Experienced Pediatric & Infant Care Specialist
Infant Care
Welcoming a new baby is a joyful time, but it can also bring lots of questions, concerns, and uncertainties. With regular wellness checks starting just days after your baby is born, New Beginnings Pediatrics is here to support and guide your family through every stage of infancy and beyond.
Our team of caring, board-certified pediatricians have years of experience in providing the best possible care for newborns and infants. We understand that every baby is unique, and our goal is to provide personalized care to meet your little one's specific needs.
During these appointments, we will look at your baby's growth, check their development, and ensure that they're up-to-date on the vaccines they need to stay healthy. We will also take the time to address any concerns or questions you may have about your baby's health, feeding habits, sleeping patterns, or anything else that may be on your mind.
If you're expecting or have recently welcomed a new baby, schedule your first appointment with us today. We look forward to getting to know you and your little one and being a part of your parenting journey.
Breastfeeding Support Near You | Pediatricians in Blacksburg, VA
Breastfeeding Help
One of the first decisions every new parent has to make is how they will feed their baby. Whether you choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or a combination of both, the team at New Beginnings Pediatrics supports your choice and is here to help you ensure your baby grows healthy and strong.
For those who choose to breastfeed, our team of experienced pediatricians and lactation consultants are here to provide support and guidance along the way. We understand that breastfeeding can come with challenges, and we're here to help you overcome them.
Some common issues that breastfeeding mothers may face include:
- Latching Issues: Proper latching is crucial for effective breastfeeding, but not all babies get it right away. Our team can work with you on positioning and techniques to improve the latch, making the process more comfortable for you and more beneficial for your baby.
- Pain While Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience for either you or your baby. If you're experiencing any discomfort, our team can help identify the cause and provide solutions to make breastfeeding more comfortable.
- Supply Issues: Worries about milk supply, whether too much or too little, are common. We can discuss ways to increase supply or manage oversupply to make breastfeeding more manageable.
- Supplementation Questions: Sometimes, supplementing with formula might be necessary. We're here to provide advice on how to supplement effectively while maintaining your milk supply.
- Weaning: As your baby grows and their nutritional needs change, we can provide guidance on when and how to transition from breastfeeding to solid foods.
Every mother's experience is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. If you're encountering difficulties or have questions about breastfeeding, we encourage you to reach out. Together, we can find solutions to ensure your breastfeeding journey is as smooth as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of breast milk?
There are three main types of breast milk: colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk.
- Colostrum is produced before your baby is born and continues for the first few days after birth. This thick, cream-colored milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies to protect your newborn's health.
- Transitional milk begins to appear 2 to 4 days after your baby is born. This milk is higher in fat and calories to support your growing baby's needs.
- Mature milk comes in two weeks later and continues to provide all the necessary nutrients for your baby's development. While feeding, "fore-milk" is released first, which is rich in water, vitamins, and protein. As the feeding continues, "hind-milk" is released, which has a higher fat content to satisfy hunger and help your baby grow.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk is the perfect combination of nutrition, antibodies, and hormones to support your baby's growth and development, and it can even reduce the risk of various health conditions such as respiratory infections, ear infections, allergies, obesity, and SIDS.
For mothers, breastfeeding can promote bonding with their babies, decrease the risk of postpartum depression, and reduce the risk of certain cancers and chronic diseases.
How long should I breastfeed my baby?
Though the choice of whether or not to breastfeed is ultimately up to you, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding along with the introduction of solid foods until at least 1 year of age.
Though you may choose to stop breastfeeding at that time, the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding until at least 2 years of age for optimal health benefits.
Some mothers may have difficulty producing enough milk throughout this time, while others may choose not to breastfeed — that's okay, too! Our team is here to support you and help you make the best decision for your baby's health.
How can I schedule infant care or breastfeeding help near me?
Scheduling an appointment at New Beginnings Pediatrics is easy! Whether you're looking for infant care or breastfeeding support, you can call our office or simply schedule your visit online. And, we know life doesn’t always wait, which is why we’re happy to offer same-day appointments. We look forward to meeting you and your little one!