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.

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!

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!

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.

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:

1. Develop a written breastfeeding policy that is routinely shared with the healthcare staff.
2. Specifically train the hospital staff to practice and implement the breastfeeding policy.
3. Share the benefits of breastfeeding with all pregnant women in the hospital.
4. Support moms in breastfeeding within the first 30 minutes after birth.
5. Teach moms how to breastfeed and maintain supply, even if they are separated from their babies.
6. Feed nothing but breastmilk to babies, unless medically indicated.
7. Allow mothers to stay with their babies 24 hours a day.
8. Encourage moms to breastfeed on demand.
9. Do not provide pacifiers or bottle nipples to breastfeeding infants.
10. 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.

Choosing a great baby shower gift can be hard. But, if you know the soon-to-be mom plans on breastfeeding, you can give her a present that will help her to provide the best gift possible for her little one: breastmilk. We’ve compiled some of the best Medela baby shower gifts that help to keep a breastfeeding mom organized, comfortable, and stress free.

To keep organized

Pump and Save Bags: These bags help moms stay organized and save time, by pumping directly into a no-leak, zipper bag that stands upright.

Breastmilk Labeling Lids: These lids allow moms to effortlessly track and store pumped breastmilk.

Breastmilk Storage Solution: This complete collection of breastmilk storage containers allows moms to safely store, organize and protect her breastmilk throughout her breastfeeding experience.

To be comfortable

SoftShells: Nipple soreness and flat or inverted nipples are common among breastfeeding moms. SoftShells may help alleviate these problems and are comfortable to wear.

Tender Care Lanolin: For soothing relief of sore nipples, Tender Care lanolin helps breastfeeding moms find comfort.

Tender Care Hydro-Gel Pads: Tender Care hydrogel pads offer cooling relief and protection to tender nipples.

Bra Pads: Leaks happen, but our Bra Pads quickly absorb moisture to give you peace of mind. They come in washable and disposable varieties.

To make breastpump part cleaning a breeze

Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap: Quick Clean breastmilk removal soap removes stubborn breastmilk residue up to 3 days old and is clinically tested under physician supervision not to cause skin irritation.

Quick Clean Wipes: These wipes are convenient and portable for easy on-the-go cleaning, with no need for soap or water. Proven safe for cleaning of breastpumps and accessories as well as high chairs, tables, cribs and countertops.

Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags: These bags disinfect pump parts and accessories (as well as breastmilk bottles and nipples) in the microwave. Just add water.

What’s your go-to baby shower gift for a breastfeeding mom? Share in the comments below.

“The fact that while others can comfort her, I am the only one that can provide exactly what she needs.” – Brandi Koers Revers

“In a world that is always busy, breastfeeding gives me the opportunity to slow down and focus on the things that matter most!” – Misty Nicole Werley

“I love breastfeeding for many reasons, but as a mom of a two year old and a nursing 5 month old, I love how portable it makes baby. I can leave the house with only a diaper and my ring sling and have everything baby needs!” – Erin Dinkelacker

“I love the ease of night time feeding. I love the way she holds my fingers as she nurses. She always looks up with the sweetest eyes and sometimes pauses mid nursing to give me the biggest grins.” – Shayla McEntee

“As a working mom, breastfeeding has given me the opportunity to bond with my baby boy in a way no one else can. Additionally, by pumping I am still able to provide for him while he’s home with daddy and I’m working.” – Anora O’Connor

“The extra calories in lactation cookies I get to eat. Just kidding…sort of. I love that she sees me as a place of comfort and love. She’s so happy and trusting during and after nursing. I love that I’m (hopefully!) starting a lifelong bond with her, so she’ll know I’m always the one to turn to for comfort and unyielding love.” – Bekah Chell Peavey

“Early on I loved that I was the only one that could provide the one thing she needed. Now, at almost a year old, I love that I’m below pre-pregnancy weight without working out (Not to say that not exercising is a good thing).” – Jordan Ensley Sanders

“Convenience, bonding, and the knowledge that nothing but YOUR body has the absolute perfect life-giving nutrition for another human being.” – Amy Lynn

“My tiny preterm boy gained 3 lbs in a month! That cleared him of most of his health concerns. He’s my miracle!” – Corri O’Rourke

“What I love the most about breast feeding is knowing that there will be few things I do in life that will be more important, more meaningful or more precious than this!” – Lauren Tullo Stanton

Want to hear what more moms had to say? Read the full list of responses on Facebook, and tell us what you love most about breastfeeding in the comments below.

Bringing your new baby home for the first time can be one of the most exciting moments in your life! Before you ease into the calm and comfort of your home sweet home, prepare to be greeted by supportive friends and family. At times, it’s lovely to have visitors, but let’s be honest, it can also be exhausting. Blogger Amy Morrison recently shared a post on managing guests after birth. Here are some tips to help you relax and get support needed to ease into motherhood.

1.) Ask For Help
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the new responsibilities of being a mom. Don’t hesitate to ask guests for help. They’ll be thrilled to lend a hand and help you and your bundle of joy get comfortable in your new home.

2.) Make the Visit
Every family has one (or five) people who tend to visit for just a bit longer than most might prefer. If you’re not up for a marathon chat, offer to make the trip to see that person yourself (with your little one, of course). This way, you can choose to keep the visit short and sweet, or linger little longer if you’d like.

3.) Spread Out Guests
It’s okay to space out your visitors (and we don’t mean a few hours apart). Feel free to take a few weeks to get the hang of being a mom, and limit the amount of guests you have during this time. You’re a new mom whose life has just taken an exciting turn. Take some time to simply enjoy the giggles, smiles, and incredible little being you have by your side.

4.) Place Your Order
After diaper changes, breastfeeding, cleaning, playing, giggling and cuddling, it’s easy to lose track of your own mealtime. Remember, eating well and staying hydrated is one of the best ways to maintain breastmilk supply. So, say “yes” when visitors offer to bring over food. Moms deserve little treats too!

For more of Amy’s advice, read her Huffington Post article here.

How did you manage visitors after your baby was born? Share your advice in the comments below.

Use the Right Pump for Your Needs
Exclusively pumping moms should pump frequently to maintain supply. Most Lactation Consultants recommend pumping 8 to 12 times or a total of 100 minutes in a 24-hour period. For that reason, it’s critical moms use a pump that’s fit for everyday use. A hospital-grade rental pump, such as the Medela Symphony is a great option for exclusively pumping moms. Other moms may prefer purchasing a double-electric personal use pump like the Pump In Style Advanced or Freestyle. To help determine which pump best fits your needs; you can use our interactive product selector to guide you in the right direction. We also suggest talking to an LC about your needs and what they’d recommend.

Take Care of Yourself
To an exclusively pumping mom, relaxation, comfort and a healthy lifestyle are some of the best ways to support your breastfeeding goals. First of all, make sure you take some mommy time to unwind and relax. Stress can actually affect your supply and make pumping more difficult. Also, be sure you’re prepared with products and accessories that keep you comfortable. First of all, make sure you have a properly-fitted breastshield. Remember, pumping should never be painful, so make sure your breastshield is sized so your nipple can glide through it without pulling. Also, consider items like lanolin or hydrogel pads to soothe sore nipples.

Be Prepared for Storage
As an exclusively pumping mom, be ready to allocate some of your refrigerator or freezer to breastmilk storage. Depending on how much you have to store, some moms find it beneficial to have a deep freezer just for breastmilk storage. Other moms can just keep a few bottles or storage bags in their refrigerator or freezer. Be sure you’re labeling your pumped breastmilk with the date it was expressed. That way you can be sure you’re sticking to proper breastmilk storage guidelines. Also, when freezing breastmilk, don’t overfill your storage containers. Naturally, breastmilk expands when frozen and can cause cracks or leaks if the container is filled too much. So, try to store breastmilk in no larger than 2 to 5 ounce portions. They’ll be easier to defrost and use later, too.

Set Realistic Pumping Goals
Because you’ll always be pumping into bottles with measurements, it’s particularly easy for exclusively pumping moms to stress about their breastmilk supply. But, the truth is, every mom and baby is different. Setting a pumping output goal can be helpful, but over time you’ll learn just how much your little one eats and can probably adjust your expectations. For reference, the average size meal for a baby between the age of one and six months is three to five ounces and, in a day, babies typically consume between 19 to 30 ounces.

If you ever have questions or concerns throughout your breastmilk feeding journey, remember our Lactation Consultant is here to help. Also, don’t forget, you have the support of many moms in our Facebook community, too.

Are you an exclusively pumping mom? Share your tips in the comments below.

Most moms are concerned about latching baby to the breast, and it can be common for moms to struggle at first. However, if you’re experiencing persistent and severe latch problems, it may be time to talk to your Lactation Consultant about the temporary use of a nipple shield.

Nipple Shields are intended for moms who are experiencing serious latch problems and should only be used temporarily under the guidance of a Lactation Professional (find one in your area here). The following situations can typically benefit from the use of a nipple shield:

Breastfeeding A Premature Baby
A nipple shield can be helpful when breastfeeding a premature baby because it helps your baby create suction and position the nipple in a way they may not yet be strong enough to do. The nipple shield can hold your nipple in an extended position, ideal for breastfeeding. Also, your baby can pause to breathe without having to reposition your nipple. This makes it easy for your baby to return to your breast and feed effectively. In fact, research shows that milk consumption increases when a nipple shield is used with premature babies. Then, as your baby matures, the nipple shield may become unnecessary.

Moms with Flat or Inverted Nipples
If you have flat or inverted nipples, your baby may struggle to draw your nipple out and breastfeed effectively. Babies then may become uninterested in feeding or upset by the frustration. The nipple shield is shaped like an extended nipple, so it’s easier and more natural for a baby to latch on to. Over time, you’ll notice your nipples aren’t as flat or inverted as they used to be, and the nipple shield may no longer be necessary.

Babies who are refusing to return to the breast after bottle-feeding
Babies who were primarily bottle-fed may not be as willing to return to the breast as they grow older. So, the soft silicone nipple shield can be a familiar transition back to breast. Try putting a few drops of breastmilk on the outside of the nipple shield when your breastfeeding to entice your baby to latch to the breast. You can also choose a contact nipple shield that allows for more skin-to-skin contact.

Did you use a nipple shield with your baby? How did it help make breastfeeding a success? Share your responses in the comments below.