I hate to break it to your “Fed is Best” slogan: Fed ISN’T Best. Fed is minimum. Of course you should feed your baby. That’s like saying “changing a dirty diaper is best.” or “Putting your child in a car seat is best.”  No. It’s necessary. Because feeding your baby is an essential part of raising a child. They need to eat in order to live.

Many Families, for whatever reason, have to use formula. Or they choose to. It doesn’t matter, and there is no shame in it. But it is also important, to inform new parents about the actual, scientific fact that breastmilk really is best source of food for infants. Its because of the now outlawed marketing schemes by formula companies in the first half of the 19th century, and the “we did it and we survived” mantras of our mothers and grandmothers. Society’s psyche plays such a huge role in parenting choices, and it took a huge hit on the more biologically normal way of raising children. So much so, that it’s taken breastfeeding advocates decades to overcome it. (Read more about formula companies impressions on the American public here.

Such ads continued apace through the first half of the 20^th century, during which time American breast-feeding also steadily declined, from being near ubiquitous in 1900, to 70 percent of new mothers in 1915, to 50 percent in 1930, to 25 percent in the 1950s. By then, pediatricians, caught up in the “scientific parenting” vogue, were pushing formula hard—and new mothers, eager to live up to the Eisenhower housewife ideal, were reluctant to disobey; formula companies advertised with corresponding enthusiasm.

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Let’s talk about statistics.

As a childcare provider, mama, and breastfeeding advocate, I LOVE me some fact-based research. So if your argument is that the slogan “fed is best” is more supportive than “breast is best”- know that it just isn’t factually correct. Saying that “Fed is Best” takes away the message behind “Breast is best” the exact same way that “All lives matter” takes away from “Black lives matter”- it is completely missing the point of the campaign in the first place.

Medically, breast milk v. formula is the difference between rear facing your infant and forward facing. Rear facing infant seats are found to be 5x safer. It’s just factually safer. Well guess what? The World Health Organization states that globally,

If every child was breastfed within an hour of birth, given only breast milk for their first six months of life, and continued breastfeeding up to the age of two years, about 800 000 child lives would be saved every year”

800,000 infant lives. Breastfeeding does that. Not feeding. Not “fed is best”. The biological norm is what keeps babies alive.

Why Breast is Best:

• Breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
• If your baby receives breast-milk for at least 6 months lowers their chances of childhood leukemia by 19%.
• The La Leche League published that: “One long-term study of children who were breastfed showed that breastfeeding reduces food allergies at least through adolescence (Grasky 1982). Protection from allergies is one of the most important benefits of breastfeeding. The incidence of cow’s milk allergies is up to seven times greater in babies who are fed artificial baby milk instead of human milk (Lawrence 1994).”
• Breast milk contains antibodies, vitamins, proteins, and fats. All which help baby grow, develop, and fight off bacteria and viruses.
• Breastfeeding helps baby ward off and fight ear infections.

I could go on and on… and on. But I won’t, because it will take away from my point.

Companies are using our guilt, mom wars, and shame to profit. Enough is enough.

Just because research says that “Breast is Best”, does not mean that breastfeeding advocates think Formula is the Devil.

Please, put down your pitchforks, and understand. Lactation Consultants, Doulas, midwives, breastfeeding advocates- even lactavists– are NOT SHAMING parents who choose formula when we try to promote the benefits of breastfeeding. We are just trying to help parents who WANT to breastfeed. This is where my pet peeve comes in.  Our goal behind promoting Breastfeeding has nothing to do with “shaming” parents who choose to feed their infant formula- for whatever reason. Scheduling “nurse-ins”, latch on’s, demanding the media represent breastfeeding fairly– this is for breastfeeding mothers everywhere. In no way, shape, or form is anyone saying that formula sucks (it doesn’t!). So unbunch your panties- promoting one way of life doesn’t negate another way. If you don’t like it, move on, and stop trolling us!

Normalizing breastfeeding is about making breastfeeding normal. So mom’s who ARE struggling and DO choose to breastfeed, can do so without concern about societal norms. Because let’s face it: while you may feel some mom guilt when you hear “breast is best”, no one has ever been kicked out of a restaurant for bottle feeding their baby.

“Fed is best” isn’t a necessary campaign. Formula is necessary. Loving your baby is necessary.  Being informed, and making the best possible choice for your baby- and for your family- is necessary. That may mean formula. That’s O.K. Many parents, for whatever reason, can’t always provide breast-milk for their children. That’s OK. It really is. No one is judging you for it.The perceived judgment you feel is your own. So quit. Quit judging yourself for your parenting choices. And for the love of God, Stop judging other’s because their parenting choice is different than yours.

No one can make you feel ashamed with out your consent.

First, feeding your baby is never, ever wrong. You should never feel ashamed for doing what you feel is right for your child, formula or breast. Second, breastfeeding your baby doesn’t make you a “good” parent any more than formula feeding makes you a “bad” parent.Lastly, you alone decide whether to feel shame, no one else is doing that to you. You alone can give someone permission to live in your head and make you second guess yourself.

You are a parent who love’s their baby. So stop allowing someone’s support of breastfeeding to cause you to feel shame because you gave your baby formula.  So please, don’t use your shame to shame someone else, it only perpetuates the cycle. You have no control over how someone feels about you. Stop allowing your “mom guilt” supply ammo to shame other parents for their feeding choice.

Parenting is so, so hard. Daily, we question ourselves and our parenting choices. Parents don’t need help attacking and bringing other parents down- we do a good enough job of that, ourselves. As mother’s, we need to start respecting each other’s choice to feed our babies as we see fit. Respecting each other, respecting ourselves, and leading by example a lifestyle of love, acceptance, and understanding for our children is the best possible thing we can do for them.

Want to read more related this piece from our writers at Breastfeeding World?

• End Mommy Wars: It takes a Village By Samantha Sykula
• Moms need to be told they are enough, By Betty Cortez
• You Can Support “Breast is Best” but not be “Anti Formula” by Gloria Brooks
• Bottle VS. Breast and the Fight not to be Ashamed by Lauren Lewis
• How a Bottle saved my Breastfeeding Relationship by Amber Castro

Love this post? Then don’t forget to Pin it!

Join us in our social media accounts and subscribe to our website, and get up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Lauren Lewis

Lauren Lewis is no stranger to childcare development, having spent over 10 years as a nanny or family childcare provider. She’s the wife of a travel geek, mother of two vivacious children, and has an amazing talent for trailing lost things behind her a la Hansel and Gretel. Her passion for lifting up women and advocating for children pours out in her work as a Central Indiana Event Coordinator, Writer, and Social Media Relations Director for Breastfeeding World. Her life is full of busy, crazy and LOUD. It is full of love and hope, ups and downs. And coffee, always lots of coffee- but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

www.raisinglaurenslittle.wordpress.com

The post This is Why I am Fed Up with “Fed is Best” appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

photo by Eleonora Vaschetti

I can see that little Steven is growing up, my toddler is feeling more confident in this big world. As he nurses less and less, I realize that I have grown to love the deep connection that breastfeeding brings us. I know that his wings are growing and that he’s just about ready to fly and that’s something to celebrate, but I can’t help but think about what I am going to miss when my toddler weans

1. Falling back to sleep after a bad dream

Sometimes my toddler wakes up at night really upset. His body flails and my heart aches for him. He could care less about my soft, soothing voice. He doesn’t want me to pick him up. If he breastfeeds, though, he falls back into a peaceful slumber. In like a minute.

2. Free, organic milk packed with antibodies for breakfast

The morning routine can be really stressful. Getting two little kids fed and dressed and out the door by 8 am is a huge feat for me. I am happy about the days that my son breastfeeds early in the morning before we get out of bed. That’s one less person to tell me that he doesn’t want what I have made for breakfast and can I make him something else. But not that. And not that either. Can I eat Nutella out of the jar with a spoon? Yes, I get asked that a lot.

3. Reconnection after a long day apart

I work every weekday for a good 8 hours. Steven goes to preschool. We miss each other. Sometimes we nurse after school and all of that missing each other seems to melt away. We tell each other with our eyes that we are still good. If either of us had some tough moments during the day, we remember that we were thinking about each other. We’ve got each other’s backs. We just need a couple of minutes to remember that.

photo by Eleonora Vaschetti

Soothing the woes of toddlerhood

Sometimes it’s really hard to be a toddler. People take your toys. Your sister always has something cool in her hands that she will not give you. Your mom tells you that you cannot watch TV for an entire day. Don’t even get me started about car seats. Sometimes when I can tell that Steven has the world on his shoulders and he can’t problem solve any more, breastfeeding gives him that little push of confidence to carry on. I can feel his body relax and then rev up again. Nursing really does give him roots so that he can grow wings.

So.. what’s next?

The days are drawing nearer that I’m going to have to start thinking about healthy breakfasts for everyone every day. When my son feels overwhelmed we are going to have to talk things over. I’m going to have to really figure out when he’s open to listening and when he needs to be heard.

How will we establish a connection that will live up to the superpowers of the breast?

I’ve got this, mom.

It will be a long journey for both of us, but really this is the journey of life. We’ve all got to figure out how to really understand ourselves and the people around us.  It’s not easy for toddlers, and it’s not easy for adults, but each step towards understanding each other is a step towards a more peaceful world, so I guess it’s worth it.

So here’s to you, my son, and your journey away from me. I know you’ll be great, and that I won’t always be able to help you out. But if you need me, I’m here.

What do you think you will miss about breastfeeding?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Anne Kathryn Rice

Anne Kathryn Rice is an American mother of two strong willed children living on the Italian Riviera. She writes about motherhood and listening to your inner voice, even when cultural expectations, baby books, and impromptu advice seem to challenge your instincts. You can read more about her personal experiences on her blog.

www.lovegrowdiscover.com

The post 4 things I’ll Miss When My Toddler Weans appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural, beautiful acts our bodies can perform. We create “liquid gold” to provide our babies with the most perfect food. But what happens when it doesn’t come naturally? What about the mothers who struggle to get their newborn to latch? For many women, finding breastfeeding support and establishing a solid breastfeeding relationship is very hard. A baby may not latch properly, the pain might be unbearable, or the lack of sleep alone can make a woman feel discouraged.

According to La Leche League USA (2016) only 18% of babies are still exclusively breastfed at 6 months of age. As a breastfeeding mother, this statistic makes me sad!

Why are women giving up breastfeeding so early?

Mothers can face numerous challenges when establishing a breastfeeding relationship. From improper latch to the desperate need for sleep, one thing is for certain…they need breastfeeding SUPPORT. Partners, friends, family and employers play an essential role in a mother’s breastfeeding journey. Words of encouragement and a listening ear can work wonders when a woman is struggling. She needs to feel comfortable at work in order to continue pumping, and have a clean and private space.

Mothers should also take advantage of other resources available.

Lactation consultants can help identify any occurring issues and create an action plan. Many hospitals have breastfeeding support groups. La Leche League has local chapters with meet-ups, and plenty of experienced mothers who can offer support and advice.

When Nursing Isn’t Easy, Find Breastfeeding Support

Perhaps if more women have breastfeeding support and feel informed when they begin breastfeeding, they will nurse their babies longer. It’s the healthiest and cheapest option, and the bond between a nursing mother and her baby is priceless.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Gloria Brooks

I was born and raised in New Jersey, but now live in Tampa,FL with my husband David and 2 babies, Noah (2) and Cecelia (3 months). I went to the University of Florida to study special education and I’m currently an Autism teacher in Tampa. I’m currently extending my maternity leave to be home with my babies, and will return to teaching in January. Being a full time mommy right now is the most wonderful (and exhausting!) job in the world.

The post When Nursing Isn’t Easy, Find Breastfeeding Support appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

My Left Breast is a Champion.

Always full and ready for action, the left side is my son’s favorite side. When I pump, tiny streams of milk shoot out, full force. Righty, however, is a different story. My right breast is my slacker boob. Easily producing 3/4 of the oz my left side gives out, it never feels as full, and my son spends far less time on it. I have come to accept it as normal. Fortunately because I work at home, pumping is not something I need to do regularly, so I don’t pay much attention to my slacker boob.

Goodness I love those breast-fed rolls!

When I first noticed the difference, with my first kid, honestly, I freaked out a little.

Facebook Mom groups weren’t as prevalent, or if they were, I didn’t know much about them. I went to my new-mom resource at the time: babycenter forums. Relieved to discover how normal having a slacker boob was, I put the concern from my mind and moved on.

And it is totally, completely normal to have lopsided boobs which produce at different rates! What a relief!

Now, I follow quite a few mom boards on Facebook, particularly breastfeeding ones. Don’t get me wrong, I am all about getting factual data and studies to back up any medical inquiries that pop in my busy brain, but sometimes it is nice to just have that online support group of moms who say “it’s ok, I have been there too!” Recently, I have noticed lots of pictures come across my newsfeed of pumped bottles, one full, one only half full.

What is wrong with me?

Why is one side making less than the other?

Has anyone else experienced this?

Answer: There is nothing wrong with you, or your slacker boob!

It is totally, completely normal to have a slacker boob.

However, if it bothers you, and you’d like to get that slacker up to speed, or boost your supply, here are some tips to help. Remember, your body works on a supply and demand basis. So the more you stimulate your breast to produce milk, the more its going to produce.

You can…

• Pump an extra 10 minutes from the slacker side-
• Power pump the slacker an extra time in between pump/nursing sessions- 2-3x a day
• Begin each nursing session on the slacker boob side, instead of switching back and forth. (At least until it evens out a little more)
• Stay Hydrated! The biggest tip I give every nursing mother is WATER WATER WATER!

Also, Do not worry if you look a little lopsided, once your little one weans from the breast, they should even out to be about the same size. (Even if they never truly go back to the shape they once were!)

Happy Boobing!

xoxo

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Lauren Lewis

Lauren Lewis is no stranger to childcare development, having spent over 10 years as a nanny or family childcare provider. She’s the wife of a travel geek, mother of two vivacious children, and has an amazing talent for trailing lost things behind her a la Hansel and Gretel. Her passion for lifting up women and advocating for children pours out in her work as a Central Indiana Event Coordinator, Writer, and Social Media Relations Director for Breastfeeding World. Her life is full of busy, crazy and LOUD. It is full of love and hope, ups and downs. And coffee, always lots of coffee- but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

www.raisinglaurenslittle.wordpress.com

The post Confessions of a Slacker Boob: 4 Fixes to Balance out Your Supply appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

You don’t breastfeed if you have milk.

You have milk if you breastfeed.”

Most likely, you have read or know about frequent nursing, lactation consultants, and spending time skin to skin with baby. But making breastfeeding work can still be a huge struggle, even if you are well educated on the subject. Even if you have checked everything off the “boost milk supply” to-do list.

Why?

Because unfortunately the most important thing is usually NOT ON THE LIST!

New mothers need help. All. the. time.

First, in order to do everything on the list, you need people around you who are doing everything else.  I really think that if SUPPORT FOR MOM were first on the list, maybe mothers everywhere wouldn’t feel like their breasts are somehow broken.  Maybe they would not feel bad about asking for help if they knew that HELP is the secret to boost milk supply and deepening your connection with your baby.

The only reason I am lying down in this picture is because my dad was making dinner, my mother-in-law had my older child, and my husband was telling me not to get up.

In real life, many new mothers hear comments like, “Are you nursing again? Maybe the baby isn’t getting enough milk.”

In real life, new mothers have to find time to cook healthy meals and stay hydrated. How can they do that AND lie in bed all day naked with their babies?

In real life, there is laundry.  And more laundry. How can you boost milk supply if you are busy folding clothes?

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The laundry routine is a full time job.

In real life, messes happen, especially if you have toddlers.

It took 5 seconds for my four-year-old to make this mess.

Choosing between cleaning up after your toddler (especially when safety is an issue) and nursing your newborn, is a really tough call.

In order to make more milk, though, it’s best to choose nursing.  But how can you do that? You need a village, literally.  You need people who…

Do stuff for you

You may need to lie in bed for two days naked with your baby in order to up your milk supply. In order to do this you may also need one or more of the following people: a partner who does laundry and buys food, friends who take older siblings, a grandmother who makes lunch, and more friends who hold the baby while you shower.

Remind you that you are not crazy or disorganized

Spending time around other new mothers who are going through the same thing will remind you that the problem is not you. After all, you are normal.  Your breasts are normal.  Second best is a book or blog or Facebook group full of people sharing their stories. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League is a must-read if you are determined to breastfeed. It is full of inspiring stories written by other mothers.  Other mothers will remind you that this is not easy, and it’s not your fault, it’s just the nature of life with newborns.

Know about breastfeeding

A lot of well-meaning family and friends and even pediatricians may be vocal about what you should do to boost milk supply. But experienced mothers and doctors are not necessarily breastfeeding experts. Lactation consultants, midwives, and postpartum doulas are up to date on research and will be able to offer correct information.  Real experts will know and refer to the World Health Organization’s guidelines for breastfeeding.  They will also refer to the World Health Organization’s growth charts.

Don’t judge you

Your house may be messy. Maybe you need a shower. Perhaps you feel that your baby is sucking the life out of you and if you don’t put the baby down right now you will throw him down. Later, you want to keep breastfeeding for the third hour in a row. Or you feel like supplementing with formula. Maybe you don’t want to use a breast pump. Maybe you do. Surround yourself with people who are totally 100 percent okay with ALL of this.

As a matter of fact, let’s slightly modify that quote the experts’ tip.

 You don’t breastfeed if you have milk. You have milk if you breastfeed around the clock and you have people around you who make you food, build your confidence, and remind you that you just had a baby and it is totally fine for you to stay in your pajamas all day. But if you want to take a shower that’s cool too.

What kind of help did you receive in those early postpartum days? Were you reluctant to ask for help?

Read it, share it, Pin it. Whatever you do, keep “sharing the breastfeeding love”

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Anne Kathryn Rice

Anne Kathryn Rice is an American mother of two strong willed children living on the Italian Riviera. She writes about motherhood and listening to your inner voice, even when cultural expectations, baby books, and impromptu advice seem to challenge your instincts. You can read more about her personal experiences on her blog.

www.lovegrowdiscover.com

The post How to Boost Milk Supply- The Tip They Never Tell You appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

On May 21st, 2016 breastfeeding supporters around the world joined forces and together we all celebrated the WHO Code Day of action, an initiative to create awareness and protect families from unfair marketing strategies.

The International Code of Marketing Substitutes is an International health policy for breastfeeding promotion adopted by the World Health Assembly of the World Health Organization (WHO) in May 21st, 1981.

The Code was developed as a health strategy to recommend restrictions on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes such as infant formula in hopes of ensuring moms to not be discouraged to breastfeed their babies. Thankfully, since 1981, 84 countries have enacted legislations implementing all or many of the provisions of the WHO Code.

Unfortunately many baby food companies and hospitals all around the world have failed to abide by the code, which is why breastfeeding advocates created the WHO Code Day, specially to be able to educate mothers about it.

WHO Code Provisions

For the World Health Organization, the Code aims to shield breastfeeding mothers from commercial promotion that affects them, health workers and health care systems. Here we have provided some samples of the provisions regulated by the code:

Sam Graff Breastfeeding Her child

For Mothers:

Information and educational materials on infant and young child feeding should be objective and consistent and emphasize the importance of breastfeeding. In no case should such materials refer to a brand name of a product.

All forms of product advertising and promotion are prohibited.

Mothers should not be given free product samples.

• Promotional devices such as discounts and special displays at the retail level are prohibited.

For Health Workers:

• The Code gives health workers the responsibility to encourage and protect breastfeeding.
• Materials regarding products given to health professionals by manufacturers and distributors should be limited to ‘scientific and factual’ matters. They should not be tools to promote the use of products.
• Product samples may be given only when necessary for professional evaluation or research at the institutional level. In no case should these samples be passed on to mothers.

For Health Care Systems:

“Thank you for Breastfeeding me”

• Promotion of any product is forbidden in a health care facility. This includes the display of products, placards and posters concerning such products and distribution of materials provided by manufacturers and distributors.
• Formula feeding should be demonstrated only to those mothers or family members who need to use it and the information given should include a clear explanation of the risks of formula feeding and hazards of improper use of products.
• Donated equipment and materials should not refer to brand names of products.
• Free Supplies: Two subsequent resolutions (WHA 39.28 [1986] and WHA 47.5 [1994]) effectively call for an end to all free or low-cost supplies to any part of the health care system. Manufacturers and distributors are therefore prohibited from providing products to health care facilities for free or at low cost.

WHO is Breastfeeding? – A happy baby photo contest

For everyone who is part of Breastfeeding World, it is important to take action and join this global initiative so that we can fairly promote breastfeeding together; because of this we launched our “WHO is Breastfeeding? – A happy baby photo contest”. With this contest, we hope to encourage moms around the world to learn more about the WHO code- and it’s safe implementation.

In coordination with our Big Latch On Events quickly approaching- in NYC, Hamilton County and on Martha’s Vineyard- we decided that the winners of this photo contest would be the face of our national outreach campaign. Currently, we are designing the “Thank you for Breastfeeding Me” advocacy cards, which will be handed to all the participants of our Tri-State events.

But as you know, for Breastfeeding World every picture has to come with a story. These are the breastfeeding journey stories of these lovely mamas and babies! Meet them as you will see their pictures printed very soon!.

Shawna Sundberg –

With my first child, I was not prepared to breastfeed. In fact, I was only told it was disgusting and that I should not do it. Because I had no support, (we had moved to a new state three months prior to her being born) I just did not do it. With my second child, I was a bit more prepared, yet still was unable to breastfeed for long. I did not have any LLL or LC professionals within two hours of where I lived. So when I had a hard time with his latch and extreme pain, and taking 2 hours to feed him, I had no idea what to do. Therefore, we started formula at four months. If I had have someone with experience we would have been able to learn that he had a lip tie.

With my third child I was much better advised and researched. The internet had changed so much and there was so much more information available to me. We had a beautiful breastfeeding experience which lasted 20 months when she self weaned. My fourth, and current, baby is 8 1/2 months old and we are going strong! I have experience as well as great support where we live now. I love that breastfeeding isn’t as it was 13 years ago when I had my first. I love that it’s becoming more and more normalized…as it should be.

Sarah Brown –

“The way she snuggles right up too me is the best feeling any mommy can experience.” – Sarah Brown

Joni Jones –

admin

A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Thank you for Breastfeeding Me – Photo Contest appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Human Milk Banking started in Austria in 1909!

HMBANA was started in 1985, but formal milk banking has a much longer history. While wet nursing was a common historical practice, the push toward “hygienic” health care practices in the western world led to the development of milk banks in the early 1900’s as a more medically friendly way of delivering human milk to babies who needed it. The first milk bank was started in Vienna, Austria in 1909, and in 1919 banks opened in Boston and Germany. The Dionne quintuplets of Quebec, Canada were some of the early famous recipients of donor milk, receiving over 8,000 ounces of milk in the 1930’s.

Amid the AIDS crisis of the mid 1980’s, HMBANA was formed to create rigorous standards for milk banking and protect the dwindling number of banks. Over the last 30 years, milk banking has flourished, with 24 banks in operation across North America and 5 more in development. While supplies are concentrated towards premature infants in hospital NICU’s, milk banks also serve babies living at home with medical conditions and occasionally healthy babies who have been adopted or are otherwise unable to receive their mother’s milk.

In 2015 approximately 552,761 ounces of milk were dispensed!

Mothers interested in donating to a milk bank must meet several requirements, including donating a minimum of 100 ounces and free from most medications or supplements. If a mother meets the requirements, the milk bank handles any shipping and screening costs. In 2015, the number of donors increased by over 100, and 552,761 ounces of milk were dispensed!

Donating pumped milk to a milk bank can be one way of connecting with the larger community of mothers and babies. If you or a nursing mother you know are interested in formal milk donation, check out https://www.hmbana.org/locations to find the location closest to you!

Information adapted from www.hmbana.org

Have you ever donated Breastmilk to a milk bank? What was your experience? We’d love to hear about it! Drop us a comment below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Adara Blake

Adara is a speech-language pathologist and IBCLC currently living in Philadelphia. She is a proud alumna of New York University as well as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Adara seeks to use her clinical background in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders to complement her lactation training, in order to better serve families who are experiencing difficulty during breastfeeding. She also has an specific interest in improving visibility and support for breastfeeding among women of color.

The post Human Milk Banking appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Nothing Better <3

Although bed–sharing is becoming more and more a topic of open conversation in parenting choices in the U.S. these days, before I became pregnant I thought it was kind of strange and not for me. I could not imagine having my baby in bed while still getting sleep and forget trying to have time with my husband. I just couldn’t wrap my head around the idea of ever choosing that for my family. I read in the most popular (at the time) parenting books when to have baby in his own crib and room; how to get a bedside bassinet at first then to move baby to his own room only after a few months. To be honest, that sounded fine. As a new mom-to-be, three months of having my baby in my room seemed long. Plus, I wanted my babies to all be independent and learn to soothe themselves and to sleep through the night.

Co–sleeping at it’s most precious moment. <3

Well, let me tell you, my pre-mama way of thinking disgusts me, now! I can’t believe I thought that was normal. I can’t believe society and our culture taught me to think this was normal in the beginning.
I’m beyond happy that after I gave birth I listened to my mommy instincts, did research for safe co-sleeping and I kept my baby right next to me. Co-sleeping is one of the best parenting choices I’ve ever made, especially for breastfeeding!
Not only has co-sleeping helped me get more sleep, it helps with my babies sleeping more, too, because breastfeeding is right there when it is needed. No extra yelling or crying for me to come and feed them, therefore no extra waking up and becoming upset. Co-sleeping helped increase and keep my supply up always having my babies right next to me all night; and for me, practicing safe co-sleeping always helped relieve my mommy (postpartum) anxiety because I knew my baby was okay.

One of the only co–sleeping pics my husband snapped of our first. Thank God he got a few with our baby boy. <3

Each baby is different so co-sleeping with each might look different. For my son, I started with him in a bedside bassinet, but he and I both hated it. We would both fully wake up at each feeding and we were so uncomfortable. About a month postpartum I finally breastfed him lying down, with him on the inside of our bed and we slept better that night than ever! We co–slept until 13-14 months, and we still snuggle in the mornings, now at 3.5 years old. With my daughter, she is a kicker and LOVES her own space, but does not like being alone. I always babywore her and nursed her to sleep but would put her in a bedside bassinet until about six months old. Then we co–slept in our bed until after her first birthday, and her crib was in our room for a few months after that. I always had monitors on both cribs and check on them a few times (at least) a night once in their own room.

“Each baby is different so co-sleeping with each might be different…”

My <3

TRIGGER: As I sat down to finish this post this week, I coincidently saw a post on Facebook of yet another young infant died from SIDS. It frustrates me and upsets me to tears that specialist, doctors and scientists still majority of the time in our country say they cannot know for sure exactly what causes SIDS and disapprove co-sleeping stating they are connected. I’m a journalist and I know better than to contradict the supposedly non-biased facts out there done by these so-called professionals, especially the specialist; however, as a mom, a well-educated, thoughtful, and passionate mom, who uses commonsense (every action has a reaction) I say BS. Because if you do research there are studies and enough data out there that does prove when co–sleeping is done correctly it is the safest form of sleeping for baby. The type of language used in the studies, giving different scenarios of how a baby 0 months–1 year died from SIDS easily confuses the interpretation of the data to put the findings in to a clear answer: Should my baby co–sleep or should he be in a crib?

So peaceful <3

Another factor that confuses the data’s findings is that co-sleeping WITH exclusively breastfeeding saves thousands of babies per year, and “cuts SIDS risk and may cut overall infant death risk in half” – not just co–sleeping on it’s own.
You will find many organizations with conclusive evidence stating while following safe guidelines for proper co–sleeping (and preferably exclusively breastfed), it is what is best and commonly practiced around the world. Organizations such as La Leche League, Breastfeeding USA, and birth professionals and authors such as Ina May Gaskin, McKenna, J. and McDade, T., all support and encourage safe co–sleeping, especially while exclusively breastfeeding.

My baby boy right next to me <3

According to Le Leche League, “The four biggest issues associated with SIDS are 1) smoking, 2) laying a baby facedown for sleep, 3) leaving a baby unattended, and 4) formula feeding.” For majority of babies, these are not always top factors for the chance of SIDS; however, for babies who majority die from SIDS, “it happens in a small group of vulnerable babies who have very specific but undiagnosed health issues.” Therefore, it is unknown if your baby is more vulnerable before, so there is a greater need for a vulnerable baby to be in arms reach of his/her mother to prevent dying from SIDS. Safe co-sleeping provides the biological and instinctual reaction to assist a vulnerable baby and can prevent SIDS. Maybe if our culture accepted and encouraged safe co–sleeping, like in other countries, new and experienced parents would know the benefits of co–sleeping and less babies would die from SIDS.

Breastfeeding and co–sleeping <3

Let us know your experience with breastfeeding and co–sleeping and please practice safe bed–sharing. Much love to you!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Co-Sleeping and Breastfeeding appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

In the beginning. <3

A friend of mine posted a question on Facebook the other week asking if (us) breastfeeding mamas had to change our diet while nursing, what we had to cut, for how long, and what changes we saw in our babies after. This is her second baby and it was déjà vu for me because I had such a different time nursing my second time around, as well.

Right when my Little Miss was born. My perfect little girl. <3

Right away, my daughter nursed so differently than my son did, which is okay because every baby is different, but it wasn’t until a few weeks old that we started to notice it was more than that. She would nurse so quickly, unlatching sometimes right after my letdown (spilling milk and I would try to catch it), but would want to nurse again very quickly because she would spit up almost after every feeding. She would only nurse from one breast and it would take forever for her to burp. Then if we could get her to finally burp, she would have hiccups and spit up. With my son, he was calm and would stay latched forever, falling asleep at almost every feeding the first few months (milk drunk), never spit up, never had trouble burping after a feeding and always nursed from both breasts each feeding.

So tiny and loving her milk.

When she started to spit up after every feeding, she also became very upset and fussy most of the day, especially from noon until midnight. It was so awful and frustrating, I felt like we could never leave the house. At first I thought it was just something I kept eating, so I started to pay attention to my diet and I figure it had to be all the spicy food I loved eating. I already ate a dairy–free and egg–free diet, and I babywore her almost always. But after all that, cutting out the spicy foods included, it still seemed to not make a big enough difference for her. I became desperate and went to our pediatrician, who gave us a prescription for baby reflux. But, after 5 days of her being on the medication I just started having a bad feeling about this harsh medicine in her tiny body. After researching and reading all the potential side effects, my husband and I decided that our daughter would immediately stop using it that day.

Boob pillow! Milk drunk and out. <3

We researched everything on natural, homeopathic and naturopathic ways to help manage or even cure baby reflux that night. My husband came across this blog or parent conversation board where this husband and his wife had figured out the right treatment plan that cured their baby from reflux. The next day we went and got what we needed and made the right appointments to get our baby girl the relief we were praying for. After a little over a week of following this plan our Little Miss was cured. No joke, you didn’t read that wrong – cured! Below are the homeopathic remedies she took, the specialists she saw, and the treatment plan we stuck to.
– I cut out onions, garlic, broccoli, peppers (all but a few bell here and there), caffeine, dairy, eggs, and all spicy foods. It was hard at first but I stuck to this diet until she was 7-8 months, then only slowly brought back these foods until after her first birthday.

Image from Google

– Hylands #10 Nat Phos 6, one after each feeding. We called these her ‘little baby tums.’ They easily dissolve, which can be crushed up and given to baby directly, or use a baby medicine or breastmilk syringe with a drop of water or breastmilk.
– Boiron Nux Vomica 30c, twice a day, morning and night. These are harder and take a little bit to dissolve, so I used a syringe with either some breastmilk or a few drops of water and swirled it around until completely dissolved to give to baby.
– One trip to a specialized pediatric chiropractor for a post birth therapy session. We’re spoiled and have a few great practices here in Portland with great homeopathic, pediatric chiropractors, but you should be able to find one in your area.

Image from Google

– One dose of pediatric probiotics applied to a pacifier or your nipple right before breastfeeding once a day. I was given a great one by my daughter’s pediatric chiropractor.
– Warm bath before bedtime every night. This is a great way to calm and relax colicky or reflux babies. Even if they don’t seem to like it at first, be consistent and continue giving them a warm bath as part of their night routine.
– Castor Oil tummy massage after bath, then cover with a washcloth, and clothe in a onesie. Maybe use onesies you don’t care about because the castor oil can stain.
– Dress baby in loose clothes, no tight waist bands, and be mindful of how tight the baby’s diaper is.
– When changing baby’s diaper, instead of pulling up her/his legs, like we’re taught, gently roll baby slightly to her/his side and carefully lift her/his leg up to wipe and replace a diaper.
All of this treatment was approved and encouraged by our pediatric chiropractor and my daughter’s pediatrician.

My baby girl, now. Not such a baby at 22 months old, but always one to me.

This may seem like a lot but it’s far better than the alternative, and we did this for only four days and saw a huge improvement! Every baby is different and my daughter was not diagnosed with sever GERDs, so it might take longer than a week or more pediatric chiropractic appointments than it did for my daughter, but it’s worth it.
I will say the first two days are a little tough because there isn’t an overnight change when you first start the treatment. But being consistent and just sticking with it will payoff, trust me.
I kept the homeopathic remedies on hand in her diaper bag in case she became irritated here and there, but we really didn’t have to use them much after a couple of weeks of treatment.

I’m not a medical professional nor do I have a medical license, but I do believe this treatment plan has to be better for babies bodies in the long run. This is what worked for my baby and our family, and it’s important that I share our experience with more parents because it could also cure your baby’s reflux.

We would love to hear from you! What has been your experience with Exclusively Breastfeeding and using a Binky? Share it with us in the comments below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

–

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Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Breastfeeding a Colicky or Reflux Baby appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

One of the most exciting parts for me as his mother is introducing him to starting solids.

Baby Boy is 6 months old

Not to step on any toes or start any mommy wars, but one of my pet peeves as a childcare professional is hearing about infants being given cereals or baby food too soon. Not all doctors are up to date with the latest research. For example, my doctor told my husband and I that there are really no extra benefits to full term breastfeeding with my daughter (nursing her past 1 year). So much research supports delaying solids with infants,and it’s backed up by many leading health organizations, worldwide. If your doctor does recommend beginning your infant before six months,  I encourage you to discuss the research with him  or her before making a final decision about starting solids.

When you know better, you do better.

3 Reasons to Delay Introducing Solids

• Open Gut

From Birth to about 6 months of age, infants have what is referred to as an open gut. This allows whole proteins and pathogens to be able to enter your infants bloodstream easily. That is wonderful news for breastfed babies! Unfortunately, it is also the same reason why you should not start solids before 6 months. Open gut, when introduced to solid foods, allows allergy inducing proteins and disease causing pathogens to move into the bloodstream. That is why it is so important to only breast (or bottle) feed the first 6 months. Breast milk helps to coat the babies digestive system, which aids in preventing illnesses and allergies as your baby grows.

It is important to wait until your baby’s gut is closed before starting solids

• Developmentally More Prepared

According to Kelly Mom, baby must meet these certain developmental milestones to begin starting solids.

1. Sit up well without support.
2. Lose the tongue-thrust reflex which pushes food back out of their mouth.
3. Be ready and willing to chew.
4. Begin developing a “pincer” grasp. (Essential for baby led weaning.)
5. Be eager to participate in mealtime, shown grabbing food and trying to put it in his mouth.
6. Show an increased desire to nurse unrelated to any illnesses, teething pains, or growth spurts.

O exhibiting the developmental milestone of reaching for food

Some of these milestones, particularly number 6, can be hard to identify. That is why it is important to look at all the milestones as a whole. This includes your baby reaching 6 months of age.

• Nutritional Needs are Met through Breastmilk

There are several adages that help exhausted nursing mothers remember tips and tricks. “Breast is best”, “nipple to nose” (for latch), and “food before one is just for fun.” Breast milk truly is a perfect food for babies, particularly those under six months. For the first six months, babies dietary and nutritional needs are met through breast milk (or formula), there is no need for supplementing it with solids.   The World Health Organization says

Breastfeeding is an unequalled way of providing ideal food for the healthy growth and development of infants… A recent review of evidence has shown that, on a population basis, exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is the optimal way of feeding infants

I’ve heard a lot of moms say “well my baby was just so hungry,” but the fact is, ounce for ounce, breast milk is more calorie rich than solid foods.

Chunky Man is pretty Happy being exclusively breastfed for his first 6 months!

We are so excited to start solids this month! Knowing that my breast milk has supplied Little Man with his building blocks of nutrition before starting solids is empowering! When have you decided to start solids with your little one? What fueled that decision?

Other Information and reputable sources on delaying starting solids:

Starting Solids: Why I chose to make my baby’s food (and how you can too!)

Baby Led Weaning: Where to Begin?

kellymom.com

world health organization

American Academy of Pediatrics

Lauren Lewis

Lauren Lewis is no stranger to childcare development, having spent over 10 years as a nanny or family childcare provider. She’s the wife of a travel geek, mother of two vivacious children, and has an amazing talent for trailing lost things behind her a la Hansel and Gretel. Her passion for lifting up women and advocating for children pours out in her work as a Central Indiana Event Coordinator, Writer, and Social Media Relations Director for Breastfeeding World. Her life is full of busy, crazy and LOUD. It is full of love and hope, ups and downs. And coffee, always lots of coffee- but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

www.raisinglaurenslittle.wordpress.com

The post When Your Baby Begins Starting Solids: 3 Reasons to Delay appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

What my Monday morning looked like.

Early Monday morning, on Dec. 1^st, around 2 a.m., my 3-year-old son came into our room, woke me up and climbed into bed with my husband and I. He had been sick with what we thought was a cold since the Tuesday before, but by the fourth night he was wheezy and breathing deep while sleeping. He would wake about half way through the night for two nights but would fall back asleep with us the rest of the night. But by the third night of wheezy breathing (sixth night total of being sick), this early Monday morning, there was just something different and worse this time.
The morning of Dec. 1^st, from 2 a.m. until 6 a.m. felt like many more hours had past because all three of us were falling in and out of sleep, but not actually getting any sleep at all. He was starting to have a really hard time breathing, struggling in fact, and was feeling a little feverish.

Breastfeeding in emergency situations can be very handy and specially nourishing for your children

My babies in arms in a hospital bed. My poor boy.

After getting our son in a steaming shower and calling the on-call nurse by 6:30 a.m., we were told to go to the ER. We were shocked and I felt it was all happening so fast. He seemed fine in the day, almost seemed like he was improving, he just had some minor cold symptoms. By 8 a.m. we were at the ER and back in a room with a doctor and nurses. My husband had to go to work but was going to try and get off early and meet us there, so I told him not to worry and I would keep him updated. Never did I think we would be there all day and he would be admitted to stay the night. With in 15 minutes of being in the ER, he was diagnosed with Croup (severe) and was given breathing treatment and steroids. He was in a lot of pain, exhausted, confused, and just wanted to go home.
I had babyworn my 19-month-old daughter in, so she was with the two of us, in the hospital bed during all of it. Now, I was trying to be prepared and packed a snack bag, but I forgot it in the car in all the chaos. Little Miss and I were starting to really need food even though she had morning nursed already before getting there. The nurses did what they could and brought us a few snacks but we were still hungry.

Breastfeeding in an emergency.

So conveniently, even under stress and with little to no food, I breastfed her all morning! This made caring for my son so much easier because I did not have to worry if my daughter was starving to death and she got what she needed. My daughter stayed calm and helpful (90% of the time), just sitting in the bed with her poor sick brother and myself because she could nurse. She didn’t get grumpy and act out, she didn’t feel left out or ignored, and she didn’t need special attention. All because of breastfeeding! I didn’t need to get out of bed, stop holding my son, stop helping the nurses with him to get or make food or milk for her because of breastfeeding. I am so grateful for being able to breastfeed and sticking with it. I love that because of breastfeeding, I was able to nurture my very sick son in a scary situation, while also nurturing my 19-month-old all by myself!

Our sweet nurse pulling my babies in the hospital’s pediatric wagon after 10 hours of being there. They were getting restless.

Because of breastfeeding, both my babies were taken care of and I felt like a supermom never missing a thing for my babies.

We want to hear from you: What’s your breastfeeding in emergency situations story? Drop us a comment below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Breastfeeding in Emergency Situations appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

All nursing moms dread the moment when their sweet nursing babe that has been all gummy smiles and bright eyes until this point, sprouts their first tooth! Don’t get me wrong, getting teeth is a big step for our babies, and I was so excited for my son, as it meant there was a whole world of foods he was getting ready to explore, but what would it mean for my nipples? And then it happened…

My son bit me, and hard enough to draw blood.

There is no perfect way to deal with biting. The experts say “don’t yell because then you will scare the baby and they might go on a nursing strike” which is horrible, because I have a goal of nursing my son at least 2 years, so I didn’t want that to happen, and yet it is very hard not to let out a shreak when your nipple was just bit, and those cute little teeth dragged from the base of your nipple to the very tip, leaving a nice little slice in their wake.

Our biting season went on for 2 weeks, which may not sound like much but 2 weeks is a LONG time to have your nipples munched on several times a day, every day. For a few days I even resulted to pumping and giving it to him in a sippy cup, more because I was afraid of being bit than the actual bite itself. I think the worst part for me, was that he would bite me, and I would immediately take him off and give him a very stern “no, that hurts mommy” and my sweet, precious son would laugh! Even though I KNOW that it isn’t logical, and he didn’t really understand what I meant, that really hurt my feelings.

If your are going through a biting season, there are so many things you can try. My sister-in-law swears that her son bit her once and she screamed and that scared him enough he never do it again (like I said above, experts don’t recommend that technique). I was advised by one friend to pinch the back of his arm or leg so he would’t know it was me doing it but he would begin to associate the bite with mild pain (as I’ve said before, no judgment here) and what I found worked best for me was, I would immediately stop nursing, and put him on the floor facing away from me for a few seconds, maybe a minute and then try nursing again later. Also be very aware during your nursing sessions, watch your little one’s face and mouth for signs that they might be done and a bite is coming. That way you can take them off before IT happens.

Whatever you choose to try, I want to encourage you by telling you that it doesn’t last forever. Your baby will catch on, and he or she will stop biting. It may be a few days, or it may be 2 weeks, but your nursing relationship can continue, and your nipples will heal! Hang in there mama you are not alone in this biting season!

We would love to hear from you! Please share with us what helped you and your baby during your own biting season? Any techniques you know of that may help the process? Leave us a comment below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Hailey Mugica

I’m a stay at home mommy to my precious son Ryker, and a wife to my hunky husband Richard. I remember being completely shocked and discouraged by the difficulty of breastfeeding in those early days so I am so excited to get to come up alongside you and to be a source of encouragement on your breastfeeding journey. I am passionate about breastfeeding, baby-led weaning, baby wearing, and joining women together with the common goal of nurturing our families and homes with a Christ-centered focus. Follow me on Instagram and Pinterest @gracebeyondblog to keep up with our day-to-day.

www.gracebeyondmeasuringspoons.com

The post Encouragement for the dreaded breastfeeding through “biting season” appeared first on Breastfeeding World.