumpables Genie Advanced, Baby Buddha, Elvie Stride, Legendairy Milk Duette, Freemie Liberty II, Spectra S9, and Medela Freestyle Flex https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/d74c4101-a771-4229-95a4-0b8368067397/Elvie.jpg Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Wearable Pumps Designed for multitasking, wearable pumps fit right into your bra and let you pump hands-free while moving around. They’re discreet and convenient—perfect for working parents or anyone who wants to pump while getting things done. While the suction may be gentler than other styles, many parents love the freedom they offer. The motor, flange, and milk collector are one unit, allowing you to be tube-free and hands-free. They are great once you have established your milk supply and easy to take “on the go”. I do not recommend that these serve as your primary pump, especially for those who are exclusively pumping or pump frequently, as they tend to not empty the breast as well as more traditional pumps. I personally tried two different wearable pumps (Willow Go and Eufy S1) and ended up preferring to take my Spectra with me to pump because I saw such a significant difference in my output. However this is not everyone’s experiences and I look forward to trying wearable pumps with my next breastfeeding journey. Examples: Elvie, Willow Go or 360, Legendairy Milk Imani, Momcozy s12 or s9, Eufy S1 Pro Heated Breast Pump, and Motif Aura https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/7affcc0f-8c5d-4476-a3fa-8ff6ecfa2048/ManualPump.png Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Manual Pumps Manual pumps are hand-operated, budget-friendly, and perfect for occasional use or travel. They’re quiet and don’t require batteries or cords, which makes them easy to use just about anywhere. If you’re not planning to pump often, or just want a backup, a manual pump is a great tool to have on hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/a27f18da-530a-4c83-b0e8-6dc7e65e148f/Haaka2.jpeg Guides & Stories - Which Breast Pump Is Right for You? A Gentle Guide for New Parents - Silicone Pumps (like the Haakaa) These soft, suction-based pumps work passively—often collecting milk from one breast while you nurse on the other. They're especially helpful in the early weeks to catch letdown and save milk that might otherwise be lost. Simple, affordable, and easy to clean—they’re a favorite for new parents. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/the-ultimate-bottle-guide-for-breastfed-babies-1-btt29 monthly 0.5 2025-08-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753924348780-AHB0STUK60M6IAMFWDRN/unsplash-image-sljmgxyzmqM.jpg Guides & Stories - The Ultimate Bottle Guide for Your Baby - Why the Bottle You Choose Matters The bottle you pick is more than just a container for milk—it can directly impact how your baby feeds, digests, and stays connected to the breastfeeding experience. A bottle that flows too fast can make feeding too easy, causing some babies to prefer the bottle over the breast (known as nipple confusion or flow preference). A poorly shaped nipple can lead to shallow latching, mouth fatigue, gas, or even swallowing air. These small things can quickly add up—impacting weight gain, comfort, and the overall breastfeeding relationship. Choosing a bottle designed to closely mimic the breast, support a proper latch, and allow for paced bottle feeding helps protect: Your milk supply (since baby won’t reduce nursing out of frustration or preference), Your baby’s oral development and feeding skills, Your baby's digestion and comfort, and The ease of going back and forth between breast and bottle without stress. In short: the right bottle supports both your breastfeeding goals and your baby’s feeding success. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/d308c3dc-d275-4e43-b606-fdbe19003495/PacedBottle.jpg Guides & Stories - The Ultimate Bottle Guide for Your Baby - Helpful Tips for Bottle Feeding a Breastfed Baby ✔ Always use the slowest flow nipple available. ✔ Practice paced bottle feeding—hold baby upright and tip the bottle slowly to let baby control the flow. ✔ Offer skin-to-skin contact before and after bottle feeds to keep baby connected to the breastfeeding experience. ✔ Avoid switching bottles frequently. Give your baby time to adjust before deciding if a bottle is “rejected.” https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/topping-off-baby-bottles-boobs-amp-backup-plans-for-happy-feeding-t33w2 monthly 0.5 2025-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/cc1304d2-e5da-41af-b272-096b12f1f178/FIngerFeeding.jpg Guides & Stories - Topping Off Baby: Bottles, Boobs & Backup Plans for Happy Feeding - Finger Feeding A thin feeding tube (SNS-style) is taped to your clean finger. Baby sucks while getting milk—helpful for tiny mouths who haven’t mastered the breast yet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/62cb2111-63b4-4805-9691-962d252ee591/SNS.jpg Guides & Stories - Topping Off Baby: Bottles, Boobs & Backup Plans for Happy Feeding - SNS (Supplemental Nursing System) A flexible little tube that lets baby get extra milk while nursing at the breast. Keeps the milk flowing and the nursing skills growing. Win-win. But, this can be tricky to do solo (especially when first learning) so support may be necessary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/d308c3dc-d275-4e43-b606-fdbe19003495/PacedBottle.jpg Guides & Stories - Topping Off Baby: Bottles, Boobs & Backup Plans for Happy Feeding - Bottle Feeding The classic. You can offer expressed breast milk, donor milk, or formula. Use paced bottle feeding to mimic the breast rhythm and reduce bottle preference. (Your lactation consultant can show you this!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/124d88ba-3daa-4415-9e23-8f49673f7ced/CupFeeding.jpg Guides & Stories - Topping Off Baby: Bottles, Boobs & Backup Plans for Happy Feeding - Cup or Spoon Feeding For short-term use or tiny amounts, babies can sip from a small cup or spoon. (Yep—newborns can totally lap milk like pros!) https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/switch-it-up-mama-a-fun-guide-to-breastfeeding-positions-including-tandem-feeding-zayll monthly 0.5 2025-08-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/2f125347-3c2d-489e-a62d-972ea511d936/CradleBF_Tattoo2.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 1. The Classic Cradle Hold Perfect for: Newborns and relaxed daytime feeds. This is the "go-to" position many new parents try first. Your baby’s head rests in the crook of your arm while their body faces yours — tummy to tummy. It's cozy, simple, and great for bonding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/56b9bee8-bb09-4522-b205-930997ae9ede/CrossCradleBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 2. The Cross-Cradle Hold Perfect for: Newborns learning to latch or babies who need extra guidance. Similar to the cradle, but your opposite arm supports baby’s head — giving you more control to guide baby’s mouth to the breast. A favorite for lactation consultants teaching early latching skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/edc99f92-b2da-4d9d-8d46-2bce95d14bb3/FootballBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 3. Football (or Clutch) Hold Perfect for: C-section recovery, twins, or larger-breasted parents. Tuck baby under your arm like a little football, with their body along your side and feet pointing toward your back. This keeps weight off your belly and helps you see baby’s latch clearly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/23ffd43d-367c-4984-bc35-94b4d4d7d001/SideLyingBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 4. Side-Lying Position Perfect for: Nighttime feeds or tired moms who want to rest. Lie down on your side with baby snuggled up beside you, tummy to tummy. This is an amazing position for cozy nighttime feeding and safe bed-sharing setups. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/80e630fd-11bf-4325-a264-2eef5e22bc24/LaidBackBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 5. Laid-Back (Biological Nurturing) Position Perfect for: Relaxed bonding, skin-to-skin contact, and helping baby self-latch. You recline slightly with baby lying tummy-down on your chest. Gravity does the work as baby naturally roots and latches. Great for newborns and post-birth skin-to-skin time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/2a99f942-52ba-4584-91aa-10ce5a8e508b/KoalaBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 6. Upright (Koala) Hold Perfect for: Babies with reflux, ear infections, or curious older babies. Baby sits upright, straddling your thigh or hip, and nurses while facing you. Perfect for little ones who want to look around between sucks! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/2a6659dc-2788-4de3-aae9-800832aab56a/TandemBF.jpg Guides & Stories - Switch It Up, Mama! A Fun Guide to Breastfeeding Positions (Including Tandem Feeding) - 7. Tandem Breastfeeding Positions (For Twins or Sibling Feeding) Perfect for: Moms nursing twins or a newborn plus an older sibling. Some creative ways to tandem feed include: Double Football Hold: One baby under each arm — great for newborn twins. Double Cradle: Both babies lying across your chest — snuggly and close. Cradle + Football Mix: One baby cradled in front while the other is tucked under your arm. Tandem feeding takes practice but can be a lifesaver for growing families — and yes, you ARE a superhero. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/skin-to-skin-magic-why-that-first-touch-matters-for-mom-baby-and-partners monthly 0.5 2025-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/ae72a07e-b906-49e1-a9ac-a611c7936420/SkintoSkin.jpg Guides & Stories - Skin-to-Skin Magic: Why That First Touch Matters for Mom, Baby, and Partners - Make it stand out There’s something truly magical about that very first skin-to-skin moment after birth — when your baby’s tiny body meets your bare chest, and everything just clicks. But skin-to-skin contact isn’t just a sweet moment to treasure; it’s packed with incredible benefits for everyone involved: mom, baby, and even partners. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/your-first-feeding-guide-what-to-know-about-breastfeeding-bottle-feeding-amp-babys-tiny-tummy-fnft7 monthly 0.5 2025-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/08f07ccd-d3d5-467e-a4ed-3c2930977eb7/StomachSize.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Feeding Guide: What to Know About Breastfeeding, Bottle Feeding & Baby’s Tiny Tummy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/5fbefb9d-b848-438d-8d2b-b7c3f5048682/unsplash-image-mEUP7LcW8qs.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Feeding Guide: What to Know About Breastfeeding, Bottle Feeding & Baby’s Tiny Tummy - Feeding on Demand: Trusting Your Baby’s Cues In the early weeks, feeding on demand—or responsive feeding—means offering the breast (or bottle) whenever your baby shows signs of hunger. This can look like: Rooting or turning their head toward your chest Sucking on hands Smacking or licking lips Stirring, stretching, or starting to fuss Crying is actually a late hunger cue—so if you catch the early signs, feedings tend to go more smoothly. Feeding on demand helps your baby get exactly what they need, when they need it, and also signals your body to produce just the right amount of milk. Newborns rarely feed on a strict schedule—sometimes they’ll want to nurse again after just 20 minutes, other times they may sleep for a longer stretch. This is all very normal and healthy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/29fdf6d1-5eff-4602-8818-d5ec4d479f47/PacedBottle.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Feeding Guide: What to Know About Breastfeeding, Bottle Feeding & Baby’s Tiny Tummy Whether you are offering breastmilk, formula, or a mix of both, bottle feeding can be a loving, responsive way to nourish your baby. How you offer the bottle matters just as much as what’s inside, and using a technique called paced bottle feeding can help mimic breastfeeding, support healthy feeding cues, and prevent overfeeding. What is Paced Bottle Feeding? Paced bottle feeding encourages your baby to stay in control of the feeding, taking breaks as needed—just like at the breast. This method can help reduce gas, spit-up, and fussiness, and is especially helpful for breastfed babies who are also bottle fed, to reduce bottle preference. Steps for Paced Bottle Feeding: Hold your baby upright—keep them sitting at about a 45-degree angle rather than lying flat. Offer the bottle horizontally—keep the bottle nearly parallel to the floor so the milk flows slowly. Let your baby latch onto the bottle rather than pushing it into their mouth. Gently rub the nipple on their lips until they open wide. Pause frequently—every few minutes, tip the bottle down or remove it to give your baby a break and allow them to decide if they want more. Watch for cues—stop the feed when your baby shows signs of fullness like turning away, pushing the bottle out, or slowing their sucking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/1753922721227-9ZM36VF138GDX0YV81KE/unsplash-image-4crXipFM1hc.jpg Guides & Stories - Your First Feeding Guide: What to Know About Breastfeeding, Bottle Feeding & Baby’s Tiny Tummy One of the simplest, most natural ways to support your baby’s feeding journey is through skin-to-skin contact—holding your baby against your bare chest. This special closeness is powerful for so many reasons, especially when it comes to feeding. For Breastfeeding: Skin-to-skin helps your baby use their natural instincts to find the breast, latch more effectively, and feed more calmly. It also helps your body respond by releasing oxytocin—the hormone that encourages milk flow (let-down) and boosts milk production. Babies held skin-to-skin often breastfeed more frequently and effectively, which can make a big difference in establishing your milk supply. For Bottle Feeding: Skin-to-skin isn't just for breastfeeding! If you’re bottle feeding, holding your baby close, bare chest to bare chest, can help mimic the warmth and connection of breastfeeding. This can make feeds feel soothing and familiar for your baby, helping them stay calm and focused during feeding times. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/before-baby-arrives-gentle-steps-to-prepare-for-breastfeeding-before-birth monthly 0.5 2025-07-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/8e0cc666-608b-48b9-a4e5-2e64a3537767/unsplash-image-tqunk3qB_yU.jpg Guides & Stories - Before Baby Arrives: Gentle Steps to Prepare for Breastfeeding Before Birth - Why Prepare Before Baby Arrives? Breastfeeding is natural, but it’s also a skill—for you and your baby. Preparing ahead can ease the learning curve and boost your confidence, whether it’s your first baby or your fifth. A little planning can go a long way in setting the stage for a positive feeding experience. Mindset Shifts That Help Be kind to yourself. Breastfeeding is a learning process, not a pass/fail test. It’s okay to need support. Make room for flexibility. Your baby may have their own plan—and that’s okay, too. Trust your instincts. You are the expert on your baby. Support and information are helpful, but you know your baby best. Learn the Basics Before Baby Arrives Take a prenatal breastfeeding class. Look for one that aligns with your values and is led by a certified lactation consultant. Read or listen to trusted sources. Choose evidence-based resources, and avoid doom-scrolling or unverified forums. Understand the first hours and days. Early skin-to-skin, feeding cues, and normal newborn behavior are key parts of getting off to a good start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/cc977834-570d-4c4a-b363-4807234c92f1/unsplash-image-3FtqZ3r31YQ.jpg Guides & Stories - Before Baby Arrives: Gentle Steps to Prepare for Breastfeeding Before Birth - Build Your Support Team Choose a pediatrician or family provider who supports breastfeeding. Ask how they handle common challenges like weight checks or jaundice. Line up lactation support. Know who you can call—a local IBCLC, postpartum doula, or lactation-friendly clinic. Talk with your partner or support people. Let them know how they can help—like bringing you water, managing visitors, or learning about feeding alongside you. Set Up Your Feeding Space You don’t need a fancy setup, but creating a cozy corner can help you feel more comfortable: A comfy seat with back and arm support A water bottle, snacks, and burp cloths nearby Nightlight or soft lighting for middle-of-the-night feeds Pillows or a nursing support pillow if it feels helpful Pack Your Postpartum Toolkit Nursing bras or tanks Breast pads (reusable or disposable) Nipple balm or lanolin Haakaa or manual pump (optional, but handy for collecting leaks or easing engorgement) A list of lactation support contacts (including who’s available weekends or virtually) https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/my-journey-z9tx3-s63eb monthly 0.5 2025-07-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/9c73e096-c9a4-4fe6-b217-6092d5c8ab7b/BryleeNB.jpg Guides & Stories - My Breastfeeding Journey: The Real Story Behind My Passion - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.nurcherbaby.com/guidesandstories/welcome-to-nurcher-tt9cr monthly 0.5 2025-07-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6845c40fcf4e665c69ce75d6/3bb2afd2-6dde-445f-9bc3-2f78c9caac21/IMG_9207.jpg Guides & Stories - 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