Changes During Pregnancy

Women’s bodies prepare to make breast milk months before the baby is even born. Sore breasts are one of the first signs that indicate a woman may be pregnant as they prepare for milk production. When a new mom gets pregnant, hormones cause milk ducts and alveoli to grow.

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are released by the placenta throughout pregnancy to ensure adequate amounts of breast milk. Additionally, these hormones are carefully measured and released by your brain so you don’t make too much milk before your baby arrives. Colostrum, the first milk your baby feeds on after birth, is created in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Breast Milk After Delivery

Moms’ bodies naturally make more milk to ensure their hungry newborn has enough to eat. The hormones that help increase the number of milk ducts during pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone, decrease once your baby is born. This signals to your body that it’s time to ramp up the milk supply. 

Prolactin is the hormone that increases your milk supply to make sure your newborn has adequate nutrition for growth. During each feeding, moms’ bodies release prolactin. It gradually increases available breast milk as your baby’s appetite grows. New moms should breastfeed or pump soon after delivery and then express milk regularly so the prolactin continually increases milk supply.

Oxytocin and Breastfeeding

Commonly known as the love hormone, oxytocin does much more than encourage bonding between you and your little one. Oxytocin is the hormone that prompts your milk to leave the alveoli and travel through the milk ducts to your baby’s mouth in a process called letdown. There are many physical clues that can tell moms’ bodies that their baby is ready to eat. 

When you first start breastfeeding, the suckling at your breast triggers your brain to release oxytocin and let down your milk. It can be difficult to prompt letdown, but there are a few tips and tricks to get oxytocin flowing. 

For starters, relaxing can encourage letdown, though we know that’s easier said than done. Take some deep breaths, place a warm compress on your chest, or massage your breasts before feeding to make letdown easier. As time goes on, letdown can occur more easily and sometimes unexpectedly. Although breastfeeding may be more of a scientific process than a mystical superpower, breastfeeding moms are still superheroes to us.

The science of breastfeeding may be complicated, but getting your breast pump doesn’t have to be! Pumps For Mom is here to make it easy for new moms to get a free breast pump through health insurance. Fill out our easy qualification form to browse top breast pump brands that may be covered by your insurance like Medela, Spectra, Ameda, Freemie, and Lansinoh. The passionate team at Pumps For Mom is here to help you through every step of your breastfeeding journey. Get in touch with us and order your breast pump today! 

Travel Breastfeeding On the Ground

For any road trip longer than an hour or two, breastfeeding moms need to be ready to breastfeed or pump on the road. Driving gives you more privacy and flexibility than other modes of transportation but consistent pumping is key. Checking a map and planning your stops before you leave can help eliminate stress and makes sure you pump enough to keep yourself and your little one comfortable. These stops give you a chance to stretch your legs, change any dirty diapers, and pump in privacy. However, a battery-powered breast pump gives you the freedom to pump on the road (only if you are traveling as a passenger or are able to pump safely and completely hands-free while you drive). 

Travel Breastfeeding In the Air

If you are preparing for a flight, spend some extra time planning before you head to the airport. For flights longer than a couple of hours, new moms need to think ahead. Try to reserve a window seat so you can get a little extra privacy if you prefer to feed or pump in your seat. If you would rather pump in the restroom, go for an aisle seat so you can conveniently leave your seat when you need to.

Organize the necessities before you leave for the airport so you have everything you need to breastfeed or pump. Include a nursing cover, breast pump, flanges, and storage bags in one easy-to-reach bag. Many airlines classify breast pumps as medical devices and won’t count it as one of your carry-on items. However, make sure to check with your specific airline before you fly. If you need to travel with any expressed breast milk, the three-ounce limit does not apply. According to the TSA, breast milk is considered liquid medicine, which means you can carry “reasonable quantities” with you on your flight. Be sure to tell the TSA agent that you are traveling with breast milk and remove it from your bag for examination as you go through security. 

Once you’re on the plane, don’t feel self-conscious if your little one gets fussy. Flying can be scary! To help your baby feel comfortable, try breastfeeding during takeoff and landing. The physical contact may help soothe your child. Nursing also helps equalize ear pressure and ease discomfort during the flight. 

Travel Breastfeeding Anywhere

One of the most important things to remember is to remain flexible and patient with yourself and your baby. Every newborn reacts differently when their environment changes. Accordingly, your baby may feed, sleep, or cry more or less than they usually do. Remember that you are doing everything right by just being responsive to the changing needs of your baby!

For moms traveling within the United States, you are also guaranteed certain rights as a nursing mom that should make your life easier. In most states, breastfeeding moms are allowed to breastfeed in public at any time and anywhere. Also, stay on the lookout for public places that have designated lactation rooms where nursing moms can pump or breastfeed in a safe, clean environment. 

Traveling can feel overwhelming for breastfeeding moms. However, taking the time to get organized can help make any trip go smoothly. Bringing a portable breast pump with you when you travel offers more freedom and flexibility. It also helps you maintain a stable milk supply. Don’t be embarrassed when you pump or breastfeed–you are working hard to feed your baby. Hit the road with confidence!

Pumps For Mom makes it easy to get your breast pump through insurance! With top brands like Medela, Spectra, Ameda, Freemie, and Lansinoh, you can find the best breast pump for you with help from the experts at Pumps For Mom. All you have to do is fill out our simple qualification form. You will immediately see which pumps you qualify for through your insurance. Just select your ideal pump, and we’ll do the rest! Order your breast pump through insurance today!

Salmon

Salmon and other fatty fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. They promote heart health for breastfeeding moms and encourages brain and nervous system development for growing infants. While most fish contain these nutritious fatty acids, breastfeeding moms need to steer clear of swordfish, mackerel and other fish with high levels of mercury. The Centers for Disease Control warns that high concentrations of mercury can limit proper cognitive development. Be sure to stick to fatty fish with omega-3s and look out for the baby’s growing brain.

Leafy Green Veggies

Spinach, kale, swiss chard, and other leafy green vegetables are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that are good for your breast milk. While leafy greens may cause your breast milk to develop a green tint,  they are also full of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin K, iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These vegetables give your breast milk a healthy boost. 

Brown Rice

Carbohydrates are an essential component to a breastfeeding diet. While you may be anxious to work off your pregnancy weight right after you give birth, remember you are still eating for two while you breastfeed. The complex carbohydrates found in brown rice and other whole-grain foods are full of B vitamins, which help turn carbs into energy. These foods are also full of fiber, which helps you feel full longer and aids in digestion. Don’t be scared of complex carbs–you’ll need the energy to get through ten feedings a day!

Oranges

Oranges and other citrus fruits are great for nursing moms who need a burst of energy. The vitamin C found in these tasty fruits is helps us absorb iron and keep energy levels up. Always have your hands full? Orange juice is also packed with vitamin C and is often fortified with calcium, so you can get your vitamin C boost on the go!

Lean Beef

Breastfeeding moms have increased needs for protein and iron–both of which can be met by eating lean beef. Protein plays a significant role in building and repairing muscle tissue. Iron is necessary for keeping energy levels up. Lean beef can be used in countless recipes as a delicious source of protein. It’s also an excellent way to fit other nutrients like zinc, iron, and B vitamins into an everyday diet. When your diet is balanced with a combination of lean protein, fruits, and veggies, not only is your body getting the healthy nutrients it needs to support you when you’re breastfeeding, but your little one also receives balanced and nutritious breast milk. 

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are an amazing source of protein for breastfeeding moms who stick to a vegan or vegetarian diet. These low-cost legumes are packed with folate, which is necessary for infant brain development. They are also packed with fiber and protein to keep mom full for longer. Add beans and lentils to soups, stews, and dips or enjoy them on their own for an easy source of nutrients for busy new moms.

Low-Fat Dairy Products

Calcium is an essential nutrient for everyone, but this mineral becomes especially crucial for new moms, as women lose around 3 to 5 percent of their bone mass when breastfeeding. Calcium can be found in a variety of low-fat dairy products including milk, yogurt, cheese. Consuming about 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day help protect your bones as you breastfeed and give your little one a head-start on developing strong bones. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a filling and nutritious vegetable that should be incorporated into every new mom’s breastfeeding diet. These versatile and tasty vegetables are full of vitamin A, potassium, and various other nutrients. Vitamin A plays a role in infant growth and is important for the development of good vision and a working immune system. Just one sweet potato provides the daily recommendation for vitamin A, so enjoy this colorful veggie with the knowledge that you’re looking out for your little one.

Avocados

Avocados are a health food craze–and for good reason. These savory fruits are a wonderful source of healthy fats and can help moms feel full while providing tons of important vitamins and minerals like folate, potassium, and vitamins B, K, C, and E. Add avocado to your breakfast toast or atop a quick lunch salad for an extra boost for both you and your baby. 

Other Tips: Go Organic and Drink Water

New moms should also lookout for foods that may be contaminated with pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals. These substances can pass to your little one through your breast milk. Buy organic fruits, vegetables, and meat products whenever possible. You want to be sure that unwanted chemicals don’t make their way into your baby’s body. In addition to shopping for organic produce, moms should also drink enough water throughout the day. Your body is working hard to make sure your baby is fed! Try to drink a glass of water at each feeding and throughout the day to prevent dehydration–your little one needs you at your best!

Breastfeeding can be exhausting–as if pregnancy, labor, and delivery weren’t enough. But you can do this! Include these best foods for breastfeeding moms in your diet so you have the energy you need for nighttime feedings, pumping, and everything in between. 

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed with breastfeeding, you may benefit from a breast pump! And did you know that you can get a breast pump at little to no cost through your health insurance? Pumps For Mom is here to help you through the process of getting a breast pump through insurance. Fill out our easy-to-use form to find out what breast pumps you qualify for immediately!