Breastfeeding Issues: What Do I Do about Leaking Breasts?

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Medela

Any breastfeeding mom has been there. You’re out and about and you feel a letdown coming on. Soon, your shirt is wet and you feel like there’s not much you can do. Don’t worry. Leaking breasts are common while breastfeeding. But, we’ve got tips to help you stay dry and comfortable, while also keeping a positive attitude when leaks happen.

Breastfeed Often

Although inconvenient, leaking breasts are a sign you are lactating properly. So, try to breastfeed or pump as often as possible. By frequently expressing milk, you may be able to limit how often or how much your breasts leak.

Change Bra Pads Regularly

Bra pads are a great option for breastfeeding moms because they help you stay dry and comfortable, while also preventing embarrassing marks on your clothes. However, be sure to change your bra pads regularly when they get damp to avoid nipple soreness or a potential thrush infection.

Apply Pressure when Needed

If you feel a letdown coming on at an inopportune time, you can try to discreetly apply pressure to your nipples. You can rest your hands on your face and use your forearms to apply pressure or wrap your arms around your body, like you’re giving yourself a big hug. We understand this isn’t the most natural position, but it can be a quick fix until you’re able to put in bra pads or return to a private setting.

Wear Patterned and Layered Clothes

Leaks happen and there will likely come a time when you have some wet spots on your shirt. But, if you wear patterns, it can make wet marks far less noticeable. Also, we recommend layering, so if a leak happens, you can cover it with a sweater or jacket.

Keep a Good Sense of Humor

Leaks can be embarrassing, but try to keep your head up. So many moms have been in your shoes and can probably laugh and identify with you. Try to allow yourself to smile about this silly stage in your journey of motherhood.

How did you manage leaks while breastfeeding? Share your suggestions in the comments below.

The Baby Blues: You’re Not Alone

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Medela

Having a baby is exhilarating and inspiring, but after all of your body’s changes, sleepless nights, and new stressors, it’s no surprise nearly 80% of moms report experiencing the baby blues soon after they give birth.

What causes the baby blues?

After you have your baby, your hormone levels drop, your milk volume increases, and you may find the “full” feeling of your breasts to be uncomfortable. These changes, paired with the stress of a new child, can bring about a glum feeling amidst such exciting times.

What can I do to feel better?

Keep in mind, it’s very normal to feel down after your baby comes and in most cases, it doesn’t last very long. The best treatment is the loving support of friends and family. Don’t be afraid to break down, cry, or talk to them. They’ll understand the journey through motherhood isn’t always an easy one. Also, make sure you take some time to relax. Give yourself some credit. You just brought life into this world! That’s an incredible feat. You deserve some time to relax. Although, you may feel eager to be “super mom,” remember that sleep deprivation will only make the baby blues worse. So, relax, sleep and take care of yourself so you can be the best mom possible.

What’s the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression?

Like we said, the baby blues are temporary and don’t require any medical care. However, if you notice persistent depression or have experienced clinical anxiety or depression in the past, be sure to talk to your doctor about your feelings. Those more intense feelings of sadness may be from postpartum depression. In that case, work with your doctor to help come up with the best treatment to get you feeling better.

Did you experience the baby blues? Share your tips for staying positive in the comments below.

Remember, we have a community of moms here to support you, as well. Hang in there!

Introducing Medela Breastfeeding University

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Medela

We’re committed to educating moms and supporting them as they begin their breastfeeding journey. In fact, we’ve spent countless hours working on new ways to help moms get the best start breastfeeding so they can continue to provide the most powerful nourishment to their babies.

So, we’re excited to announce Medela Breastfeeding University, our Online Breastfeeding Education program to help moms give their babies the best start possible. Don’t worry. We know how busy your schedule is. That’s why there are just 10 lessons that take only 5 to 7 minutes each. Some of the topics covered include latching your baby to the breast, tips to increase supply and common breastfeeding issues. Just for completing the program, you’ll get a special $25 off a Medela Accessory Starter Set (only available through Medela). The course costs $25, with all proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Learn about providing the best nutrition possible for your baby and support a very worthy cause. Sounds like a great deal to us.

Ready to get started? Begin Medela Breastfeeding University now!

Straight From Moms: The Best Breastfeeding Advice I Ever Received

Posted on April 23, 2013 by Medela

We went straight to the source to get the best breastfeeding advice: Moms.

These Medela moms are just like you. They’ve wiped countless spit-ups, overcome concerns of low milk supply, discovered just how special late night feedings can be and mastered the art of breastpumping. Making them perfect candidates to share best-kept breastfeeding advice. We asked Medela moms, “What’s the best breastfeeding advice you ever received?” Here is what they had to say.

“Breastfeeding is natural, but so is walking and we all stumble and fall. Stick with it.” –Amber Nicole D.

“Cherish every moment because those precious memories will stay with you for life.” – Nancy S.

“Don’t give up, your body is designed to feed your baby. Formula is for race cars.” – Rachel S.

“Feed on demand! Builds up your supply and it is extra bonding snuggle time!” – Grace K.

“When in doubt.. whip it out.” – Kristin S.

“Cluster feeding and comfort sucking are good things! It’s nature’s way of getting your supply to where it needs to be, and doesn’t mean you don’t make enough milk to feed your little one!” – Aimee C.

“The first month is the hardest–don’t quit on a bad day. Once you’ve made it past the first month struggles, breastfeeding is the best and most rewarding relationship that you could have with your baby.” – Amanda H.

“Be flexible and don’t be afraid to be “non-traditional.” My daughter wouldn’t latch so I’m an exclusive pumper. I make enough for her and have so much to spare that we have donated milk to 4 other babies. 6 months old and a completely breast milk fed baby.” – Angela Josephine J.

“Keep trying and give yourself small goals. My first goal was 3 months, my next was five months, he just turned five months and we are still going. My new goal is 6 months each milestone is a celebration for me.” -Katie Marie Z.

“Use your nips as a pacifier. It helps solidify your supply and helps your baby’s latch.” – Kali A.

Want to hear what more moms had to say? Read the full list of responses on Facebook, and share your breastfeeding advice in the comments below.

How Hospitals Can Support Breastfeeding

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Medela

The first moments after birth are some of the best times to bond with your baby and begin breastfeeding. It’s also a great opportunity to get help from lactation professionals and hospital-grade breastfeeding products. In fact, many hospitals have recognized how important their role is in breastfeeding success and have chosen to pursue “Baby-Friendly Hospital” status. Medela proudly supports the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and its role in long-term breastfeeding success.

In order for a hospital to become “baby-friendly,” they must complete the following 10 steps:

Develop a written breastfeeding policy that is routinely shared with the healthcare staff.
Specifically train the hospital staff to practice and implement the breastfeeding policy.
Share the benefits of breastfeeding with all pregnant women in the hospital.
Support moms in breastfeeding within the first 30 minutes after birth.
Teach moms how to breastfeed and maintain supply, even if they are separated from their babies.
Feed nothing but breastmilk to babies, unless medically indicated.
Allow mothers to stay with their babies 24 hours a day.
Encourage moms to breastfeed on demand.
Do not provide pacifiers or bottle nipples to breastfeeding infants.
Work to develop support groups and refer mothers to them upon discharge.

Curious about baby friendly hospitals near you? You can find a full list of Medela baby-friendly hospitals by state on our website.

How did your hospital support your breastfeeding goals? Share in the comments below.