Breastfeeding is no simple task. As an onlooker and a non-parent it may come off that way, but trust me when I say that even as a huge breastfeeding advocate I've had those moments when giving up breastfeeding seemed like a completely viable option. There are many factors to consider when making the decision for your family. The benefits of breastfeeding should not be ignored in moments of frustration, exhaustion, or weakness. Here are some facts to keep you going. Breastfeeding saves you money. The cost of formula for the first year is around $1,700 depending on the brand you use. This cost will vary depending on how long you … [Read more...]

I have been breastfeeding for a very long time. 59 months and counting to be exact. That's almost five years. I'll be honest. I had gotten a little cocky about my breastfeeding knowledge.  And then I had my fourth baby. Penelope has been nursing pretty well from the get go, but we've certainly had our hiccups in the first month of breastfeeding. I am so thankful for the lactation consultant that came to reassure me in the hospital this time! 6 Tips for the First Month of Breastfeeding That You May Never Have Heard Whenever possible, be skin to skin with your baby right after birth for at least the first hour. Put her on your chest … [Read more...]

I was recently blessed with the opportunity to join my husband on an international business trip this summer. We traveled to Germany and France. Sounds amazing, right? Well, we had to travel without baby. Before anyone jumps to attack me for taking a trip without baby, let me assure you that all of our children were fine. Grandparents stayed and watched them for 9 days in our home. It was a fantastic bonding experience for them and it was a much- needed bonding time for the hubs and I. Penelope was 10 months old. I had a freezer full of pumped milk ready to go. I had packed both my hand pump and electric pump.  I had done research … [Read more...]

It's amazing how myths come about and get passed around. Many have been passed from generation to generation while some come about from misunderstandings of information being shared. Here are 5 breastfeeding myths I have come across recently. 5 Breastfeeding Myths I need to start boosting supply before baby is born or as soon as baby arrives. False. Some supplements that increase milk production may actually be harmful to a developing wee one or may cause contractions. Nipple stimulation or pumping can cause contractions as well. Nearly all moms will produce enough milk for baby if they feed on demand. Keep a close eye on diaper … [Read more...]

It's coming up on the summer travel season and many of you may be embarking on a trip that involves air travel. With increased security, there are so many components to breastfeeding and air travel! Take heart, it's not as overwhelming as it may seem to fly with your nurseling. Breastfeeding and Air Travel   TSA Screening You may take breastmilk with you when you travel and the amount does not have to follow the 3 oz rule for other liquid items. Here are a few tips regarding the screening process at the airport: Allow ample extra time for additional screenings so you do not miss your flight. Keep breastmilk separate from … [Read more...]

Dear Non Breastfeeding Mother, I see you sitting there, cradling your little one while feeding her a bottle. I know you are a good mom. I know you love your baby - more than life itself. I'll be honest though, there is a little part of me that wants to judge you for not breastfeeding. Part of me wants to tell you the benefits or help you through breastfeeding struggles. Part of me wants to ask why. Part of me really wants to ask why you are a non breastfeeding mother. If you are feeding pumped milk, I may wonder if I could help ease your fears of nursing in public. If you are feeding formula, I may be tempted to say something about breast … [Read more...]

You're ready to throw in the towel. You dread attempting to feed your sweet precious baby you've longed for. Breastfeeding makes you feel like a failure like nothing else in life ever has. Sound familiar? Many moms (including myself!), struggle with low supply for one reason or another. Sometimes it's recommended to use domperidone for breastfeeding because many claim it increases supply. Does it? Is it safe? Grab a piece of chocolate - or some wine if you're dairy-free - and let's pretend we're having a chat away from screaming babies. It's all gonna be ok, mama. I promise. Domperidone for Breastfeeding - Is It Safe? What Is … [Read more...]

Six weeks after my daughter was born, I went back to work at the hospital PRN (two shifts every 28 days). Doing this was one of the hardest things I have done. My daughter was still a newborn, but because of finances it had to be done. When I went back to work, I was thankful for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) because it improved breastfeeding laws for me and women all across the country. One of the most important sections of the law required the hospital I worked at to provide a break time and a room for employees to pump their breast milk. Workplace Breastfeeding Laws The ACA was passed by Congress on March 21, 2010. On March … [Read more...]

When you are a first time mom, there are so many things that you just don't fully understand or things that you simply do not know because you are new to all things parenthood. Many of these things will come to you naturally. Your maternal instincts will kick in and you will just follow them intuitively.  Others will come because you have great examples to model--your mother, grandmother, friends, sisters. Sometimes despite all of this, you still may need or want a group of like-minded women to help you along the way. Sometimes you may find yourself with little support due to differing parenting ideals, lack of family nearby, or a … [Read more...]