Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Tagged with 'breastfeeding'

How to Determine Which Breast Pump Is Right For You (and let Yummy Mummy make it easy!)

Motherhood is a special journey. There are ups and downs but most of all, as a woman you get to know yourself and connect with your new baby. A feeling unparalleled by any other life experience! Part of the new mom experience is breastfeeding. Making the decision to breastfeed is a big step and it’s a decision that will require support from your immediate support system – other parents, caregivers, grandparents, and family.

Deciding whether or not to breastfeed is only the first step.

Read more

New Medela Breast Pump Options

Welcoming a new baby into your home and life is an amazing experience. And while the love and joy new moms feel has not changed in generations, baby tech certainly has. Everything from strollers to car seats to baby monitors have come a long way in the past few years. But no product has seen more advancements than the breast pump. For example, the folks at Medela have continued to push themselves to produce the best breast pumps possible, with quality and safety being their priority. Medela’s new Pump In Style Breast Pump and Freestyle Flex Breast Pump are two great examples of improved technology marrying sleek design to create lightweight, easy-to-use pumps that are perfect for the modern mom.

Read more

How Breast Pumps Help Working Mothers

 

While breastfeeding creates an irreplaceable bond between mothers and their babies, some mothers struggle with it for a number of reasons – and there is absolutely no shame in this.

Every mother has her own unique journey, and this is something you should come to expect and embrace. If you’ve felt discouraged from previous attempts and are considering just switching to formula, take a step back and reassess your options.

This is the reason breast pumps exist. They offer a sound alternative for mothers who find difficulty in nursing, and it often makes the most sense for working mothers as well. When faced with the choice between breast milk and formula, breast milk has many additional benefits for mom and baby.

Considering your child’s development

There have been numerous studies on how breast milk contains vital nutrients, minerals, and antibodies for an infant’s physical development, but research from the University of Virginia and the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences has also shown links to psychological and cognitive development as well. This holistic approach is similar to what Maryville University’s human development and family studies students are taught, given the intricacies of the field. Development is taken to encompass physical, emotional, and social contexts, and approaching studies this way provides a better understanding of a child’s individual growth. This is something that parents who work longer hours may come to appreciate in the long run when they make the simple decision to continue feeding their child breast milk. Mothers, in particular, can find comfort in knowing that they will be able to succeed in providing their child with these benefits even while they’re away at the office with the aid of a breast pump.

A match made for working mothers

We went into detail answering the question ‘Why Do I Need a Breast Pump?’ and said how double electric breast pumps like the Evenflo Double Electric Breast Pump are a great option for working mothers as this helps pump an extra supply of milk to give to your baby’s caregiver while you are away. Once you pick up on its proper use, you will soon learn how to accumulate a sufficient supply with ease before storage. Renowned IVF expert Dr. Rita Bakshi assures that this also gives you a sense of relief for when you find that you have an oversupply of milk which you will need to pump as soon as possible to avoid heaviness or engorgement. When your baby is fed your milk even if you are not nursing yourself, this bridges the distance and may help you feel more connected to your child.

Breast pumps help dismiss any feelings of guilt that may arise in mothers who either cannot nurse their babies as well as they want to, or for mothers who need to get back to work. One simple, handy device can serve as the conduit between you and your baby, and between your baby and their future development.

 

 

Article submitted by Alicia Matthews

For the exclusive use of yummymummystore.com

 

 

 

Disclaimer: The author of this article used research available on various reputable websites to compile the piece. The article contains information that may be supported or disputed by an individual lactation professional. The information and content provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Any advice or information provided on this website does not create a professional relationship, is not an aid to making medical decisions, and is not marketed, promoted or otherwise intended to be used to diagnose any disease or other condition, or to cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease. This website is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice or persuade readers in any one particular direction. The information on this website is made available with the understanding that the content and service providers are not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological or any other kind of personal professional services through this website. Nothing on this website is intended to replace the advice of a healthcare professional, medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided by Yummy Mummy is intended to educate and help mothers find information and services that they might need. Any action taken by a user in response to information obtained from this website is at the user's discretion. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Why Do I Need a Breast Pump?

Why Do I Need a Breast Pump?

Congratulations on your new love, and your decision to breastfeed. Breast feeding is a wise choice when considering finances, convenience, and the health of your baby. Your breast milk is always available and at the perfect temperature. The bond created between mother and baby while nursing is irreplaceable. As beautiful and convenient as breastfeeding is, it can also be draining, sometimes frustrating, and inconvenient at certain times, such as when mom must work or needs some rest. Having a reliable breast pump on hand can ease your worry about those possible situations.

 

How a Breast Pump Works

A breast pump works by mimicking your baby’s suckling action. As your baby nurses, your body responds to their suckling pattern, and makes more milk accordingly. Pretty Amazing! When a breast pump is used properly, you can fool your breast into thinking the baby is nursing. The result is a letdown, and the milk begins to flow. The milk can just be dumped if you are pumping for relief, bottled for immediate consumption, or refrigerated or frozen for future use.

 

A Breast Pump May Be Helpful to You

As a new or an experienced nursing mother, you are probably finding out that you love breastfeeding, but there are times when you’d like to be able to have someone else enjoy feeding time, you need to run some errands or maybe you just want to meet a friend for lunch. If that is that is the case, you will need a breast pump so that you can pump and store your milk to give to your baby when you are away.

If you are planning to go back to work, you will likely need a double electric breast pump because having a supply of extra breastmilk on hand will be necessary while baby is in someone else’s care for hours at a time. Make sure that you familiarize yourself with the pump and its accessories before returning to work. You will need to build up a few days supply of milk, but you don’t need to worry about storing large amounts. You will be bringing home fresh milk every day.

There can also be situations where your baby goes on a hunger strike, and chooses to suddenly sleep more than they were, and eat less. This can cause your breasts to become engorged as they continue making the amount of milk baby was previously needing. Don’t panic, as this is a natural occurrence. During this adjustment period, a pump can help give you some relief.

No matter the reason, as a breastfeeding mother, having a reliable breast pump is a helpful tool when necessary. Don’t get caught off guard in the middle of the night, realizing a pump would suddenly be “oh so helpful!” Just like all your baby equipment and essentials, it is best to have your breast pump ordered even before the baby comes into this world. Most insurance plans will cover a double electric breast pump at no cost to mom, and you can order it months before your baby arrives. The only catch is that some insurers won’t allow the pump to ship to you until 30 days before your due date or even after the baby is born.

 

Which one is the Best Breast Pump?

Choosing the best breast pump for you can be tricky, and often depends on your personal needs. Do you plan to travel and need something lightweight? Do you want a super quiet motor so as not to disturb your partner in the middle of the night? There are several great options out there and it all depends on what you are looking for.

Yummy Mummy is proud offer only the top rated breast pumps the Medela Pump In Style and the Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump, the S1 & S2 Spectra Breast Pumps, the Ameda Mya and Mya Joy Breast Pumps, the Evenflo Double Electric Breast Pump with Hush Motor, the Lansinoh SignaturePro and Smartpump Breast Pumps, and the Hygeia Enjoye Breast Pump.

Choosing Your Breast Pump

Choosing Your Breast Pump

As you prepare for the beautiful journey of nursing your baby, or are already nursing, you won’t regret your decision to have a breast pump available if needed. You are already an exhausted momma… the last thing you need is to have engorged breasts or want to ask your partner to give you baby a bottle in the middle of the night, and no way to pump your milk. There are a few options of different types of breast pumps, so you can choose which best suits your needs.

 

The Double Electric Breast Pump

The double electric breast pump does just as it says. It uses power to express your milk, by plugging into an outlet, usually with a long cord or battery pack, so you can find a comfortable place to pump. Electric breast pumps often offer bottles or containers for your milk to be expressed into, consisting of a tube that attaches to a bottle or storage container. Due to an electric motor in these types of pumps, they can make for a quick job of expressing your breast milk. Some electric pumps come in nice carrying cases or pumping bags, making them easy to take to work or travel with.

The majority of new moms find that a double electric breast pump is the right choice for them and the great news is most insurance plans cover a double electric breast pump at no cost to mom. Which is the best electric breast pump, well that depends on mom’s individual needs.

Yummy Mummy is proud offer only the top-rated breast pumps, such as the Medela electric breast pump – the Medela Pump In Style and the Medela Freestyle Flex, the Spectra S1 and S2, the Ameda Mya Pump and Ameda Mya Joy, the Evenflo Double Electric Breast Pump with Hush Motor, the Lansinoh SignaturePro and Smartpump, and the Hygeia Enjoye Breast Pump.

 

The Manual Breast Pump

A manual breast pump is not powered by anything but your hand. A suction seal is created when you place the manual breast pump shield on the breast, then by manually squeezing a lever in a suckling type pattern, the breast begins to let down the milk into the attached bottle. Manual breast pumps are inexpensive, and small so you can throw one in your purse or diaper bag.

 

The Hospital Grade Breast Pump

Hospital grade breast pumps are considered the most efficient breast pumps due to their stronger power. They work as an electric breast pump, but sometimes with a stronger motor. They aren’t as transportable since they are bulkier and heavier… but they do get the job done if you are a serious pumper. For moms who need to exclusively pump for medical reasons or with babies in the NICU, a rental pump might be the right choice.

 

Should You Rent or Buy?

Making the decision to rent or buy your breast pump can be a tough one, especially if you aren’t sure how much you will need it. Yummy Mummy is here to answer all your questions and help you make the decision on which breast pump is best for you, and whether or not you should rent or purchase. We believe in breastfeeding and are passionate about helping you enjoy the wonderful journey in your own special way.

Colds

Boob Scoop: 'Tis the season for colds. However, you don't need to stop breastfeeding when sick. It's especially important to continue nursing since your body creates and passes antibodies into your milk in order to fight the infection you or your baby are experiencing. Oftentimes, a breastfed baby will be the only member of the family who doesn't get sick or the one to get a milder version of the bug. Breastfeeding also allows you to get the needed rest to recover since you can feed while in bed. A win-win scenario!

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

Read more

Breastfeeding and Your Period

Boob Scoop: The return of your period does not mean the end of breastfeeding. During menstruation, breastmilk does not "go bad" or become less nutritious. Some women do notice a temporary drop in milk supply in the days prior to a period and for a few days into one, due to hormonal fluctuations. However, once menstruation begins and hormone levels return to normal, milk supply will boost back up again. Most babies can compensate well for this temporary drop in supply with more frequent nursing.

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

Read more

10 Tips for Exercising and Breastfeeding

10 Tips for Exercising and Breastfeeding

Contributed by Brittany Citron is a pre/postnatal exercise specialist, and certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor and founder of PROnatal Fitness.

If you’ve been nervous about resuming exercise post-baby due to concerns of how it may impact your milk supply, you can relax!  It is a myth that exercise decreases milk production. Studies have shown absolutely no difference in milk production or nutrient composition between mothers who exercise, and those who do not.  Moreover, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that “regular aerobic exercise in lactating mothers has been shown to increase cardiovascular fitness without affecting milk production, composition, or infant growth.”  That said, it’s good idea to follow the 10 tips below to ensure both you and your little one have the best experience possible with nursing.          

Read more

Best Start for Breastfeeding Success

Best Start for Breastfeeding Success

 

Contributed by Elina S. Arulraj, MSPT, IBCLC

Elina leads a weekly breastfeeding support group at the Yummy Mummy Store in NYC every Tuesday at 11:30.

 

Breastfeeding your baby is a different experience for every new or seasoned mom. What works for one mom and baby duo may not for another. For many moms, breastfeeding starts off without a hitch or very little difficulty so it is best not to psych yourself up beforehand!

The best advice I can give to all new mothers is to nest in with your new little one as soon as possible after birth. Do a lot of skin to skin with your baby on your chest which helps both of you to get back in sync with each other after a delivery or c-section.

Feed your baby frequently the first few days in the hospital and if it hurts get help as soon as you can to get the baby latched on deeply and avoid complications down the road.

Try to catch the baby when they demonstrate early hunger signs such as rooting, placing their fingers/hands in their mouth or making cooing sounds. Crying is a late feeding cue and it is always harder to latch a baby properly when they are too hungry or upset.

Take note of the time the baby starts feeding but try to pay attention to baby’s active sucking more than the clock!

 

Read more