Is Your Pediatrician Breastfeeding Friendly? 7 Questions to Ask During the Interview
Listen up, mama!
There's a BIG difference between a doctor who's like "yeah, sure, breastfeeding is cool" and a doctor who's like "WOOHOO! You go, girl! Breastfeeding is amazing, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!"
You deserve a support team that's going to lift you up and cheer you on through the boobie battles.
Get your detective hat on, because we've got some interview questions to suss out if your doc is pro-boob!
7 questions to ask and answers to listen for:
Do you have a lactation consultant on staff or an IBCLC that you refer women to?
Even if they don't have an LC in the office it's important they have a way for you to get lactation help should you need it.
Which growth chart do you use - the CDC or the WHO?
Make sure they are using the World Health Organization (WHO) chart because the CDC chart only shows growth patterns for formula fed babies.
How long does a newborn have to get back to their birth weight?
Newborns should be given about 2 weeks to regain their birth weight unless they show signs of dehydration.
What percentage of women in your practice are exclusively breastfeeding at 1 month?
Look for an answer well above 50%.
When do you recommend solid foods be introduced?
The AAP recommends exclusive breastfeeding with no additional foods until 6 months of age for healthy babies.
What age do you recommend weaning?
No specific age should be specified. Weaning should be when breastfeeding is no no longer mutually desired by mother and child.
Are you aware of resources to determine the safety of medication use for the breastfeeding mother?
They should say yes.
BONUS PRO-TIP: Consider Their Bedside Manner
Breastfeeding can be like riding an emotional rollercoaster, and having a pediatrician who can keep your spirits up is crucial. Ask yourself, "Do I feel comfortable talking to this person about my boob troubles?"
Trust me, you'll want someone whose bedside manner feels like a warm hug and can help you navigate twists and turns of breastfeeding without making you feel like you're losing your marbles (or milk supply).
Our 3 FAV Breastfeeding Products
🌛 1. This nursing bra is the absolute BEST for breastfeeding at night. It’s super comfortable and made of the softest material ever. You’ll want to wear it forever to sleep in, even after you’re done breastfeeding.
💪 2. Boost supply and tone up postpartum. Milk Dust is protein powder made just for breastfeeding moms. It nourishes and tones postpartum bodies (and contains milk boosting ingredients too!) Get 10% off Milk Dust using the code MILKOLOGY at checkout
🤱 3. If your nipples are sore, these are an absolute lifesaver. They’re super cheap, can be worn for multiple days (perfect when you’re trying to get a good latch), and are soooo soothing.
…AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, DON’T MISS THESE BREASTFEEDING FREEBIES!
(Use the coupon code milkology1 to grab any of the following for free, just pay shipping!)
