Natural Nursery Blog » Breastfeeding

Can I ask for you support?

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:55:10 +0000

We have been sent this request which I am happy to share:

Can I ask for your support and to sign and share this petition? http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/24494
if it gets at least 100,000 signatures, it will be eligible for debate in the House of Commons.

The petition is not anti-formula it is anti the marketing/advertising of it (For every baby born Approx £20 is spent to promote Formula by its companies compared to about 14 pence spent by the UK government to promote breastfeeding).

It’s part of a bigger picture that strives for formula to be the exception not the norm and to encourage breastfeeding and the support offered to mothers to succeed at it. The ban IS in place throughout Scandinavia where the breastfeeding rates are far far higher than here in the UK.

This is an important issue to me but it is in no way meant to offend anyone at all.

Thank you

Zoe

Please note in particular that this is not a reflection on the choices that parents make, rather a request to limit the advertising practices of certain companies. Arabella

Can I ask for you support? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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7 Gifts – Health – The gift of donated breastmilk

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:18:31 +0000

Breastmilk is the normal food for babies under 6 months old (and a vital part of their nutritional needs for much longer) but there are some occasions when a mother is unable to nurse her own baby, such as when the mother is sick or the baby is premature.

In these cases, donated breastmilk improves the health outcome for the baby and is the preferred option over formula.

I have been lucky enough to be accepted as a breastmilk donor for our local hospital, so most days I pump a bottle full and stash in the freezer ready to take batches up to the RD&E.

The milk will be used to give feeds to sick and premature babies in the NNU, rather than supplement with artificial formula, until such time as the mother is able to nurse her baby herself.

I consider myself to be very fortunate as I have a good supply and, following some initial difficulties, find breastfeeding my children to be very easy and rewarding.

This is my way of showing my gratitude and of helping out other families in their time of need.

If you would like to find out more about breastmilk donation in the UK, you can visit

UKAMB

Informal milk sharing arrangements can also be arranged, see:

Human Milk for Human Babies

7 Gifts – Health – The gift of donated breastmilk is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 10 – Nipple Cream, Lansinoh Lanolin

Lisa — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:16:26 +0000

Lansinoh Brand Lanolin is the purest form of lanolin available for breastfeeding mothers. It does not need to be removed before nursing and because it is completely hypoallergenic, it can be used even by those who are allergic to wool and other lanolin products.

Lansinoh lanolin goes through a unique process that does not require the use of preservatives, additives, perfumes or other chemicals, so it is a totally pure and natural product.

This process means that the cream is virtually odourless, so it will not interfere with the bonding process.

If soreness does not start to ease within 24 hours of commencing use of Lansinoh, or if the problem persists, the user should contact a Lactation Consultant, Breastfeeding Counsellor or their Health Care Professional. Unbroken skin is the best barrier to infection, however Lansinoh relieves dryness that can result in cracking and promotes healthy skin, it may prevent some secondary infections.

Lansinoh lanolin can be used also to soothe: chapped lips, nappy rash, dry skin on elbows, heels and knees, itchy stretch marks, minor cuts, burns and skin abrasions. Useful for all the family!

We recently had a review of Lansinoh at the Natural Nursery and the customer said it ‘does what it says on the packet’:

“I have been using this product and have found it to be very good- I have no problems atall now and would happily recommend it to friends!”

http://www.naturalnursery.co.uk/breastfeeding-your-baby/nipple-cream-lansinoh-lanolin.html

Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 10 – Nipple Cream, Lansinoh Lanolin is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 6 – Moby Baby Wrap

Lisa — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 03:35:16 +0000

With 17 different colours to choose from the Moby Wrap could be worn on any occasion.

The award-winning original Moby Wrap is the one of the most recognised wraparound baby carriers available. Made from beautiful, soft stretch cotton and available in a variety of colours, the Moby Wrap is an ideal carrier for newborn and premature babies.

The Moby Wrap can be used from birth to 35lbs, but really stands out in the infant stage. Simply wrap the fabric around you according to the directions and pop your baby in-an-out as needed. Since the Moby wraps over both shoulders, you can switch baby from side-to-side with no readjustment – all the time cradling them in cushy comfort.

The Moby Wrap is 100% cotton, machine washable in cool water and comes complete with a handy matching storage bag and full written instructions.

Maja said:

“We bought our Moby wrap when our baby was first born. Took a couple of attempts but got the hang of it really quickly. We used to strip the little one down to his nappy and put him in for loads of skin to skin. With some practice you can learn to breastfeed in it as well.

It’s really versatile as you can do different types of wrap depending on the need and the age of your baby.”

http://www.naturalnursery.co.uk/baby-carriers-and-slings/moby-baby-wrap-solid-colours.html

Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 6 – Moby Baby Wrap is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 4 – Breastfeeding Slogan T-shirt

Lisa — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 02:19:52 +0000

These soft organic baby t-shirts make perfect presents for first or fifth time mothers. They cheekily tell the mum how to look after the baby; ‘Hand wash only, Love unconditionally, Breastfeed as required.’

The t-shirts are ethically manufactured from 100% organic cotton.

Izzy was impressed with the quality and said:

“Good quality cloth, the print keeps it’s colour through many washes (so far).

Cute but subtle.

What’s not to love?”

www.naturalnursery.co.uk/breastfeeding-advocacy-clothing/care-instructions-short-sleeved-organic-top-3-6-months.html

Twelve Days of a Natural Christmas – Day 4 – Breastfeeding Slogan T-shirt is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Fluffy Friday Competition – win an Organic Lactivist Baby Hat (ends 24th Nov)

Lisa — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:27:45 +0000

You could win a beautiful soft organic knot hat from Lactivist!

These fairly traded hats measure 38cm around the bottom hem unstretched – stretched they measure 46cm. They are suitable for small babies and newborns and make perfect presents!

They come in 2 designs – Care Instructions, with symbols to remind you to ‘hand wash only, love unconditionally and breastfeed as required’ and the famous Cow slogan – ‘I like milk from my mum, not from just any old cow.’

To be in the draw to win a printed Lactivist knot hat of your choice leave a comment on the Natural Nursery Blog telling us

Your best breastfeeding tip!

To get more entries just tell people about the competition,share it on Facebook, Twitter or blogs (one more entry per place)
Like the Natural Nursery Facebook page (an extra entry)
Like the Lactivist Facebook page (an extra entry)
You must let us know how many entries you are claiming and where you have told people in the comments otherwise we won’t know how many entries to allocate you.

The draw will be held on Thursday 24th November 2011 at around 8pm and the winners will be notified by email.
This prize draw is only open to people in Europe, sorry!
The winner will be chosen using random.org

The winner was Helen Coulson who gets to choose her knot hat from the range at www.lactivist.co.uk

Fluffy Friday Competition – win an Organic Lactivist Baby Hat (ends 24th Nov) is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Tea can help afternoon milk slump.

Lisa — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:28:20 +0000

Breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed your baby but it can be stressful and exhausting. Not drinking enough or drinking and eating the wrong things may affect your milk production and your baby’s digestion. Neuner’s organic Nursing tea is made from a premium mixture of organic herbs and is specifically blended to support breastfeeding mothers.

Natural Nursery customer said the tea was ‘perfect’ and that it is ‘wonderful tasting tea that definatly helped my afternoon milk slump’.

Nursing tea or breastfeeding tea has been used by breastfeeding mothers for hundreds of years to help nurture and support them during this important stage. Interestingly the Greek physicians Hippocrates and Dioscorides recommended fennel to increase the flow of milk in breastfeeding mothers.

Today also fenugreek seeds are known to increase milk supply. Fennel, caraway and aniseed will also help to unwind and relax both mother and baby.

Along with advice on correct positioning, frequent nursing and a healthy lifestyle Neuner’s organic Nursing tea can help to quickly increase breastmilk supply and is a soothing and relaxing drink.

Neuner’s organic Nursing tea (breastfeeding tea):

has beneficial effects for mother and baby
helps promote a healthy lactation
is caffeine free
has no GMO’s (genetically modified organisms)
is pleasant to taste
uses tried-and-tested herbs
is 100% natural and organic
contains no menthol

Ingredients: Aniseed, fennel, verbena, caraway, (11%) fenugreek seeds
Organically grown herbs, 100% natural, no added flavourings, sugar and caffeine free
20 seal-wrapped tea bags (total of 40g)

If you are worried about your milk production, we recommend that you seek advice from your health-visitor or lactation consultant.

Breastfeeding Tea can help afternoon milk slump. is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Lactivist Pro-Breastfeeding T-shirt has ‘Star Quality’

Lisa — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 06:13:59 +0000

Mummy Milk Rocks at the Natural Nursery with this long sleeved organic baby top. It is a fantastic pro-breastfeeding top for your little one with a fab retro blended screenprint.

Natural Nursery customer Laura noticed the quality of the super soft organic cotton and said:

‘very thick, fab quality, I love it’

So that is 5 out of 5 for a design which Laura cleverly named as having ‘star quality’.

Lactivist Pro-Breastfeeding T-shirt has ‘Star Quality’ is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding and Massage May Ease Pain in Newborns

Lisa — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:31:09 +0000

This article is from the website www.staffnurse.com and is about relieving pain in newborn babies that are in Intensive care. The research team found that babies who are breastfed whilst being vaccinated had less pain than babies put on an examination table;

“Breastfeeding and massages may help to reduce pain in newborns, delegates at a European conference have heard. Studies presented at the EFIC Congress in Hamburg, Germany have demonstrated that simple, non-pharmacological measures are very soothing to babies in the first days of life.

Dr Luis Batalha told delegates that a Portuguese study found that support staff relied on comforting techniques to help newborns in intensive care. “Nurses apply non-pharmacological measures often and successfully, such as massages, various comforting techniques and turning the infant over,” he said. “But other more gentle therapies should also be encouraged, such as breastfeeding by the mother or administering of sugar in the form of glucose or sucrose.”

Dr Simin Taavoni , from the University of Tehran, said that infants who are breastfed by their mothers while being vaccinated for diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus (DPT) suffered less pain than those babies who had to lie on an examination table while they had the intramuscular injections. “With the simple and safe intervention of breastfeeding, doctors and other health care personnel can significantly reduce pain during injections and vaccinations,” she said.

Meanwhile, another study that was conducted by a Portuguese-Canadian research group found that preterm babies in intensive care suffered less pain during blood tests if they had a combination of succerose, a dummy (pacifier) and skin-to-skin contact with their mother, known as kangaroo care.

“They also slept during the intervention more frequently, and on average returned more quickly to a normal heart rate at a gestational age of at least 32 weeks,” said Dr Ananda Maria Fernandes, from Coimbra, Portugal.”

The full article is on http://www.staffnurse.com/nursing-news-articles/breastfeeding-and-touch-may-ease-pain-in-newborns-4507.html

Breastfeeding and Massage May Ease Pain in Newborns is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Neuners Breastfeeding Tea “A boost to you and your milk supply”

Lisa — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 02:48:26 +0000

Neuner’s Breastfeeding Tea is a traditional herbal tea made from organic ingredients, including fenugreek seeds and fennel.

Along with advice on correct positioning, frequent nursing and a healthy lifestyle, it can help to quickly increase your breastmilk supply and is a soothing and relaxing drink for you.

Winner of Best of the Best, Best Breastfeeding Tea and Best Range in the TIPS Parent tests.

Benefits:

20 bags, seal-wrapped for freshness
Each bag contains 2g, giving a total of 40g
100% organic, naturally grown ingredients
Each tea bag makes around .5 litre of tea
Herbal nursing teas have been used by generations of breastfeeding mothers to support and nurture them
Sugar and caffeine-free

Fenugreek seed are known to support a healthy lactation. Fennel, caraway and anise are pleasant for both mother and baby and may help to relieve colic and wind.

Natural Nursery customer Anouska said

“I have used this tea from early on breastfeeding and it has always given me a boost when I need it. It keeps me hydrated and has a refreshing taste.

I see a difference in my milk supply within 2 – 3 days of drinking this around 3 times a day. I just use it when I feel I have a low supply through tiredness or when I am a bit dehydrated.

I would and have recomended this to other people. 23/07/2011″

Neuners Breastfeeding Tea “A boost to you and your milk supply” is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Ergo Performance Cargo Pack

Arabella Greatorex — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 00:54:03 +0000

This great nappy / day pack fits onto the Ergo Performance baby carrier which is the lightweight Ergo. It buckles onto the carrier allowing you to carry all you day to day needs with you.

The performance cargo pack is made of a rugged, durable polyester/cotton blend. The cargo pack attaches to the side buckles on either of the performance carriers, and features a generous main compartment with a side pocket, and a mesh outside pocket.

With a velcro flap, the cargo pack can attach to the carrier‘s waist belt when worn in any position. It can also be used independently with the adjustable and detachable shoulder strap.

This is what a customer at the Natural Nursery had to say about the Ergo Performance Cargo Pack

Great not to have to carry a separate bag and useful to have the option of attaching the shoulder strap to use as a handbag without the carrier.

However, it’s not very big – will fit one or two disposable nappies and some wipes etc but not much space if you are using washables.

So, good for nipping out to the shops and having a “just in case” kit with you but would need more space if you are out and about for the day.

R.K, March 2011

Customer Product Review – Ergo Performance Cargo Pack is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Things I Wish I’d Known About Breastfeeding by Christie Haskell

Lisa — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:59:17 +0000

Things I Wish I’d Known About Breastfeeding is an article on the Stir posted by Christie Haskell on July 15, 2011. This is an excerpt from it……

“I think there are a lot of things that if I’d known before going into it the first time, I could have saved myself a world of trouble.

Newborn babies will eat ALL. THE. TIME. The information I read was the typical crap based on formula-fed babies, so when I read that newborns “should nurse every 2-3 hours,” but sometimes every hour and a half, of course I was concerned when my son nursed what seemed like every 45 minutes, for about 45 minutes (Psst, they can nurse over 15 times in 24 hours and it’s NORMAL!)
Making breastfeeding friends is insanely important. What every mom needs is someone to tell her that it’s okay, it’s normal, and they’ve been there, too. When you want to cry because you’re exhausted and your boob-fiend is at it again, having a mom friend who will say, “Oh honey, I’ve so been there. Learn the side-lying feed and relax,” means more than all the pamphlets in the world.
Even when everything is right, it can still hurt. Who winced seeing me say that? But it’s TRUE. Sometimes a teething baby is awkward for a day or two. When I’d vacation from my humid home to my mom’s arid climate, my nipples would split and there wasn’t anything I could do about it, other than apply ointments all day. Sometimes the bad latch from two hours ago, that you fixed, will still feel sore later even when everything is right. If it hurts, GET HELP and make sure everything is okay, but moms should also know that sometimes it isn’t going to be great.
Well-meaning supplementation makes life so much harder. When we talk about not giving bottles or formula, we’re not just on the breast-brigade. Every bottle given to your baby screws up your feeding schedule from your breasts, which can make you sore, lower your supply, cause oversupply/choking at the next feed, and so on. If you HAVE to supplement or pump, then you have to, end of story. But if you don’t? Then skip it because that is sooo much more work that causes even more work and struggles.
Sometimes you’re going to hate it. Yes, it releases chemicals to make moms happy and relaxed. I love that, I do. But frankly, there are times when I just want to say, “LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE!” and don’t want to nurse, don’t want someone needing me, or want to sit down without someone in my lap. Sometimes it’s not a loving act, but one I force myself to do and I spend the whole time tapping my toes, waiting to leap up and do something “more important.” While I do almost always love it, there are definitely times I don’t, but that’s okay.”

You can read the full post here -http://thestir.cafemom.com/baby/122976/5_things_i_wish_id and peoples answers to Christies question ‘What would you go back and tell yourself to help make breastfeeding easier and more successful?’.

Things I Wish I’d Known About Breastfeeding by Christie Haskell is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Fay’s breastfeeding story – breastfeeding in public

Lisa — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 19:34:45 +0000

Fay & Sam on the comfy chair

“Excuse me madam, were you about to breastfeed your baby” the waiter asked.
“Oh no” I thought, “here it comes.”

We were at a family party at a local restaurant with my 2-month old Samuel. I had heard stories of mums breastfeeding in public being asked to leave or cover up and I was expecting just this humiliation. I flushed deep red and nodded…

“Would you like a more comfortable chair” the waiter continued.
“Oh….yes, thank-you”, I was dumbfounded.

After changing my chair, the waiter then proceeded to bring me a complimentary cafetiere of decaffeinated coffee and chocolates. Talk about VIP treatment.

Sam is now 7 months old and I am still partially breastfeeding. I can’t say I’ve had this reception everywhere when I have been breastfeeding in public (more’s the pity) but I can certainly say I’ve never felt uncomfortable. I’ve been so surprised by how positive everyone around me and Sam has been, from the hospital staff, midwife and health visitor, family and friends and even complete strangers. It seems the world has woken up to benefits of breastfeeding and become more supportive of mums and babies. Even my ‘traditional’ father of 70 (who I never thought I could feed in front of) has been really relaxed about it.

My experience of breastfeeding Sam has been overwhelmingly wonderful. With each feed, from the first time I fed him 20 minutes after he was born to 20 minutes ago when he had his evening milk, I get real pleasure in knowing I’m giving him a great start in life and feel so close to him. I would recommend breastfeeding wholeheartedly to any new mum who is able to (and bring on the comfy chairs and chocolate).

Fay’s breastfeeding story – breastfeeding in public is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Fathers are Key to Successful Breastfeeding

Lisa — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:27:26 +0000

Studies have shown that a partner who is educated and supportive is key to breastfeeding successfully. There is so much fathers can do to support their partner who is breastfeeding. This essential support has often been reduced to asking mum to express so dad can give the occasional bottle but there are so many other things fathers can do to support a breastfeeding mother. Here are a few suggestions gathered from talking to mums and dads, feel free to send us your own.

Help mum find a comfortable position and pass her the baby.

Bring your partner a glass of water and a snack, breastfeeding can make you feel very hungry and thirsty. She’s feeding the baby and you’re feeding her! If you’re not a cook, this is a golden opportunity to get stuck in the kitchen and learn some new skills.

Show faith in her, she is the best mum for your baby. With the lack of sleep, the exhaustion of pregnancy and birth and the hormones, it is normal for her to feel emotional. Don’t hesitate to remind her that you love and trust her.
If mums are great at feeding babies, dads are great at calming babies and putting them to sleep. Your voice is one of the first sounds the baby can recognise in utero so hearing your voice will be very soothing. Don’t hesitate to cuddle your baby and carry her.

Mums have boobs and dads have slings. Many dads are worried that by letting mum breastfeed they won’t be able to bond as much with their baby. That’s where baby slings come in. As soon as baby is fed, burp her, change her nappy, and pop her in a baby sling where she will snuggle up against your chest. It doesn’t come any better than that. You can go out for a walk while mummy gets a well deserved nap.

Protect your partner. All new mums are bombarded with well-meaning and often conflicting advice from friends, relatives and even sometimes health professionals. What you can do is stand by her, do your research too and keep reminding her that you trust her and that she is a great mum.

The question of expressing milk. Some mums may find it helpful to express milk so you can give the baby a bottle every now and then. Proceed very carefully, many mums find expressing tricky and interfering in the natural cycle of regular breastfeeding may affect her lactation, in particular at night. Introducing a bottle might also lead to nipple confusion and if you do need to give expressed milk, it may be better to use a cup.

And remember, after 6 months and when baby is ready, you can start introducing solids and have fun in the kitchen together!

Fathers are Key to Successful Breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Emma’s breastfeeding story: don’t hesitate to ask for advice

Lisa — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:22:53 +0000

When we asked mums to email us their breastfeeding stories, we received a short email from Emma. Her baby was only a few days old and was experiencing some breastfeeding difficulties. This is what she said:
“My son was born on a Tuesday morning. Soon after, maybe an hour or so, a nurse helped me breastfeed for the first time. She helped me get him latched on and checked to see if he was swallowing. It was pretty uncomfortable for me and I told her this. She looked at the latch and asked what my pain level was. Compared to the labour I had just gone through, it was minimal. She said it was probably just something I needed to get used to.”

That’s also what I was told when my first child was born. I just had to get used to it, like wearing a new pair of shoes. So I cringed in pain and just got on with it. My midwife had been amazing through labour so I didn’t question her breastfeeding advice for a second. Only once I started my training as a breastfeeding peer supporter, did I understand that my baby wasn’t latched on properly. I was holding her correctly, she had to twist her head to feed and couldn’t open her mouth sufficiently. When my son was born, he latched on perfectly at birth and over the next few days, his latch deteriorated and it started to hurt. This time, I didn’t wait a second. I called my midwife and later on headed straight to our local breastfeeding support group (I had made a list before he was born of places and days where I could find breastfeeding advice). A few tips from the midwife and the breastfeeding counsellour, a trip to the cranial osteopath and it all went beautifully after that.

So don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are a few cases where yes, breastfeeding can be painful but in the majority of cases, it shouldn’t. Find someone to give you some breastfeeding advice so you can relax and enjoy feeding your baby.

Emma’s breastfeeding story: don’t hesitate to ask for advice is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Emina’s breastfeeding story: how lack of breastfeeding support affects babies

Lisa — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 19:06:45 +0000

I was really looking forward to breastfeeding my first daughter through all my pregnancy, and was preparing for it from the beginning. At the birth of my baby girl I was overwhelmed with a feeling I just can’t find the words for. It was love at first sight. She was very aware of everything around her, so she slowly crawled up my belly and found my breast all alone and we nursed for the first time. We started off very well.
But after a while, when we came home (I live with my in laws) I was really stressed out and couldn’t find some peace and quiet, and even started feeling depressed. My milk supply was reduced, and although I tried really hard, after 3 months, our breastfeeding was over. That made me really sad and helpless. I promised myself that if we had other children, I would not let anything interfere with my breastfeeding babies.

And soon I got another chance but this time it was even harder in beginning. My baby boy just couldn`t latch on correctly, so my breasts were really painful. I tried and tried to get him right everytime, but it wasn`t getting better, and after a month and a half, when I almost gave up, things started getting better. I was finally starting to enjoy our connection while breastfeeding.

He is a 1 year old now and we were breastfeeding right up to his birthday-which was a few days ago. He suddenly weaned when I started working and he started going to a daycare center, and he didn`t accept it well. He is still cranky and under a lot of stress, so I think that is to blame. I am really blessed to have been able to breastfeed him for a whole year. Breastfeeding babies is hard work but I am so glad that I didn`t give up!

Emina from Slovenia

Emina’s breastfeeding story: how lack of breastfeeding support affects babies is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Claire’s breastfeeding story: overcoming problems

Lisa — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 06:02:01 +0000

I would like to share my story in the hope it gives anyone who is struggling with breastfeeding encouragement to keep going.

When I had my first daughter breastfeeding seemed to come easily while I stayed in hospital for the first few days after her birth.
Once I got home, however, and my milk came in, I began to have serious breastfeeding problems latching her on. She was a relatively small baby and sometimes I would be trying for over an hour to latch her on, we would both be incredibly upset and I began to think I may not be cut out for breastfeeding. I remember, one particularly bad night, my husband actually ended up driving us 15 miles, at midnight, to our nearest hospital so the midwives could give us some breastfeeding help with latching her on for a much needed feed. I have to say the midwives were fabulous and made sure we were both happier before we left to go home.

Our breastfeeding problems didn’t go away over night but with perseverance and A LOT of support and breastfeeding help from various sources (my husband, friends, midwives and La Leche League) I managed to keep breastfeeding my daughter and it became so easy and natural I didn’t want to stop!

Expressing breast milk before feeding my daughter helped make my breasts softer for her to latch on to. I also made sure she wasn’t over hungry so she wouldn’t become so upset made a huge difference.

I am currently breastfeeding my second daughter and things have gone so much smoother this time around, so if you haven’t managed to feed one of your children before don’t let it put you off trying again. I am thrilled I have given my children the best start to life and feel really proud of myself!

Thanks Claire for sharing your story. Many mums experience these early breastfeeding problems. It can be difficult learning something completely new when you’re already so tired from the pregnancy and birth and so worried about your baby. Claire’s story highlights a key to successful breastfeeding: ask for help. Don’t hesitate to contact your midwife, your local Leche League, Breastfeeding network and all the breastfeeding support charities. Most places now have breastfeeding support group. You can visit them while you’re pregnant so you can find some breastfeeding advice before your baby is born.

It also highlights how important the role of partners and fathers are. Their support is key to successful breastfeeding.

Claire’s breastfeeding story: overcoming problems is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Debbie’s Breastfeeding story: training for breastfeeding advice

Lisa — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 06:58:01 +0000

When my daughter was born, she struggled to latch on, but as a new mum I wasn’t aware of how breastfeeding ‘should’ feel, so she was 5 days old before anyone realised that there was a problem. By this point she was quite severely dehydrated and was admitted to SCBU for 5 days. We eventually got her to latch on using nipple shields which I weaned her off over the course of the following 5 weeks to avoid interfere with my milk supply.

When my son was born, he also had trouble latching and I have since established that both he and my daughter had tongue ties which were undiagnosed.

Despite our difficult start, I went on to breastfeed my daughter for 16.5 months and my son for 17.5 months.

What we went through after my daughter’s birth was very traumatic and I was keen to stop anyone else going through a similar experience due to lack of support and breastfeeding advice, so I qualified as a peer supporter and then a Mother Supporter with the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers, and I am now three quarters of the way through my breastfeeding counsellor training. I look forward to supporting other mums and giving them all the breastfeeding advice they need.

Debbie’s Breastfeeding story: training for breastfeeding advice is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Midsummer discounts at the Natural Nursery

Lisa — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:58:09 +0000

Midsummer discounts at the Natural Nursery is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Claire’s Breastfeeding story: becoming a mother is a long journey

Lisa — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 06:55:00 +0000

Becoming a mother has been quite a journey! Talking to other mums encouraged me to follow my own instincts. I remember another mum told me that baby books were only any good if every baby had their own version.

My little girl would cry and scream constantly until my husband suggested to breastfeed her to sleep and he would hold her – silence, sweet sleep angel held by her daddy. Finally something worked. So we continued.

I was also very ill with an infected c-section scar by now, so the health visitor said don’t worry the odd bottle won’t hurt and of dummies are good. By the time I was better my milk was dropping, so I rang NCT and LLL. The best thing was to nurse lots, stop a bottle every 2 days, resist the dummy and breastfeed as often as possible. There was no magic cure, no luck. It was hard but it worked, she was happy to feed as much as possible, nearly all the time.

When she was 5 weeks old I was diagnosed with postnatal depression and my dreams were in tatters. My GP prescribed anti-depressants and said I would have to stop breastfeeding. I refused so he found ones that were safe to take while breastfeeding. I feel like a totally different person to my pre baby years. I am definitely not the mother I dreamed off when pregnant. But I am her mummy. Every mother, every baby and every birth are different, I have always said that. All we can do is share and hope there is something there that will help someone. We are all different.

Claire’s Breastfeeding story: becoming a mother is a long journey is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Christina’s Breastfeeding Story – Using a pump helped me get back to work.

Lisa — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 18:20:47 +0000

“Using a double electric breastpump allowed me to return to work and continue breastfeeding”

My son was born on March 21st 2009. I breastfed him from the start. It was a little difficult at first. He had a good latch and a great suckle reflex. The only problem was that he wasn’t far enough on the breast. Of course, I didn’t know that. I let him nurse whenever he wanted for as long as he wanted (of course, with in reason because new babies love nursing). My nipples hurt, became dry and bled. I used lanolin (a life saver) and my own breast milk to heal the nipples. (only took a day!)

We saw the lactation consultant within 3 days of giving birth and she showed me what I was doing wrong. After that moment, everything was perfect! I love nursing him. He always put his hands in his mouth right before we tried to nurse. So we swaddled him until he understood to keep his hands away from his mouth while nursing. It worked very well and relieved some of the stress I felt when he was small.

I did go back to work at 6 weeks. It was a bit of a relief. Staying home with him and Daddy was kinda hard. I was use to working and not being home all the time. So we bought a breast pump. (double electric breastpump, best thing I have ever purchased) I pumped 4 times a day. After a long night of not nursing (he slept through the night at 3 weeks) and 3 times at work. It was quite easy because I changed jobs. I use to work in a shipping warehouse full of germs and dirt. I now work in an office with a private office to pump in. I soon became very consistent about pumping and nursing and my supply flourished. Using an electric breastpump allowed to express so much breast milk that we bought a separate deep freezer for storing breast milk.

I am military and I received word I was going to deploy. I was relieved to know I had such an extra supply of breast milk. However, due to complications from giving birth (4th degree tear) I wasn’t able to deploy. (He would have been 8 months when I left and I wouldn’t return until he was 18 months) So I decided to donate the breast milk to someone else. I found another military couple who had twin preemies who couldn’t tolerate formula. She was still nursing them but she only had enough for one full-term baby. I gave her the majority of my ‘extra’ milk and she let me know how much better her babies are doing. (Less spit-up, less gas, and gaining weight) I was so happy that storing breast milk helped other babies thrive.

I am still nursing him full time and he is doing so well. Everyone says how happy he is all the time and how smart. Breast feeding REALLY makes a huge difference.

Christina’s Breastfeeding Story – Using a pump helped me get back to work. is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Chery’s breastfeeding story: watch the baby not the scales

Lisa — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:48:39 +0000

This is the first of a series of personal breastfeeding stories. To celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness week each day there will be a new breastfeeding story on the Natural Nursery Blog and if you feel like a breastfeeding related treat you can pop over to the Natural Nursery Shop and buy a beautiful Bravado Bra with 20% off!

If you have a story you would like to share please email us – lisa@naturalnursery.co.uk

I’ve got three gorgeous children, aged 8, 4 and 3-months, and I breastfed all of them – for 6 months, 9 months and, with my 3-month-old son Pierre, hopefully even longer. So I’m pretty much “an old hand” and I know what I’m doing. But even so, I almost cracked in the first few weeks with my new baby, due to the unrelenting pressure of the medical team. This is the bit I hate about breastfeeding.

Pierre lost more weight than ‘normal’ after birth. The midwives saying I wouldn’t be allowed to take him home from hospital if he didn’t gain weight – I basically forcefed him every 2 hours (he was sicking up little bits after every feed because he was too full) and he gained 60g in 24 hours. All the signs were good – he was drinking (though he kept falling asleep at the breast!), filling nappies and was content. I could hear my milk flowing and see him swallowing, I also leaked everywhere if I forgot the breast pads so I knew I had milk.

Then his weight stagnated at one month. The replacement doctor said he’d give me one week. Pierre would have to be given formula if his weight didn’t pick up. I obviously wanted what’s best for Pierre but I hate the way they always look at you as if you’re selfish for wanting to breastfeed (“obviously your milk isn’t rich enough or there isn’t enough of it”). I went home in tears feeling like a total failure and desperate to keep breastfeeding. I logged on to a chat forum I use a lot and had a rant, hoping for loads of moral support to pick me up.

The replies to this cry for help :

reply #1
Ditch the breastfeeding and put him onto formula. You can see exactly how much he is taking each feed and hubby can feed him as well. Plus when people visit they can all feed him too while you make everyone a nice cup of tea. Pierre will happily be fussed by everyone and will love every second.

reply #2 :

I have no personal experience of this but a friend’s little girl had this issue too. She was a tiny pre term baby and wasn’t putting on weight with breast feeding and she swapped her to formula and continued to express breast milk too. Her little one is piling on weight now. I know you want to do best for Pierre but perhaps whats best for him is mixed feeding of some sort.

reply #3 :

Iv’e had 2 kids and never breastfed.

reply # 4 (at last, this finally came in and made me cry again, but for the right reasons this time !! )

This is no pressure to carry on or give up just my experience. No anti bottlefeeding from me. I breastfed twins and had enough milk for two and they both lost weight in first few weeks, boy was tube fed in hospital and then always wanted nipple shields as he couldn’t suckle so his weight fluctuated. I had a lot of advice from TAMBA. A friend who had breastfed her child continued to encourage me. It’s probably not true that your milk isn’t rich enough.

My husband had already said a couple of days before that maybe my milk wasn’t rich enough and I told him that, according to the books, breastmilk is always rich enough, it’s adapted to baby’s needs. So to have a doctor turn around and say the same thing just blew my reasoning out of the water. I eventually followed my instincts, ignored the scales and the pressure and just kept feeding. Within a couple of weeks, it had all sorted itself out and his weight was on the upward curve again. When I saw my doctor the following month, he said that I was right to follow my instincts.

So if your little one is slow to put on weight, don’t spoil the special cuddles and bonding sessions by worrying over the numbers on the scale. Go with your gut instinct – if all the signs are good and he appears happy and healthy, don’t let all the criticism undermine your confidence.

Thanks Cheryl for your story. Many nursing mothers find themselves dealing with unsollicited breastfeeding advice and when it comes from unsupportive health professionals it is very upsetting. As a new mum, you are genuinely worried to do the best for your baby. If you find that the breastfeeding advice you’re getting doesn’t help, keep searching. Contact the Leche League, the Breastfeeding Network, the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers your local breastfeeding support group, or find a lactation consultant. There you will find accurate breastfeeding advice from mothers who have been there done that and followed an extensive training. They will be able to advise if your baby is getting enough milk, or if you should be worried.

Chery’s breastfeeding story: watch the baby not the scales is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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How did your Boob Man become a Breastfeeding Fan?

Lisa — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 04:22:29 +0000

The website www.bestforbabes.org want to know how your Boob man became a breastfeeding fan and they have a feature about American Actor David Basche (Frasier, 30 Rock) who’s wife breastfed and donated milk to a friends baby.

“The Starter Wife” Star David Basche Goes from Boob Man to Breastfeeding Fan

By Bettina Forbes, CLC | Posted on June 15, 2011 | www.bestforbabes.org/the-starter-wife-star-david-basche-goes-from-boob-man-to-breastfeeding-fan

Is it possible to go from being a “boob man” to being a breastfeeding fan? In honor of Father’s Day, the awesome David Alan Basche shows us how it’s done. David starred as Debra Messing’s ex-husband Kenny on the hit TV show The Starter Wife, and played the recurring character of Mike Harness on Lipstick Jungle. He starred as Todd Beamer in United 93 and stole Tom Cruise’s wife in The War of the Worlds. He has a daughter, Liv, with his wife, actress and Best for Babes Champion Alysia Reiner.

: Hottie David Alan Basche is now a breastfeeding fan!

1. What did you think about breastfeeding pre-baby? Did that change post-baby, and if so, how?

I hate to admit this, but before we had a baby I was kind of weirded out by breastfeeding. It looked strange and I was always like “look away! Ignore it, ignore the boobs in the room, move along, nothin to see here!…” But you know what? The first moment I saw my wife breastfeed our daughter minutes after birth, I was hit with a thunderbolt of understanding and awe for the miracle of it all, and I still feel that way.

2. Did you take a breastfeeding class with Alysia?

I never went to the actual breastfeeding classes with Alysia. But I remember sneaking a look at that section of all the books she brought home while educating herself about it. And I did participate (as much as I physically could!) in the breastfeeding parts of the general “birthing and holy crap we’re having a kid” classes that we took together.

3. What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned along the way about breastfeeding or human milk?

First of all, who knew that an actual baby can survive on it’s mother’s milk alone. Not this dimwitted male, I have to tell you. I mean that’s freakin’ amazing! No other kind of milk, no formula needed, no energy bars or burritos or mac n’ cheese. Just Momma’s Milk. Absolutely astounding. Oh, that and the fact that breast milk changes it’s makeup to adapt to a baby’s changing nutritional needs as the baby grows. One day more fat, less carbs, then whammo! a month goes by and it’s more carbs, less fat, still completely nutritionally PERFECT. Incredible, right?

4. How did you feel about Alysia donating her milk to a friend’s baby?

I loved the idea, for a lot of reasons. It seemed to me, first and foremost, very loving and generous. And it felt very personal; a very intimate gift between women, and a very important one, of course. Also, I knew how healthy Alysia was eating, no drugs, no smoking, regular exercise, and our baby was certainly thriving, so I knew that her milk would be REALLY good for this other baby. And lastly, we donate blood and bone marrow without being squeamish about it, so I figured “what’s the big deal? Share the boob juice!”

David & his babes: Liv & actress Alysia Reiner

5. Alysia told us that she never would have breastfed as long as she did (over 2 years!) without your support. What support did you give her that helped the most?

I just tried to be there and be supportive and keep things light. Also, she had a bit of trouble at first, I remember our daughter’s latch-on needed some “adjusting.” If it really hurt Alysia or didn’t feel right to her, I’d say “okie dokie, pop her off and let’s start again, I’m staying awake here with you, we gotta get that latch, you can do it sweetheart, you’re doing great.” PS – I gotta admit I was jealous there for a while, I mean when would it be ME playing with those boobs again? Hang in there, partners, you’ll be fumbling with a bra and feeling like a teenager in the back seat of a car again soon enough.
One specific thing I did was go out of my way to bring the baby to her Momma to breastfeed, no matter where Momma was, anything just to keep that bond going. Instead of giving a bottle, I brought the baby to Alysia while she was filming a prime time TV show in Brooklyn one day, then to Soho while she met a director at Balthazar the next day (all French pastries are better with milk).

6. What would you say to encourage a friend who doesn’t want his wife or partner to breastfeed?

Well you have to respect everyone’s feelings, so I wouldn’t want to come off sounding preachy about it, but I probably will anyway, so screw it: I believe that if a woman can breastfeed her baby it’s the absolute best thing for that kid and will make them smarter, stronger, and healthier. To a spouse or partner I’d say learn about it, read about it, see a couple boobalicious videos (not THOSE kind!) to really get a sense of the awesomeness. Then just support your girl and bask in the divine miracle of it all. And hey, after some major effort if it turns out that for whatever reason they CAN’T breastfeed, then you have to support that too, you have to just be there, no judgement, just acceptance.

Babes, don’t you just love this guy? How did your Boob Man become a Breastfeeding Fan?

You can leave comments on the best for babes website or tell us here!

How did your Boob Man become a Breastfeeding Fan? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Lansinoh breast milk storage bags – “Granny can babysit!”

Lisa — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:54:57 +0000

Lansinoh breast milk storage bags have a double safety seal and a handy graduation printed on them so you can easily see how much breastmilk you have expressed.

One Natural Nursery customer said they were “Really useful” and went on to add that they are “really easy to use and the ability to store milk like this has meant that Granny has been able to babysit! Hurrah!” She marked them 5 out of 5! (May 2011)

The bags have a double safety seal and the strip for recording important details such as date and volume of contents is away from the fill area, so there is no risk of bursting the bag when you are filling in the details.

The bags are safe for use in the freezer and have bottom gusset to allow for expansion of the contents when frozen. They also have a simple pour action for removing the contents when you are ready to feed your baby.

The Natural Nursery also stocks breastpumps and nursing bras and has a range of breastfeeding aids including nipple shields.

Lansinoh breast milk storage bags – “Granny can babysit!” is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Free breastfeeding advice sessions in Bushey and Bricket Wood

Lisa — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 10:42:50 +0000

Nursing Bras at the Natural Nursery

Midwives and counsellors will be on hand to offer advice at drop-in sessions in Bushey and Bricket Wood as part of Breastfeeding Awareness Week in June.

Mothers and mothers-to-be can share experiences with other mums and get one-to-one support with breastfeeding counsellors.

The free sessions will be run by the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) and Baby Cafe Charitable Trust at government-run Sure Start children’s centres.

Breastfeeding Awareness Week runs from June 19, to June 25 2011, and sessions will be run at Park Street, Bricket Wood, on the Thursday morning, and at The Reddings Children’s Centre, in Bushey, on Thursday afternoon.

For more information contact Hertsmere Leisure on 0208 386 4038 or visit www.thebabycafe.org.

By Chris Hewett St Albans & Harpenden Review 30th May 2011

The Natural Nursery has a range of breastfeeding aids including breastpumps, breastmilk storage bottles and bags, breast pads and soothing cream.

Free breastfeeding advice sessions in Bushey and Bricket Wood is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Medela Sale at The Natural Nursery

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 19 May 2011 08:24:11 +0000

We have reduced all our remaining Medela breastfeeding stock by 20% so you can stock up on your breastfeeding supplies as a bargain price.

Do hurry though as we have very limited stock of some items and they are selling out almost as soon as we amend the prices!

You can find the reduced Medela Breastfeeding items in our sale section.

Medela Sale at The Natural Nursery is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Tennessee Vote to Remove Breastfeeding Age Limit

Arabella Greatorex — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:56:05 +0000

Tennessee was the only US State to set an upper age limit for breastfeeding in public but this has now been scrapped, despite some concerns (?) over ”weird things” and “strange people.”

This is great news and a fab boost to the promotion of extended breastfeeding.

Tennessee Vote to Remove Breastfeeding Age Limit is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:09:25 +0000

Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads

These breast pads do exactly what it says on the box. I have used many types of breast pads, including reusable, with all 3 of my babies and these are the best ones yet.

I always leak while feeding and usually end up flooding the breast pad so often need to change the breast pad during a feed to avoid having soggy clothes but I didn’t need to with these as they are “ultra” absorbent like it says on the box. When I took them out at nighttime they still weren’t soggy with milk and kept my skin and clothes dry.

They are very thin and discreet, even under tight clothing. They sat snug in my bra and couldn’t be seen through my clothing. The 2 strong adhesive strips kept the pads firmly in place with no movement. This is great while feeding because I didn’t have to fish the pad out of the bottom of my bra after a feed, I just clipped my bra back up and the pad was still stuck to the cup so didn’t require any adjusting. Brilliant for out and about discreet feeding in public.

Also they are hygienically/individually wrapped which makes them so convenient to store in my changing bag without getting damaged by the other debris in my changing bag.

Overall, these are the best breast pads I have used while breastfeeding my babies. I love that they are individually packed so if you need to you can just change one at a time and they are protected in your bag.
I also love that they have double adhesive – no more fishing about for a soggy detached breast pad!! Brilliant!!

J.F, March 2011

Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Babies is Vital, say Doctor

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:33:12 +0000

“Am I wrong, or is breastfeeding actually as natural as tying off the cord at birth, or as keeping the newborn warm and dry, or as changing the soiled nappy, or as cuddling and smiling at this new and fragile citizen?”

Says Dr Peter McCormick in a letter printed in the Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph.

The letter also provides great support for human milk banks, both here in the UK and in Africa – you can find out if there a breastmilk bank near you by joining the Milk 4 Human Babies – UK Facebook Page.

At The Natural Nursery we are keen to support breastfeeding and you can find a range of nursing bras, breastfeeding tea, nursing pillows and more on our site.

Breastfeeding Babies is Vital, say Doctor is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Hurrah! Finally an Expert Says Co-sleepings Good!

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:18:32 +0000

Taken from the Daily Telepgraph (Australia):

“NEWBORN babies who share a bed with their parents are safer than those in cots, says a leading baby sleep expert.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome researcher Doctor James McKenna said that as long as co-sleeping is carried out in a responsible manner – not on a waterbed or couch and not by parents affected by drugs or alcohol – then babies up to 12 months old will reap the long-term benefits.”

You can read the full article here – http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/forget-the-cot-sleep-with-your-baby-accordng-to-sids-researcher-doctor-james-mckenna/story-e6frf00i-1226020681833

Some advice on safe co-sleeping from LLL -

http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/29e55b27#/29e55b27/9

Co-sleeping can have a massive benefit on the parenting bond and support long-term breastfeeding.

Hurrah! Finally an Expert Says Co-sleepings Good! is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Nursing Bra, Bravado Bra, Seamless

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:24:06 +0000

Bravado Nusing Bra, Seamless.

I am currently 38 weeks pregnant and my breastfeeding counsellor recommended buying this bra to use both as a last stage maternity bra and then subsequently for nursing.

It is the most comfortable bra I’ve worn during the entire pregnancy and rest assured I’ve tried a few! It washes really well too and I like the fact there are removable pads. The bra also gives a lovely line to the bust which is more than welcome!

A great price from Natural Nursery too – thank you!

S.G, March 2011

Customer Product Review – Nursing Bra, Bravado Bra, Seamless is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Tea Review

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:17:22 +0000

Nursing Tea Product Review

Kate Richer
Oscar 13 months
Marks: 8/10

Around my sons first birthday he dropped some milk feeds in the day and started to drink water and take snacks instead. My supply adjusted accordingly, however I found in the evenings and the night when he wanted to feed the most, he would empty a breast quickly and become fussy, leaving me having to frequently change sides. A nursing tea seemed like a great solution for this.

The first thing I noticed about this tea was how strong the Aniseed smelt, in fact the tea tastes rather mild, but if you are not keen on Aniseed you won’t like this tea as it’s a predominant flavour. Neuner recommend you drink 1 litre (about 2 cups) of breastfeeding tea for 2-3 days. I found for my tastes the tea was not quite strong enough, probably because it contains no artificial flavours. I preferred to leave the bag in until the tea was almost cold and drink the cup down quickly, which suited me fine, but I wasn’t particularly fond of the taste.

On the evening of the 1st day there was a definite improvement in milk supply, we managed feeds without changing sides again, of course it’s impossible to say if this was due to my own body adjusting supply or the tea, but the research into fenugreek suggests it works quickly so I believe the tea had a lot to do with it. After 3 days I discontinued using the tea as suggested, and my supply remained high and even 5 days later is still improved.

I have given this tea 8/10, it only lost marks because I did not enjoy the taste, the benefits of the tea are many, it’s suggested that fennel, caraway and anise can relieve colic and wind, but Oscar is a bit too old now for me to confirm that. I think I would definitely use this tea again if I needed a slight boost in supply.

The product tested is the Nursing Tea, available from The Natural Nursery, priced at £4.95 for 20 bags.

Breastfeeding Tea Review is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Medela Pump & Save Breast Milk Storage Bags

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:50:59 +0000

Medela Pump & Save Breast Milk Storage Bags

So, I bought these bags as an alternative to standard milk storage bags, as you can attach them to the pump. This removes the need for sterilising bottles in addition to using bags. They attach easily to the Medela Swing pump (I see no reason why they wouldn’t attach to other pumps too). However, you can only use the attachment once so, if you want to top up the bag later in the day, you have to use a bottle anyway. Fantastic, and time saving if you don’t need to top up. They are great quality bags though, don’t seem to have much chance of leaking or splitting like the cheaper brands do.

HC, Feb 2011

Customer Product Review – Medela Pump & Save Breast Milk Storage Bags is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Review of Breastfeeding Tea

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:39:20 +0000

Review of Neuner’s Nursing Tea

I would defiantly recommend to someone who wants a natural way to boost supply.

I used the product for 1 week, 2-3 cups of tea per day. My baby is 8 months old and we are slowly baby-led weaning but she still nurses regularly throughout the day and night. We used the tea as baby was recovering from a tummy bug and was therefore nursing alone without solids so a boost to milk supply came in handy!

The tea smells quite strong even though the bags are individually wrapped so I kept them at home rather than taking them out and about. They have a definite aniseed/fennel smell which I am sure some will enjoy but I was not keen on! Luckily the taste is really quite pleasant and gentle. The tea is refreshing and soothing and enjoyable to drink.

I cannot say for sure how much the tea boosted milk supply but as mentioned above, baby was nursing more regularly than usual and we didn’t encounter any problems.

This breastfeeding tea is available from The Natural Nursery priced at £4.95 for 20 bags.

Review of Breastfeeding Tea is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Nursing Tea – product test reivew

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:36:21 +0000

Review of Breastfeeding Tea

My name is Sam and I am a single mummy to two gorgeous little boys. Noah who is 15 months and Jacob who is 5 weeks. Jacob is exclusively breastfed and Noah drinks expressed milk.

As a tandem feeding mum milk supply plays on my mind so I was looking forward to trying this nursing tea. Anything that helps keep my supply up is going to be a winner in this house.

I used the tea for 7 days and would give it an overall score of 8 out of 10.

I don’t often drink many teas so having one I looked forward to drinking made for a pleasant surprise. When I opened the box the smell of the tea was quite strong and reminded me of my childhood when I used to buy aniseed balls. The drink itself is a much more delicate flavour and a pleasure to drink. I often find herbal teas need sweetening with honey but this tea was very soothing and refreshing and very pleasant to drink.

In regards to increasing my supply I do believe the tea is helping and would consider continuing to use this product in the future. The only factor I would have to really consider is the price as I am on a tight budget but when you consider the benefits of giving my baby the best start in life I think anything that helps to establish a good milk supply is worth giving a go.

The Nursing Tea is available from The Natural Nursery, priced at £4.95 for a box of 20 bags.

Nursing Tea – product test reivew is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Lanolin, Nipple Cream

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:08:07 +0000

Lansinoh Lanolin, Nipple Cream

I had to purchase this for the usual reasons, and found that it actually was easier to use. I had used another brand before that had to be removed prior to feeding and you never realize how much of a hassle it is to find a cloth to wipe up every time you want to nurse.

AM, Feb 2011

Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Lanolin, Nipple Cream is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Breastpads

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:35:39 +0000

Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads

I used other brands of disposable breast pads but had a hard time finding something that would hold all the milk from sleeping overnight. I had a hard time getting a good night’s sleep. But these covered a bigger area, and allowed me to go out in public without leaking and being uncomfortable. They stayed in place, unlike other brands that have no adhesive. Very well made item!

AM, Jan 2011

Customer Product Review – Lansinoh Breastpads is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Ergo Performance Baby Carrier

Arabella Greatorex — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:11:16 +0000

Ergo Baby Performance Carrier

Well made product, good materials. Comfortable to wear, baby sleeps well in it. Could not ask for a better carrier. Perfect when used with cargo pack.

A.S, Feb 2011

Customer Product Review – Ergo Performance Baby Carrier is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Product Review – Latch Assist

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:30:14 +0000

Lansinoh Latch Assist

I was having trouble breastfeeding because my little one wouldn’t latch properly. He was getting increasingly frustrated and it seemed we were going to have to switch to formula. When I found this product and tried it the problem was completely resolved. If I hadn’t had the Latch Assist, we wouldn’t have been able to continue as long as we did!

AM, Jan 2011

Customer Product Review – Latch Assist is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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WHO breastfeeding recommendations under attack from industry-funded scientists

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 09:27:12 +0000

There has been a huge amount of press interest in an article published in the BJM, which has been widely interpreted as an attack on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months.

It should be remembered that this is NOT more fuel for the breast v breastmilk substitute debate but it can be seen as an attempt to encourage mothers who ARE breastfeeding to start weaning at an earlier age.

Much has (rightly) been made of the fact that this was little more than a review of a few (inconclusive) research projects pulled together by a number of professionals who have close links with the baby food industry.

The BMJ appear to be claiming that the article has been misinterpreted by the press (see posts on Twitter) but the up shot is that more parents are now confused over what is the best choice for their baby and could be needlessly worried about the health of their baby.

The excellent Baby Milk Action have once again published a highly informative report, entitled:

WHO breastfeeding recommendations under attack from industry-funded scientists

This is a great read – informative yet understandable and give a good review of the history of the article and its authors, and the “research” it is based on.

WHO breastfeeding recommendations under attack from industry-funded scientists is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Tea Wins Award

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:33:02 +0000

We have had amazing feedback from customers about the Neuner’s Organic Nursing Tea that we have been selling for a while but it is great news that it has run away with so many awards in the TIPS-tested teas4mum category.

This Breastfeeding Tea won the Best of the Best and Best Breastfeeding Tea categories, while the Neuner’s range, including Baby Colic Tea, won the Best Range category.

TIPS comment:

“Parent Testers noticed a definite improvement to their milk supply. They also told us that their baby was less windy.”

In total, 6 teas were tested, all by real parents so you can be sure that the results are really those felt by breastfeeding mummies and not just the claims of the manufacturers.

The breastfeeding tea is available in boxes of 20 individually sealed bags for £4.95 and currently are delivered free in the UK from The Natural Nursery.

You can read more about the test here and you can buy this award-winning Nursing Tea on The Natural Nursery website.

Breastfeeding Tea Wins Award is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Dads and Breastfeeding Video

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:53:55 +0000

A great new video has been produced by Gaby Jeffs from Magneto Films, talking candidly to lots of fathers about how their babies were fed.

It is wonderful to see how positive and supportive the dads have been – they all talk confidently about the benefits of breastfeeding, such as fewer illnesses, the ease of breastfeeding, no need to buy expensive formula and no running out in the middle of the night.

Some dads talked about how the whole nursing process brought the family closer together and how daddies can find lots of ways to bond with their baby that don’t include bottle feeding.

A very inspiring video and certainly one for showing how ordinary dads see breastfeeding as a normal and very beneficial start in life for their new baby.

You can watch the film on the Magneto website at http://www.magnetofilms.com/Magneto_Home_Page.html

Dads and Breastfeeding Video is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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More Evidence for Exclusive Breastfeeding for Six Months

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 08:22:41 +0000

The BBC have reported:

Exclusive breastfeeding for six months wards off baby infections, further evidence suggests.

Regardless of other factors, such as good healthcare and vaccination programmes, breastfeeding still gives babies a boost, say Greek researchers.

They say it is the composition of breast milk that helps babies fight infections.

The full article is on the BBC website – http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11417490

More Evidence for Exclusive Breastfeeding for Six Months is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Daddy Cool – help for new and expecant dads

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 13:20:18 +0000

The highly talented Gaby Jeffs and the Magneto Films Team have been nominated for yet another award, this time for the Daddy Cool video produced for the NCT.

The DVD follows three dads on their journey through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood, with lots of tips and information from other dads and NCT experts along the way.

The dvd is on sale via the NCT shop at http://www.nctshop.co.uk/Daddy-Cool-DVD/productinfo/2177/

Daddy Cool – help for new and expecant dads is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Possibly the Coolest Breastfeeding Video Ever?

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 19:19:36 +0000

I was sent the link to this video by Anne Dhir of Scribere.com, a very lovely small business copywriter who is passionate about breastfeeding and baby wearing.

I just love it and can’t decide which is my favourite bit – what’s yours?

Arabella

Possibly the Coolest Breastfeeding Video Ever? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Another Great Reason to Breastfeed

Arabella Greatorex — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:58:50 +0000

Picture on the BBC Site http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/oxford/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8966000/8966700.stm

“If a sick or premature baby is given donor milk instead of formula its chances of survival can increase up to ten times.”

This quote is actually taken from an article on the BBC Oxford website about the amazing Service by Emergency Rider Volunteers motorbike riders that help move vital medical suppies around Oxfordshire.

The John Radcliffe Hospital think that the ability to give donated breastmilk to premature or tiny babies is so important, that the motorbikes have stepped up to the mark and will transport the frozen milk from the donating mother to the hospital.

Just goes to show that breastfeeding really is the best start in life for any baby.

You can read the full BBC article here and the BBC also have some articles about SERV and the breastfeeding clinic at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

Another Great Reason to Breastfeed is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Shetland mothers offered extra help help with breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:57:57 +0000

New mothers in Shetland will soon be able to benefit from breastfeeding support thanks to a new initiative from the Breastfeeding Network (BfN) in conjunction with NHS Shetland.

The BfN is a UK-wide charity which runs breastfeeding drop-in centres across the country and a national helpline, and offers mother-to-mother support before and after birth.

It is joining forces with NHS Shetland to train volunteers to give support and advice to new mothers in the isles.

Tutor Mary Kennedy will be in Shetland soon to recruit volunteers. She has trained helpers in Midlothian and Dunoon where she works for NHS Highland as a health visitor.

She said:“Mothers may be thinking about breastfeeding and want a bit of help to make up their minds. Coming to one of our drop-in groups, while they are pregnant, can help them see what it is really like and they get the chance to ask other mums the big questions that have been bothering them.”

For your breastfeeding aids don’t forget to look on The Natural Nursery website.

Shetland mothers offered extra help help with breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfed Mummies are More Likely to Breastfeed Their Baby

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 10:33:07 +0000

A new study conducted Wilkinet has shown that mothers who were breastfed themselves as a baby are more than twice as likely to breastfeed their own babies.

Another key influence seems to be the use of a baby carrier or baby sling: the study showed that 51% of mothers who carried their baby, breastfed exclusively.

You can read more about this study on our website – http://www.naturalnursery.co.uk/Babies-born-in-2010-can-thank-Grandma-for-being-Breastfed-16-w.asp

We would love to hear from mothers who found that using a baby sling helped them to breastfeed – you can post a comment here or email us at info@naturalnursery.co.uk.

We will pop a little thank you in the post to the most inspiring story next week.

Breastfed Mummies are More Likely to Breastfeed Their Baby is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Look Where I am Featured!

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:27:14 +0000

I am very excited to be featured as a Mumpreneur on the Family Friendly Working site. It is such an honour to have been choosen, thank you Caroline and Antonia.

You can learn all about how we first set up and the inspiration behind our pro-breastfeeding stance here at The Natural Nursery.

And don’t forget, our special discount code for Breastfeeding Awareness Week – BAW2010 – which will give you 10% off all breastfeeding products such as breastpumps, sterilisers, pro-breastfeeding clothing, nursing pads and nursing bras.

Look Where I am Featured! is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Review – Medela Swing electric pump

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:29:28 +0000

As it is breastfeeding week this customer review for the Medela Swing Electric Pump is a perfect review for us to share with you:

We bought this pump in the first week of our baby’s life after he was diagnosed with severe jaundice. Because of his condition we had to top up after breastfeeding with formula- something we hadn’t intended to do! Once our sons condition had improved we were able to top up with expressed breast milk using this pump and I am now back to 100% breastfeeding. It was a complete life saver!
I would recommend this pump to anyone, its natural sucking rhythm and adjustable strength of suck is really gentle, even for a first time mum like me! I didn’t find it painful to use.

It’s easy to get started and can be battery powered or powered on mains electric. Most importantly it gave us the opportunity to feed our son in the way we wanted to against the odds.

Remeber as it is breastfeeding awareness week, we are offering 10% discount on all our breastfeeding related products. So go into the website and have a look www.naturalnursery.co.uk

Customer Review – Medela Swing electric pump is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Review – Widgey Nursing Pillow

Arabella Greatorex — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 14:47:11 +0000

This is a great review of a Widgey Nursing Pillow:

Having breastfed my first son without a proper nursing pillow, I wasn’t sure what all the fuss was about. But I knew that I needed a caesarean for my second son, and everyone I spoke to said that a nursing pillow was essential after a caesarean. Many other mums recommended the Widgey to me.
They were right. This is a wonderful product. It is lovely and firm and means that I don’t have to lean over to feed. It curves round my waist nicely without pressing down just the right amount of stuffing to make sure that it can curve round all different sizes of mums.

I’m pretty much recovered now, but I still use my Widgey because it makes feeding so much more comfortable and has stopped me getting backache this time around. and it has
I also use the pillow for propping up my son for sitting because he can’t quite sit up on his own yet. He loves this because he can see what we’re all doing and doesn’t get bored – especially useful when we’re all trying to get dressed in the morning.

We have the design with the cows and my youngest likes looking at the cows and smiling at them.
My toddler son also likes to use it to lounge on when sitting / lying on the floor.
All in all, a great buy and far more useful than I ever thought it would be when I first bought it. Great product.

Don’t forget our free postage offer on all standard UK orders, which ends on 20/06/10.

Customer Review – Widgey Nursing Pillow is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Medela Supplemental Nursing System.

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:59:27 +0000

This is another customer who has been kind enough to review a product for us, this time it was the Medela Supplemental Nursing System:

I bought an SNS when it was clear that I had nursing supply issues. I used it to give my son his supplement from 3 weeks, until we recently stopped supplementing at 8.5 months (we are still breastfeeding). I honestly don’t think I would still be breastfeeding if it wasn’t for the SNS. I found it easy to use and straight forward, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.

Medela Supplemental Nursing System. is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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My Breastfeeding Story

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:48:51 +0000

In celebration of Breastfeeding Awareness Week next week, I thought I would share my nursing story.

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I knew that I wanted to breastfeed – I had done lots of research and I knew that it was the best start for my baby and would provide additional health benefits for me too.

I had read that it was the most natural thing in the world and seen many friends and family nursing their babies and it seemed a wonderful experience for both mother and baby.

What I hadn’t expected was how difficult it would be to start.

My daughter simply didn’t want to nurse, she just wanted to sleep. For 4 days solid. No matter what the midwives did or said, she simply would not latch on.

I spent many miserable hours sitting in an over-heated hospital ward frantically pumping away and waking the poor protesting baby to try nursing her again or force spoonfuls of my laboriously produced colostrum into her fast shut mouth, all to no avail.

We must have been poked and pulled by a dozen different midwives, all very well meaning, but all telling me something different. In the end we were both so upset, tired and emotional that we just sat in our cubical and cried for 3 hours.

After 3 days, I discharged both of us, against doctors’ orders as she had lost some weight and wasn’t yet feeding, but I was getting increasing pressure to give a bottle and I knew that once we started down that route, it would be even harder to establish breastfeeding.

Almost as soon as we got home, my baby woke up and was hungry and I was able to latch her on. It wasn’t very easy and it was very painful but we were nursing!

It took several weeks and lots of support before we were both truly comfortable, (plus several packs of nipple shields and tubes of nipple cream) but we got through it and nursed until she self-weaned at 14 months.

My advice if you are facing similar issues:

Keep going, it WILL get easier but

GET HELP and I mean help from a lactation consultant not a midwife or health visitor. No disrespect to midwives and health visitors but I found the support and information from my lactation consultant to be invaluable.

Useful links to get help:
http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/supporterline.html
http://www.nct.org.uk/info-centre/getting-help/helplines
http://www.laleche.org.uk/pages/about/helpline.htm
http://www.abm.me.uk/

My Breastfeeding Story is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Customer Review – Medela Washable Breastpads (pack of 4)

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:05:05 +0000

Some of our customers and others have very kindly sent us reviews of some of our products. This one that we would like to share with you is for Medela Washable Breastpads (pack of 4):

I tried all the major disposable breast pads available, before deciding to try washables. Unfortunately my first set (a budget variety) were itchy, uncomfortable and didn’t absorb much. I thought I’d try the Medela Pads as I was pleased with the Medela pump I had.

The pads looked much nicer and more feminine than the others I’d tried. They are very absorbent, despite very frequent washings. They stand up to tumble drying well too. I certainly wouldn’t use any other type of breast pad now I’ve tried these.

Customer Review – Medela Washable Breastpads (pack of 4) is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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The Guide To The Medela Swing Breast Pump

Arabella Greatorex — Fri, 21 May 2010 08:30:50 +0000

Medela has been manufacturing breastfeeding support aids for more than thirty years. Their extensive research into breastfeeding has led to the development of products that are easy to use, reliable and of a consistently high quality. The Medela Swing is a good example of this search for quality.

The Medela Swing breast pump is simple to use. It is composed of few parts: the motor, the connecting tube, the two-part valve system, the breast shield and the breast milk storage bottle. The valve is small and easily lost, so your Medela Swing comes with a spare one.

You can use the bottle for breast milk storage or buy additional breast milk storage bags.

The motor and connecting tube don’t come in contact with breast milk so they only need to be wiped clean. The rest of the Medela Swing can be easily disassembled for cleaning and sterilising. Putting it back together is easy provided that you fit the valve the right way around, as it is essential to create the vacuum necessary to express the breast milk.

The motor has four settings: “on/off”, “+” (increase suction), “-” (decrease suction) and “Switch to Phase 2”.

“Switch to Phase 2” is part of the Medela Swing’s innovative two-phase suction, which is designed to mimic the baby’s natural breastfeeding. At first, the suction is fast and shallow, like a hungry baby when it’s first put to the breast. When you feel the letdown, you can switch the Medela Swing breast pump to the second setting. It slows down with a deep, slower suction, again, similar to a baby’s feeding rhythm. Of course, it doesn’t feel exactly like when the baby is breastfeeding, but it aims to come as close to it as possible. If you forget to switch to the second setting, the pump switches automatically after a few minutes.

Although the first setting can seem fast, it is actually gentle and doesn’t cause discomfort. Many breastfeeding mums have reported being able to express breast milk quicker with the Medela Swing than with other types of breast pumps.

The Medela Swing is compact enough to be used outside the house. It can be used on the mains or with batteries (4xAA). It comes with a carrying pouch. This portability is convenient for working mums. You can take it home in the evening to use it, clean it properly and sterilise it.

Among all breast pumps, the Medela Swing is fairly quiet so it can be used at work. Remember that your employer has a legal obligation to provide breastfeeding mothers with a private room for expressing breast milk.

The Medela Swing is not the cheapest breast pump on the market, but it is very good value. Its efficiency and reliability mean that you will be able to use it for a long time. It is preferable to buy a good-quality breast pump upfront, than to buy a cheap one that doesn’t suit your needs.

All in all, the Medela Swing is an excellent breast pump: it is compact, efficient and comfortable. Medela has been supporting breastfeeding mothers for more than thirty years, listening to their needs and designing innovative products to make their lives easier. The Medela Swing is a great buy for all breastfeeding mothers!

The Guide To The Medela Swing Breast Pump is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Sterilising your breast pump is easy.

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 20 May 2010 09:31:58 +0000

Whether you have an electric breast pump or a manual breast pump, it is crucial to keep it absolutely clean and sterilise it regularly. If washed improperly, harmful bacteria could develop in the dried breast milk.

The breast pump should be washed thoroughly after each use and left to air dry. In some cases, a health professional may recommend that the breast pump also be sterilised after each use. It is best not to take any risk with pre-term babies or sick babies. In most cases, sterilising your breast pump once a day is sufficient.

Sterilising a breast pump is quick and easy, and you can find the method that suits you best.

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some parts should only be wiped clean while others should be washed and sterilised. Not all parts can be sterilised by all methods so make sure that the method you are about to use is suitable for your breast pump.
Take apart all the components of the breast pump. Make sure that you are not missing any. The small valve in particular is easily lost. The components should not be left attached when sterilised.
Using an electric steam steriliser: Once the parts of your breast pump are washed, place them in the steriliser. Add water. Plug. Wait. When the light goes off, your breast pump is ready.
Using a microwave steriliser. The microwave steriliser is a container or a bag into which the parts can be placed, along with a specified amount of water, and then microwaved. Before using this method, read the instructions carefully, as some breast pumps are not suitable for microwave sterilising.
You can also place the parts of your breast pump in the top drawer of the dishwasher. You need to check the dishwasher manufacturer’s manual to make sure that the hot water cycle will reach 140C.
A breast pump can also be easily sterilised in a large pot of boiling water. It should be left to boil on high heat for ten minutes.

Whichever method you use, be extremely careful when removing the breast pump. It is likely to be extremely hot. You can let it cool down to room temperature before removing it from the steriliser or the boiling water. Let the parts air dry on a clean kitchen towel.

Reassemble your breast pump … et voilà! Your breast pump is ready to use for the next time you need it. It can be stored in its carry case, on a tray covered with a clean cloth, or in a large food container.

Sterilising your breast pump is easy. is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Manual breast pump or electric breast pump?

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 17 May 2010 09:56:18 +0000

As a new mum, when you have decided to breastfeed your baby, you are very much aware of the benefits of breastfeeding for both yourself and your baby. However, there are many reasons why you may have to be away from your baby. Whether you are away for health, family or work reasons, or just because you would like an evening out, it doesn’t mean that your baby can not continue to benefit from your breast milk. That’s when a well-chosen manual or electric breast pump becomes very useful. Let us look at some of the pros and cons of each.

Weight: A manual breast pump is often lighter and more compact than an electric breast pump. If weight and size are an issue, the Meleda mini electric is a good compromise between the two. It is electric and compact.
Suction speed: An breast pump – and even more if it’s a double pump – expresses breast milk much quicker than a manual pump. This can make all the difference for working mums or mums trying to increase their milk supply. A manual pump can be reassuring if you are expressing breast milk for the first time, but it can be slow and this can prove to be frustrating. If time is an issue, an electric breast pump might be preferable even if you are not planning to express frequently.
Comfort: Both types of pumps can be equally comfortable. With a manual pump, you control the suction and it can often be adjusted in an electric pump. Some pumps come with an extra breast cushion for even more comfort. Manual breast pumps can also be tiring on your hands.
Noise: A manual pump is almost silent while an electric breast pump has a motor. This can be a concern for some breastfeeding mums. If you are planning to express at work, your employer is legally bound to provide you with sufficient privacy.
Ease of use: manual pumps contain fewer components, which makes them easier to put together and take apart. The Medela and Lansinoh breastpumps are also fairly simple to assemble.

Manual or electric breast pump? Each breastfeeding mum has her favourite. Whatever your choice, take your time and relax.

Manual breast pump or electric breast pump? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Choosing an electric breast pump

Arabella Greatorex — Fri, 14 May 2010 08:30:53 +0000

Choosing an electric breast pump when your baby isn’t even born yet can feel daunting. However, having it handy may turn out to be a great help if breastfeeding isn’t going as smoothly as anticipated in the first few weeks.

Using an electric breast pump can help new mums avoid engorgement or mastitis. The first thing to check is that your baby is latched on well. This is essential to stimulate lactation, avoid sore nipples and ensure your new baby is getting all the milk he needs. Your first point of call should be your midwife, your health visitor, a local breastfeeding support group, or a breastfeeding counsellor. Expressing breast milk manually or with a manual or electric breast pump will allow you to ‘empty’ the breast, thereby reducing the risk of engorgement.

An electric breast pump is also useful for new mums who are trying to increase their lactation. There can be many reasons why lactation isn’t starting off as desired. Expressing breast milk can help you get things started, or maintain your lactation if you happen to be separated from your baby for a few hours or days.

Mums of pre-term babies or babies with a low birth weight find that a double electric breast pump allows them to start breastfeeding their babies with a cup or a tube before breastfeeding is properly established. In those cases, breast milk helps babies gain weight faster.

We have selected breast pumps that are easy to put together and easy to use. The last thing you need when you are a busy mum is to take out the instruction leaflet every time you need your electric breast pump. Or worse, finding out that the suction isn’t working because you forgot a piece. The breastpumps at Natural Nursery have been selected for breastfeeding mothers who need an electric breast pump that works easily and efficiently and generally makes their lives easier.

Choosing an electric breast pump is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Introducing The Medela Mini Electric Breast Pump

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 11 May 2010 12:24:14 +0000

The first noticeable thing about the Medela mini electric breast pump is that it is compact. It gives breastfeeding mums the convenience of an electric breast pump for the size of a manual pump. It measures about 10″ (25cm) high and weights around 1.5lb (700g) so it fits easily in a handbag or a changing bag.

The adjustable suction speed allows mums to express breast milk comfortably. Mums who are expressing breast milk for the first time or suffering from sore nipples find the slowest speed reassuring and comfortable. It is always a good idea to start expressing on the slowest setting and increase the speed a few minutes later.

The Medela mini electric breast pump expresses breast milk quickly so it is suitable for occasional or frequent use. It is so efficient that many breastfeeding mums use it to continue breastfeeding after they return to work. Another option for working mums is a double electric breast pump.

The Medela mini electric breast pump comes with a mains adapter and can also be used with batteries. Reusable batteries are more convenient and economical as they would recharge the next time the breast pump is plugged in. The drawback is that the motor is fairly noisy. Where this is a concern, the Medela Swing might be preferable.

The Medela mini electric breast pump is attached to a breast milk storage bottle. The breast milk can then be stored in the bottle or poured in a breast milk storage bag. The milk can be kept in the fridge or in the freezer until needed.

It is easy to take apart, clean and reassemble. It can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher. When out and about or travelling, the Medela Quick Clean Wipes can be useful. Parts that come in contact with breast milk should be sterilised. They can be sterilised in boiling water, in a steam steriliser, or cold water method. The small valve creates the vacuum necessary to express the breast milk but it is very small and easily lost. Ordering an extra set of valves with the pump is much easier.

The Medela mini electric is a clever little breast pump: sturdy, efficient and comfortable.

Introducing The Medela Mini Electric Breast Pump is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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5 Essential Baby Buys From Nursing Pillow to Baby Sling

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 06 May 2010 08:27:48 +0000

Magazines upon magazines present pregnant mums with a long shopping list for the new baby. While you may not need everything on the list, choosing the new baby’s essential buys carefully can make your life much easier. So what do you truly need for a new baby?

A baby sling is in the opinion of mums who have tried one, the most essential buy for a new mum (and dad!). Newborns need to be held for the first few months of their lives and carrying them is often the most convenient to go places or get anything done around the house. A well made baby sling allows parents to carry their baby comfortably, have their hands free and provide the child with the attention he needs.

A well fitted breastfeeding bra. There may be no need to buy a maternity bra and a breastfeeding bra. Most breastfeeding bras can be worn during pregnancy. The wide straps and soft fabric provide optimum support during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. A good quality breastfeeding bra will be durable and good value. Breastfeeding bras are now available in gorgeous designs and colours.

A nursing pillow may not seem like an obvious essential buy but it provides pregnant and breastfeeding mums the support they need. A nursing pillow can be used during pregnancy to sit or sleep more comfortably. Once the baby is born, it can be used to support the baby’s weight during breastfeeding or bottle feeding. When baby is about to sit unaided, the breastfeeding pillow can be placed behind the child’s back.

It may seem trivial to mention breast pads but any new mum knows that leaky breasts can make a mum feel very self-conscious. Choosing good quality breast pads – either disposable or reusable – and buying plenty is essential.

Before baby is born, it is wise to stock up on healthy snacks. The first few weeks as a new mum are exhilarating but can also be exhausting. Healthy, hearty meals are a good way to sustain energy levels. Babies seem to have a sixth sense to need a feed right when mum was about to eat her own meal, so healthy snacks will be handy.

We’d love to hear from you. What were the essentials you used for your new baby?

5 Essential Baby Buys From Nursing Pillow to Baby Sling is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Special offers for breastfeeding mothers: breast pump accessories

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 04 May 2010 12:03:56 +0000

We have lots of special offers on breast pumps and breast pump accessories for breastfeeding mothers who wish to express breast milk to feed their baby.

Here is today’s round up of breastfeeding special offers:

The Lansinoh double electric breast pump comes with £20 worth of FREE goodies:

A free tube Lansinoh Lanolin cream,
A free pack of 24 Lansinoh Nursing Pad,
and a free pack of Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bag.

That’s £20 worth of goodies to go with your Lansinoh double electric breast pump.

When you order your breast milk storage bag, you can save 5% when you order 3 or more packs. That’s not counting the money you save on postage too!

Ordering your disposable breast pads by pack of 60 is another great way to save money. Only £5.49 for a pack of 60 Lansinoh disposable breast pads

You can also find a special offer with your Medela breast pump: When you order your Quick Clean wipes with your breast pump, they are reduced to £3.95 instead of £5.95. That’s £2 off per pack of 24 wipes. The quick clean wipes are ideal to clean your Medela breast pump at work or when you’re travelling. There’s no need for soap and water. Just wipe your breast pump clean. They are not just good for breast pumps but for tables, high chairs, or changing tables.

You can save up to 10% off on your Medela breast milk storage bags by order 5 packs or more.

The breast milk storage bottles are also reduced to £5.95 for a pack of 4.

If you need any help choosing your breast pump, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Special offers for breastfeeding mothers: breast pump accessories is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding tips: Choosing a Breast Pump

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:37:08 +0000

For many breastfeeding mothers, not having to buy any baby feeding equipment is a decisive factor in deciding to breastfeed their baby. Exclusive breastfeeding saves money, time and effort.

However there are many times when you may have to be away from your baby. You can continue to breastfeed by expressing breast milk with or without a breast pump and having someone feed your baby breast milk when you’re away. This will allow you to maintain your milk supply, breastfeed your baby as long as you wish and your baby will benefit from having milk exactly tailored to his needs and developmental stage.

Choosing the right breast pump is essential. The most important criteria will be how often you need to use your breast pump:

When you’re planning to express only every now and then. Even if you’re not planning to be away from your baby, being able to express can help relieve engorged breasts. It can also be useful to feed your baby in long car journeys when baby needs a drink more often than you can stop. If you’re not planning to express more than a few times, then learning to express breast milk by hand is very handy. Contact you local breastfeeding support group.

For infrequent uses, you might be more comfortable with a manual breast pump. A manual breast pump is easy to use and affordable. It is a good idea to keep one handy should you need to express.

If you are planning to express more often, an electric breast pump is a wise investment. You will be able to express breast milk more comfortable and more efficiently. Breastfeeding mothers who wish to continue breastfeeding their baby when they return to work often choose a double electric breast pump like the Lansinoh breast pump or the Medela double electric breast pump. These pumps are designed to express both sides at one time. The Medela pump is nice and compact, a handy choice if you’re having to take your pump to work every day. The Lansinoh pump can also be used as a single pump.

Expressing breast milk can feel daunting at first. Choosing the right breast pump is essential for your comfort. You will be able to continue a successful breastfeeding relationship with your baby. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Breastfeeding tips: Choosing a Breast Pump is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Mothering Sunday Breastfeeding Pressie

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:41:05 +0000

If you know a new mother who needs some spoiling this Sunday, why not take a look at the beautiful Sublime Breastfeeding Bra from Bravado Nursing Bras.

This is the prettiest breastfeeding bra we have ever seen and will make any nursing mother feel special. It is right up there as a piece of gorgeous lingerie, yet it comes will excellent nursing features such as drop away cups for lots of skin to skin contact.

If you are unsure about sizing, rest assured that we are always happy to exchange sizes or why not buy the Seamless Nursing Bra instead? With its simple sizing and oh so comfortable fit, you can’t go wrong!

We dispatch every day using First Class Royal Mail and we have express delivery options available too.

Mothering Sunday Breastfeeding Pressie is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastmilk Storage Bottles, reduced

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:48:57 +0000

Today’s top bargain in our stock taking clarance sale is a boon for any breastfeeding mother as we have reduced the price of the Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bottles to just £5.95 per set of 4, saving you £2.

The breastmilk storage bottles are made from food grade polypropylene, the preferred plastic for storing expressed breast milk and are Bisphenol-A Free.

You can view our full range of breastfeeding accessories and buy the reduced Lansinoh Breastmilk Bottles online now.

Breastmilk Storage Bottles, reduced is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Why use a breastfeeding shawl?

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 09:35:20 +0000

Many breastfeeding mums are happy to breastfeed just about anywhere and in all circumstances. For them the very idea of a breastfeeding shawl is confusing. Why would you need one? “If my breastfeeding offends you, just put a blanket over your head” says a series of messages going around Facebook and other social networking websites. I write from Scotland mums have a legal right to breastfeed in public. In nearly 5 years of breastfeeding my children, I have breastfed in many places and never received a negative comment, only smiles and nods. Sometimes a giggle when the person sitting across from me didn’t realise there was a baby hiding in the sling, only the gurgling sound gave it away! One day, breastfeeding my two-year-old in an overcrowded train got the ticket inspector to find me a seat in first class.

So why would you need a breastfeeding shawl?

Not everyone is comfortable breastfeeding in public and having a shawl to give yourself some privacy feels reassuring.

Even if you don’t mind breastfeeding in public, it may make some people around you more uncomfortable. Maybe you don’t mind, maybe you do and that’s fine too. If it helps make parents, grandparents, other relatives and friends more supportive of your breastfeeding then it may be worth it.

A breastfeeding shawl will also make breastfeeding more comfortable as it protects you from the cold. It allows you to see clearly how your baby is latched on while respecting your privacy. This might be important when your baby is a newborn and you need to check that the latch is optimal.

It also creates a quiet space for babies with less stimulation. Some babies are easily distracted by sounds and light, the breastfeeding shawl will help isolate them slightly from what’s going on around them.

Breastfeeding shawls are well designed and convenient to use to breastfeed your baby, whether you’re in the house or out and about.

What makes a breastfeeding shawl different from any other scarf is that it has a weight in one corner which will help the shawl stay in place. Your hands are free, you can rest, eat a biscuit, hold your baby, drink some water, read a book to your toddler…

A great present for a new mum.
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Why use a breastfeeding shawl? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Using an electric breast pump allowed me to continue breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:57:20 +0000

Using an electric breast pump allowed me to go back to work

My son was born in March. Breastfeeding was a little difficult at first. He had a good latch and a great suckle reflex but his position wasn’t right. As he breastfed frequently, my nipples became sore. I used plenty of lanolin cream (a life saver) and my own breast milk to heal the nipples which only took a day!

We saw the lactation consultant early on and she was able to help me position my baby. After that moment, everything was perfect! I love nursing him. He always put his hands in his mouth right before we tried to nurse. So I tried swaddling him which really helped.

I had to go back to work at 6 weeks. I bought a double electric breastpump. (best purchase ever!) I got used to expressing breast milk four times a day: first thing in the morning when it was the easiest and three times while at work. It was quite easy because I had a private office to express milk. I became very consistent about expressing breast milk and breastfeeding. My milk supply increased. Using an electric breastpump allowed to express so much breast milk that we bought a separate freezer for storing breast milk. I even had enough breast milk to donate some to a new mum with pre-term twins.

Using an electric breast pump allowed me to continue breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding in public, is it that difficult?

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:35 +0000

breastfeeding in public

“Excuse me madam, were you about to nurse your baby?” asked the waiter.
“Oh no, here we are!” I thought

I was in a restaurant with our families and my 2-month old son. Friends had told me stories of how nursing mothers had been harassed when they were breastfeeding in public and asked to leave or cover up. I was fully expecting a negative comment when the waiter continued:

“Would you like a more comfortable chair?” the waiter continued.
“Oh!….yes, thank-you”, I was dumbfounded.

After changing my chair, he brought me a complimentary decaffeinated coffee and some chocolates. Talk about VIP treatment!

Fay sent us this story when her little boy was 7 months old and still happily breastfed.

Breastfeeding a baby is hard work, it takes determination, patience and perseverance so such warm welcome and recognition of their commitment to their children is always very much appreciated. Every time someone smiled to me or offered me a seat while I was breastfeeding my babies, it warmed my heart and left me smiling for the rest of the day, no matter how tired I was.

So if you come across a breastfeeding mother, don’t sigh and turn your head straight away. Look at her in the eyes, smile then turn your head! She is not doing anything illegal, she is feeding her child the way nature intended, the way that guarantees the best start in life for her baby. What would you prefer in the bus? A screaming baby? Or a contented baby snuggled up against his mum? Most likely you’ve come across dozens of nursing mothers before and never noticed them.

In the name of my fellow nursing mothers, we thank you for your support.

Breastfeeding in public, is it that difficult? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Spotlight on Medela, supporting breastfeeding mothers since 1961

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 09:36:33 +0000

Medela

Before choosing the products to sell in Natural Nursery, we review dozens and dozens of products. We ask breastfeeding mums what they think of the products. Quality, easy of use, design, every aspect is carefully considered.

For breastfeeding mums, we have chosen to carry the Medela breastfeeding products. Medela has been a pioneer in supporting breastfeeding and serving mothers and babies since 1961. Medela actively promotes breastfeeding as the best form of nutrition for babies and young infants.

Breast milk provides baby with all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and helps them to grow into healthy children. No other milk, food, drink or even water is required. The WHO recommends that children be breastfed at least until 2 year old.

Medela’s products are designed to support a mother’s desire to breastfeed her baby as she wishes. This means helping a mother maintain her milk supply when she is away from her baby either at birth or when she returns to work.

Their research has led to the development of breastfeeding aids that are physiologically correct and are easy to use, reliable and of a consistently high quality.

Extensive research on electric breastpump (University of Western Australia) has developed the 2-Phase Expression® technology (stimulation & expression), the only research-based breastpump that imitates the baby’s natural sucking rhythm, resulting in faster let-down, increased milk flow and reduced pumping time.

Medela is also the only manufacturer who continuously invests a significant share of its profits into medical research on breastfeeding.

The Medela breastfeeding pledge: “We pledge our dedication to breastfeeding as the best nutrition for babies and families. We further pledge that our breastfeeding accessory products and literature shall never be used to influence mothers to switch from breastfeeding to infant formula feeding or to promote artificial baby milk in any way.”

Spotlight on Medela, supporting breastfeeding mothers since 1961 is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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The best way to prepare for breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:47 +0000

Breastfeeding advice

New mums hear it over and over: ‘Breast is best‘. Yet few of us are familiar with breastfeeding before our baby is born. We might not have had other nursing mothers around us to learn from.

Trust yourself. Remember that nature has planned for women to feed their babies. The culture of artificial infant feeding is making natural feeding more difficult.

Here are a few suggestions to prepare yourself to breastfeed.

Learn. The more information you will have, the easier it will be to take in all the breastfeeding advice – often conflicting – you are given when your baby is born and make your own decisions with the help of health professionals if need be.

Talk about breastfeeding with your antenatal midwife. Make sure that she is supportive of breastfeeding and is trained to give you support and breastfeeding advice.

A supportive partner is essential for successful breastfeeding. Explain to your partner how he can support you, prepare snacks and drinks, pass you the baby, be supportive when you are encountering difficulties…

While you’re pregnant, make a list of all the breastfeeding resources available in your area. Should things not go smoothly at some point, it will be a lot easier to have their contact details handy so you can find breastfeeding advice quickly.

We hope you have found this article interesting. For more breastfeeding information, visit BreastfeedingNaturally.co.uk.
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The best way to prepare for breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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When nipples shields can help breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:05 +0000

Using nipple shields can help breastfeeding

When my son was born, I was so happy and really looked forward to being a new mum. In hospital, breastfeeding went well. The nurses would help me latch my son on to me correctly.

When we arrived home, it became much harder as William couldn’t latch on correctly. I became very emotional and felt like a failure because I could not get him positioned.

My sister came over to help and brought some nipple shields. I found these a life saver and with these I could get my son to latch on and take my milk. Gradually I managed to wean my son off from the nipple shields. The nipple shields made breastfeeding in public difficult so I was glad to stop using them and start going out more often.

My son wouldn’t settle when he was lying down so I took him to see a cranial osteopath. She noticed that as he had a trapped shoulder from being delivered by ventouse. This might very well have been the underlying cause for the breastfeeding problems. After a few sessions she relieved his trapped nerve and he became a completely different baby.

William was now contented and would settle much more easily. I wish that I had taken him to Cranium Osteopath when he was only days old. It would have saved William and I a lot of stress and upset from the latching on issues.

William is now 11 months old, and I still breast feed him. I am so glad that I never gave up on trying to breast feed and feel this has helped the two of us share a close bond.

Please note: whilst nipple shields are an excellent way to protect sore and cracked nipples, if the symptoms persist we recommend that you consult your midwife or breastfeeding counsellor as incorrect positioning and/or latch are often the cause of soreness. Using nipple shields for prolonged periods of time can interfere with your milk supply and cause nipple confusion.

When nipples shields can help breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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2010 Australian Breastfeeding Association Calendar is out!

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:28:32 +0000

breastfeeding calendar

Celebrating the beauty of breastfeeding, babies and family, this full colour calendar takes you through the twelve months of 2010, November/December 2009 and January/February 2011.

With stunning images selected from thousands of submitted photos, the ABA calendar is an easy to use calendar featuring large squares to keep track of family events and important dates.

By purchasing this calendar, you will support the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

2010 Australian Breastfeeding Association Calendar is out! is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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The benefits of breastfeeding, a nursing mother’s story

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:29:58 +0000

Benefits of breastfeeding

Sharon sent us her breastfeeding story and is happy to share it with other nursing mothers.

Choosing to breastfeed my daughter was the best decision I ever made. Knowing that I am giving her exactly what she needs is most satisfying. The benefits of breastfeeding are immense, it is free, it’s all natural. It is just as nature intended. The composition of breast milk changes throughout the feed and as she grows to give her exactly what she needs. If I get ill, my breast milk also contains the antibodies necessary to help her fight the infection.

Among all the benefits of breastfeeding, there is one that the studies will never be able to measure exactly: it’s the close connection between mother and baby. What makes those moments so special, when it is just me and her, and she is looking into my eyes as she feeds away, in those moments the rush of love I feel is immense.

I know that nursing her has helped me develop a close and loving bond with my baby.

I am glad I made this choice, as nothing comes close to those few minutes we get to share every day in each others company.

The benefits of breastfeeding, a nursing mother’s story is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Welcome the newest addition to the Natural Nursery Family: Breastfeeding Naturally

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:44:01 +0000

Breastfeeding Naturally supports nursing mothers

We would like to introduce the latest addition to the Natural Nursery Family, welcome to Breastfeeding Naturally.

We believe that breastfeeding is natural: all you need are breasts, a baby and tremendous support. Nursing mothers sometimes need more help. Breastfeeding Naturally offers carefully chosen products, breastfeeding information and great customer service.

From breast pumps, to aids for breastfeeding problems, nursing bras and breastfeeding pillows. We also stock easy to use baby slings. If someone else needs to feed your baby and you’re worried about nipple confusion, we stock feeders and feeding cups. We strongly believe that the benefits of breastfeeding are immense. Mums should be free to breast feed as long as they want, even after going back to work. We hope that you will find everything you need for successful breastfeeding (and stay comfortable too!)

You will also find information, breastfeeding tips and babywearing advice. Read other nursing mothers’ stories, including mums of twins or preemies. You will see that there is one theme that comes back over and over throughout the stories is how trying breastfeeding can be at times. It takes determination, knowledge and support. Prepare while you’re pregnant and tell your breastfeeding friends over and over: in many cases, it doesn’t have to be as hard. Get some help early on. Visit your local breastfeeding support groups, make a note of all the breastfeeding helplines that you can call for advice, support and to talk to another mum who is trained but has also been there.

Breastfeeding Naturally is a family-run business based in Exeter. Founded by Arabella Greatorex who breastfed her daughter and experienced breastfeeding problems at first, it aims to bring support to nursing mothers. It complies with the WHO International Code of Marketing for Breast Milk Substitutes.

Don’t hesitate to contact us, we are here to help.

Welcome the newest addition to the Natural Nursery Family: Breastfeeding Naturally is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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celebrate the launch of a new Site: Breastfeeding Naturally & win £100 gift voucher

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:38:11 +0000

breastfeeding

Help other mums breastfeed their babies and win a £100 gift voucher! We all take comfort in support from mums around us and knowing that other women have been there before us can make a big difference. Tell us your breastfeeding story and share it with other mums. If you can, send us a photo as well.

We look forward to sharing your experiences. Whether you found it easy or struggled, whether you stayed at home or went back to work and continued breastfeeding, whether you had support from your partner, travelled a lot, had older children to keep happy, breastfed your toddler… Share your stories.

Your breastfeeding stories will be published on our new website Breastfeeding Naturally. Breastfeeding Naturally will launch in a few weeks, bringing mums in the UK everything they need to breastfeed their babies successfully.

Send your stories to competition@naturalnursery.co.uk before November 7th. The winner will be drawn at random among the entries. To be entered, stories will be 150 words minimum and include a note to say you agree to see your story (and photo if applicable) published.

celebrate the launch of a new Site: Breastfeeding Naturally & win £100 gift voucher is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Support The Mother magazine

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:12:48 +0000

The Mother Magazine

I discovered The Mother magazine after my little girl was born and read it cover to cover without stopping. I was amazed by the thought-provoking views on pregnancy, birthing, breastfeeding, education, home-education, vaccination…

In a world where so many things make us doubt our skills as mothers and parents, where we are supposed to listen to so-called experts, supported by studies which often contradict each other, The Mother magazine brings a refreshing view: trust your instinct as a woman, as a mother, as a parent… Trust that we can follow our instinct to birth our children freely, to breastfeed them as long as they need it, that home education is a real option, that natural parenting and organic living aren’t just dreams …

Each editorial, article, story, recipe pushed me to challenge my preconceived ideas, to think things through for my children and my family. I don’t live by everything the Mother Magazine advocates. My children were born at home and breastfed until they gave up when they were ready, they were carried about in baby slings. Now they are in school, we aren’t vegetarians but what I love about The Mother magazine is being challenged to think more about our choices and to know that there are alternatives that I might want to explore at some point.

The Mother Magazine is in danger of closing, get your subscription now! If you are a business, consider advertising as well, their readers are loyal customers.

Support The Mother magazine is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Help for Breastfeeding Mothers with Flat Nipples

Arabella Greatorex — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 21:07:20 +0000

LatchAssist for Flat Nipples

Breastfeeding is the best start in life for your baby but sometimes it can be hard to achieve a good latch if you are suffering from flat nipples or engorged breasts.

Both these are temporary conditions but can prevent you from breastfeeding comfortably.

Luckily, Lansinoh have launched the LatchAssist to help. The LatchAssist gently draws out the nipple, allowing your baby to correctly postion the nipple in their mouth, helping to create a good latch.

The LatchAssist has received very positive feedback from midwives and costs £7.95 from The Natural Nursery.

Help for Breastfeeding Mothers with Flat Nipples is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Why Use Nipple Shields When Breastfeeding?

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:56:03 +0000

Luckily, most mothers don’t need to use nipple shields as they and their baby take to breastfeeding naturally.

For some mothers, however, nipple shields are a vital, if temporary, item to help them establish successful breastfeeding.

Nipple shields are used for protection if the nipple becomes sore or cracked. They slip on over the nipple and the baby sucks through them. As there is no direct contact between the nipple and the baby’s mouth, this can be less painful for the mother.

It is most important to realise that sore or cracked nipples are NOT the norm and are usually the result of a poor latch so it is vital that the mother receives support from a breastfeeding support worker, midwife or health visitor. The aim is always to move to breastfeeding without nipple shields as quickly as possible.

Why Use Nipple Shields When Breastfeeding? is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Boobie Cartoons

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:19:51 +0000

I have only just come across the amazing Kate Evans – why didn’t someone tell me about her work sooner?

She has just published a new book call The Food of Love, featuring cartoons on the subjects of breastfeeding, co-sleeping and The Mama Sutra – weird and wonderful breastfeeding positions.

This book will make a wonderful gift for new mothers and will entertain partners and friends too. You can see previews of the book on Kate’s website at http://www.thefoodoflove.org/index.htm

Boobie Cartoons is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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When Breastfeeders Attack

Arabella Greatorex — Sat, 09 May 2009 05:26:19 +0000

One the funniest things that Ihave read in ages……

Definately worth a read http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=76332127980&h=LTNzw&u=mbPp8

When Breastfeeders Attack is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding ‘protects mother’

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 20:17:37 +0000

from the BBC website:

Women who breastfeed their babies may be lowering their own risk of a heart attack, heart disease or stroke, research suggests.

A US study found women who breastfed for more than a year were 10% less likely to develop the conditions than those who never breastfed.

Even breastfeeding for at least a month may cut the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

The research features in the journal Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

You can read the full story on the BBC website.

Breastfeeding ‘protects mother’ is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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One Million Campaign – World Breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:58:13 +0000

Thousands of babies fell seriously ill in China because the milk they drank was contaminated with melamine. Some even died. These babies were not breastfed because

baby milk companies convinced parents that their products were better than breastmilk
women lacked adequate support to breastfeed their babies at the work place
women lacked correct information about infant feeding

You can find out more and join the campaign to support women breastfeeding by visiting: http://www.onemillioncampaign.org/en/Details_Petitions.aspx

You can buy breastfeeding supplies, including breastpumps, nipple shields, breastmilk storage bags and nipple creams from Lansinoh and Medela from our site.

One Million Campaign – World Breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Glass Baby Bottles

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:49:10 +0000

Many parents have been horrified by the news that the UK has failed to follow in the footsteps of the US by banning the use of Bisphenol-A in baby bottles.

As many as 130 studies have been conducted in recent years, linking even low levels of Bisphenol-A (also known as BPA, to serious health problems.

Concerned parents can by safe baby glass bottles from our store – they have been one of our best-selling products for many months.

Using glass bottles does not replace breastfeeding but can be appropriate in instances where a baby is given expressed breastmilk etc.

We are happy to advice any parent concerned by recent news reports.

Glass Baby Bottles is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Boosts IQ of Newborns

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:51:21 +0000

Children who are breastfed exclusively for the first three months of life score higher on IQ tests at the age of six than other children, according to a study conducted by researchers from McGill University in Canada and published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

“Long-term, exclusive breastfeeding appears to improve children’s cognitive development,” lead researcher Michael Kramer said.

From naturalnews.com

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Breastfeeding Reduces Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk of Moms

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 21:48:02 +0000

Women can cut their risk of rheumatoid arthritis by 50 percent simply by breastfeeding for a year or longer, according to a study conducted by researchers from Malmo University Hospital in Sweden, and published in the “Annals of Rheumatic Diseases.”

Scientists have wondered whether breastfeeding might affect the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, because it stimulates the production of two hormones that may have some connection to the disease. While it raises levels of oxytocin – which has been linked with lowered blood pressure and stress hormone levels and general well-being – it also raises levels of prolactin, which stimulates the immune system.

For the full story, visit – NaturalNews.com

Breastfeeding Reduces Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk of Moms is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Info

Arabella Greatorex — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:40:07 +0000

If you are looking for breastfeeding news, updates and support, you may find these sites useful:

http://www.lactivist.net/

http://www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk/

http://www.breastfeeding.co.uk/

Breastfeeding Info is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Bonding With Baby

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 01:49:42 +0000

by Arabella Greatorex
Most parents bond instantly with their babies, an intense feeling that makes you want to hold and love and protect them. For some parents, this can take a little longer, especially if there has been a difficult pregnancy or labour.

Research indicates that babies who develop fulfilling relationships with their parents tend to grow into secure, well-adjusted adults and even perform better at school.

Bonding is a natural process but there are many ways to help out, especially if you provide focused, responsive care in a nurturing environment.

Breastfeeding – a breastfed baby will receive regular close contact with its mother, helping an early bond to develop. Unfortunately, this is not always easy, so speak to your health visitor if you need any help or assistance.

Touch – a baby’s first communication is via touch, so hold your baby close, cradle her in your arms or use a sling if you need to get on with chores.

Massage - is a more structured method of touching your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as well as the parent/baby bond.

Singing – no matter how tone deaf you may think you are, your baby will love to hear your voice. The rhythmic nature of nursery rhymes is very soothing and is believed to help with language development.

Talk – although she may not understand what you are saying, your baby will love to hear you chatting away about what you are doing, whether it is changing her nappy, peeling the potatoes or folding the washing. She will gain confidence from the fact that you are always near and always focused upon her, even if the household chores need to be done.

Pull a face – even very young babies are fascinated by facial expressions.

Regular activities – such as nappy changing time, are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you love them. Talk to her, kiss her tummy, tell how what lovely dimples she has, how much you love her smile. This will take your mind off what a messy job it is and show that you love her, no matter what.

Slow down – life is getting faster and faster but slow and steady is best for baby. Stop and spend time with your baby, relax and enjoy yourself, your baby will love you no matter what.

Bonding With Baby is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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What I wish I’d known when I was pregnant

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:06:29 +0000

Here are some answers to questions I get asked by pregnant friends on a regular basis – they are based on my experiences though, and may be glaringly obvious to some people, but they were not to me! Please feel free to add to this list of useful tips in the comments section.

Clothes
Come in sizes according to weight and don’t last very long at all in the beginning. You will need a slightly larger size if you use real nappies. Some babygros have integral gloves that fold back – very useful for babies that want to scratch their faces off. Things that fasten at the front are easier than things that go over heads. All socks are sacrificial; they don’t stay on feet for long so I prefer things with feet for colder weather.
Nappies
Cloth nappies rock and I like the smell of the Weleda nappy cream which is brilliant stuff. It is a good idea to research nappies, and there are some helpful tips on this blog.

www.naturalnurseryblog.co.uk/how-easy-are-cloth-nappies-to-use

www.naturalnurseryblog.co.uk/why-use-cloth-nappies

Toys
My child at 3 month liked noisy things, mirrors and things he could hold with his tiny fingers. Brightly coloured board books are good too. If you buy anything musical remember that you will have to listen to it too.

Feeding
I used a pump to express milk and I pumped in the morning while feeding after the small had triggered off the let down reflex. Thinking milky thoughts of waterfalls made the milk come out faster! My son never took to a bottle but he would use a sippy cup. Pumping was just in case of emergencies. I boiled cups and the pump to sterilise them, it’s not a hassle and I don’t think the sterilising equipment is really necessary, though it may make life a bit easier. I have read that the sterilising solution can increase the risk of thrush.
Sleeping
I had a Moses basket for small but didn’t like it ‘cos I had to peer in to check his breathing. I bought a cot because it seemed to be the thing to do but in the end decided that I am a fan of co-sleeping. There are guidelines for safe co-sleeping that are well worth looking at. Grobags are brilliant and my small sleept much longer when I got one.

Bathing
I think a bath thermometer is vital, what’s warm to me is boiling for the small. We shared the bath and he loved it. You also need a soft sponge and ducks!

I hope some of these hints are useful, I found it daunting and confusing trying to work out what I needed and what was clutter and I hope my tips can help you.

What I wish I’d known when I was pregnant is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastmilk and Growth Spurts

Arabella Greatorex — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:04:17 +0000

One of the most common worries for a breastfeeding mum is her milk supply. Here are some reassuring words and helpful tips to help you carry on breastfeeding through a growth spurt.

First of all – DON’T PANIC! One of the things that can slow down milk is stress, so try to relax as much as possible – easy to say I know but it is important.

If your baby is nursing more than usual and you are worried that they are not getting enough milk they might be going through a growth spurt. This generally happens between 4-6 weeks and again between 4-6 months. When my son was at this stage I felt like I never stopped breastfeeding and it was exhausting, but it was worth it. As long as your baby is getting bigger and producing wet nappies you should have no need to worry. What the baby is doing is changing the calorific value of your milk to suit them better as they go through different growing stages, once through the growth spurt they tend to feed less often and sometimes have been known to sleep longer, though I think that is a myth, my son still thinks sleep is for the weak! If you formula feed through a growth spurt you will be telling your body to produce less milk and your body will not be triggered to change the nutritional value of your own milk to suit your baby.

Drink gallons of water – It helped me to have a small bottle of water everywhere I was likely to breastfeed, because as soon as I settled down I would become incredibly thirsty.

Change your position – It is very easy to settle into one breastfeeding hold but you will probably feel more comfortable in the long run if you change your position occasionally so that you drain all your milk ducts.

Forget the ironing – This time with your baby will not last forever, revel in your super power to give them the best start in life and let the housework slide. You are burning off about 500 calories a day by breastfeeding so you need rest, and possibly chocolate!

Support your system – Oats are supposed to be very good for helping you produce milk – they are also a good supply of iron and there is something very comforting about a bowl of porridge. Welcome World Breastfeeding Support Tea is made by a specialist birth and herbal healing company. The tea comes in a packet that has enough for 40 servings and there is a a free advice line to call if you have any concerns.

If you are still worried about your milk supply there are lots of free breastfeeding helplines who can give telephone advice or tell you about the nearest breastfeeding support group.

Breastmilk and Growth Spurts is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Suck On This – Ecologist Article

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 09:32:33 +0000

The human species has been breastfeeding for nearly half a million years. It’s only in the last 60 years that we have begun to give babies the highly processed convenience food called ‘formula’. The health consequences – twice the risk of dying in the fi rst six weeks of life, five times the risk of gastroenteritis, twice the risk of developing eczema and diabetes and up to eight times the risk of developing lymphatic cancer – are staggering.

With UK formula manufacturers spending around £20 per baby promoting this ‘baby junk food’, compared to the paltry 14 pence per baby the government spends promoting breastfeeding, can we ever hope to reverse the trend Pat Thomas uncovers a world where predatory baby milk manufacturers, negligent health professionals and an ignorant, unsympathetic public all conspire to keep babies of the breast and on the bottle.

To read the full article – click here.

Date:01/04/2006 Author:Pat Thomas

Suck On This – Ecologist Article is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Manifesto

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 03 Dec 2006 21:38:34 +0000

The Breastfeeding Manifesto was produced in 2006 in consultation with over twenty UK organisations working to improve awareness of the health benefits of breastfeeding and its role in reducing health inequalities.

This Manifesto has been launched for the following reasons:

Several key organisations, including breastfeeding charities and professional bodies, were lobbying government for neccessary changes in policy and approach with regards to brestfeeding in the UK, but there was no cohesive message, no unified call to the UK Government for action.
Despite signficant amounts of lobbying, the Department of Health still brought to an end the role of a National Infant Feeding Coordinator even though our Government in 2002 signed up to the Global Stratergy for Infant and Young Child Health which calls for a National Coordinator.
NICE was soon to publish two key documents that could act as the back-bone of a National Breastfeeding Stratergy and it was imperative that we ensured that these action plans gained the support and resources they needed to be fully implemented.

The Breastfeeding Manifesto is being championed by David Kidney MP, Annette Brooke MP and Julie Kirkbride MP and a strong coalition of breastfeeding charities, breastfeeding co-ordinators, professional bodies, Royal Colleges etc. The Breastfeeding Manifesto Coalitions’ objective is to achieve widespread cross-party support for this document. We aim to ensure that its principles are reflected in government policy and legislation.

You can find out more and sign the manifesto at the Breastfeeding Manifesto site.

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Arabella Greatorex — Sat, 02 Dec 2006 05:05:33 +0000

Mothers urged to sleep close to baby to encourage breastfeeding

Mothers of new babies should sleep close to them to encourage breastfeeding,
according to research published today.

A two-year clinical trial by Durham University’s Sleep Lab showed that unhindered mother and infant contact can have beneficial effects on the initiation of breast-feeding in the days after birth.

Babies who had "unhindered access" to their mothers at night were able to feed twice as often as those kept separate, the study of new-borns found.

The benefits of early suckling and skin-to-skin contact have already been well documented, but this study went further and showed how important it is for mothers to be physically close to their babies in the first few days after the birth.

The trial, conducted in collaboration with the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, compared the overnight breastfeeding frequency of babies in three different sleeping positions. It looked at babies sleeping in bed with their mothers; in a side-car crib that attaches to her bed and in a stand alone cot.

The results showed that babies sleeping in the bed and in the side-car crib made significantly more attempts to feed – both successful and unsuccessful – and showed more feeding effort than babies in the cot.

Dr Helen Ball, who led the research for Durham University, said the side-car crib was the "best compromise" for mothers, as they offer the closeness to encourage breastfeeding, while alleviating fears that the mother may suffocate her child while sleeping.

She said: "The study shows that mothers were feeding their babies more than twice as frequently if they had unhindered access rather than being in the next bed. Getting breastfeeding started and established successfully can lead to effective long-term breastfeeding.

"The results of this clinical trial would suggest that if a woman is keen to breastfeed her baby then maintaining unhindered contact throughout the night will aid the process. This unrestricted contact between mothers and their babies allows spontaneous feeding which is also important in order for mothers to understand their babies’ signals and to respond to those."

The research was being presented at the Unicef Baby Friendly Conference in Cardiff today, and appears in the December issue of the publication Archives of Disease in Childhood. The study considered the risks to the baby, from suffocation and falling, as well as the benefits.

It found that although there was more potential risk to the baby’s breathing when they slept in the bed than in the crib or the cot, there was still some danger in a cot due to the risk of airways being covered through swaddling.

Taken from: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=
419367&in_page_id=1770

is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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THe Adiri Breastbottle Nurser now in stock

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 25 Oct 2006 03:15:01 +0000

Breastbottle® nursers are the ideal solution for working mums who want to continue breast-feeding. The patented bubble-free design and low-flow adjustable nipple minimise confusion between breast and bottle. Breastbottle nursers are ideal for feeding breast milk.

Soft and comforting.
Designed to be more like breast-feeding than any other bottle.
Bubble-free delivery to minimize related colic.
Patented Adiri™ nipple offers three flow rates.
Readily accepted by most babies.
Can simulate let-down.
Ideal for switching between bottle and breast.
Capacity based on maximum breast supply.
Easily filled without spills.
No bottle brush required.
Dishwasher safe, on top rack.
Childproof closure system.

After months of trying and spending a fortune on teats and bottles this was a life saver. My son refused all bottles and I was amazed that he took the nurser first time without any fuss. It was a relief as I am going back to work soon and obviously needed him to be on a bottle so thank you very much! Ruth G.

You can find out more about the Nurser from the manufacturer’s website or purchase it from The Natural Nursery.

THe Adiri Breastbottle Nurser now in stock is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breast milk protects babies

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 03:36:11 +0000

6th Aug, 2006, Dr Stephen Sears, Morning Sentinel, Maine Today.com

According to a recent study from researchers at the University of California Davis Medical Center in Sacramento and the University of Rochester NY breastfeeding for the first six months makes a difference in the baby’s ability to resist infection. In this study the parents of 2,277 children, between six and 24 months of age, answered questions about whether their baby’s breastfed, for how long; and how often their babies had respiratory infections or symptoms including ear infections, colds, flu, and pneumonia or wheezing.

Babies who were fed only breast milk for the longest span of time, six months or more, had lower rates of pneumonia and ear infections. Stopping breast feeding between four and six months of age doubled the odds that the infant would experience three or more ear infections in the first year of life.

Read the full article.

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Breastfeeding Protects Against Obesity

Arabella Greatorex — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 03:24:53 +0000

By Lisa Ryckman, Rocky Mountain News
August 8, 2006

We’ve created a nation of fat babies, and it all starts with the first thing put in their mouths.

A Harvard Medical School study of 120,000 kids that spanned 22 years shows that babies and toddlers are more likely to be overweight now than ever before. The study found that the biggest jump came in the number of overweight infants, which increased by 74 percent.

The number of babies at risk of becoming overweight rose by nearly 60 percent. One of the best ways to change the numbers: breast-feeding, says Dr. Matthew Gillman, the study’s senior author.

A recent German study of 9,000 babies found that the longer children breast-feed, the less likely they are to be obese at age 6. Babies nursed for 3-5 months were 33 percent less likely to be obese; those breast-fed for more than a year were 72 percent less likely to become obese.

Researchers have found that human milk keeps insulin levels lower than formula and contains proteins that are easier to metabolize, both factors in fat storage.

The Harvard study results came during World Breast-feeding Week (Aug. 1-7), which celebrated the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes, which has existed for more than 20 years. The code provides guidelines for marketing infant formula and bottle-feeding products and challenges communities to support nursing moms and babies.

Jennifer Dellaport, chair of the Colorado Breastfeeding Task Force, says formula marketing can discourage breast-feeding by playing on new mothers’ concerns about milk production – a worry that can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

"Most women make plenty of milk, and replacing feedings with even small amounts of formula will cause a woman’s body to begin producing less milk," she says.

"Families have a right to know about the benefits of breast-feeding and to be supported if they choose to feed their babies this way."

Colorado has one of the highest breast-feeding rates in the nation: 82 percent of babies are breast-fed at birth, and more than half are still being nursed at six months, although less than 20 percent are being exclusively breast-fed at six months.

Last year, 21 states reached the national Healthy People 2010 objective of 75 percent of mothers initiating breast-feeding, but only Oregon achieved an exclusive breast-feeding rate of at least 25 percent through 6 months, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

For breast-feeding info: Colorado Breastfeeding Task Force, www.coloradobreastfeedingtaskforce.org or 303-869-1888; La Leche League, www.lalecheleague.org or 303-779-6722; the National Breastfeeding Helpline, 1-800-994-9662.

Breastfeeding Protects Against Obesity is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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Breastfeeding Bags

Arabella Greatorex — Sun, 06 Aug 2006 08:14:57 +0000

The excellent MooMum has just produced a new batch of lovely pro-breastfeeding bags. Made from strong cotton, these re-usable bags mean you never have to use another plastic bag and you can spread the word about the benefits of breastfeeding at the same time.

The bags cost £4 each plus £1 p&p and can be purchased from The Mothers Milk Marketing Board.

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How your breasts change throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding

Arabella Greatorex — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 09:30:16 +0000

For many women, changing breasts is one of the first signs of pregnancy. Your body prepares itself to breastfeed the new baby.

Your breasts might feel tender, larger or fuller often – but not always – around the second month of pregnancy. You may feel the need for a pregnancy or nursing bra with a larger cup size. For some women, breasts will continue to grow over the course of the pregnancy while others will only feel the difference in the latter stages of pregnancy.
As your baby grows, your rib cage also increases often by one or two sizes. This will be particularly noticeable for petite women or those carrying their baby high.
Most women will need a maternity bra one or two size above their normal size both in cup size and rib band size.

When your baby is born and you start breastfeeding, your baby will first receiving colostrum. After a few days, your milk ‘comes’ in. You may need a nursing bra with cup sizes one or two size larger from your third trimester.

After about six weeks, breastfeeding settles and your body and breast shape will settle down too. Most women will decrease a few cup sizes around that time. Your rib band size will start decreasing too to go back to your pre-pregnancy size.

This will be your breastfeeding bra size for the rest of your breastfeeding years. On average, it is about your pre-pregnancy rib band size and a cup size above.

Remember, all women are different and breastfeeding experiences vary. These are just guidelines.

Maternity and nursing bras are designed to adjust to these changes. You will not need to buy a new nursing bra every time your body or breast change. You will also be able to buy your breastfeeding bra to wear while pregnant.

Here are some examples to illustrate how your bra size will likely change:

How your breasts change throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding is a post from: Natural Nursery Blog

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