Nice Breastfeeding Blog

A Parent's Guide to Easing Toddler Off of the Bottle

2010-08-31T19:57:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about bottle feeding by Amanda Formaro

Did you wait too long to take the bottle away? There are so many questions and concerns regarding toddlers, bottles, tooth decay and nutrition.

If you feel it's time to help your child let go of the bottle, here are a few tips and ideas to help the transition go as smooth as possible.

1. Cold Turkey

In many cases, parents can remove the bottle from a child's life with little fuss. Here are a couple of ideas for removing the bottle cold turkey:

A few days beforehand, tell your toddler that bottles will be going "bye-bye". Prepare him by reminding him each time he gets a new bottle. "A few more days and bottles are going bye-bye!" Smile, and hand him the bottle.
The night before, have your toddler help you put all of the bottles into a plastic trash bag. "Bye-bye ba-ba!" Smile. Hug. Reassure your toddler if he appears upset. Put him to bed with one last bottle.
Just before the garbage truck arrives, head outside with your toddler and the bag of bottles. Wave "bye-bye" to the bottles and the garbage truck. Smile. Hug.

With this method, your child knows that the bottles are gone. He may ask for a bottle several times over the next few days. Smile, be sympathetic, but not pathetic, and say "Ba ba went bye-bye, remember?"

2. Gradual Weaning

a. Reduce bottles to only nighttime and naptime. During the day, offer your child her milk in a toddler or no spill tippy cup. If she refuses to drink milk from the cup, add some chocolate syrup and make chocolate milk.

b. Start putting water in the bottle at naptime. Eventually, start doing the same at bedtime, until she is no longer drinking milk from a bottle at all. Special note: One of the most common causes of ear infections is the build up of fluid in the ear canal. This is caused from the child lying on her back while the milk from the bottle slowly drips into the child's mouth. The fluid collects while the child sleeps.

c. Start using smaller bottles at nighttime. Use the four ounce bottles as opposed to the eight ounce bottles. Eliminate the naptime bottle completely.

d. Eventually you will remove the nighttime bottle.

3. Quick Tips

a. Buy fun and colorful sipper cups, let your toddler help pick them out.

b. Offer a no-drip sipper cup to satisfy your child's natural need to suckle.

Bottle-feeding with formula milk may risk baby's health

New mothers who bottle-feed could be putting their baby's health at risk due to mistakes with formula milk, researchers said. Errors include too high concentration of formula, changing brands and the timing of feeds, they said. Researchers found that a lack of information and support for bottle-feeding mothers was contributing to the problem.

A review of studies involving more than 13,000 mothers found many felt guilty for bottle-feeding and neglected by the health service. Some new mothers thought they were a failure for bottle-feeding or were angry about not being able to breastfeed. The researchers noted one UK study which highlighted how some midwives mistakenly thought they were forbidden from giving advice to bottle-feeding mothers, even after the baby was born.

It is well recognised that bottle-fed infants have an increased risk of subsequent obesity compared with those who were breastfed, and it has been proposed that bottle-feeding gives the parents more control and the infant less self-regulation, thereby potentially over-riding infant satiation cues. Mothers who bottle-fed their babies experienced negative emotions such as guilt, anger, worry, uncertainty and a sense of failure, reported receiving little information on bottle-feeding and did not feel empowered to make decisions. Mistakes in preparation of bottle-feeds were common.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

2010-08-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about tooth decay by Elizabeth Pantley

Letting your baby fall asleep every night with a bottle of milk. formula puts him at risk for Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD). When your baby falls asleep with a bottle nipple in his mouth, the liquid continues to drip out and pools around your baby's teeth.

When milk, juice, formula and even breastmilk pool around your baby's teeth, the sugars these drinks contain combine with bacteria and create acid that attacks the teeth. Baby teeth are very important to your child's health and growth--too important to lose and more important than whatever need that sleepytime bottle satisfies. Check your baby's teeth frequently for any chalky white spots, white streaks, dark blotches.

How to prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

1. Don't let your baby doze off with a bottle of milk, and formula. If your baby needs a bottle to fall asleep, fill it with water.

2. Always be sure your baby's pacifier is clean.

3. Brush your baby's teeth at least twice a day--morning and night.

4. Ask your child's doctor if your baby should take fluoride supplements. If your baby drinks formula, he may be getting fluoride from this.

5. Inspect your baby's teeth frequently and have them checked by your child's doctor regularly.

Tooth Decay

Executive summary about tooth decay by Bethany Thivierge

Tooth decay, which is also called dental cavities, is the destruction of the outer surface of a tooth. The plaque bacteria sticking to tooth enamel use the sugar and starch from food particles in the mouth to produce acid.

Tooth decay is a common health problem, second in prevalence only to the common cold. Although anyone can have a problem with tooth decay, children and senior citizens are the two groups at highest risk. Baby bottle tooth decay is a dental problem that frequently develops in infants that are put to bed with a bottle containing a sweet liquid, also called nursing-bottle caries and bottle-mouth syndrome. The bacteria in the mouth use this sugar to produce acid that destroys the child's teeth. The upper front teeth are typically the ones most severely damaged; the lower front teeth receive some protection from the tongue. As decay progresses, the damage to the child's teeth becomes obvious.

Tooth decay requires the simultaneous presence of three factors: plaque bacteria, sugar, and a vulnerable tooth surface. When the decay reaches the center of the tooth, the resulting inflammation produces a toothache.

Tooth decay develops at varying rates. The dentist may suspect tooth decay if a dark spot is seen during a visual examination. Front teeth may be inspected for decay by shining a light from behind the tooth. Areas of decay, especially between the teeth, will appear as noticeable shadows when teeth are transilluminated. Dentists want to initially examine primary teeth between 12 and 24 months. Children still drinking from a bottle anytime after their first birthday are likely to have tooth decay.

To treat most cases of tooth decay in adults, the dentist removes all decayed tooth structure, shapes the sides of the cavity, and fills the cavity with an appropriate material, such as silver amalgam. In cases of baby bottle tooth decay, the dentist must assess the extent of the damage before deciding on the treatment method.

Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump

2010-08-24T20:03:00.000-07:00

The Lactivist Says: The most affordable breast pump that you bet your supply on! Overall, the Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump to be a good option at an extremely affordable price. At under $200 retail it's nearly $100 cheaper than most comparable breast pumps. It would be a great choice for a mom that pumped occasionally, but maybe not for a mom that pumped exclusively. The first thing that impressed about the Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump was the size. Even out of the bag, PISA pump is pretty heavy to lug around. You could toss the Lansinoh pump in a large purse or tote bag and hardly even know it was in there. Another big bonus to the Lansinoh pump is that the pump itself has a compartment for six AA batteries. The Lansinoh system allows you to unscrew the bottle from the flange and to remove the valve, but that's it.

Next, let's consider cleaning. You see, the PISA has to separate because the suction system runs through the back of the pump. Finally, the valve that's used in the Lansinoh pump is just pure brilliance.

What they've done is create an air chamber above the flange that's designed to create the suction. The pump works by sucking the air out of the INSIDE of the rubber membrane which collapses and creates a suction effect for the pump. It works extremely well and in the dozen times I used the pump, I never saw a single drop of fluid in the tubes.

The bottles that come by default are a little on the small side. As someone with a pretty good pumping output I found that annoying. That said, the pump will screw on to quite a few standard size bottles so I imagine you could remedy that by simply pumping into something other than the bottles that come with it.

For pumping moms that find themselves losing parts fairly often...no need to worry. Lansinoh's web site has an online store that sells replacement parts. Overall, I'm pretty impressed with Lansinoh's first foray into the world of breast pumps. While you can buy it online, quite a few major retailers are now carrying the Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump.

It's Not About A Mother's Right to Breastfeed

2010-08-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about The Lactivist by Jennifer Laycock

It's not about a mother's right to breastfeed. It's easy enough for people to tell a woman that they should "respect" other people. It's about a baby's right to eat.

Seriously. I've found that when you change the perspective from mothers' rights to babies' rights, you tend to win people over more quickly and more easily. While we've made this a battle for the women's movement, we need to be making it a battle for children's rights.

It's not that a mother has the right to breastfeed wherever she might be, it's that the baby has the right to EAT wherever that baby might be. The mothers' rights and needs that we should be campaigning for are the right to good information from health care providers, the right to access lactation consultants and peer counselors and the right to express milk during the work day. Do we stand to make more progress by focusing on the rights and needs of the child rather than on the rights and needs of the mother?

Nipple Shields

2010-08-23T19:55:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about Nipple Shields by Barbara Wilson Clay, BSEd, IBCLC

Made of thin, soft, silicone that doesn’t interfere with nipple stimulation, the Madela nipple shield is worn during breastfeeding. Holes at the tip allow milk to flow to the baby. A nipple shield may help protect breastfeeding when:

1. The baby is premature, ill. A nipple shield may make feeding easier for a small baby. Because suction inside the nipple shield holds the nipple in an extended position, the baby can pause without ‘losing’ the nipple. As the baby gains weight and matures, the shield becomes unnecessary.

2. The mother has flat nipples. The Madela nipple shield provides sensation deep in the mouth that stimulates the baby to keep sucking. As the milk begins to flow, the baby discovers that breastfeeding works!

3. The baby has had many bottles and now refuses the breast. Drip milk into the corner of the baby’s mouth to reward the baby for trying. Some babies need only a few sessions with a shield to return to full breastfeeding.

Correct latch is important. The baby’s jaws must close on the breast, not out on the shaft of the nipple shield.

Chose the right size shield for the size of the baby’s mouth. If a shield is too big, the baby cannot adequately draw up the mother’s nipple. The Newborn Small size shield is best for most small babies. Madela makes several types of nipple shields, the Newborn Small, Newborn Regular, and Contact™ Nipple Shields in two sizes.

Milk supply is controlled by how much milk the baby takes. Pumped milk can be used to supplement the baby. Nipple shields are devices that are used to help babies who are not yet breastfeeding normally. Babies should have weight checks frequently to ensure baby’s health and good growth.

The nipple shield is a tool to help solve a specific latch problems. As the baby’s breastfeeding ability improves, remove the shield at various times during each feeding.

Genes behind tooth development discovered

2010-08-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

Genes that influence tooth development in the first year of life have been identified by British and Finnish researchers. They noted that teeth and other organs have common growth and development pathways during early development. As soon as your child's willing and able, encourage him to brush his own teeth.

THRUSH

Thrush is the term to describe an overgrowth of yeast in a baby's mouth. This yeast, called candida, normally lives within our mouth, intestines, and genital area.

Thrush is not passed from baby to baby. It is an overgrowth of your baby's own yeast. Wash toys that baby frequently chews on in hot, soapy water every day. Gentian violet has been used for many years to treat thrush. Apply Vaseline to baby's lips before using the gentian violet to avoid purple stains.

Symptoms of nipple yeast infection:

1. sore nipples

2. red nipples

3. itchy nipples, even when not feeding baby

4. puffy, dry, nipples

Because of the possible severity of chronic yeast infections in the breasts, we suggest mom's nipples be treated along with baby's treatment.

Tips On How To Induce lactation

2010-08-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

Forget about milk inducing drugs and exotic techniques: all it takes is stimulation! In the beginning, even without milk, relax and breast feed your partner, just as you would as if your breasts were full of milk. In time, your body will respond to the suckling by producing milk.

Women have successfully induced lactation with as little as two breast feeding sessions each day; however, the sessions do need to be at least 20 minutes long. Eight, 20 minute stimulation sessions each day is still optimum for inducing lactation, even without a reliable nursing partner. Quite simply put: your body will respond to the need for milk by producing milk! If you are breast feeding your nursing partner to induce lactation, his mouth should provide enough lubrication to prevent chaffing of the nipple and areola. If you have never been pregnant, and never had milk, the process may take a little longer. Mammary glands of a woman who has breast fed in the past are always be ready to produce milk again. After breast feeding for the first time, some women never completely dry up. Don't look for drugs or exotic techniques to inducing lactation: this simple technique of physical stimulation is all there is to successfully inducing lactation. Once past puberty: as long as a woman's mammary glands are healthy and have not been altered or surgically removed, a woman's breasts are completely capable of producing milk! The main obstacle that prevents a woman from producing milk when inducing lactation is not physical technique; it is psychological! The brain has to send an electrical signal, via the nervous system, to stimulate the mammary gland before the mammary gland will make milk!

If the brain perceives nipple and areola stimulation to be the need for milk, the brain will respond by sending an electrical signal, via the nervous system, causing the milk to letdown and the mammary glands to produce milk. The breasts will continue to make milk as long as the brain continues to send electrical signals, stimulating the mammary glands. Also if the brain perceives nipple and areola stimulation to be for both sexual pleasure and the need for milk, it will respond by creating both.

The physical technique of inducing lactation is very simple, however, creating the mental scenario that results in the brain stimulating the mammary glands into milk production is a little more involved. The secret to inducing lactation is creating a proper mental state that will cause the brain to stimulate the breasts to letdown, and mammary glands to make milk.

Lansinoh Acquires Soothies Gel Pad Line for Breastfeeding Moms

2010-08-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Gel Pads distributed by Puronyx. Soothies Gel Pads will be folded into the Lansinoh portfolio of products, and sold nationally as "Soothies by Lansinoh Gel Pads."

The Soothies transaction extends Lansinoh's strategy to expand its product line through acquisition and internal product development efforts addressing the growing market for breastfeeding products and accessories. Soothies by Lansinoh Gel Pads will be available at the manufacturer's suggested retail price of $12.99.

Every breastfeeding mother has her own individual needs and preferences. Some mothers will prefer Lansinoh HPA([R]) Lanolin ointment; some will prefer Soothies Gel Pads.

How to Use Lansinoh Lanolin

Executive summary about Lansinoh Lanolin by Rose Kivi

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin is a moisturizer designed to soothe nipples that are sore from breastfeeding.

Instructions:

1. Wash hands with soap and water. Dry hands with a clean towel.

2. Squeeze a pea-size amount of Lansinoh onto your index finger.

3. Massage Lansinoh gently onto both nipples.

Lansinoh Laboratories, the company that markets Lansinoh HPA Lanolin, uses a modified form of lanolin in the product, which they claim makes the product safe for use in people who are normally allergic to lanolin.

Allergy Free Nipple Cream

2010-08-15T22:44:00.000-07:00

Lansinoh Lanolin has received the endorsement of the British Allergy Foundation by becoming the only lanolin to be awarded its Seal of Approval. In a clinical trial conducted amongst a lanolin sensitive population, Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin showed 0% allergic reaction.

Lanolin provides an ideal moist wound healing environment, but there are concerns relating to allergic reactions to some grades of lanolin. Lanolin allergy does exist – however the allergen responsible is present in the free lanolin alcohol portion of the lanolin. Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin is produced using a unique proprietary process, and guarantees a free lanolin alcohol proportion of less than 1.5%. Other medical grades of lanolin are only able to guarantee a free lanolin alcohol proportion of below 6%, and no specification is set for detergent residues.

Clinical trials clearly indicate that in lanolin containing 6.5% free lanolin alcohols, 41% of a lanolin sensitive population will experience an allergic response.

Experience soothing relief with Lansinoh - hypoallergenic and completely natural - Lansinoh does not have to be removed prior to breastfeeding. Lansinoh's natural texture is part of its effectiveness. Apply before showering to protect sensitive nipples. Ingredients: Lansinoh HPA Lanolin (100%) - the World's Purest Lanolin. Ultra Pure, Medical Grade, USP Modified Lanolin.

SoothiesÂ® by LansinohÂ® Gel Pads

2010-08-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Product features:

1. Soothes, relieves and protects sore nipples

2. Soothing gel pads cools on contact

3. Absorbent gel helps prevent leakage

4. Unique soft fabric layer prevents bra friction

5. Gel pads are reusable for up to 72 hours

How Do Medela & Ameda Breast Pumps Differ?

2010-08-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about Medela and Ameda by Rachel Terry

The Medela and Ameda breast pumps differ in their level of comfort. The Ameda breast pump is a higher-end breast pump and it is more comfortable to use. The Medela breast pump is less expensive than the Ameda breast pump because it is mechanical.

One feature the Ameda pump has that the Madela pump does not is protection against contamination. Breast milk can be contaminated by bacteria, viruses and other germs, but the Ameda pump has a patented diaphram barrier that keeps the milk free from contaminants.

NICU Research Confirms Ameda’s Elite Breast Pump Outperforms Other Hospital Grade Breast Pumps

Research performed in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in the U.S. prove that the Elite, a hospital grade breast pump from Ameda, outperforms other hospital pumps when used for establishing & maintaining a healthy breast milk supply for preterm infants.

Through research of various NICU’s throughout the United States on post partum women, it has been found that Ameda’s Elite Hospital Grade Breast Pump was the most successful pump, with regard to establishing a steady supply of breast milk, compared against other leading hospital grade breast pumps, including the Medela Symphony, as well as normal breastfeeding mothers. The use of breast pumps for increasing milk supply is of vital importance for pre-term infants. Ameda, a leading manufacturer of breast pumps and breastfeeding supplies, produces a variety of personal-use and hospital grade breast pumps, including the Ameda Elite.

Ameda Purely Yours Backpack

2010-08-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about ameda purely yours pump by Isaac David

One of the dilemmas that the breast feeding moms who use pumps face, is the complicated pumping technique and the accessories, which are unmanageable to carry while traveling. The breast pump unit with the backpack can be easily carried, extremely flexible and it is very sleek in design too. The Ameda Backpack is provided with multiple fitters and adaptations, which enacts the way a baby weans the milk. Besides, the backpack has zippered pockets for carrying your cell phone, keys and the wallet!

Just take a look at some of the amazing benefits that this backpack offers...

1. Purely Yours Electric Breast Pump

2. Twin Hygienikit Milk Drawing System

3. AC Power Adapter with Car Adapter having an activated cigarette lighter socket

4. Cotton Breast pads (2)

5. Milk storage Guide Magnet

6. Hand Breast Pump Adapter

7. Cool-n-Carry tote with Cooling Elements(3)

8. Bottles (6) with tops

9. Microfiber Backpack

The Ameda Backpack will erase out the problems that the working and busy mothers have to deal with while they are breast feeding the baby.

Ameda Purely Yours Ultra

Executive summary about ameda purely yours pump by Glenn Hooper

If you are a mom staying at home and craving for your own time or duty-bound in office and thus need to go out, the Purely Yours Ultra Twin Electric Breast Pump with Customized Flange System and Custom Control™ should be your pick. The adjustability, the handiness and the modern design are an inherent part of these suave and long lasting breast pumps.

The efficient pumping machine and the HygieniKit™ Milk Collection Device has a specialized diaphragm, which makes the system very popular. The standard of performance that Purely Yours Ultra scales and its eye-locking design with two-toned ultra suede and pebbled faux leather, Kiwi Pick-Stitch clipping, nickel work and double folded handles that serve as cushion while carrying make it a remarkable product. In order to refund the Ultra, just ask for your Return Authorization Number and the return address.

How Do You Recycle A Breast Pump?

2010-08-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

Breast pumps typically rank high among the big-ticket items on new moms' shopping lists. One of the biggest breast-pump makers, Medela, launched a pilot program last fall that allows parents to bring used breast pumps to 22 retailers for credit toward a new one. For now, moms can recycle some parts of their pumps as they would with cans. One piece of Avent's pump is made of No. 5 plastic, which is accepted in some recycling programs, said a company spokesperson. The Medela company's pilot program intends to use returned pumps for research and is "exploring recycling options for breast pumps that are returned."

Some parents will spend more than $300 on their pumps. That's why many consumers turn to eBay and Craigslist to sell their old pumps.

Buying a used consumer-grade pump comes with risks, such as the potential to spread dangerous viruses. Until more companies develop recycling programs, there will be no easy options. Even Earth911, my go-to Web site for local recycling resources, came up blank when I typed "breast pump" into its search engine. Nothing will spur creative ideas for reuse and recycling like a pile of useless pumps on their doorstep.

Pump In Style Breastpump Instructions

Executive summary about The breast pump unit by Shantana Goerge

Disassemble all of the pump parts that come into contact with your breast or milk. This will include containers, nipples, breast shield, connector, yellow valves and membranes. Sanitize by boiling for ten minutes.

Wash hands before touching your breasts or the milk containers, especially when pumping for a newborn baby. Be sure milk containers and lids are clean, and avoid touching the inside of these surfaces.

To assemble the pump, attach the breast shield to the smooth end of the connector, and the yellow valve onto the end of the connector that screws onto a bottle or container. Fit a white membrane onto the valve until you hear it snap in place and see that it lies flat against the valve. Screw the milk container onto the breast shield unit, making sure the yellow valve end is inside the container. Insert the plastic tubing into the hole in the breast shield connectors. The soft ends of the tubing should fit onto the ports of the pump, right below the vacuum control dial. If you are only pumping one breast at a time, cover the unused port with the cover--this will help to maintain suction. Plug the transformer or battery pack cord into the power jack next to the tubing ports. If using the transformer, plug the other end into an electrical outlet.

Place breast shields completely over your nipples, and switch the pump on. Adjust the speed and the vacuum speed so that pumping is comfortable.

When you are finished pumping, disassemble all of the pump parts that came into contact with your breast or milk, and wash in warm, soapy water. Rinse with clear water, and air dry. Do not towel-dry unless you are certain that the towel is scrupulously clean. Store your expressed milk in a refrigerator, cooler.

If you see condensation in the plastic tubing, run the pump dry for another minute until you see the tubing is dry. If you see that your milk collection container overflowed and you have milk in the plastic tubing, first turn off the pump and unplug it. Disassemble and wash the plastic tubing, letting it either air dry or running the pump for a minute or two until it is dry.

Most mothers find that pumping is most efficient if they pump both breasts at once.

Breastfeeding - Self-Care

2010-08-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about Breastfeeding by Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine

Breastfeeding is an enjoyable and rewarding experience for mothers. Milk, yogurt, and cheese -- eat at least 4 servings. Fruits -- eat 2 to 4 servings.

Nursing mothers need enough fluids to stay hydrated -- most experts recommend drinking enough fluids to satisfy thirst. Breastfeeding mothers can safely eat any foods they like. Some foods may flavor the breast milk, but babies rarely react to this. It is possible that some highly allergenic foods may be passed into breast milk, increasing the risk of a later food allergy in the baby.

Smoking will increase the number of respiratory infections your baby develops. Many medications will pass into the mother's milk. Most breastfeeding women do not have normal menstrual periods. Estrogen-containing birth control pills are not recommended for breastfeeding women, because they may affect milk supply.

Mothers face unique obstacles in maintaining adequate milk supply once they return to work. With planning, commitment, and skilled use of a breast pump, breastfeeding mothers can maintain their milk supply and continue breastfeeding even after returning to work outside the home.

A maternity leave and breastfeeding skills are helpful for establishing your milk supply before returning to work. An ideal work place would provide a private room for breastfeeding moms, with a comfortable chair and an electric breast pump for use by all nursing mothers.

Many women prefer the speed of the electric breast pump. Hospital-quality pumps are available for rent through medical supply stores.

If you plan to return to work, introduce your baby to bottle-feeding at 3 to 4 weeks of age. If the day you return to work arrives and you don't have a freezer full of breast milk, one bottle of formula fed to your baby will be an adequate supplement. After returning to work, express milk 2 a day, every 2 hours to continue exclusively breastfeeding. Be aware, however, that feeding formula decreases the need for breast milk, and your milk supply will decrease accordingly.

Many mothers find that their babies nurse more frequently in the evenings on days they work. If possible, arrange to nurse your baby at lunch time.

How to Clean the Tubes on a Medela Pump

Executive summary about Medela Breast Pump by Anne Kinsey

Medela offers excellent electric breast pumps that are easier to use than manual pumps, and work easier than manually expressing breast milk by hand.

Things you'll need:

1. Medela breast pump

2. Medela tubing

3. Stock pot

4. Water

5. Stove

Instructions:

1. Detach all tubing from your breast pump and run it under cool running water to get most of the milk off of the tubing.

2. Fill your stock pot with water and place it on your stove. Set the heat to high and wait for the water to come to a boil.

3. Carefully lower your breast pump tubing into the boiling water and set a timer for 10 minutes.

4. Remove your stock pot of water from the stove when your timer goes off. Carefully drain the hot water from the pot and rinse the tubing under cool water until it is comfortable to handle.

5. Hang the tubing to dry so that all of the water can run out of it. Make sure that the area is well-ventilated and do not resume use of your tubing until it has fully dried.

Family Planning for the Breastfeeding Woman

2010-08-11T21:24:00.000-07:00

Methods can be classified into three categories based on their effect on breastfeeding.

1st Choice Methods

These methods do not interfere with breastfeeding and are safe to use any time after birth:

1. LAM (for up to six months)

2. Condoms (also the best protection against AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases)

3. Diaphragm

4. Spermicides

5. IUD (non-hormonal)

6. Natural Family Planning (breastfeeding disrupts the signs and symptoms of fertility, which may make charting difficult)

7. Vasectomy

8. Tubal Ligation

2nd Choice Methods

Methods under this category contain the hormone progestin. In most cases, these methods do not affect a woman's milk supply.

1. Mini-pill

2. Injectables

3. Implants

3rd Choice Methods

These methods contain the hormone estrogen which can reduce a woman's milk supply.

1. Combined oral contraceptives

2. Combined injectables

The client should be fully informed about all available methods and supported in her decision, regardless of which method she chooses.

Herbal Detox for Breastfeeding Women

Executive summary about breastfeeding women by Michael Davidson

Detoxing is the process of trying to eliminate harmful materials from your body. Always maintain a healthy diet when nursing, including during the detox process. For general elimination of toxins, herbalist Susan Weed recommends dandelion as an effective liver tonic. Comfrey and raspberry leaf, red clover, nettles, and alfalfa are all recommended for encouraging breast milk production. Organic fennel seed is another effective detoxing herb while nursing, according to Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Susan Weed recommends staying away from both milk thistle and golden seal while nursing.

How to Make Breastfeeding Twins a Success

2010-08-10T23:14:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about Breastfeeding Twins by Lenna Krause

In addition to following the steps, remember that determination is an important requirement when breastfeeding any baby, especially twins.

1. Begin by establishing your milk supply.

2. When nursing the babies, choose a location that you will use as your breastfeeding station.

3. Consult a book, such as "Mothering Multiples", by Karen Kerkhoff Gromada, for tips on the different positions for breastfeeding twins. This adds to the challenge of positioning both babies.

4. Attempt to breastfeed both twins at the same time.

5. Keep water and snacks at your breastfeeding station, so that you can remember to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.

6. Experiment with arranging pillows and babies until you find the arrangement that is optimal for comfort and successful nursing for both you and your multiples.

7. Attempt to get one baby at a time to latch onto the breast. When the first baby has effectively latched on, assist the second baby with latching onto the other breast.

8. Relax and look at your babies, to encourage milk let-down.

9. During the next feeding session, be sure to switch babies to the opposite breast, so that milk production levels stay consistent between the breasts.

10. Put safety first when breastfeeding your twins. Enlist help whenever possible when lifting and carrying multiple babies from your breastfeeding station.

Medela Pump & Save Storage Bags 50-pk.

2010-08-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

Designed for the collection, storage and long-term freezing of expressed breast milk, Medela's Pump and Save Bags make it easy to keep fresh, nutrient-rich breast milk on hand for feedings. Compatible with all Medela breast pumps for pumping directly into the bag, the Pump and Save Bags are both pre-sterilized and disposable for safe handling and quick clean-up, specially designed to securely store breast milk.

What's in the Box: 20 Pump and Save bags, double-walled for long and safe breastmilk storage, instructions and specifications.

Top 5 Reasons to Use a Breast Pump

Executive summary about breast pump by Lela Davidson

1. Increase Breast Milk Supply

Increasing breast milk supply is easy with the right breast pump.

2. Heal Breast Injuries: Cracked Nipples and Engorged Breasts

Some of the most severe cases of cracked nipples and engorged breasts are often healed by resting the breasts from baby’s latch. Using a breast pump maintains breast milk supply and provides breast milk to your baby while you are “on a break.”

3. Have a Cocktail: Pump and Dump Breast Milk

Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding can pass alcohol through mother's breast milk to her baby. However, it is okay to drink alcohol while breastfeeding as long as you pump and dump breast milk.

4. Stock Up On Breast Milk for Bottle Feeding Breast Milk

Bottle feeding breast milk is easy with a good quality electric breast feeding pump. Breast milk storage containers are specially designed to store breast milk in the freezer for months.

5. Stop Breast Feeding

A good pump can help you continue to give baby breast milk while being free from actually breast feeding, or help you stop breast feeding completely by weaning baby gradually off of breast milk.

Choosing A Breast Pump

2010-08-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about Breast Pump by Mayo Clinic staff

Electric pumps stimulate the breasts more effectively than do hand pumps. A typical pumping session lasts about 15 minutes a breast. If you'll be pumping at work, you may want to invest in an electric breast pump that allows you to pump both breasts at once. Double breast pumps help stimulate milk production while cutting pumping time in half.

Some hospitals rent hospital-grade breast pumps, although the equipment that attaches your breast to the pump must be purchased. Some health insurance plans cover the cost of buying a breast pump.

Packing Checklist for Breastmilk Pumping When You Travel

2010-08-09T00:24:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about expressed breast milk by Debbie

1. Breastpump

If you travel a lot, consider investing in a travel pump.

2. Pumping Accessories

Pack the pumping accessories in a ziplock bag to keep them clean. Consider bringing the hand pump adaptor that came with your breastpump in case something happens to your pump. If you are traveling internationally, you might also consider packing a second set of pumping accessories in your checked bag.

3. Milk Collection

Pump into Medela Pump and Save Bags instead of bottles. Why? The bags take up less room in my luggage, so I can bring plenty of them, and they're a bit more comfortable to use in the small airplane seats. Also, you'll need to pour the milk from the bags into baby bottles. Another good option is to use your pumping bottles as baby bottles, that way you don't need to pack and carry two sets of bottles.

4. Refrigeration
Freezer Gel Packs need to conform to the 3oz size limitations.

5. Cleaning
The best way to clean pumping accessories and baby bottles is with hot water and soap. Unfortunately, airplane tap water is not considered safe for drinking and should not be used to clean baby bottles. Use Medela quick clean breastpump and accessory wipes to wipe out bottles and pumping accessories and then rinse with bottled water.

6. Carryon Bag

Bring along a small, collapsable cooler to store expressed milk.

7. What To Wear

Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing, and make sure it is easy for you to hook up your pump.

8. Bottled Water

You can use bottled water to clean pumping accessories and bottles. Buy water after security.

9. Baby Bottles

Besides the pump, baby bottles are the biggest space filler in my carryon bag.

Medela Breast Pumps

2010-08-08T23:14:00.000-07:00

Freestyle Breast Pump has 2 Phase Expression technology that reproduces a baby’s natural sucking rhythm reducing overall pumping time, an LCD display and a digital lit screen display that provides light when used during late night expressing sessions. It also comes with a carry bag that allows mothers to carry the breast pumping equipment anywhere they like.

Medela Breast pumps also offers their Pump In Style Advanced Breastpump which is an electric pump with a 2 Phase Expression technology, just like pumps in hospitals, which reproduces a baby’s natural sucking pattern and consists of two phases, the Stimulation Phase to start the milk flow and an Expression phase with a vacuum to express more milk efficiently for baby. Includes removable cooler carrier and motor unit, double pumping accessory kit, manual breastpump, cooling element, AC adapter, battery pak with soft cover, 4 collection containers and lids, 2 container stands, Breastfeeding Information Guide, Free breastpumping accessory samples. Proven to achieve faster milk ejection and faster milk flow.

How to Sell Medela Breast Pumps at Home

2010-08-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about breast pump medela by Annie Mueller

Medela brand breast pumps are respected by both individuals and health care professionals for their high quality and easy-to-use design. By setting up a retail account with Medela, you can start a home business that can help nursing mothers and help you be successful.

Instructions:

1. Set up your account:

a. Go to the Medela Website.

b. Read through the information to be sure you understand the options: Medela offers an option which allows individuals to join the rental program. By becoming a rental program provider, you pay a monthly or yearly fee for breast pumps, which you then rent to nursing mothers. You also sell the needed accessories to the nursing mothers.

c. Call the number or send an email to the address provided to find out if you also quality for the retail program. If you can join the retail program, you may also be able to purchase (wholesale) the Medela equipment and resell it at retail prices.

d. Read through all the information carefully before signing up.

e. Set up your account, and order your rental units. Once you have the Medela products, you can start renting the pumps and selling the accessories to nursing mothers who need them.

2. Start selling:

a. Determine the prices you will charge for selling and renting Medela products. Medela will provide suggested retail prices and rental charges; you can either stick to those prices.

b. Decide what your product offerings will be. Do you simply want to sell Medela nursing pumps and accessories, or do you want to also offer other nursing products, baby clothes, baby items and gear, and diapering products?

c. Be sure you can explain every part of the Medela breast pump and easily walk a nursing Mom through the operation. It will be hard to sell a product if you're not comfortable demonstrating it.

d. Choose how you will sell the Medela products from your home. You can set up a Website, and do most of your selling exclusively online. You can host parties and network locally--much like a Tupperware or Mary Kay representative. You can also do both, of course, but it's a good idea to focus on building your business one way first.

e. Get in touch with local Mom groups, churches, childcare centers, and other related businesses.

Medela Harmony Breast Pump

The only manual pump with breakthrough 2-Phase Expression pumping for maximum milk flow. First researched and developed for hospital breastpumps, 2-Phase Expression is an advanced pumping pattern that mimics your babys nursing rhythm by pumping in two distinct modes:

1. Let-down Mode: Simulates your babys initial rapid suckling to initiate faster milk flow or let-down.

2. Expression Mode:Simulates your babys slower, deeper suckling for maximum milk flow in less time.

Features:

1. SoftFit Breastshield massages while you pump

2. Ergonomic swivel handle for maximum comfort and flexibility

3. Easier assembly and cleaning: fewer parts than other manual pumps

4. Compatible with most standard baby bottles

5. No batteries required

Proven to achieve faster milk ejection and faster milk flow.

Information on Baby Clothes

2010-08-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

For those of you for whom budget is not a criteria while buying baby clothes, there are lovely designer baby clothes available that would turn your baby into a little prince. Baby Clothes must be comfortable for your baby. You must ensure that winter wear baby clothes bought must protect your baby completely from the cold and summer baby clothes on the other hand must be comfortable and light.

You may have to buy baby clothes in sufficiently large numbers as your baby may need frequent changes. There are different types of baby clothes available from simple daily wear comfortable clothes to party wear something to suit every occasion. Baby Clothes are available in all sizes and for all occasions, designed based on cartoon characters that make it very attractive for your baby. Your baby dressed in these beautiful baby clothes is sure to be the talk of the town, making you swell with pride.

Many parents have an interest in designer baby clothes. Baby Designer Clothes are great for special family functions and, of course, for any professional family portraits. If it's unique baby clothes that you are searching for then look to your family! Choose from the vast variety of unique funky patterns that are available. Go one step further - learn to make unique baby clothes yourself.

Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding

2010-08-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Executive summary about nursing mothers by Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Although breast milk is the ideal food for human infants, some women opt for formula feeding. Infant formulas have been developed to artificially duplicate human milk, although no formulas have been developed that are an exact replacement for human milk.

The nutritional advantages of breast milk are certainly numerous. The baby's intestinal tract is best aided in its digestion by the vitamins, enzymes, and minerals found in breast milk, also contains infection-fighting antibodies from the mother, and breast-fed babies are believed to be at a reduced risk for many acute and chronic infections early in life, the least expensive way to feed an infant. Formula-fed babies have the risk of developing an allergy to a particular formula. The only disadvantages for the baby in breastfeeding occur when things are not going well, for example, if there's an inadequate supply of breast milk. However, it is unusual for a mother not to produce enough milk for her baby unless she is not breastfeeding correctly. Breast-fed babies eat more often than formula-fed babies since breast milk is more quickly digested and leaves the stomach empty more frequently. In any interaction, the mother's doctor and pharmacist should be informed that she is breastfeeding. Some medicines should be avoided during breastfeeding.

Marijuana
Findings so far show that the regular use of marijuana may play a role in:
1. Cancer
It is hard to find out whether marijuana alone causes cancer, because many people who smoke marijuana also smoke cigarettes and use other drugs. Marijuana smoke contains some of the same cancer-causing compounds as tobacco, sometimes in higher concentrations. Tobacco and marijuana smoke may work together to change the tissues lining the respiratory tract. Marijuana smoking could contribute to early development of head and neck cancer in some people.
2. Immune system
It is not certain whether marijuana damages the immune system of people. But both animal and human studies have shown that marijuana impairs the ability of T-cells in the lungs’ immune system to fight off some infections.
3. Lungs and airways
Marijuana smokers usually inhale more deeply and hold their breath longer, which increases the lungs’ exposure to toxic chemicals and irritants.

Although one animal study has linked marijuana use to loss of the fetus very early in pregnancy, two studies in humans found no association between marijuana use and early pregnancy loss. More research is necessary to fully understand the effects of marijuana use on pregnancy outcomes.

When a nursing mother uses marijuana, some of the THC is passed to the baby through breast milk.

Breastfeeding Problems

2010-07-21T23:56:00.001-07:00

Executive summary about breastfeeding problems by Paula Ford-Martin and Teresa G. Odle

The term "breastfeeding problems" is used to describe a variety of physical, behavioral, and emotional difficulties with nursing an infant. Breastfeeding, is the practice of nourishing an infant with the milk in the human breast. At first, babies feed on a nutrient-rich substance known as colostrum, which is produced by the breast before milk production begins. New mothers will experience engorgement in the days following the birth of their babies, where breast milk "comes in" and engorges the breasts. After this time, regular feedings and proper breastfeeding techniques usually ensure a healthy milk supply for most babies until it is time to wean. However, breastfeeding can be a complex process and in many cases, there is a problem with the infant's suckling technique, the mother's milk supply, and breastfeeding problems result.

Inadequate weight gain and a failure to thrive in nursing infants is the most obvious sign that there is a breastfeeding problem. A number of factors may interfere with successful breastfeeding. Proper treatment for breastfeeding difficulties depends on the cause of the problem.

1. Milk supply problems. Milk production is largely a supply and demand process. Pumped breast milk can be bottled, and fed by bottle to the baby at a later time, although if milk production is a problem the mother will probably want to put the baby to the breast at every opportunity. Milk thistle is sometimes prescribed to promote increased breast milk secretion. If the baby does not completely empty a breast, the job can be finished with the aid of a breast pump. The next time the mother nurses, she should start the child on the opposite breast.

2. Latching problems. Some babies, particularly preterm infants, have difficulty suckling. If the baby has a structural problem in his mouth, such as a cleft palate, a breast pump may be required to keep milk production going. In some cases where suckling does not improve, feeding with a supplementary nutrition system may be required. The system consists of a feeding bottle containing the mother's own breast-pumped milk, and two tubes that run down from the bottle and attach to the nipples. Both baby and mother can still maintain closeness while providing the baby with adequate milk flow.

3. Scheduling problems. Breastfed infants should be nursed at least once every three hours during the day, and should go no more than five hours at night between feedings. Women who have returned to work can use a portable breast pump at least once during the work day to encourage sustained milk flow and to store milk for their babies to eat during their time away from home.

4. Nipple and breast problems. Cracked and sore nipples and breast infections can make nursing painful. Liquid vitamin E applied regularly to sore or cracked nipples can soothe the pain and help the healing process.

5. Retained placenta. If a woman's milk has not "come in" and she continues to experience abnormal bleeding after delivery, she may still be retaining pieces of the placenta within her uterus. Minor surgery known as a dilatation and curettage is usually required to remove pieces of placenta that were retained by the uterus.

6. Stress and fatigue. New mothers need proper rest in order to produce an adequate milk supply. The ability to relax is also fundamental to proper breastfeeding. Women who are stressed can have difficulty achieving milk "let-down," the sensation of the mammary glands releasing milk. Women should establish a quiet, restful environment for nursing. Warm compresses to the breast may also assist in milk let down.

7. Psychological issues. Some women are unable to breastfeed because of preconceived notions about the practice, or ideas instilled by their parents and peers, that have put up a psychological barrier for them. Many hospitals offer mothers and their spouses classes on breastfeeding techniques and nursing issues. Women who have negative feelings about breastfeeding may find classes helpful in overcoming these issues.

In most cases, treatment for breastfeeding problems is successful and mother and baby do well. Breastfeeding incidence and duration are both associated with reduced breast cancer risk in women, according to a large international study released in 2002.

Buying and Borrowing Used Breastpumps

2010-07-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

Although most breastpumps are protected from defects by a one year manufacturer’s warranty, these warranties are voided if the pump is used by anyone other than the original user. Some of the viruses that are passed through breastmilk include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis, human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and cytomegalovirus (CMV). If the previous user experienced cracked or bleeding nipples then the pump may have been contaminated with blood, which increases the health risks associated with using a used pump.

For instance, it is possible for breastmilk to aerosolize and enter parts of the pump that cannot be cleaned, like the pump motor. Protect your child’s health and safety by only using a new, unused breastpump to express your milk.

How to Use an Avent Breastpump

Executive summary about breastpumps by Pamela Gardapee

The Avent breastpump was designed with moms in mind, imitates the sucking of a baby. Instructions:

1. Assemble and sterilize the breastpump.

2. Place the pump petal massager and funnel firmly against your breast so that no air will leak out of the funnel.

3. Press down on the handle until you feel the suction. Press the handle down to the point where you still feel comfortable; you do not have to push it down all the way.

4. Watch to make sure the milk flows into the bottle, and does not sit in the body of the pump. As the milk flows, hold the vacuum for about two to three seconds and let the handle move back to its resting position after it has completed each stroke.

5. Pump your milk for about ten minutes while using the massager petal.

Top Baby Gifts for 2010 The Best of The Best!

2010-07-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

It's not hard to find wonderful baby gift ideas. Babies love presents! We've assembled the most popular and highest rated baby products and we are featuring them in this baby gifts guide for you to consider when choosing your unique gift.

What are the top baby gifts for 2010? This Top 5 baby gifts for 2010 survey, to serve as a guide for shoppers like yourself.

1. NooBoo Symphonic Stacker

NooBoo Symphonic Stacker helps develop fine motor skills as it reinforces cause-and-effect learning.

2. LeapFrog Interactive Learn and Groove Musical Table

This interactive, bilingual activity table engages and entertains your baby for hours. The table plays over 40 songs and melodies so your baby stays entertained while exploring.

3. Learning Band Walker

Baby's steps set learning in motion! This floor toy converts to a walker as baby grows. Switch to music mode and hear a fun walk-along song that encourages baby's first steps and rewarding them, making baby the leader of the band.

4. Sassy Baby 6 Piece Toy Set, Multiple Colors

This Sassy Baby Gift Set is the best way to help develop motor skills for that special baby in your life.

5. Fisher-Price Safe Voyage Convertible Car Seat - Black/ Red

Deluxe Car seat that grows with your child.