OB Pre-Natal Care

Research has shown that breastfeeding provides benefits for both moms and their babies. Mothers who breastfeed experience a reduced risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and ovarian and breast cancers. Babies who are breastfed have a reduced risk of developing asthma, diabetes, severe lower respiratory disease, ear infections, and even upset stomachs that lead to diarrhea and vomiting. Breastfeeding not only helps to nourish your baby, but it also develops a lasting bond between you and your child. These deep connections can also be made and felt by partners as well. Partners who cuddle with the breastfeeding dyad during these special moments can also have a release of oxytocin or the special hormone that helps to develop deep connections with others.

Essential nutrients that increase during lactation are iodine, choline, and vitamin A.

• • Iodine is a trace mineral needed to make thyroid hormones, which regulate many metabolic activities, especially for bone and brain development in infants. Iodine intake increases from 150 mcg needed for women before pregnancy to 220 mcg during pregnancy and continues to increase to 290 mcg for breastfeeding women. Common sources of iodine are tuna, Greek yogurt, eggs, seaweed, and iodized salt.
  • Choline is needed to regulate memory, mood, and muscle control. This micronutrient can pass through your breastmilk and help you maintain your immune system healthy. Eating more dairy, eggs, beans, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower are all great ways to increase your choline intake.
  • Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is best absorbed with a source of fat in your diet and can be stored in your liver and fat tissues. Vitamin A requirements increase from about 770 RAE* a day to about 1300 RAE during breastfeeding because it is used to support your growing baby and is transferred through your breast milk.⁷ Vitamin A-rich foods include sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, Vitamin A-fortified milk, and eggs.
    • • *RAE = Retinol Activity Equivalents is a standardized unit used for different forms of vitamin A.
  • Prenatal vitamins usually contain these vitamins listed here and others, like folic acid and iron, to support your body during recovery and breastfeeding. It is important to continue taking your prenatal vitamins up to six months after you deliver. Talk with your healthcare provider to ensure your prenatal vitamins meet your needs.

Hydration needs increase from 3 liters of water a day during pregnancy to about 4 liters, 16 cups, or 128oz of water while breastfeeding. Drinking more water does not increase how much milk you produce but can ensure you are hydrated enough to create breast milk. Staying hydrated can also regulate your body temperature and help to improve your sleep quality and mood. You can meet these increased fluid needs through the beverages you drink and the foods you eat.

• • • The best options for fluids while breastfeeding are no-calorie options like regular or sparkling water. Low-calorie options like low-fat cow’s milk or watered-down 100% fruit juices also provide the fluids you need.
    • Foods with high water content, including cucumbers, iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon, celery, peaches, and zucchini, are great sources of water you can get from the foods you eat.

Consider keeping a reusable water bottle with a straw or lid to drink from throughout the day. Take sips regularly and create a habit of taking a drink of water before, during, and after each breastfeeding session.