06/23/2025
Your baby might be going to breast more often for hydration during hot days, and that's OK! Water is not recommended for babies under 6 months of age. And don't forget yourself - Stay hydrated, especially if baby is going to breast more often. Wear sunscreen, and use shade or dress yourself and baby in light colored, lightweight clothing to protect yourselves from the sun.
And just a reminder: Some psychotropic medications (drugs that affect the brain's activity and are used to treat mental health conditions like depression, anxiety or ADD/ADHD meds) - Can cause heat sensitivity or intolerance. 🥵
Please be careful during this heat wave. Stay cool and hydrated, and listen to your body's response. If you do not seem to be tolerating the heat, move to a shaded or cooled location and rehydrate with electrolyte solution (Gatorade, liquid IV, etc.). You can also make your own rehydration solution using 1c coconut water, 1 tbsp raw honey, 1/8 tbsp Himalayan salt, and the juice of one lemon.
Additionally
-- You can place a towel or receiving blanket between yourself and your baby during feedings to mitigate sweat.
-- Breastfeeding is legal in all 50 states, and legal around public pools.
-- If you are in an area where a lot of A/C is used, be prepared for rolling blackouts: If you have milk saved and stored: keep the freezer shut to keep temp for as long as the blackout remains active. You shouldn't have to worry about the temp unless your power is out for longer than 12-24 hours, and then you can pack the freezer with ice and towels to maintain temperature, changing the ice out as needed.
As always, reach out to your IBCLC if you have any questions or concerns about feeding or milk storage, and reach out to your usual medical provider(s) if you have concerns about your or your baby's health.
