Important Facts About Breast Feeding

Doctors generally encourage breast feeding because human milk is the ideal food, the natural food intended for human infants.

For the first few days after Baby is born, your breast will secrete a thin, milky fluid called colostrum. During this time Baby will probably oblige by not being too hungry. After this your milk develops and fills the sinuses located behind the areola, the dark colored area around the nipples.

During the first weeks, it is more comfortable to lie down to nurse your baby. You may lie down on your side with baby resting on your arm.

Common Symptoms During Your First to Third Trimester

Your body will change dramatically during pregnancy, Some of these changes may be uncomfortable. Talk with your health care provider about the best ways to ease discomfort. You may have to try a few different methods before you discover ones that work best for you. While each woman's experience is different, the following symptoms are common during pregnancy.

FIRST TRIMESTER( 0 to12 weeks)

This is when most women experience morning sickness. You may need to urinate more often than usual, and you may feel tired and moody. Your breasts will begin to change now, and may be swollen and very tender. They may leak colostrum, a fluid the breasts produce as you prepare for lactation, although this is more common later in pregnancy. Any nipple discharge should be discussed with your provider.

SECOND TRIMESTER (13 to 28 weeks)

Many women experience a return to normal energy levels, and morning sickness will often disappear. Your breasts and belly will grow. You may experience leg cramps, constipation, and a faster heartbeat. During the fourth month of pregnancy, you may feel the baby movie for the first time.

THIRD TRIMESTER (29 to 40 weeks)

Since your baby is growing and your uterus is getting bigger, you may experience shortness of breath because the baby is crowding your lungs. You may have heartburn as your stomach is squeezed and hormones relax parts of your digestive system. Fatigue may return, mainly from the extra work your body is doing, carrying around a baby who is nearly full grown. You may also have backaches. Your legs and feet may swell, and you may have a difficult time sleeping.