A holistic guide to feeding: breast, bottle and combination Learn as much as you can about feeding before your baby arrives. Familiarizing yourself with tips, techniques and positions will enhance your bond with your little one while ensuring that your baby receives essential nutrients for a good start. The benefits of breastfeeding Embrace the power of Mother Nature: breast milk - the ideal nourishment, created by your body for your precious baby. Not only does it keep newborns healthy and strong, but it's also great for infants’ emotional well-being.Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both you and your baby. Health Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life with continued breastfeeding up to two years of age and on, or for as long as you can.1-3 Here are some key benefits of breast milk to consider: Optimal nutrition: Breast milk contains the ideal combination of nutrients*, antibodies, and enzymes tailored to meet your baby's unique needs, supporting their growth and development.2 Immune protection: Breast milk contains naturally protective compounds, like antibodies, probiotics, and human milk oligosaccharides, that all help protect your baby against infections and illnesses while supporting their developing immune system. Bonding and emotional connection: The close physical contact during breastfeeding promotes a strong emotional bond between you and your baby, creating a sense of security and comfort. Ready? Set? Breastfeed! When do you start to breastfeed? Right away! Experts advise that mothers start breastfeeding within an hour of giving birth. This promotes immediate bonding and provides essential health benefits for both mother and baby. Feeding frequency: what’s the schedule? Keep it simple: Feed your baby whenever they seem hungry. Plan to feed every 2-3 hours, even during those nighttime awakenings—around 8-12 times within a 24-hour period. Having your newborn nearby while you sleep ensures that you can feed whenever your little one wakes or gets hungry. And don't forget, the more your baby nurses, the more milk your body will make.4 Feeding Positions     Finding the right position for breastfeeding is key. Experiment with the options listed below and pick the one (or more) that feels comfy for both you and your little one. Cradle hold: This classic position involves holding your baby's head in the crook of your arm, with their body turned towards you. It is a comfortable and secure position for most mothers and babies. Cross-cradle hold: Similar to the cradle hold, but with your opposite hand supporting your breast. This position offers more control and is often recommended for newborns and premature babies. Football hold: Ideal for mothers after a cesarean birth or for those with large breasts, the football hold involves tucking your baby under your arm, with their legs extended towards your back. Side-lying position: This position allows for comfortable breastfeeding in bed, particularly useful for night feedings. Lie on your side with your baby facing you, aligning your bodies for easy access. Laid-back position: Embrace the laid-back breastfeeding position, also known as biological nurturing, allowing babies to instinctively latch and feed while promoting relaxation for mothers. Remember, the key to finding the right feeding position is comfort for both you and your baby. Don't hesitate to experiment and seek guidance from healthcare professionals or lactation consultants for personalized support. Once you’ve achieved a strong latch, repeat the process Getting your baby to latch on properly can take some practice. But don’t worry! Once you’ve secured that strong latch, baby will consistently want to return for more. Remember, repetition is key. Create a calm environment. Be in a place where you can be relaxed and calm. Try different breastfeeding holds to make sure you are comfortable. Let your baby lead. If baby is not hungry, they might stay curled against your chest, and that’s okay. You can try again later. If baby is bobbing their head or rooting, or you sense baby might be hungry, try tickling the baby’s lips to encourage baby to latch. Signs of success As a new parent, it's crucial to know when breastfeeding is going smoothly - it's not just about fulfilling your little one's hunger. Breastfeeding is a time for you and your baby to bond and for them to receive essential nutrients to grow healthy and strong. Here are a few signs to watch for. The latch feels comfortable to you and does not hurt or pinch. You hear or see your baby swallow. Your baby is producing wet and dirty diapers. Formula feeding: nourishment with care While breastfeeding is the ideal food for baby during the first six months of life, some families cannot or may choose not to exclusively breastfeed. Health Canada recommends cow milk-based commercial infant formula for infants who are not exclusively fed their mother’s breast milk.1 Infant formulas are designed to provide the recommended amounts of essential nutrients – like protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals for baby's healthy growth and development. Choosing the right formula: All infant formulas in Canada meet strict nutritional standards and support baby’s growth and development, but not all formulas are the same. Talk with your doctor to find a formula that meets your baby's nutritional needs. Proper sterilization and preparation: Sterilize bottles, nipples, and other feeding equipment before and after each use. Also, follow the instructions on the product label to ensure you accurately prepare the formula. Establish a feeding routine: Create a feeding routine that fits your baby's needs. Keep an eye out for their hunger and fullness cues—they might change from day to day! Combining breastfeeding and formula feeding Lots of parents choose to mix breastfeeding and formula feeding, which provides flexibility to meet both baby's and family's needs. This is called supplementing, mixed or combination feeding. It may come in handy if moms encounter challenges with feeding or are anticipating schedule changes, like returning to work. Baby's weight fluctuations explained Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding or both, recognize that it is common for newborns to temporarily lose weight in the early days of life. This can be frightening for new moms who are afraid that their baby may not be receiving the necessary nutrients. This weight loss usually stops after the first few days.4 Baby’s growth will be closely tracked by your doctor at your well-baby visits. Weight fluctuations may be part of their natural growth and development. Reach out to your doctor if you have any concerns about how your baby is growing.Parents, it's important to remember that regardless of the feeding method you choose, the well-being of both you and your baby is what truly matters. Your baby's health and happiness, along with your own, are top priorities. Every baby is unique, so trust your instincts and seek guidance from your doctor as you navigate this feeding journey together. Your intuition combined with your doctor’s guidance will ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience for both you and your little one.*All breastfed and partially breastfed babies in Canada should receive a 400 IU (10 μg) vitamin D supplement each day. References: 1 Government of Canada. (2023.) Nutrition for healthy term infants: recommendations from birth to six months. Accessed 2024 April. URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canada-food-guide/resources/nutrition-healthy-term-infants/nutrition-healthy-term-infants-recommendations-birth-six-months.html 2 Canadian Paediatric Society. Caring for Kids. (2020.) Breastfeeding. Accessed 2024 March.URL: https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/pregnancy-and-babies/breastfeeding3 World Health Organization. (2023.) Infant and Young Child Feeding. Accessed 2024 February. URL: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infant-and-young-child-feeding4 Government of Canada. (2023). Ten valuable tips for successful breastfeeding. Accessed 2024 April. URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/valuable-tips-successful-breastfeeding.html

*For informational purposes only. Not intended to be medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for any questions about your or your baby's health.  Bringing a beautiful new life into the world is a miraculous, intense, sometimes overwhelming experience. And in the midst of this beautiful chaos – the diapers, feedings, and sleepless nights — it's easy to forget about the person who brought this bundle of joy into existence — you, YES, you! Self-care isn't selfish; it's a necessity. Taking care of yourself after giving birth is just as crucial as caring for your newborn. From sneaking in some well-deserved rest to nourishing your body and soul, let's dive into some self-care tips crafted especially for you, the superhero who just delivered a tiny human.    Ask for help: It's okay to ask for help. Whether you need assistance with household chores, baby care, or simply someone to lend a listening ear, don't hesitate to reach out to your support system. Remember, you don't have to do it all alone, and accepting help doesn't make you any less of a supermom.   Practice self-compassion: Cut yourself some slack, mama. You're doing an incredible job, even on the days when everything feels like a chaotic mess. Be kind to yourself, celebrate your victories (no matter how small), and don't dwell on the moments when things don't go as planned. You're learning and growing every step of the way, and that's something to be proud of.  Rest and recover: After childbirth, your body needs time to heal. Rest is not a luxury but a necessity. Allow yourself to nap when your baby sleeps, ask for help when you need it, and don’t worry – your baby will eventually sleep for longer stretches and one day through the whole night!     Nourish your body: Incorporate leafy greens, fruits, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats into your diet. Focus on eating a variety of healthy foods for meals and snacks will give you the energy you need to care for your baby.  Continue to take your prenatal multivitamin with at least 0.4 mg of folic acid. And don't forget to stay hydrated—keep a water bottle handy wherever you go, and remember you will need a little more if you are breastfeeding.   Move your body: Even gentle movement can work wonders for your mood and energy levels. Work back up to 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week.  This could include short walks with your baby in a stroller or carrier, practice some gentle postpartum stretching or yoga, or simply dance around the kitchen to your favorite tunes. Find what feels good for your body and make it a priority, even if it's just for a 20 minutes each day.  “Baby blues” awareness: It’s common to feel overwhelmed, sad and even weepy in the weeks  after delivery. Fluctuating hormones, and the physical and emotional changes that come with having a baby, alongside anxiety about caring for your newborn and sleep deprivation can all contribute to "baby blues." Sometimes the baby blues do not go away. Trust yourself and recognize that if these feelings persist or get worse, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.   Connect with other new parents: There's nothing quite like bonding with other parents who are going through similar experiences. Join a new parents' group in your community, or connect with fellow parents through social media, such as the Good Start™ Baby Club channels. Sharing your triumphs, struggles, and laughs with others who understand can provide invaluable support and reassurance.    As you navigate your new normals of parenthood, please don’t feel guilty about prioritizing your own well-being while you care for your little one. It’s important to practice self-care and be kind to yourself during this profound transition. Remember, you are strong, resilient, and capable of amazing things. And caring for yourself is not selfish; it is a gift to both you and your baby. So, take a deep breath and give yourself a pat on the back, knowing that you are doing your best each day. You've got this.    References:  Health Canada. Your guide to postpartum health and caring for your baby. 2023. Your Guide to Postpartum Health and Caring for Your Baby - Canada.ca Accessed April 2024.   Davis, GA, et al. Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, (SOGC), & SOGC Clinical Practice Obstetrics Committee. Exercise in Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period. JOGC. 2003;25(6):516-522.    Health Canada. Parents: Your Feelings after Your Baby is Born. 2018. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/your-feelings-after-baby-born-nobodys-perfect.html Accessed April 2024. 

As the much-awaited moment of childbirth approaches, it's completely normal to feel uncertain or nervous about your labour and delivery. Let’s calm those nerves! From recognizing the early signs that labour has begun, to knowing when it's time to contact your doctor, we’re here to help you navigate the journey of childbirth.    Oh Baby! 10 early signs that labour is underway  Nesting: This often is considered an “old wives’ tale,” but if you have a burst of energy, or the urge to clean and organize, this could be a sign that your baby is on the way.  Braxton-Hicks: These ‘false’ contractions can start halfway through the pregnancy, but they tend to increase in frequency and intensity as you get closer to delivery.  Dropping or Lightening: This phenomenon is commonly referred to as "lightening" because you might physically feel lighter. As baby drops down further into your pelvis to prepare for birth, you might find it easier to breathe now that baby is no longer putting heavy pressure on your diaphragm.  Effacement: In the last month of pregnancy, the cervix will begin to stretch and thin. This is an indication that the lower portion of the uterus is preparing for delivery, as a thinner cervix dilates more easily. ¹ Dilation: This is the process of the cervix opening in preparation for childbirth. ¹ Your healthcare provider can help you determine how many centimeters you have dilated as you approach your delivery date. Water Works: If your water breaks or you experience a heavy gush or light leak of fluid, it's essential to inform your doctor. This could be a sign that labour is underway. ¹ Bloody Show: During pregnancy, a mucus plug protects your cervix. As your body gears up for labour, it says goodbye to this plug, and that is called a “show.” ² The mucus might have a hint of pink or blood. It's a sign that labour might be near, but don't worry if you don't notice it – not everyone does! Backache: Nagging aches or mild pains in your lower back could be from increased pressure to your pelvic area. ³ This also could be a signal that baby is ready.  You Gotta Go: Increased urination, loose stools, diarrhea and/or feeling like you need to go to the bathroom more often (even more so than before) is a common early sign of labour. ⁴ Regular Contractions: When your contractions increase in intensity and frequency, this is the telltale sign that your baby is ready to join the world. Start recording the time each contraction begins and how long they last. Contact your doctor or midwife when your contractions follow a consistent pattern and are occurring closer together. ² As your due date approaches, look for these subtle signals that the big day is near. From nesting instincts kicking in to unusual bursts of energy, these signs can be both exciting and reassuring. Talk to your doctor or midwife if you have any questions about the signs that labour is starting.  * For informational purposes only. Not intended to be medical advice. Consult your physician for any questions about your or your baby's health.    References:   ¹ Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. PregnancyInfo.ca. Labour 101. Accessed 2024 March. URL: https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/birth/labour/labour-101/  ² American Pregnancy Association. Signs of Labor. Accessed 2024 February. URL: https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/labor-and-birth/signs-of-labor/  ³ HealthLinkBC. Labour and Delivery. Accessed 2024 April. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/pregnancy-parenting/labour-and-birth/labour-and-delivery     ⁴ Government of Canada. Your guide to a healthy pregnancy. Accessed 2024 February. URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/healthy-pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy-guide.html    

Welcoming a new baby is one of life's most exciting adventures, and as you enter the home stretch of your pregnancy, comfort and preparation are key. The third trimester brings a unique set of challenges as your belly grows to accommodate your little one.   Here are some examples of common symptoms that you may experience and tips on how to help maximize your comfort:   Back discomfort: Consider resting on a firm mattress, cuddling a pillow between your knees, or embracing the added support of a prenatal belt. Try applying tender heat or a gentle massage to help relieve strain and tension.   Constipation: Drink lots of water and eat high fibre foods, such as vegetables, whole grains, and fruit.  Talk to your doctor before taking any stool softeners or laxatives.     Difficulty sleeping: Embrace a regular sleep schedule and create a cool, peaceful bedroom that invites you to relax.  Heartburn: Avoiding heartburn-triggering foods like coffee, pop, spicy and high-fat foods, particularly near bedtime.   Leg cramps: Hydration, gentle activity, and calf stretches can be effective rituals to reduce cramps.  Fatigue: Stay energized with a healthy balanced diet and mild to moderate exercise.     If you have any concerns or questions about your health, talk to your healthcare provider.      References:   Health Canada. Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. 2023. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/healthy-pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy-guide.html. Accessed April 2024.