Benefits of Mod Feeders for Breastfed Babies - Maximize Milk and Calm Fussy Newborns

The Benefits of Using a Mod Feeder for Breastfed Babies

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for growing babies. Breast milk contains the ideal balance of nutrients to help babies thrive and supports their developing immune systems. However, many breastfeeding mothers find that their babies have periods when they seem hungrier or more unsettled than usual. This is often related to growth spurts, teething or developmental leap phases. Using a mod feeder during these times can help ensure baby gets every last drop of breastmilk to satisfy their needs.

What is a Mod Feeder?

A mod feeder is a special feeding device designed specifically for breastfed babies. It consists of a soft silicone nipple that attaches to the end of a breast shield or flange. The nipple has a one-way valve that allows milk to flow through when baby sucks. Underneath the shield is a container that catches any drips or spills of breastmilk during feeding.

Mod feeders work by allowing baby to receive milk directly from the breast while also catching any excess milk that might drip or spill out. This ensures baby gets the full volume of milk available during feeding. It prevents precious breastmilk from being wasted.

Benefits of Using a Mod Feeder

There are several advantages to using a mod feeder for breastfed babies:

• Maximizes milk intake - Babies are often not efficient at removing milk from the breast, especially when distracted or impatient. A mod feeder ensures they get all the milk available during feeding.
• Reduces fussiness - Getting more milk can satisfy baby for longer. This means they may be less fussy between feeds.
• Calms a distracted baby - Some babies have trouble staying focused at the breast. The mod feeder keeps them settled and drinking for longer.
• Provides relief during growth spurts - Growth spurts can make babies extra hungry. Using a mod feeder prevents wasting milk when their appetite is increased.
• Supports teething babies - Teething can also increase baby's hunger. A mod feeder allows them to get all the milk they need for comfort.
• Allows for paced bottle feeding - The nipple mimics the breast and makes baby work to remove the milk, supporting healthy feeding patterns.
• Prevents lopsided supply - Babies often favor one breast over the other. Using a mod feeder on the less preferred side can maintain even milk production.
• Convenient for travel - The catcher allows mom to breastfeed discretely on-the-go and saves milk that would otherwise be lost.

Choosing a Mod Feeder

There are a few things to look for when selecting a mod feeder:

• Select a BPA-free model made from silicone or food-grade materials.
• Look for a nipple that mimics the breast in shape, texture and flow.
• Ensure the nipple has a one-way valve to prevent leaking or spilling.
• Choose a size that fits comfortable onto your breasts and nipple.
• Opt for a mod feeder with a catch container that is easy to attach and remove.
• Pick one that is simple to clean and sanitize between uses.

How to Use a Mod Feeder

Using a mod feeder takes a little practice but is relatively straightforward:

1. Wash hands and assemble sterilized mod feeder parts just before feeding.
2. Center the flange over your nipple and gently press it onto the breast.
3. Make sure the nipple valve is tipped downward so milk can flow through when baby feeds.
4. Hold baby in a comfortable breastfeeding position and allow them to latch onto the silicone nipple.
5. Let baby feed as normal. They will receive your milk from the breast while the mod feeder catches any excess.
6. When finished, detach the feeder from your breast and dismantle the parts.
7. Any caught milk can be fed to baby by bottle or stored for later following breastmilk guidelines.
8. Wash and sterilize the mod feeder ready for the next use.

Tips for Success with Mod Feeders

Here are some tips to get the most out of using a mod feeder:

• Try using lanolin on flange edges to improve comfort and fit.
• Ensure a tight seal between breast and flange so milk flows through the feeder properly.
• Feed baby before engorgement to reduce overflow or spills.
• Position yourself and baby so excess milk flows downhill into the catcher.
• Feed from the least productive breast first before using the feeder.
• If nipple slips out frequently, try a smaller size flange.
• Rinse parts immediately after use to prevent dried milk from sticking.

Mod Feeders Help Make Every Drop Count

Using a mod feeder while breastfeeding can benefit both mother and baby. Allowing baby to get every last drop of breastmilk ensures they get the nutrition they need to grow and develop. Meanwhile, moms avoid wasting their precious milk supply during times when production is high or baby needs extra nourishment. With the right techniques, mod feeders can be an invaluable tool for breastfeeding challenges.

FAQs

What age is a mod feeder suitable for?

A mod feeder can be used from newborn age onwards as long as baby is able to effectively latch and suckle. Most mod feeders are recommended for babies around 0-6 months or up to when first teeth appear.

Are mod feeders safe?

Yes, mod feeders from reputable brands made from food-grade materials are safe for breastfed babies when used according to instructions. Be sure to follow guidelines on cleaning and sterilizing mod feeder parts after each use.

How do I know if my baby needs a mod feeder?

Signs your breastfed baby might benefit from a mod feeder include fussiness during/after feeds, excessive spitting up or slow weight gain. Babies going through growth spurts or teething may also feed more efficiently with a mod feeder.

Can I reuse breastmilk from a mod feeder?

Yes, any breastmilk caught in the mod feeder can be fed to your baby later if stored safely and within guidelines. Refrigerate for up to 4 hours, store in freezer for 6 months.

Are mod feeders allowed in hospitals?

Most hospitals allow and even recommend mod feeders to help initiate breastfeeding. Check your hospital's policy. If not permitted, mod feeders can still be introduced at home.