Posted by Maria to
Fifty years ago, medical science thought they'd perfected infant nutrition with the development of baby formula. Luckily for you and your child’s health, the pendulum has swung back from processed and powdered solutions to once again embrace the organic and natural practice of breast feeding. Formula is still a great short-term solution, especially when you’re on the go, but experts now agree, breast is best.
Breast-feeding can be a daunting prospect, particularly for new moms. It’s the most natural and economical way to give your infant all the nutrition and anti-bodies (a major player in our immune systems) he needs. The array of nursing bras, bottles, and pumps can be confusing, and even the most experienced mothers need help when they go back to work. Most hospitals, doulas, and midwives offer information, and sometimes classes, on the least invasive and most comfortable ways to feed. (Who would have thought that there was more than one breast-feeding position? There is!) Community-based mothers’ groups are another fantastic resource for getting support in the nuts and bolts “how to’s.”
A nursing bra should be comfortable, completely washable, and have easy-to-manipulate front flaps, wide comfort straps, and should easily accommodate nursing pads. They are available in both underwire and standard styles. Nursing pads are disposable, sold in quantity, and provide a needed layer of protection against embarrassing leaks. There are also a variety of nipple conditioners on the market, which help take the sting out of breastfeeding for mom, but are organic and safe for baby.
How do you make sure that when Dad, or another care provider, is in charge of feedings that your baby gets your breast milk? Breast pumps used to be these huge, heavy things that practically needed their own piece of luggage to transport, and they were noisy! Technology has now provided nursing moms with light-weight, discreet, and quiet single and double side pumps, which are ideal for pumping during the workday, or anytime. The plastic suction cup gently milks your breast and deposits your fresh milk into the bottle or bag of your choice. Bags are ideal for storing breast milk in bulk because they’re compact and usually freezable. Having a ready supply of breast milk on hand takes all the guesswork out of feeding your baby on the go.