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Selecting the Best Breastfeeding Bra

There are several types of maternity bras you can use but it can be a bit confusing which one to buy.  This article should be able to help you decide which nursing bra is best for you.

Maternity Bra Fitting

Fitting for a maternity bra differs from woman to woman. Your breasts will begin lactate in the early stages of pregnancy and you are expected to outgrow your usual bra size. Most changes to your breast will occur during your 4th month of pregnancy and for most women; this is the perfect time to be fitted.

Is it advisable to wear an underwire?

Unfortunately underwire bras are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. The reason for this is, underwire bras may put pressure on the breast which may lead to blocked milk ducts or mastitis. Instead of considering underwires, it’s better to just opt for a flexible low-gauge wire support since it’s made to accommodate the changing shape of your breasts.

When trying on different maternity bras, it’s important that you open and close the bra cup. Some bras are manageable compared to others. You might want to look for breastfeeding bras where the entire cup can be folded. You might also want to consider centre front and shoulder clasp styles bra.

Do I wear a bra to bed?

It depends on you if you want to wear a bra to bed or not.  Some mothers feel that wearing a maternity bra even at night is necessary to keep their breastfeeding pads in place, some find wearing a bra to bed uncomfortable. If you think a maternity bra is uncomfortable, try opting for a special sleep bra.

How do I take care of my nursing bra?

It is best if you have at least 2-3 bras. You may need to change more frequently since your breasts may leak milk. To avoid milk leakage, check out our breastfeeding bamboo pads. This type of breastpads is not disposable and can be reused. Best of all, it has anti-bacterial properties which protect your nipples from possible infection.

 

 

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Comfort And Savings: The Unbeatable Advantages Of Using Washable Breast Pads

Mothers are keen on using only the best quality products for their babies to use. From the texture of the clothing that will come into contact with the baby’s sensitive skin to the hypoallergenic substances found in soaps and bath products, mothers cast a scrutinising eye over every item to ensure that their child will become healthier and safer from their use, and not the other way around.

However, mothers need to experience quality care themselves to enable them to provide the best care for their precious little ones. Breastfeeding, for example, is one of the most important practices that can facilitate the continued nourishment of a newborn baby until one year or however long a mother chooses to nurse her child. It is important for mothers to choose quality products for themselves as well to help them in breastfeed their baby better. A breast pad is one product that can help mothers experience comfort and safety from infections during their breastfeeding period, but how can they be sure that they’re using the best one out of all the variants available in the market? It would be wise to compare washable breast pads against disposable ones to see whether they’re getting the best value for their money and the best quality for their baby.

Disposable breast pads are common choices for mothers who lack sufficient time to wash and reuse washable pads. Disposable ones can be simply fitted into the bra to absorb the breast milk leaking while the mother is not nursing. After use, mothers can simply remove and discard the pads and use a fresh one. The downside of using disposable pads is that the anti-slip layers that keep the pad in place can stick to the clothes, or worse, to the skin, making it difficult and painful to remove. Also, the plastic layer meant to prevent leakage can cause infections on the nipples from exposure to moisture. In addition, having to frequently buy new disposable pads can cause a considerable dent on the mother’s daily finances.

Washable pads, on the other hand, are made of soft fabrics—such as bamboo fabric, which is anti-bacterial and biodegradable to boot–that provide comfort for breasts, whether they are sore or not. The fabric comes in thin and thick variants to ensure maximum absorbency for light and heavy flows of breast milk. They can be easily washed along with a normal load of laundry and they retain their absorbent properties even after multiple washings, eliminating the need to buy new ones often. What’s more, the need to discard washable pads less often produces less waste, whereas disposable pads only accumulate in landfills.

Mothers need to take care of themselves well so that they can care for their babies, too. Choosing the best breast pads help keep them in good health and in the best condition to continue breastfeeding their babies, ensuring that their child stays equally healthy, safe, and nourished. With undeniable savings and comfort, washable pads can be one of the smartest choices for baby care products mothers can use today.

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Why Bamboo Breast Pads Are The Best Choice For Breastfeeding Mums

Motherhood brings to mind a number of pleasant experiences. Any new or experienced mum would surely appreciate and treasure the moments when they cuddle their sleeping baby close and breathe in the clean smells of cotton and soap, the times when the baby grips its mother’s finger in its tiny hands with all the strength a tiny baby can muster, or the nights when a baby settles into sleep in its crib and indescribably assumes a sleeping position characteristic of either the mother or the father. During these quiet, tender moments, mothers get to savour the wonder of beholding a perfect little creature that is so tenderly fragile and trusting in its mother’s ability to nourish and provide for its needs.

Breastfeeding is yet another experience that most mothers would be excited to begin, but many will quickly realise that there are certain issues involved in this practice that can be considered uncomfortable or undesirable. Breast milk can leak from the breasts during times when the mother is not nursing; sometimes, walking through the shops for a quick errand and hearing a baby crying somewhere close by can cause milk to flow uncontrollably, or merely thinking about the baby in the other room can trigger the reflex. Constant exposure to wetness can cause nipples to become sore or even cracked, making the breastfeeding experience difficult and uncomfortable. Many women have found that breast pads are ideal for keeping the fluid away from the skin, but they can’t be made from just any type of fabric. Bamboo breast pads work best in keeping mothers clean, dry, and comfortable during their nursing phase.

Breast pads in the market come in washable and disposable variants. Disposable breast pads often come with anti-slip materials or plastic layers to keep the pads in place on the breasts and prevent leaking. While disposable pads are considered by some to be the more convenient option because there’s no need to spend time washing and reusing pads, they can be uncomfortable to wear because they stick to the skin and the plastic material can trap moisture and may cause infection on the breast or the nipples.Washable pads, on the other hand, are often made to be form-fitting and thin or thick enough to be worn for either light or heavy flows of breast milk at different times of the day. Breast pads made with bamboo fabric in particular are especially favourable because they are soft and highly absorbent—approximately 60% more absorbent than regular cotton. The softness provides comfort for already sore breasts and the material naturally draws moisture away from the skin; it’s also important to note that bamboo fabric has anti-bacterial properties and is hypoallergenic, meaning it will not irritate the skin or hold odours. What’s more, breast pads made with bamboo are 100% biodegradable and pesticides are not required in growing the material.

Choosing the best products for the baby’s benefit can also mean making the best choices for the mother as well. Breastfeeding becomes an even healthier and more nourishing activity for mothers and babies when breast pads that provide comfort, safety, and overall protection are used.

 

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Learning Breastfeeding Basics: Using Breast Pads To Manage Leaks

For many expectant mothers, the anticipation for the act of breastfeeding their newborn can be just as strong as their desire to finally see and hold the baby in their arms. Having the ability to provide the only food that a newborn baby will need can be a source of pride for mothers; the knowledge that their own bodies are strong enough and fully equipped to carry a baby throughout the nine months of pregnancy as well as provide the nourishment the baby needs can give any new mum that encouraging rush of fulfilment and happiness. The miracle of life and the continuing cycle of birth and providing care can be awesome to behold and experience.

Of course, along with the intoxicating delight of bringing new life into the world, there are unexpected things that can happen to a mother’s body to accompany the arrival of the young one. Breastfeeding means that the baby will have nourishing milk available to it whenever it needs to feed, but new and experienced mums alike are highly likely to experience breast milk leakage—the uncontrollable flow of breast milk when the baby is not nursing. This may not seem like much of a problem to a person who has yet to experience having a baby, but once the experience actually sets in (the soaked shirts throughout the day, the wet blankets throughout the night), mothers will realise that they will need something to help them manage this condition. The best solution yet, many have discovered, is the use of high quality absorbent breast pads.

These specially designed pads can be placed inside the bra while a mother is not nursing her child. There is a “letdown reflex” that occurs in breastfeeding women; this refers to the reflex that releases milk from the mother’s breasts that can be triggered by a variety of things or events–hearing the sound of a baby crying, thinking about or even just looking at the baby, or when the breasts become uncomfortably full of milk from going through prolonged periods without nursing.

The reflex may be unnoticeable at first, and some women do not even experience this during their nursing phases at all. For those who do, however, the experience can range from slightly inconvenient to embarrassing; having to change shirts repeatedly at home can be troublesome, and one would imagine that going back to work and needing to make an important presentation when wetness and stains begin to appear on one’s power suit can be extremely awkward and unsightly.

There are plenty of brands and makes of breast pads available in the market to suit a mother’s specific needs. Some pads are thin for daytime use while others are thick for heavier leaks during the night. They can come in plain white or more colourful variants to stay discreet underneath clothing. In addition, mothers can choose between disposable and washable breast pads, depending on their preference after having tried both. Some women like the cost efficiency and eco-friendly nature of washable pads while other may prefer the protection and convenience of using and discarding disposable ones. No matter which products they choose, mothers can expect more comfortable and hygienic nursing days with their precious babies thanks to special breast pads that make the experience a whole lot easier to manage.

 

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Going Green While Breastfeeding

Going green seems to be a big issue nowadays. If you are breastfeeding and are someone who is conscious about the conservation of our environment and want to do your part to take care of it then we have some suggestions for you.

There is nothing more natural than breastfeeding your baby. I understand that for some mums unfortunately this is not possible but if you can breast is best, both for your baby and the environment. Formula creates waste in terms of the packaging, as well as the energy spent to produce it, not to mention how expensive it is. By nursing your baby you have made a choice to go green already. Below are a couple more suggestions to go green a step further.

Nursing pads are necessary for every breastfeeding mother. Just imagine trying to survive without them. Your shirt would be soaking wet! You probably already know by now how important breastfeeding pads are, but did you know that there are different kinds of breastfeeding pads?

To begin with, the disposable pads are the worst. Not only are they expensive; but they also ruin our environment and create more waste. It would be a good idea to stay away from the disposable ones and settle for washable breast pads. Imagine how helpful washable breast pads are. No more buying boxes and boxes of disposable pads, because with your washable pads you just wash and reuse.

In addition to using washable pads, why not go one step further and use organic breastfeeding pads? These pads do not contain any harmful chemicals compared to using non-organic ones which are treated with toxic chemicals when manufacturing or processing the fabric. Furthermore, by using organic pads, such as bamboo breastfeeding pads, you reduce the risk of having sore or cracked nipples as organic breastfeeding pads have antibacterial properties thus protecting your breasts from any kind of infection.

Bambooby Buddies creates incredibly soft and absorbent Bamboo breast pads that will make your breastfeeding journey even more enjoyable. Check out our range and have a look at all the cute designs we currently offer!

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What to Do If You Have Sore or Cracked Nipples

It can take some time to get used to the sucking of your baby. Expect your nipples to be sensitive when you start breastfeeding. Though sore nipples are expected during the first week or so of breastfeeding, allowing your baby to be fed as often as possible gives you the best chance of avoiding damaged nipples.

By being extra gentle in getting your baby on and off your breast and patience should solve the problem. Keep in mind that only when your infant learns how to suck or attach properly can your sore nipples heal and improve. Though it may be tempting to put off feeds, you shouldn’t. Instead, try to feed your infant regularly for shorter periods. By doing so, your baby will calm down and be less hungry and gentler when sucking your nipples.

Before feeding:

  • Ensure that you feed your infant before she starts crying.
  • Don’t stress yourself. Make it a point that you’re comfortable when breastfeeding.
  • It will also help if you massage your breasts gently so your milk can easily flow out.
  • Express some milk so your areola can soften and to lubricate your nipples as well.

During feeding:

  • Give your infant the side that is not sore.
  • Ensure that your infant is positioned properly and that she’s attached to your breast.
  • Try out different feeding positions.

After feeding:

  • Check your nipples for signs of stress.
  • Leave your bra open until your nipples are dry.
  • Change your breastfeeding pads regularly. Consider washable bamboo breastfeeding pads since these pads have antibacterial properties that can protect your nipples from possible infections.

Avoid:

  • Using products that may damage your nipple skin.
  • Using plastic-backed breastfeeding pads.
  • Using breast pumps that have strong suction.

Remember that painful, sore or cracked nipples should be treated right away. In most cases an incorrect position causes a sore or cracked nipples. If the soreness of your nipple is not improving and healing seems slow even after you have done our tips above, then it’s better if you just consult with your medical adviser.

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Increasing Your Milk Supply

Babies need to be nourished, comforted, and reassured. But how can you do this if you seem to have an insufficient supply of milk? Below are some ideas to help you increase your supply.

It goes without saying that everything your baby needs to grow and be healthy is in your breast milk. Breast milk is the best food for your baby for the first six months of their life. If you work together with your baby hopefully you can successfully increase your supply and breastfeed for many months to come..

Suggestions for increasing your milk supply.

  1. The quickest and best way to increase your milk supply is by breastfeeding your baby more frequently. Try to breastfeed your baby every two or three hours within the day, for a  few days and see if it boosts your supply. Alternatively offer top up feeds between your normal feed times.
  1. Allow your baby to finish the first breast before changing to the second breast. Let your baby drink until your breast is drained and until he gets all the kilojoule rich milk.
  1. If you feel like your baby’s sucking is becoming less vigorous then a tip would be switch sides several times. According to some mothers, switching sides motivates your baby to suck more strongly thus stimulating a good let-down of milk.
  1. You can also massage your breast towards your nipple as your baby is feeding. Just ensure that you do not disturb the nipple being used by your baby.
  1. Relax when feeding your baby. Remove distractions and settle with your baby in a quiet room. Read a book while he is feeding or watch the TV.
  1. Babies decide how long they want to suck for even if your breast has been emptied. This is fine. Remember that babies sucking and stimulating is what makes more milk!

In summary

Make sure to:

  • Feed your baby more often than necessary.
  • Make sure your baby is well positioned.
  • Allow your baby to decide how long he wants to feed for.
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Why washable breast pads?

There are many reasons as to why to use washable breast pads:

  • They are much more comfortable. You don’t need to worry about having the pad stick to your clothing or even worse your breast!
  • They are definitely better for the environment. Disposable breast pads end up in landfill.
  • They will save you money. Disposable breast pads on average cost $0.30 a pad. If you end up breast feeding for 10 months that will cost you $270 (based on using 3 a day). If you buy a pack of washable pads for $39.95 that is a saving of $230.
  • They are very soft and help to soothe sore nipples
  • They are machine washable and will become more absorbent the more they are washed

In the end I think the main reason is comfort and savings. What more could you ask for from a product!

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Why Bamboo Fabric?

After much research I decided that bamboo fabric was the best option for Bambooby Buddies Breast pads. Bamboo fabric is great for the following reasons:

  • It is extremely absorbent. It is approximately 60% more water absorbent than cotton.
  • The fabric is very soft and is great to wear especially if your nipples are a bit sore
  • It draws moisture away from the skin, therefore will not feel wet when you leak. Plus it is naturally anti-bacterial and will not hold odour.
  • It is hypoallergenic therefore will not irate the skin
  • It is good for the environment as it doesn’t require pesticides to grow and it is 100% bio-degradable.
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Benefits of Breastfeeding

I think I am probably not alone when I say that I found breastfeeding my first baby very challenging. I had no idea what I was doing and to be honest Olivia wasn’t very good at it either! It was a foreign concept to both of us. I was so close to giving up on quite a few occasions but in the end I was very glad I persevered and ended up successfully breastfeeding her until she was 9 months old.  As a first time mum struggling with breastfeeding I think the reason I kept going was because I asked for help in the form of a lactation consultant as well as my local Maternal Child Health Nurse. Plus I realised that if I had to supplement my breastfeeding with a bottle of formula it wasn’t the end of the world, and didn’t mean that I had failed at breastfeeding or was a bad mum, I was simply doing what was best for my baby.

So for other mums out there struggling here are my top reasons for ploughing on and continuing to breast feed:

  1. It’s free. It can become quite expensive if you have to formula feed.
  2. It’s convenient. I didn’t have to stuff around with bottles all the time, plus if you were out and found your baby needed a feed, it was always possible.
  3. It does get easier. The first six weeks are probably the hardest but once you both get the hang of it, it becomes very natural.
  4. It forces you to sit down and take a break. Especially in the first few weeks where sleep is scarce it is nice to sit down, relax, and cuddle your baby while you feed.
  5. Breast milk is all your baby needs for the first six months of their life, plus it helps them to fight infection.
  6. Last but definitely not least, it helps you to lose weight. I was really surprised at how easily and quickly I lost a fair amount of baby weight, unfortunately not all of it though!