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.

Baby Shower Gifts for Breastfeeding Moms

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Medela

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.

Straight From Moms: Why I Love Breastfeeding

Posted on March 26, 2013 by Medela

At Medela, we’re devoted to supporting moms throughout their breastfeeding journey. We’ve spent many years working to spread the word about the benefits of breastfeeding, and we know just how incredible the bond it creates can be. Then, it dawned on us. Who better to share all the benefits than moms like you? So, we asked Medela moms, “What do you love most about breastfeeding?” Here is what they had to say.

“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 Baby Home: Four Ways to Manage Visitors

Posted on March 19, 2013 by Medela

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.