Recent Articles
Breastfeeding Without Lactation
What a powerful experience for these two moms to get the bonding moments of both breastfeeding their baby even though neither one of their bodies were making milk. To them, it was their ideal feeding plan and it brought them so much joy. This story teaches us that roadblocks as major as breasts that aren't lactating don't have to stop you from having the feeding experience that means the most to you.
Caloric Needs for Successful Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a wonderful and natural way to nourish and bond with your newborn baby. As a breastfeeding mother, it is important to understand that your body requires additional calories to produce an adequate milk supply and maintain your own health. Proper nutrition and meeting your caloric needs are vital for the successful breastfeeding journey.
Motherhood and Eating Disorders
This is an article about eating disorders during pregnancy and postpartum. It discusses the causes, risks, and effects of eating disorders on both mothers and babies. The article also provides information on how to get help and cope with an eating disorder. Some of the important points from this website are that eating disorders can have serious consequences for both mothers and babies, and that it is important to seek help if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
Breastfeeding With Hepatitis
Out of the many blood tests pregnant women receive, screening for hepatitis will be one of them. This is because a woman that is infected with hepatitis may pass the viral infection to her baby during the childbirth process. Hepatitis is a liver infection that is primarily transmitted through blood exposure which can easily occur during both vaginal and cesarean births. Hepatitis A and C are considered curable and people with hepatitis B usually clear the infection on their own after a few months, but some develop a chronic case and may test positive for a lifetime.
Does Breast Size or Shape Affect Breastfeeding?
Did you know that breast size is not directly proportional to milk production? What really matters is the glandular tissue, milk ducts, and alveoli that form after conception.
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
Good news for all the moms-to-be out there! Have you heard about the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)? It’s a law that makes it easier for pregnant workers to get the accommodations they need to do their jobs. It was passed in 2023 and went into effect in June 2023.
Traveling as a Breastfeeding Mother
The thought of long hours in planes, trains, and automobiles while in the midst of your breastfeeding journey can be a daunting one! From how to keep your milk cool, TSA restrictions, and the sometimes confusing list of storage guidelines to the thought of being away from your typical routine and supplies (like a refrigerator!) is enough to make some mothers shy away from travel. The good news is that there are protocols in place to protect you as a breastfeeding mother on the go, and with the right plan in place, travel is still feasible.
Women Supporting Women
Countless women around the world face unthinkable horrors on a daily basis. They fight to keep their freedom in the face of devastating challenges. You can just click on any news channel and witness stories of gender bias, shameful neglect, and horrific abuse. What is even more frightening is just how many women in my vicinity still suffer in silence.
We all need as much support from our “sisters” who know and understand the depth of our struggles.
Hands-Free Breast Pumps: A Guide to the Best Options
Hands-Free Breast Pumps: A Guide to the Best Options
There are many different hands-free breast pumps on the market, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. This article provides a guide to some of the most popular options, including the Willow, Elvie, Baby Buddha, MomCozy M5, and Medela Freestyle Hands-Free. When choosing a hands-free breast pump, it's important to consider your needs and budget. If you're looking for a discreet pump that you can use in public, the Elvie or Willow are great options. If you need a powerful pump that can help you pump a lot of milk at once, the Baby Buddha is a great choice. And if you're on a tight budget, the MomCozy M5 is a great option. No matter which hands-free breast pump you choose, make sure to do your research and read reviews before you make a purchase.
Which Breast Pump Is Best For Me?
Best Breast Pumps for New Moms: A Comparison
There are many different breast pumps on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. This article compares five of the most popular pumps, including the Medela Pump In Style, Spectra S2 Plus, Motif Luna, Evenflo Advanced Double Electric Breast Pumps, and Lansinoh Smartpump 2.0. We look at factors such as price, features, ease of use, and customer reviews to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Read on to learn more about the best breast pumps for new moms!
Updated Research: How to Manage Engorgement
Breastfeeding can be as challenging as it is beneficial for mother and child, particularly in the first few weeks. One of the greatest challenges that a breastfeeding mother can face is engorgement. Most breastfeeding mothers will have experienced engorgement at some stage in their breastfeeding journeys.
Updated Research: Do I have Mastitis?
Previously, mastitis was always associated with a bacterial infection. However, science has taught us that it can occur because of several factors, including ductal narrowing, inflammation, edema, disruption of the microorganisms in the milk, and bacteria. Mastitis often occurs in the first three weeks after childbirth, but may occur at any stage of lactation.
When Should I Start Eliminating a Feed?
Nursing strikes, introducing solids, and spacing out feedings can all be tricky when nursing your baby. In addition, as they grow, the schedule you were accustomed to is suddenly different. So, when do you start eliminating feeds?
Cancer, Donor Eggs, and a Successful Feeding Journey
I always knew I wanted to breastfeed. When I envisioned motherhood, breastfeeding was an important aspect of that. My journey did not turn out the way I initially wanted, but I am proud of how far we made it and proud of my body. To understand my experience fully, let me provide some background.
My Breastfeeding Journey - Dealing With Diabetes and Low Supply
I recently gave birth to my second son, who was born at 35 weeks. In the months leading up to his birth, my prayers were for a healthy baby AND a beautiful breastfeeding journey. I was DETERMINED to breastfeed him no matter what. The journey thus far has not been easy, but worth it!
How To Maximize Milk Volume When Pumping
Pumping is a part of pretty much every breastfeeding mom's routine, whether that occurs on a daily basis at work, to boost supply, or just to create an emergency stockpile for the freezer. Since our schedules are already busy enough, every mom hopes to be as effective as possible with pumping efforts to get the most bang for her buck! So what are the things we can do to get the most milk volume when pumping?
My Breastfeeding Journey - Balancing a Career, Difficulty Breastfeeding, and Motherhood
Despite her challenges, Grace remained determined to be the best mother and professional she could be. Now the mother of three, she still continues to pursue her passions for running, yoga, and weightlifting, and enjoys hobbies like SCUBA diving and collecting sea glass. Grace continued to excel in her career, using her expertise in therapeutics, medical devices, and more to make a positive impact in the biotech industry.
Surviving the Holidays
As a mother, this exciting and busy time of the year can be a bit anxiety-evoking or worrisome as we gather with family and friends. Often this means that we need set boundaries for our children, ensure their safety, and remind them not to upset Aunt Jo. These extra chores all add to our already-full plates.
My Breastfeeding Journey - Dealing With a Tongue Tie and High Palate
With little National Health System (NHS) support, I hired a private lactation consultant to visit our home and watch a feed. I will never forget the devastation I felt when we learned my son had a tight posterior tongue tie and high palate (which was missed by several healthcare professionals). No wonder he couldn’t extract milk and was so distressed at the breast!
My Breastfeeding Journey - Agony, Control and Surrender
Breastfeeding is supposed to be easy, right? Hardly! Thrush, low supply, vasospasm, tongue tie, and clogged ducts, we went through it all. And came out a year later still loving each other.