Hello Lactating Ladies!
While I was pregnant I was constantly asked if I had planned on breastfeeding. The question puzzled me as I didn't know that is was an option; I thought it was what I was supposed to do. Breastfeeding has so many rewards and benefits for both mom and baby. Breastfeeding helps your uterus go back to its normal size faster, helps you loose weight, and is an excellent way to bond with your baby. You'll be giving your baby the best nutrition, they'll be less likely to have ear infections and other common complications, and breast milk helps with their metabolism if you nurse for at least a year.
Breastfeeding also makes those late night feedings go so much easier. You don't have to trek anywhere to fetch a bottle, don't have to worry about the temperature of the milk, and its always fresh! For the recessionistas...its completely free!
To enhance your breastfeeding experience here are some tips.
1.Keep it flowing!:I discovered that there are several brands of teas that aide in increaing your breast milk production. My personal favortie is Earth Mama Angel Baby Organics. I purchased three boxes from Amazon.com for about $13.00 (which is a great bargain, beleive me I looked around). The tea has a peppermint taste and is delicious. I leave two boxes at home and take one to work and try to have at least two cups a day.
2. She works hard for the money: For a successful breast pumping experience at work, you have to do some prep work. If your breast pump does not come with a carrying case, purchase a cute tote to transport it. Several stores sell cute reusubale shopping bags for cheap that can get the job done. You may also want to purchase a small bag to put freezer packs in and the milk you pump. You will also need a shirt protection plan, that would be your nursing pads. I've tried several and the best are made by the 1st years. I absolutely love them! They are lanolin treated so they help with soreness and make you more comfortable. They are thin so they are discreet. They don't have adhesive but stay in place and I have never sprung a leak while using them.
3. Keeping Victoria's Secret: Breastfeeding in public can be a challenge so its good to prep ahead of time. My older sister purchased an Udder Cover for me and it was a life saver. It effectively covers both my little one and my otherwise exposed parts. The company always has promotions going so check them out. My step-mother sent me a link to get another one for free! No, really it was free!
4. Rip the Runway!: Ok so in searching for cute nursing clothing I didn't find much. I searched my usual haunts Oldnavy and Motherhood Maternity and found that a lot of their clothes were casual and would take some dressing up to be appropriate for work. They do offer cute tops and Motherhood Maternity has affordable nursing bras. I purchased two from Target and they are holding up well. Although I would suggest buying a least four nursing bras. Another tip is to make sure whatever outfit you were on an outing with your little on is nursing friendly. Think to yourself, can I quickly and discreetly feed my little one with what I have on? Needless to say I had a snafoo and I don't want you to have experience that.
Well my nutrient producing mammas, I'll chat with you soon.
