Q and A

Ask Anne… Question: My son recently got his first three teeth and has done a number on my nipples. It seems he is more likely to bite down when upset or just really tired. What is the best way to deal with this problem? Answer: Many new mothers tell me that they plan to nurse their babies for six months, …

Ask Anne… Question: I had so many problems breastfeeding my first baby that I’m afraid to try again. I wasn’t making enough milk and my nipples were bleeding from the constant sucking. I want to try to breastfeed this time but I am scared. Is there anything I can do now to prepare? Answer: I think it is wonderful that …

Ask Anne… Question: I breastfed my 16 month old son until he weaned. I am now pregnant and suddenly I am considering not nursing! I think the reason I have these reservations is because my son was born with a tongue-tie and he always had a very bad latch. I am scared to get into this again if we have these …

Ask Anne… When I pump, I only get 1 ounce per side. I am worried because I am returning to work in 2 weeks and I’m not going to have enough breast milk to get her through the day while I’m at work.  She must be getting more than 1 ounce per when I nurse her, because she’s a big baby …

Ask Anne… Question:   My nine month old baby has been on a nursing strike for almost a week. He is teething, and I think that it all started at the end of an usually hectic week, when he bit me and I raised my voice at him. He is eating solids and gaining weight, but he refuses a bottle and does not  take …

Ask Anne… Question: I had my nipples pierced when I was a teenager. Now I’m in my 20s and thinking about having a baby. Can I breastfeed my baby with pierced nipples? Answer: There is no evidence that established pierced nipples will affect your ability to breastfeed, although milk may leak out of the hole.  Try to prevent engorgement and …

Ask Anne… Question:   I have a 4 month old son. He weighs 20 lbs and is 28 1/2 inches. I am working full time and breastfeeding. I try to use a double pump at work but I don’t seem to be getting much milk anymore. It feels like my supply has gone way down. Do you have any tips …

Ask Anne… Question: My daughter turned one on Mother’s Day, but she is still not sleeping through the night. She will wake to nurse and then go right back to sleep. Is it normal for her to need to nurse or is it more of a comfort thing for her? I don’t mind her nursing at night, whether for comfort …