Lactation Support FAQs

Just because breastfeeding is natural doesn’t always mean that it’s easy. If you’re having breastfeeding challenges, as many moms do, our Falls Church, VA, pediatrician Dr. Maria Sacoto and her lactation team at Sacoto Pediatrics are always here to answer questions and to provide moms with lactation support they need to make breastfeeding easier.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding?

There are many benefits associated with breastfeeding and these benefits impact both mother and child. Since breast milk contains all the vital nutrients your baby needs it’s considered the best option for feeding newborns. Some of the benefits of breastfeeding include a lowered risk for,

• Obesity
• Asthma and allergies
• Digestive issues
• Type 1 diabetes
• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

It can also help protect against certain infections while helping to alleviate anxiety and depression in breastfeeding moms (thanks to the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding).

How often should I breastfeed?

For the first month of your baby’s life, you should breastfeed every 1.5-3 hours or anywhere from 8-12 times a day. Babies between the ages of 1-2 will be breastfed around 7-9 times a day. You mustn’t go longer than 4 hours between feedings, even during the night.

How long should I breastfeed?

This is a personal decision that only you can make; however, feel free to talk to one of our lactation support physicians about the benefits of breastfeeding for the long term. It’s a good idea to breastfeed your newborn for at least the first six months of life; however, many moms opt to breastfeed for 12 months or longer.

What are common breastfeeding problems?

Breastfeeding issues are surprisingly common. Some of the most common breastfeeding issues include,

• Trouble latching or improper latching
• Cracked or sore nipples
• Not enough milk supply
• Blocked milk ducts

When should I turn to a lactation counselor for support?

Most women who breastfeed will benefit from turning to a lactation consultant who can provide them with the knowledge and information they need to be able to breastfeed more easily. You don’t have to be dealing with issues to benefit from a consultation with our lactation team. Of course, if you are dealing with any of the breastfeeding issues above, know that our lactation team here at Sacoto Pediatrics is ready to provide you with the information, support, and help you need.

What occurs in a lactation support visit?

During this visit, we will get to know both you and your baby’s health and medical history. Naturally, we will discuss the difficulties you’re having with breastfeeding and then try to help guide you through different techniques aimed to troubleshoot your issues and improve breastfeeding for both you and your newborn.

If you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding, Dr. Sacoto and her team of lactation support specialists at Sacoto Pediatrics are here to make things easier for both you and your newborn. To schedule a lactation consultation, call us at (703) 820-1951.