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How to keep baby cool while breastfeeding?

Keeping Baby Cool While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to nourish and bond with your baby, but it can be challenging to keep them comfortable during hot weather. Here are some tips to help keep your little one cool while nursing:
Stay Hydrated: Breastfeeding moms need to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and maintain their milk supply. Aim for at least 13 cups (104 ounces) of fluids per day. Keep a water bottle nearby while nursing and sip frequently.
Dress for the Heat: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that allows airflow. Opt for loose, moisture-wicking fabrics that won’t trap heat. You can also try using a nursing cover or shawl to provide some shade for your baby.
Use a Cooling Pad: Place a cool, damp washcloth or reusable cooling pad on your baby’s back or neck to help lower their body temperature.
Breastfeed in a Cool Environment: Find a comfortable, air-conditioned space to nurse your baby. Avoid direct sunlight and use a fan if needed to keep the area cool.
Offer Frequent Feedings: Breastfeed your baby more often in hot weather to keep them hydrated. Smaller, more frequent feedings can help prevent overheating.
Monitor for Signs of Overheating: Watch for signs like flushed cheeks, rapid breathing, or excessive sweating, and take steps to cool your baby down if needed.
By following these tips, you can help keep your baby comfortable and safe while breastfeeding, even in the hottest weather. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy this special bonding time with your little one.

Why does my baby get so hot when breastfeeding?

While breastfeeding, you and your baby are in close contact, often skin-to-skin, which can make them feel warm. It increases your baby’s body heat.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

How to reduce body heat during breastfeeding?

Strategies to keep you and your baby cool when breastfeeding:

  1. Place a muslin or cotton wrap between you and your baby.
  2. Lie down to feed so there’s some space between your baby’s body and your own.
  3. Place a cool wet washer in the crook of your arm.

Do babies breastfeed more when it’s hot?

During hot weather they may want to breastfeed more than usual. If you’re bottle feeding, as well as their usual milk feeds, you can give your baby a little cooled boiled water. If your baby wakes at night, they’ll probably want milk. If they have had their usual milk feeds, try cooled boiled water as well.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

How to tell if baby is too hot?

Here are some indicators a baby is too hot:

  • • Warm to the touch. • Flushed or red skin. • Rapid heartbeat. • Fast breathing. • Vomiting. • Lethargic or unresponsive. • Sweaty neck or damp hair. • Heat rash. • Restless and unable to sleep. •
  • If your baby is sick, it’s important to follow the advice of a healthcare professional.

What happens if I don’t breastfeed for 3 days?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

How to keep baby cool while nursing?

If skin contact is uncomfortable for both you and your baby, place a muslin wrap, pillowcase or cloth nappy between you. Place a cool, damp face-washer in the crook of your arm while feeding. Lying down to feed may be more comfortable for both of you. Only baby’s mouth and your breast need be in contact.

Is it okay for a baby to sweat while breastfeeding?

You might notice newborns sweating after feeding, whether breastfed or bottle-fed. If this happens, it’s a good idea to pause the feeding session, burp your baby, and help them cool down before continuing with the meal. When you resume, make sure your baby has some extra airflow to keep them from heating up again.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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