Does a bf baby really need water to drink?!

[notjustamummythankyou]

My dd (3mo) was very unsettled with teething pain yesterday. She didn't have a temperature and was otherwise well.

my sister (20 years as a nanny and 2 dds of her own) said I should give dd cooled boiled water in a bottle as she could be dehydrated through hours of crying.

I think not, as a good breastfeed should be sufficient given the circumstances. And she's not brilliant at taking a bottle anyway.

Who's right?!

(oh and dd finally fell asleep at 8 and went through to 7 this morning. Fine now)

You're right :o

I have never given either of my babies anything but breast milk before the age if six months. I'm not convinced water would go any harm but I don't see the need - if your baby is thirsty just offer the breast.

Bf babies don't need water. You're definitely right.

No, your breast milk will change in consistency according to what your baby needs.

I agree, baby just needs breastmilk, better drinking the extra water yourself :)

As I thought then. Thank you all!

saf - forget the water. After the day I had, all I wanted was gin ... :o

you are correct

No need for water until you start introducing solids, breastmilk is a complete meal in itself. When your LO does start on solids do offer water though or she may get constipated.

What does your sister think milk is made of? If a baby is thirsty then then milk is mostly water.

rubirosa: that's exactly what I said to my dsis - 'what do you think milk is made of?'

Bit daft really - and dd isn't even my first child. But put me in front of my dsis with all her experience, beautifully behaved children and Cath Kidston aprons, and I start to doubt the most simple things.

But that's a whole new thread
:)

Yup, you're right. Ignore SIL!

If you're worried about your DD being dehydrated, then it's a good idea to make sure that you are drinking enough fluids (and extra in hot weather of course).

You are right

I know a lovely nanny also with 20 years experience explain to me that a baby she's helping to look after is having a formula top up after every breastfeed because the mother isn't producing enough milk.

Er, chicken and egg? Demand stimulates supply!!

Oh and you're right of course!!

No!
And it's just as well since aged 11 years DD2 still won't drink it.