Moms… you are amazing. First you carry life inside you. Forty weeks you wait, then birth life into this world with a strength terrifying and unimaginable. You’d think the work should be done but then? … you feed that life from your own tired body for weeks, months, sometimes years.
From day one, mothers are giving of themselves. That’s why I wanted to bring together an amazing giveaway for breastfeeding moms. And… I’m happy to note many if not all of these prizes could be used by moms who are NOT breastfeeding… because although I’m glad there are specialty products to support breastfeeding moms… ALL moms are amazing in their own right!
Each sponsor sent me a complimentary item, and each are offering a fabulous prize!! Please take the time to read about these brands and their products as they were so kind to sponsor my Latch On 4 Breastfeeding Awareness series this year! You’ll see some old favorites and meet some new brands too!
Glamourmom 
Since those first moments relaxing in the nursing bra nightgown, I’ve been hooked on the soft fabrics and easy-open clasps of Glamourmom nursing wear. Find comfortable and durable tops, tanks, bras, and sleepwear for those long days and nights of nursing. I’ve enjoyed the longer length of their tanks to give coverage to a post-partum tummy! Their Nursing Bra Full Bust Long Top has a built-in nursing bra with adjustable chest band for transitioning through sizes. BONUS: In August, Glamourmom has a “Buy One, Give One” donation program with KIDS – up to $1 million in tank donations to moms in need! So do some shopping!
Boppy
Who hasn’t heard of the U-shaped pillow that supports both mom and baby for breastfeeding and beyond? The
Boppy® Feeding and Infant Support Pillow
is America’s #1 Baby Product! I’ve used our Boppy pillow for everything from nursing, to photo shoot prop, to tummy time support! The cottony slipcovers (can be purchased separately) are easy to wash and to switch out if you need a fresh look or have another baby!
Due Maternity
Every mom could use pampering no matter what stage of motherhood… but especially during post-partum and early breastfeeding days! Try Bella B. gift sets – the Mom Essentials pack comes in a zipper pouch and includes Tummy Honey Butter, Nipple Nurture Butter, Body Buzz Cream, and Perineal Spray. Made with organic ingredients and a light floral scent, I especially like that the nipple butter is lanolin, petroleum, and paraben free! Check out all the gift sets for moms and babies at Due Maternity, as well as their line of maternity and nursing clothing – they have everything for mom and baby!
Mothers En Vogue
What stands out about Mothers En Vogue is their fashion-forward styles for pregnant and nursing mothers. Many of their styles transition from maternity to nursing, so you can feel comfortable with your wardrobe immediately after giving birth! Chic pieces feature bubble hems, pleats, tunics, and soft bamboo eco-fabrics. The Britney Bubble Tank I’m wearing is airy and cool for summer months, and a great layer under cardis too… plus the side openings are easy for nursing the baby while looking fabulous out and about. MEV also has a fun line of mom/tot clothing including their Supply and Demand Tee and Onesie sets! Clever, right? The tee has a hem-lift nursing access, and the onesie has expandable shoulders for comfort.
Pretty – Bras for Nursing Moms & Pretty By JL
JL is a designer who loves pretty things… she’s developing a line of attractive and comfortable nursing bras – find out more on the Pretty-Bras for Nursing Moms website. The PBfNM’s mission is: to help each woman soften the challenges of breastfeeding by celebrating her body and satisfying her spirit of self. Finding the PRETTY in motherhood is JL’s forte, and she’s found the PRETTY in developing a business by creating handmade silk and sterling jewelry to help fund her business. My Watermelon Limeade stacked braided bracelet is so lovely I keep forgetting to take it off until I have to shower or wash dishes! These bracelets make a delightful gift for anyone, but especially a nursing mom – maybe she could use it to keep track of which side she nursed on last by switching the bracelet from one wrist to another? Every PRETTY by JL item purchased helps JL get closer to her dream of making moms like us PRETTY things to wear! Read more on the PRETTYblog.
Chewbeads
Have I mentioned how our baby loves to eat everything in sight? Well…that includes my clothing and jewelry. I was delighted to receive a Chewbeads necklace for him to play with and chew on. Chewbeads come in six different styles from the classic and simple Jane, to the chunkier Perry. Each necklace is made of 100% silicone beads (like pacifiers or nipples) to be soft on babies gums and emerging teeth. I liked how each bead is knotted into place on the sturdy ribbon strand, and the breakaway clasp really works (but not too easily so it’s not falling off you constantly!). Beyond being great for a baby to touch and feel as a sensory object while nursing, these necklaces are just fabulously fashionable!
Leading Lady
Finally, nothing says comfortable nursing like a comfortable nursing bra! I’ve mentioned before how I have gone through a zillion trying to find something that just didn’t drive! me! crazy! Leading Lady has become a top go-to brand for me to find comfortable undergarments specifically for breastfeeding. Family owned and operated, I’m pleasantly surprised at the afforablility of this brand, as they don’t sacrifice style or comfort! You’ll find bras, sleepwear, camis and other intimate apparel. I recommend the Santoni Wirefree Nursing Bra or Cotton Front-Closure Leisure Bra (a.k.a. The Most Comfortable Bra in America) for supportive wear. Plus, Leading Lady supports “Leading Ladies with products, programs and philanthropic efforts. Follow Leading Lady on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.
a Rafflecopter giveawayThanks to each and every sponsor for helping make this a fabulous giveaway prize!! We appreciate the support of companies like yours that design and create products to help mothers achieve breastfeeding success!
Don’t get discouraged & ask for help if you need it!
Don’t get discouraged & ask for help if you need it!
This is my first pregnancy so I really don’t know what breastfeeding questions to ask.
This is my first pregnancy so I really don’t know what breastfeeding questions to ask.
I haven’t been pregnant… yet! 😉 I definitely want to breastfeed, but is it possible that some women can’t breastfeed at all? The unknown freaks me out!
I haven’t been pregnant… yet! 😉 I definitely want to breastfeed, but is it possible that some women can’t breastfeed at all? The unknown freaks me out!
I am still breastfeeding my daughter. I encourage other moms to try extended breastfeeding. For encouragement, I would say try not to get discouraged. Baby is getting just the right amount of milk and it is the good stuff.
I am still breastfeeding my daughter. I encourage other moms to try extended breastfeeding. For encouragement, I would say try not to get discouraged. Baby is getting just the right amount of milk and it is the good stuff.
Relax. Stresses terrible for supply. We are struggling with supply and I keep reminding myself not to stress.
Relax. Stresses terrible for supply. We are struggling with supply and I keep reminding myself not to stress.
Best advice would be to stick with it! The first weeks can be difficult and exhausting, but it gets so much easier. If you’re having trouble, find an IBCLC to help, they make a world of difference.
Best advice would be to stick with it! The first weeks can be difficult and exhausting, but it gets so much easier. If you’re having trouble, find an IBCLC to help, they make a world of difference.
Beginning weeks even months can be rough but never give up! It was until my baby was 4 months old that I could finally say me & her got the hang of it!
Beginning weeks even months can be rough but never give up! It was until my baby was 4 months old that I could finally say me & her got the hang of it!
It gets better! Like anything new it takes practice for both you and baby. From what I’ve read and experienced myself there are always little challenges (if not big ones) but hang in there because you eventually get to a comfortable spot and realize how amazing it is! And then they start walking and all new challenges begin (the ‘can’t stop moving phase!’)!
It gets better! Like anything new it takes practice for both you and baby. From what I’ve read and experienced myself there are always little challenges (if not big ones) but hang in there because you eventually get to a comfortable spot and realize how amazing it is! And then they start walking and all new challenges begin (the ‘can’t stop moving phase!’)!
It’s hard in the beginning but it gets much easier. It is so nice not to have to prepare/wash bottles all the time (especially in the middle of the night or when your spouse isn’t around). If you need help or are struggling, find a lactation consultant.
And regarding pumping, if you have to pump, find a friend that has been successful at pumping to give you helpful tips and advice. Dialogue is easier than reading (although that is helpful too).
It’s hard in the beginning but it gets much easier. It is so nice not to have to prepare/wash bottles all the time (especially in the middle of the night or when your spouse isn’t around). If you need help or are struggling, find a lactation consultant.
And regarding pumping, if you have to pump, find a friend that has been successful at pumping to give you helpful tips and advice. Dialogue is easier than reading (although that is helpful too).
b/c its so great for the baby
b/c its so great for the baby
Wear your newborn skin to skin as much as possible in the beginning and stay hydrated/snack while nursing.
Wear your newborn skin to skin as much as possible in the beginning and stay hydrated/snack while nursing.
Stock up on lanolin. It really helps during those first painful weeks.
Stock up on lanolin. It really helps during those first painful weeks.
It’s not always easy, my son had a dairy allergy but after two months he was nursing great! Keep at it and if you’re having problems don’t be afraid to call a lactaction consultant for help!
It’s not always easy, my son had a dairy allergy but after two months he was nursing great! Keep at it and if you’re having problems don’t be afraid to call a lactaction consultant for help!
newborns NURSE alot but it does get better! baby may want to eat ALL the time but it is only helping your supply build up don’t give up, it will get easier and it is what is best 🙂
newborns NURSE alot but it does get better! baby may want to eat ALL the time but it is only helping your supply build up don’t give up, it will get easier and it is what is best 🙂
My biggest piece of advice is to not let anything rattle your confidence, know that babies know what they’re doing, and be patient… those first few weeks are a getting-to-know-you period of time and it will take a while for both mum and baby to get adjusted. It isn’t exactly comfortable from the get-go and then once adjusted, it’s incredibly easy and convenient! Give it time. 🙂 (Mother of three BF babes).
My biggest piece of advice is to not let anything rattle your confidence, know that babies know what they’re doing, and be patient… those first few weeks are a getting-to-know-you period of time and it will take a while for both mum and baby to get adjusted. It isn’t exactly comfortable from the get-go and then once adjusted, it’s incredibly easy and convenient! Give it time. 🙂 (Mother of three BF babes).
I’ve breastfed two babies so far and we are expecting our third to arrive in December. I’m so excited to breastfeed again. The benefits to mom and baby seem to be endless. I love that breast milk provides my baby with immunity to all the illnesses that I will come into contact with, I also love that breast milk is constantly changing to meet the needs of my baby. (the milk baby is getting at 2 weeks is different then the milk they’ll receive at 6 months old)
I’ve breastfed two babies so far and we are expecting our third to arrive in December. I’m so excited to breastfeed again. The benefits to mom and baby seem to be endless. I love that breast milk provides my baby with immunity to all the illnesses that I will come into contact with, I also love that breast milk is constantly changing to meet the needs of my baby. (the milk baby is getting at 2 weeks is different then the milk they’ll receive at 6 months old)
Breastfeeding is such a special time for mother and child. Ask for help if you need it and collect supportive experts for help and suggestions! You can do it!
Breastfeeding is such a special time for mother and child. Ask for help if you need it and collect supportive experts for help and suggestions! You can do it!
My advice: Take up offers of people willing to help with cooking or cleaning. Also prepare some freezer meals before hand, so you can pop food into the oven to heat/cook.
My advice: Take up offers of people willing to help with cooking or cleaning. Also prepare some freezer meals before hand, so you can pop food into the oven to heat/cook.
My advice would be never to give up breastfeeding even if it isn’t natural to you. Its an art and when your baby and you find that rhythm you will be glad you persisted!
My advice would be never to give up breastfeeding even if it isn’t natural to you. Its an art and when your baby and you find that rhythm you will be glad you persisted!
Prepare for very sore/cracked/bleeding nipples for at least the first week. It is no fun but it does get better! Being able to comfort and feed my baby anytime I need to is a blessing :).. Knowing that they are happy and healthy brings me joy…so yes it is hard but it is worth every sleepless moment I have with them ..nursing and rocking them when they are little babies. They are only that little once.
Prepare for very sore/cracked/bleeding nipples for at least the first week. It is no fun but it does get better! Being able to comfort and feed my baby anytime I need to is a blessing :).. Knowing that they are happy and healthy brings me joy…so yes it is hard but it is worth every sleepless moment I have with them ..nursing and rocking them when they are little babies. They are only that little once.
For me everytime I started to nurse or pump I got VERY thirsty..
advice keep a big water bottle next to where you pump or breastfeed!! 😀
For me everytime I started to nurse or pump I got VERY thirsty..
advice keep a big water bottle next to where you pump or breastfeed!! 😀
I say go with your gut… Whatever you are comfortable with and makes you happy, do it! 😉 I do recommend a good nursing bra especially for those of us who are “larger…”
I say go with your gut… Whatever you are comfortable with and makes you happy, do it! 😉 I do recommend a good nursing bra especially for those of us who are “larger…”
I would encourage new moms who want to breastfeed to take a breastfeeding class before you give birth, read books on BF, and find out where your local La Leche League has meetings and go to them before and after your baby arrives.
I would encourage new moms who want to breastfeed to take a breastfeeding class before you give birth, read books on BF, and find out where your local La Leche League has meetings and go to them before and after your baby arrives.
my daughter in law tried to breast feed with her first child an had to supplement,,nothing wrong with that if you aren’t producing enough milk for the baby,,now she is pregnant with the 2nd one she is going to try again,,an hope for better results,,not everyone can breast feed so don’t feel guliity if it doesn’t work out
my daughter in law tried to breast feed with her first child an had to supplement,,nothing wrong with that if you aren’t producing enough milk for the baby,,now she is pregnant with the 2nd one she is going to try again,,an hope for better results,,not everyone can breast feed so don’t feel guliity if it doesn’t work out
Follow your gut! If you think something isn’t quite right, be persistent. My third had a posterior tongue tie. Two doctors told me he didn’t, but I knew it wasn’t right. Third doc clipped it.
I would echo what others have said in the comments. Stick with it! The first 2-4 weeks can be very hard (and sometimes painful), but breastfeeding is so worthwhile and wonderful in the end. A lovely gift for both mother and baby.
I would echo what others have said in the comments. Stick with it! The first 2-4 weeks can be very hard (and sometimes painful), but breastfeeding is so worthwhile and wonderful in the end. A lovely gift for both mother and baby.
I would say take a class for expectant mothers, it really helps. Especially for the physical excercises its really helpful.
I would say take a class for expectant mothers, it really helps. Especially for the physical excercises its really helpful.
The best advice I could give is that there are never any “silly questions” when it comes to nursing, and also not to give up too easily… I know so many moms who gave up during the first big growth spurt, and it’s mostly because they thought they weren’t producing enough for their baby. They didn’t realize that it was all very natural, and they were afraid to ask questions… There are always other nursing moms out there for support, and also so many professional resources to take advantage of! Also, I think it’s important to respect every mother’s decision about nursing their baby… Mommies should support other mommies, and try not to make them feel guilty about making decisions they feel are the best for their own families. Thank you for hosting this amazing giveaway!! I’m due with #2 in November, and I’m so excited to experience the beauty of nursing my baby again! 🙂
The best advice I could give is that there are never any “silly questions” when it comes to nursing, and also not to give up too easily… I know so many moms who gave up during the first big growth spurt, and it’s mostly because they thought they weren’t producing enough for their baby. They didn’t realize that it was all very natural, and they were afraid to ask questions… There are always other nursing moms out there for support, and also so many professional resources to take advantage of! Also, I think it’s important to respect every mother’s decision about nursing their baby… Mommies should support other mommies, and try not to make them feel guilty about making decisions they feel are the best for their own families. Thank you for hosting this amazing giveaway!! I’m due with #2 in November, and I’m so excited to experience the beauty of nursing my baby again! 🙂
I love the amazing bond and one on one time I get when nursing my little guy. My works of advice would be to not give up trying in tr beginning if its something you really want to do, it will get easier and it’s very rewarding. I know a lot of people that had a difficult time in the beginning and give up.
I love the amazing bond and one on one time I get when nursing my little guy. My works of advice would be to not give up trying in tr beginning if its something you really want to do, it will get easier and it’s very rewarding. I know a lot of people that had a difficult time in the beginning and give up.
Nursing is such an amazing way to bond with baby! I’ve enjoyed it each time. It’s free and its always helped me lose the baby weight more easily- what could be better??
Nursing is such an amazing way to bond with baby! I’ve enjoyed it each time. It’s free and its always helped me lose the baby weight more easily- what could be better??
Every drop of Breastmilk counts for your baby. Whatever you can give him or her is great!
Every drop of Breastmilk counts for your baby. Whatever you can give him or her is great!
It only hurt with the first baby and for about 6 weeks, then no troubles at all. Tip: you have to nurse frequently to keep a supply. the more you nurse, the more you make, and pumping is not the same, supply will decrease if you only pump.
It only hurt with the first baby and for about 6 weeks, then no troubles at all. Tip: you have to nurse frequently to keep a supply. the more you nurse, the more you make, and pumping is not the same, supply will decrease if you only pump.
It’s a rewarding and wonderful bond to have with your baby. Give yourself some quiet time!
It’s a rewarding and wonderful bond to have with your baby. Give yourself some quiet time!
Hang in there! It WILL get better! And if it seems to be taking awhile, see an IBCLC right away!
Hang in there! It WILL get better! And if it seems to be taking awhile, see an IBCLC right away!
In the beginning breastfeeding can be challenging, but it only gets easier. It is definitely a plus if your husband supports you in the decision to breastfeed. Also, find someone to talk to if you are having any kind of trouble with breastfeeding your baby.
In the beginning breastfeeding can be challenging, but it only gets easier. It is definitely a plus if your husband supports you in the decision to breastfeed. Also, find someone to talk to if you are having any kind of trouble with breastfeeding your baby.
My advice is to listen to your baby’s cues, it will feel like they’re nursing forever, but they become much quicker and less frequent once your supply is steady. Avoid the pump if possible, or at least in the beginning until supply is well established and definitely do not supplement because it will cause your milk supply to drop.
My advice is to listen to your baby’s cues, it will feel like they’re nursing forever, but they become much quicker and less frequent once your supply is steady. Avoid the pump if possible, or at least in the beginning until supply is well established and definitely do not supplement because it will cause your milk supply to drop.
So many people think they can’t do it, but they really can! It’s hard, don’t get me wrong – but it’s doable! And so, so worth it!
So many people think they can’t do it, but they really can! It’s hard, don’t get me wrong – but it’s doable! And so, so worth it!
I’d say trust your baby and your body… do not give into the booby traps from doctors or family members. Co-sleeping is a great way to stay close to baby and respond to the baby’s cues. Also babywearing is awesome!!
I’d say trust your baby and your body… do not give into the booby traps from doctors or family members. Co-sleeping is a great way to stay close to baby and respond to the baby’s cues. Also babywearing is awesome!!
If this is something you really want to do, steal yourself for unwanted comments about your baby getting enough to eat. Especially if you have a petite baby! I heard it for the entire 9-10 months I nursed my dd (had to wean her when I became pg again for medical reasons). She still stayed petite even after going to formula full time!
If this is something you really want to do, steal yourself for unwanted comments about your baby getting enough to eat. Especially if you have a petite baby! I heard it for the entire 9-10 months I nursed my dd (had to wean her when I became pg again for medical reasons). She still stayed petite even after going to formula full time!
My only advice is this: don’t give up! Meet other breastfeeding mamas & be proud of every ounce you can give your baby!
My only advice is this: don’t give up! Meet other breastfeeding mamas & be proud of every ounce you can give your baby!
My advice is to seek help if you need it and to KEEP GOING!! Find support! The first 6-8 weeks are insanely hard. If you can make it past that then things will get so much better!
My advice is to seek help if you need it and to KEEP GOING!! Find support! The first 6-8 weeks are insanely hard. If you can make it past that then things will get so much better!
Its been four years since I’ve breastfed and I’m about to do so again with our second child. I keep telling myself that it is going to be tough, especially at first, but that I can do it. I also keep reminding myself of all the reasons why I wanted to breastfeed in the first place. And I also remind myself of the troubles I had with my first one (latching issues at first) but it did get better and will get better and easier this time around as well. So, basically my best advice is – hang in there. Like pregnancy, all moms and babies are different, and so is breastfeeding. It is not “one size fits all” – you just have to find what works for you.
Its been four years since I’ve breastfed and I’m about to do so again with our second child. I keep telling myself that it is going to be tough, especially at first, but that I can do it. I also keep reminding myself of all the reasons why I wanted to breastfeed in the first place. And I also remind myself of the troubles I had with my first one (latching issues at first) but it did get better and will get better and easier this time around as well. So, basically my best advice is – hang in there. Like pregnancy, all moms and babies are different, and so is breastfeeding. It is not “one size fits all” – you just have to find what works for you.
My best advice is to just stick with it! Work with your baby, find supportive friends and lactation experts, and don’t give up. If you’re determined to breastfeed and persist through difficulties, it’s one of the most rewarding things you will do for your kids. Nursed my older two for two years each, going strong with my 10 week old now – those moments with him are so precious in the midst of his older brothers’ chaos!
My best advice is to just stick with it! Work with your baby, find supportive friends and lactation experts, and don’t give up. If you’re determined to breastfeed and persist through difficulties, it’s one of the most rewarding things you will do for your kids. Nursed my older two for two years each, going strong with my 10 week old now – those moments with him are so precious in the midst of his older brothers’ chaos!
My advice on breastfeeding is don;t give up if it seems hard. Get support from the lactation consultants–they are paid to help you have a good breast feeding experience. Also, go by your babies needs. Some babies need to eat every hour and others can go 4 hours. Trust yourself and your baby. 😉
My advice on breastfeeding is don;t give up if it seems hard. Get support from the lactation consultants–they are paid to help you have a good breast feeding experience. Also, go by your babies needs. Some babies need to eat every hour and others can go 4 hours. Trust yourself and your baby. 😉
As a breastfeeding mother, my best piece of advice is to relax. Don’t get stressed out about getting it right. Take a deap breath, clear the room, and give breastfeeding a try. If I am uptight and anxious I have a hard time breastfeeding, but if I am relaxed I am able to feed much easier and bond with my child.
As a breastfeeding mother, my best piece of advice is to relax. Don’t get stressed out about getting it right. Take a deap breath, clear the room, and give breastfeeding a try. If I am uptight and anxious I have a hard time breastfeeding, but if I am relaxed I am able to feed much easier and bond with my child.
Entering this for my sister. She is due October 1st. I never knew you needed so many products to breastfeed. I thought I good bra and a pump and you were good to go. I just wish her health and success with all of Little Miss’ endeavors
Entering this for my sister. She is due October 1st. I never knew you needed so many products to breastfeed. I thought I good bra and a pump and you were good to go. I just wish her health and success with all of Little Miss’ endeavors
Breastfeeding was one of the best decisions I ever made. I feel like I climbed a mountain that some people never get the chance to climb. The nutrition speaks for itself, it is unmatched by anything that can be created. I am such a breastfeeding geek that I am now training to be a La Leche League leader. I LOVE LLL! What an incredible support system!
Breastfeeding was one of the best decisions I ever made. I feel like I climbed a mountain that some people never get the chance to climb. The nutrition speaks for itself, it is unmatched by anything that can be created. I am such a breastfeeding geek that I am now training to be a La Leche League leader. I LOVE LLL! What an incredible support system!
Perseverance is key! Also, do your best to first nurse your baby within an hour of birth, absolutely as soon as you can! Don’t be afraid to nurse a lot, especially if for some reason you think your supply is low. I really like Earth Mama Angel Baby nipple cream too. Also, if for some reason your baby ends up on a bottle and not nursing directly, you can pump, and then use a nipple shield to get it back to the breast, then wean the baby off the nipple shield to the breast. I had to do that with my first child.
Perseverance is key! Also, do your best to first nurse your baby within an hour of birth, absolutely as soon as you can! Don’t be afraid to nurse a lot, especially if for some reason you think your supply is low. I really like Earth Mama Angel Baby nipple cream too. Also, if for some reason your baby ends up on a bottle and not nursing directly, you can pump, and then use a nipple shield to get it back to the breast, then wean the baby off the nipple shield to the breast. I had to do that with my first child.
Stick with it. It’s totally worth it!
Stick with it. It’s totally worth it!
Expecting our first in November and I plan to breastfeed and stay at home. Trying to decide whether and what kind of breast pump to get since I will be at home.
Expecting our first in November and I plan to breastfeed and stay at home. Trying to decide whether and what kind of breast pump to get since I will be at home.
I am due with baby #2 in 2-3 weeks and can’t wait to breast feed him 🙂 with my 1st baby I had no trouble in the beginning, but had trouble sustaining my supply after going back to work, my menstrual cycle starting, my daughter eating solids etc. Ultimatelymy milk dried up at 9 months and I was devastated…. I would love tips on how to sustain a milk supply for an extended period of time!
I am due with baby #2 in 2-3 weeks and can’t wait to breast feed him 🙂 with my 1st baby I had no trouble in the beginning, but had trouble sustaining my supply after going back to work, my menstrual cycle starting, my daughter eating solids etc. Ultimatelymy milk dried up at 9 months and I was devastated…. I would love tips on how to sustain a milk supply for an extended period of time!
I havent been there yet, but from what I hear – always make sure you have enough nipple cream : )
I havent been there yet, but from what I hear – always make sure you have enough nipple cream : )
As a breastfeeding mama for the 3rd time now, know that many mamas have challenges in the beginning. Like others have said, don’t be afraid to get help if needed. And I agree with getting some nursing tanks! I live in them. 🙂
As a breastfeeding mama for the 3rd time now, know that many mamas have challenges in the beginning. Like others have said, don’t be afraid to get help if needed. And I agree with getting some nursing tanks! I live in them. 🙂
We are trying to have a little one and we know we want to breastfeed. But it would be good to have any idea of the ups AND downs. I already know most of the benefits…so what is the hardest part about breastfeeding?
We are trying to have a little one and we know we want to breastfeed. But it would be good to have any idea of the ups AND downs. I already know most of the benefits…so what is the hardest part about breastfeeding?
I would say the best advice I could give is don’t give up too easily. If you are struggling, get some help.
I would say the best advice I could give is don’t give up too easily. If you are struggling, get some help.
My little guy is 6 months old and we’re still going strong. However, we did have our difficulties in the beginning. The advice I would give is don’t be afraid to go to a lactation consultant early and often. Breastfeeding can be a frustrating experience, but there is help out there and it will (most of the time) get easier!
My little guy is 6 months old and we’re still going strong. However, we did have our difficulties in the beginning. The advice I would give is don’t be afraid to go to a lactation consultant early and often. Breastfeeding can be a frustrating experience, but there is help out there and it will (most of the time) get easier!
I would say that a support system is a HUGE help – especially in those first couple weeks. & ‘you can do it!’ You really can! It’s trying & difficult, but only for such a short time. The benefits hugely outweigh those first weeks! 🙂
I would say that a support system is a HUGE help – especially in those first couple weeks. & ‘you can do it!’ You really can! It’s trying & difficult, but only for such a short time. The benefits hugely outweigh those first weeks! 🙂
Breastfeeding is hard, but totally worth it. My #1 tip I tell new moms is to pump as much as you can in the beginning, not only to help get your milk in and supply up, but having that freezer full of milk is very comforting.
Breastfeeding is hard, but totally worth it. My #1 tip I tell new moms is to pump as much as you can in the beginning, not only to help get your milk in and supply up, but having that freezer full of milk is very comforting.
We’re expecting our first, and I’m concerned about yeast, since I have to get antibiotics during labor (GBS +). Any suggestions for how to prevent or clear it up quickly?
We’re expecting our first, and I’m concerned about yeast, since I have to get antibiotics during labor (GBS +). Any suggestions for how to prevent or clear it up quickly?
I breastfed all of my kids for 2 years each; still nursing the 3rd little one. I just kept going and going..I kept myself encouraged by reading all of the positive research related to nursing both for me and for my kids. I am
I breastfed all of my kids for 2 years each; still nursing the 3rd little one. I just kept going and going..I kept myself encouraged by reading all of the positive research related to nursing both for me and for my kids. I am
I give every new mom a tube of lanolin and something similar to the boppy cooling/warm breast compresses (priceless!) But have on hand PRIOR to coming home from the hospital. I also recommend that everyone try on one of the longer length glamourmom tanks…I found them to be the most supportive tanks out there and preferred them to my big giant nursing bras! They were also supportive in the belly area post partum and afterwards. No matter what I’d encourage every breast feeding mom to find some support either local or online…it’s not easy but so worth it!!
I give every new mom a tube of lanolin and something similar to the boppy cooling/warm breast compresses (priceless!) But have on hand PRIOR to coming home from the hospital. I also recommend that everyone try on one of the longer length glamourmom tanks…I found them to be the most supportive tanks out there and preferred them to my big giant nursing bras! They were also supportive in the belly area post partum and afterwards. No matter what I’d encourage every breast feeding mom to find some support either local or online…it’s not easy but so worth it!!
I guess my advice would be: if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. At two weeks, when my boy who was 9 lbs at birth hadn’t gotten back up to his birth weight, my doctor said we should supplement until he got bigger and stronger and got a better latch. He was eating constantly. Like, he only took breaks to get his diaper changed and burp. Something didn’t seem right to me. So we had another lactation consultant really spend time with us and it turned out he had a tongue tie so he never got a full tummy. Once we got that fixed, he still ate a lot to make up for lost time, but I could finally catch a break to eat or shower!
I guess my advice would be: if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. At two weeks, when my boy who was 9 lbs at birth hadn’t gotten back up to his birth weight, my doctor said we should supplement until he got bigger and stronger and got a better latch. He was eating constantly. Like, he only took breaks to get his diaper changed and burp. Something didn’t seem right to me. So we had another lactation consultant really spend time with us and it turned out he had a tongue tie so he never got a full tummy. Once we got that fixed, he still ate a lot to make up for lost time, but I could finally catch a break to eat or shower!