The world of breast pumps can be a daunting place for parents, who wonder: What are the options? Why are there so many different types? Does expensive mean best? Do I actually need one? In this post, I will try to provide you with an all you need to know guide to choosing a breast pump, and why you should be doing your homework before you have your baby.
Returning to work is daunting, but returning to work when you are breastfeeding can be doubly daunting. It is ok to feel a little overwhelmed. Read this post for top tips on returning to work while breastfeeding in Ireland.
New parents feel confused about infant sleep and feel they receive conflicting information, which they do. They are often told by parents and grandparents that ‘tough love’ is the right approach and “sure it didn’t do mine any harm”. Yet for many parents that approach doesn’t feel right. They spent their entire pregnancy nurturing and growing this beautiful baby, who depends on them for virtually everything. Their baby always seems so happy and content when they are with their moms and dads. It feels wrong to expect them to self-soothe, and deny them the comfort of their parents whenever they need/want them.
Almost all breastfeeding women will suffer from sore nipples at some stage. Preparation is key. Treating your nipples after they become sore is reactive. Instead, try to be proactive and treat your nipples so that you prevent them becoming sore. Your nipples will thank you for it!!
Vasospasm, also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple, is where the nipple turns white when the baby latches off, then turns blue or bright red before returning to its normal colour. This is accompanied by extreme pain for the mum, that can be described as sharp stabbing, or throbbing pain.
Babies are born with primitive reflexes that are engaged/heightened when they are placed on their tummies on their mummies chest or tummy. This inbuilt instinct, enables the baby to lead with its chin, and if left to self latch, will lick, and smell, and latch chin first, which is optimal.