Breastfeeding Mommas

As a Mommy of two, I understand how important it is to know that there are people that support your desire to breastfeed.

With my second child, we got off to a bit of a rough start ( mastistis, a shallow latch….). I felt like I was constantly calling the lactation consultant after we were discharged, and I even had to go meet up with her in the hospital so we could work on latching. If it weren’t for the fact that I successfully breastfed my first child, and I knew that I was capable of doing it again, I probably would have given up before we really got started.

There are so many great breastfeeding resources. My favorite is The Breastfeeding Book by Dr. William Sears. I consider this an invaluable resource, and have given it for many a shower gift.

I also invite you to join the forum and chat with other Mommies – we are here to support you!

B.R.E.A.S.T.F.E.E.D.I.N.G. Benefits

Bonding with Baby
Reduces risk in mom of breast/ovarian cancer
Easier for baby to digest
Always available
Smarter kids
Take with you anywhere
Faster post-pregnancy weight loss
Extra sleep (especially if you are co-sleeping)
Encourages you to sit down and relax
Delayed menstrual cycle
Immune system is stronger in baby
No middle-of-the-night bottles to prepare
Gives baby a great start in life!

Pumping For Working Mothers

If you’re anything like me, even with an abundance of milk, it is much easier to pump when you are away from your child for a few hours. I’ve tried pumping and nursing….and well, it’s just not the same!

Here are some tips to make your pumping experience more successful:

• Talk to your employer about providing a quiet, private place for you to pump (not the restroom). Inform yourself about the rights of breastfeeding mothers in your state beforehand.
• Talk to your immediate supervisor beforehand and let him/her know that you plan to pump. Outline how many times a day you will need to do this and roughly how long it will take you. Arrange for coverage if necessary during these times.
• Wash your hands before and after pumping.
•  Thinking about your baby will help to speed up your letdown. Looking at a picture of your baby helps as well.
• Listen to relaxing music.
• Have disinfecting wipes on hand to clean up any excess that doesn’t quite make it into the bottles (dripping happens sometimes).

I don’t know about you, but I was wary of storing my breastmilk (aka liquid gold!) in a public refrigerator. My breastpump (the Medela Pump-In-Style – it’s great!) came with an insulated bag as well as an ice pack that was shaped to contour around the bottles.
I was able to pump twice in my 8 or 9 hour shift and the bag and ice pack were sufficient to keep the milk cold until I got home.

Buy Mom’s Cafe Sign at AllPosters.com