Anne Smith, IBCLC

Anne Smith, IBCLC
As the mother of six wonderful breastfed children, three perfect breastfed grand babies, and an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) with over twenty-five years experience in lactation counseling, I can offer you professional support, as well as information and advice based on my personal experiences over the years.

Breastfeeding After Breast Reduction

Ask Anne… Question: Is there any early way to tell if a woman will definitely be able to breastfeed? I had a breast reduction three years ago, and although I seem to have slight sensation around my breasts, the nipple/areola area has always been more sensitive then before my operation. Curious if that is a good sign? I’m hoping to …

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Should breast milk be stored in bags or in bottles?

Ask Anne… Question: How long can breast milk be stored and should it be stored in a bag or in a bottle? Answer: Breast milk can be safely stored in glass, hard plastic bottles, or polyethylene milk storage bags especially designed for storing human  milk. Avoid any plastic containers made with bisphenol A (BPA),an estrogen-mimicking industrial chemical . In 2012, …

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Why are my baby’s bowel movements green?

Ask Anne… Question: Yesterday my daughter’s stools were bright green. Neon green, actually. What could be causing this? The only thing I can possibly think of is that I have been drinking caffeine-free diet Mt. Dew and that maybe could be it, because it is almost that color. Also, her stools have been very pasty in consistency. Can breastfed babies get …

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How often should a toddler nurse versus eating solid foods?

Ask Anne… Question: My daughter is 11 months old. Extended breastfeeding is in my plan. She still nurses a couple times during the night. How many times a day should a toddler  nurse versus eating solid foods? Answer: How wonderful that you are aware of the many benefits of extended breastfeeding and plan to continue nursing after a year! Your …

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What makes my breasts so itchy?

Ask Anne… Question: I have been breastfeeding my 10-week-old son exclusively, and we both love it. My problem is that I have occasional intense itchiness on the skin of my left breast. When I scratch it, it brings on red welts that go away a little later. The itching does not involve the nipple, and it has no effect on …

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Can I smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol while I’m nursing?

Ask Anne… Question: I am 35 weeks pregnant with my second baby. I went back to work early with my first baby and didn’t try to nurse,  but this time I’ll be a SAHM and I plan to breastfeed. I like to occasionally have  a beer or glass of wine, but I’m not drinking while I’m pregnant.  What about after my baby …

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Breastfeeding In Public

Ask Anne… Question: My husband is concerned about my breastfeeding in public. What can I say to him to reassure him that it’s okay? Answer: As far as your husband’s feelings about nursing in public: this is something that the two of you will have to work out between you. Some dads are uncomfortable with the idea of their wife …

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Breastfeeding problems due to flat nipples

Ask Anne… Question: With my first son I successfully nursed until he was 12 months old, at which time he weaned himself. The beginning was very rough and I almost gave up many times. The main problem I had was flat nipples. Neither my doctor or I thought to check before my baby was born.  Now that I am expecting …

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