Breastfeeding | Mommies With Style

Newborn Neccessities: Soothing the Boobies

May 21, 2010 By kristi 1 Comment

I heard and read lots about how painful nursing could be, but until I experienced it myself I had NO idea. The first few days were a breeze and I really thought that I was the exception. I was sorely mistaken (no pun intended). It took a full 8 weeks to stop wincing each time Gianna latched on. With a lot of reassurance from friends and my Medela Breast Care Gift Set, I was able to successfully get through those tough days. That’s why the Medela Breast Care Gift Set is #3 on my top ten list of Newborn Necessities.

Filled with nursing essentials, the gift set is a cute and compact solution to many early breastfeeding troubles. The set contains 12 disposable bra pads, a 2oz tube of Tender Care Lanolin Advanced Nipple Therapy, 2 Tender Care Hydrogel pads, a Mother’s Minder bracelet, and an info/breastfeeding log. Having all of these products together in one little bag made traveling super easy – especially since we went out of town for a wedding just 3 short weeks after Gianna arrived.

The breast care set would make an excellent gift for a baby shower or when visiting a new mommy. Every nursing mother experiences some discomfort and frustration. Share some relief and a little support with these tools. The Medela Breast Care Gift Set can be purchased at Motherhood Maternity and Amazon.com from $24.

A sample of the Medela Breast Care Gift Set was provided for review on MWS.

Filed Under: Babies, Breastfeeding, Mommy Time Tagged With: breast pump, Breastfeeding, nursing

Bravado introduces a line at Target

March 20, 2010 By julie 1 Comment

This winter, Bravado, who’s bras usually tend toward the pricier of the nursing group, began stocking racks at Target, making their brand available to the mainstream. Labeled Basics by Bravado!, its a smaller, less frills line than the fancy Bravado brand bras. Available in only a few “natural” colors and 3 styles: the Emma (Sleep bra), Stella (Nursing bra) and Felicity (Nursing cami).

I love these bras. No. Really. I mean, I know it sounds strange to say I love a bra, but if you have to wear one, wear one that’s comfortable, easy to use and looks decent, right? So today I was wearing a top that had a pretty low-cut V (which Little insists on pulling down all the time) and the Stella Nursing bra looked like a cute tank top underneath. Making it even better, the strap clips are so simple to un- and attach.

The Basics by Bravado! website has a great calculator/chart on their webpage to help nursing moms find which bra fits her needs, and you’ll read on their site about the Spot, Click & Enter sweepstakes they’re hosting.

Moms-to-be, these are great bras, and they’re a fantastic introduction into the world of nursing, at a fabulous price point. I remember when I was pregnant with my first (goodness! that was 7 years ago!!) I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a bra when I didn’t know how long I’d last breastfeeding. Now that Bravado has a line available at Target, its an affordable way to know you’re trying breastfeeding in comfort.

I’m a Bravado Mama Ambassador on my blog, Just Preicous. As an ambassador, I’ve recieved samples, information and compensation.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: basics by bravado, bravado, Breastfeeding, nursing, target

The Go Pillow!: A must have item for on the go travel

March 8, 2010 By debbie Leave a Comment

Another product we brought along on our trip was the GoPillow! My son and daughter loved the Go Pillow! so much that they actually fought over whose turn it was to have it! The GoPillow! is a portable pillow that has a built-in blanket tucked away inside. My kids loved snuggling with it on the airplane (of course taking turns), since it is super soft and cozy. The portable pillow consists of an inner core of soft, pliable cushion/foam and a soft outer fabric covering.

The Go Pillow! reminds me of a cylinder type pillow that you can place your hand on up to your elbow inside to securely cradle your child while feeding them. The built-in blanket tucks neatly inside, providing easy access to pull out while on the go to allow for mother and baby privacy while out in public breast feeding.

Besides being great for snuggling and breast feeding, it also makes a fabulous nap blanket since your child can rest their head on the pillow while lying on the blanket. Additionally, it makes for a nice place to change your child’s diaper. The GoPillow! is washable (we were thrilled since we took it on the plane) and is available in pink and blue. Check out the GoPillow! where you can see pictures of the fabulous ways it can be of use! Receive a free breastfeeding guide with every purchase-no code required.

Filed Under: Babies, Baby Bedding, Breastfeeding, Diapering, Family Travel, Feeding Baby, Kids, On The Go Tagged With: blanket, bottle feeding, Breastfeeding, Family Travel, GoPillow, nap, sleeping

Breastfeeding? You can still spice it up with Bravado’s Sexy New Lines, Plus a Giveaway!

February 10, 2010 By julie

I have been so impressed with Bravado Designs while wearing their bras the past month. They sent me samples of the Sublime Nursing Bra and Panties and the Allure Underwire Nursing Bra and Panties and I have to tell you that all the Bravado bravo is completely warranted. There’s a reason this nursing bra line has such a reputation: it looks good, feels good, works well with baby and (best part) holds up well through multiple washings.

When Bravado offered to send me a set of each of these lines (both the bras and the panties to match) I was happy to try them out. A little skeptical, I wondered how much I would enjoy these bras more than others? For all the reasons above, Bravado bras have been fantastic.

And, whewee!, are they sexy! I was never a lacy-unders wearer and wearing the lacy-little-Sublime necessities I know I look sexier than when in my bulky old nursing bras. So this Valentine’s Day, I’m sure I’ll wear my Sublime Nursing Bra and matching panties and I’ll feel sexier.

I’ll also share that I was very skeptical about wearing the Allure Underwire Bra when breastfeeding. As I’ve shared in the past, my boobies have become alternately known as my saggy baggies, and I know that underwire lifts those bags and adds shape. Still, as a breastfeeder, I worried that the underwire would inhibit my flow. Not at all. I’m not a professional fitter, but I can easily compare bras with bras and tell you that if the bra is made well and fits right, its not going to bother you when feeding.

So, the giveaway: Enter to win an Ultimate Nursing Bra Wardrobe like mine. One winner will receive one set of Allure Underwire Nursing Bra and panties and one set of Sublime Nursing Bra and panties. Please comment to this post on Mommies with Style telling us why you want to win. Make sure to include your e-mail address because if we can’t contact you, you won’t know you won. Winners will have 48 hours to respond to our e-mail before forfeiting the prize. Winner’s name will be drawn through random.org on Sunday, February 14, a gift for one lucky Valentine.

Bravado sent me samples of both of these bra sets for this review. They are also providing the giveaway prizes, which will be shipped from their location. Completely separate from writing this review and hosting the giveaway at Mommies with Style, Bravado Designs invited me to be a Bravado Mama Ambassador on my personal blog, Just Precious.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, Giveaways Tagged With: bravado, Breastfeeding, giveaway

Expressiva Nursingwear: Ease, Comfort and Style while Breastfeeding

January 13, 2010 By julie Leave a Comment

Nursingwear is hard enough to find, let alone find some that isn’t frumpy. Expressiva is an entire site dedicated to nursingwear, and a great place to shop prior to having your baby. You’ll find an excellent selection of bras, catorgized by use.

I was sent a sample of their Smocked Tunic Top (in brown) which looks good and works so well for breastfeeding. The organic cotton shirt ran a little big (I recieved size XS) but that’s usually a good thing when you’re breastfeeding. Also on their site are dresses, swimsuits(!) (you have no idea how long I looked for nursing swimsuits in years past!), sleepwear and accessories.

Check out their post-holiday sale event for items off to 70% off.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: Breastfeeding, expressiva, nursing

Snugli Sway: A Baby Carrier That Eases the Breastfeeding Way

October 10, 2009 By julie 3 Comments

Times are busy with a newborn, a preschooler and a Kindergartner. After a speedy visit to the grocery store this morning, I had little time to unload my groceries, feed Baby A and pick up the preschooler. So I was searching for anything I could do to help me multitask.

I grabbed the Snugli Sway Soft Carrier by Evenflo, which keeps babies warn and supported as a parent slings him or her. It was created to support a baby while she breastfeeds with an elevated, cushioned pillow area that remains open enough so that baby can easily feed.

Its also a great beginner’s sling. With an Interior Safety Harness, babies are placed inside securely and correctly, and it provides a lot cushion around your shoulders as well as around the baby. Plus, with the open head area, parents aren’t concerned about baby being covered too much.

So, pressed for time, I put Baby A in the Sway, tossed all my groceries in the fridge and the pantry and bagged lunch for a picnic, all the while breastfeeding my 9 week old. Multitasking at its best.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, Slings & Carriers Tagged With: Breastfeeding, Evenflo, sling, snugli sway

Quick & easy nursing privacy with the LatchOn, plus a 15% off coupon code

October 5, 2009 By julie 2 Comments

When we first heard of the latchOn by The Button Barn, Whitney and I were skeptical. We weren’t sure why one would need a ribbon with clips when you could just use one of the many other breastfeeding tools–one that actually has a ribbon attached to a blanket or sheet for privacy when you’re breastfeeding.

About 20 minutes later, baby A needed to eat. I opened my diaper bag to find I’d left my cover in the dryer at home. As I tried to drape a blanket over me that kept falling, I longed for a latchOn. The latchOn, which clips onto any blanket and makes it a nursing cover, folds up small so that carrying it in your diaper bag takes up little space. Its easy to always have with you. If you are using a nursing cover and baby spits up on it, or if you only have room in your bag for a breastfeeding cover or a blanket, you’ll grab the blanket and know you’re covered.

latchOn sent me a sample and its turned out to be a useful accessory. Definitely and item to keep in the bag–at all times. It attaches with ease to any blanket, towel, or sheet. Its now a ”must carry” in my diaper bag.

Use code button15barn to save 15%.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, Coupon Codes & Sales Tagged With: Breastfeeding, coupon code, latchOn, nursing

With a Pumpin’ Pal You Can Sit back, Relax and Pump

September 3, 2009 By julie 1 Comment

pumpinpal If you’ve been reading my recent reviews, you know I’m not a fan of pumping. And I’m looking for anything I can do to make pumping easier and, when possible, a little more enjoyable.

I received a sample of a Pumpin’ Pal and, with hope of relaxation, strapped it on to try it out. It took a little adjusting and getting used to, but once set, I was able to use my electric pump and have 2 hands able to do other things. Having my hands free lets me enjoy pumping a tiny but more as I’m able to distract myself with something else. I’m still not running around, chasing the kids or working out, but pumping hands free lets me type, write, and, if I’m lucky, maybe even fold some laundry.

Pumpin’ Pals make pumping life a little bit easier. When I’m pumping, every little bit helps.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: Breastfeeding, nursing, pumpin pals

Getting ready to breastfeed with Mountain Blue Eyes

July 14, 2009 By julie Leave a Comment

This time around, its all about comfort and ease. I’m sure there will be occasions that I’ll look for flashy, attention-grabbing looks in the next year, but, really, when it comes to breastfeeding, I’m totally preparing for a year of comfort in my style.

Mountain Blue Eyes has comfort that compliments. Their line compliments your body and style. Nursing mothers get easy-access feeding in breathable, moveable, flexible clothing. Mountain Blue Eyes style is all about Colorado mountain comfort. I have the tank and the nursing tee, both made of quick-dry polyester, which any summer-time nursing mama knows is ideal. And this fall I’m certain to add the nursing fleece to my wardrobe, maybe two, as I imagine I’ll want to wear it almost daily.

Pricing is Canadian, so click over to a currency converter to configure the pricing if you’re in the US. (The US dollar, thankfully from this end, is better.) All phone and e-mail orders that mention Mommies with Style will receive a 15% discount. And when you order 2 or more items you’ll receive free shipping.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: Breastfeeding, nursing clothing, nursing top

Aunt LaLa’s Log: Start Your Breastfeeding Experience with Organization (we’re giving away three!)

June 21, 2009 By julie 8 Comments

blue-lattice-open-small Breastfeeders and future breastfeeders take note: organization helps. A lot.

When Deena Wachtel had her baby she thought she was ready. But when it came time to breastfeed she was shocked at all the information a new mom needs to keep:

How long?
Which breast?
How long between feedings?

And while she could jot it down in a disorganized fashion on scraps of paper and try to keep a good record for the docs and nurses that bombard new moms with questions, she realized that what she really needed was a log. Thankfully, her sister, Lisa Lewis, aka Aunt LaLa, came to the rescue as she raced home to create a breastfeeding log.

Aunt LaLa’s Log is a handcrafted, hard bound journal featuring only 100% post-consumer recycled papers. It includes areas to record breastfeeding statistics, poops and pees, and medication and growth records for baby’s first 3 months, this useful journal becomes a keepsake. Select from 15 cover designs to fit your (or your giftee’s) style.

We’re giving away THREE Aunt LaLa’s Logs to Mommies with Style Readers. Click over to Rosie Bear and select your favorite log. Then come back here and comment to this post to tell us which one you’ll select if you’re the winner. Three winners will be selected next week. Make sure you include a valid e-mail address (we can’t contact you if you don’t). Winners will have 24 hours to reply to our e-mail before we select an alternate.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, Giveaways Tagged With: aunt lala's log, Breastfeeding, Giveaways, journal, nursing

Unique Breastfeeding, (or as Mommy-Samantha calls them) Easy Access, Tops

June 11, 2009 By julie Leave a Comment

Packages from Eva Lillian are always a surprise. Not so much because I don’t know they’re coming, but because their products are much more unique than their competitors. So many nursing tops have the second layer or a pocket to feed. Eva Lillian nursing tops find different ways to breastfeed, which makes them not only unique, but often wearable post-breastfeeding.

Example, the Desiree Nursing Top (featured) with full wrap and a removable bandeau. It offers easy access and covers areas you’d rather have covered… like that post baby blub.

Another unique nursing top (that I am seriously excited to wear!), check out the Jessie Nursing Tunic. It can be worn as a cowl neck or off the shoulder with a fitting and complementary body. Its a sexy and stylish look that can be dressed up enough for a fancy night out and just as easily dressed down with jeans. The neck of the tunic is wide enough to just pull out of the way for breastfeeding (again, easy access and great for a sling or cover.) Eva Lillian claims this is a great top to wear when breastfeeding twins because access is so easy on both breasts… it makes sense.

Whether your looking for “easy access” tops, a new look or want to try a different type of nursing clothing, click on over to Eva Lillian Boutique and save 10% off all nursingwear when you use code STYLE.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: Breastfeeding, eva lillian, nursing

Ready to Pump with Ameda’s Newest Electric Breast Pump

May 27, 2009 By julie Leave a Comment

There is nothing like a good breast pump. I used to cry pumping with a manual pump. It was the most depressing feeling in the world. I was sitting all alone in the bathroom while my husband and newborn were playing downstairs. And pumping (manually) took forever.

Until I purchased an electric breastpump by Ameda. What a difference the electric breast pump made. Suddenly I could pump quickly, adjusting the strength and speed. With a little practice, I could type while pumping. It was so easy to adjust for comfort and speed. I was filling bottles in minutes.

From personal experience, pumping takes practice. And it takes dedication. You have to realize that you’re adding a breastfeeding session to your regular schedule–which you will have enough milk produced to do as long as you’re consistent in it to build up your supply.

Happy to already have a valuable pump, I didn’t even consider the need for a new one. Until I was reminded that my old Ameda, the Purely Yours, was created before this whole BPA thing broke out and since I warm up the milk in the bottles before feeding, I realized I would need all new bottles and, probably, a pump. I didn’t consider the other brands because I was so in love with my Ameda from the past. The great news is that Ameda responded to the BPA crisis and reintroduced the Purely Yours to be BPA free. Of course, needing a new one, I’m sampling the Purely Yours Ultra which comes with Custom Fit Flanges.

That’s a new word for a new-to-pumping mama, I’m sure. Flanges are the part of the pump that grasps the breast. Its also the part that can hurt or can leak if its too tight or loose. Which is why the custom fit is so so helpful. Each kit comes with 3 different sizes so you can use the one that’s best for you (and your breast size will change throughout your pumping career, so be don’t toss the 2 you’re not using). The Ultra also includes adjustable suction and speed for each pump (there are 2 so you can quickly pump both breasts at the same time.) And, when ordering the full kit, you’ll receive a chic carry bag, cold case, car adapter (you will SO use this on vacation!) and more. Its an investment… but if you’re set on pumping its totally worth it.

Buy it at Ameda Baby and receive free shipping on orders over $39.

To read some breastfeeding tips for working Moms from Ameda, continue reading. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Breastfeeding Tagged With: Ameda breast pump, Ameda Purely Yours, breast pump, Breastfeeding

Essential Breastfeeding Log: Pack it in your hospital bag after previewing

May 23, 2009 By julie 2 Comments

Here’s something that every pregnant mommy who is even slightly considering breastfeeding should put on her wishlist… or just buy. The Essential Breastfeeding Log will become a nervous breast-feeder’s best friend. Or a seasoned one’s hero.

The spiral bound book, by Sarah Bowen Shea and Suzanne Schlosberg, begins with nearly 30 pages of easy-to-follow tips and calmers. The first 30ish pages offer honest support for breastfeeding including, my favorite: “Remember: Just because it’s natural doesn’t necessarily mean its easy” which is something I so wish I had had a friend tell me my first time (it does, however, get easier, and the paragraphs that follow this tip explain.)

Following the tips, strategies and advice, are nearly 200 invaluable log pages. Laid out in a weekly format, the log, which slips easily into your diaper bag, provides an organized layout for you to record your feeding info. Something many new-moms don’t realize is that its important to track your feedings to make certain baby is drinking, wetting, pooping as it should be. The log provides places to record all of this. (And, I might mention, you’ll win major brownie points when you bring it to baby’s ped-check-ups. The doc will love you for your organization and easy answering.) Throughout the log you’ll find tips and tidbits about breastfeeding.

So, the log takes you through 26 weeks, roughly 6 months. Following baby’s half birthday you don’t have to record as often because baby should be a fairly regular feeder at this point, and you’ll have a better feel for her schedule and needs. That doesn’t mean stop feeding, and it doesn’t mean stop logging if you don’t want to. But following the 26 weeks of log-pages, there’s a reference guide providing information about weaning, distractions and introducing solids, as well as a listing of outside resources and a place to record doctors visits.

Like I said, invaluable. Recommended for the soon-to-be-mom who doesn’t yet recognize the value, and for soon-to-be-”seasoned”-mom, who does (and might realize the value even more when she remembers that she’s also juggling preschool, t-ball, arts and crafts and field trip schedules. I don’t think that’s just me, right?)

Available at Amazon and currently listed at 25% off.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, Pregnancy & Maternity Tagged With: Breastfeeding

Beaute de Maman: Natural skincare created by an OB/GYN

April 30, 2009 By julie 1 Comment

I just cannot get over how things have changed in 6 years. Seriously. “Way back when” there seemed to be only one nipple cream on the market. And everyone pregnant woman I knew used it. It was sticky. I recall thinking to myself “well, as sticky and gross as it feels, at least its healthy, right?” And I do remember nights of relief when I did smear it on my chapped nipples.

And here we are, just 6 years later and I’m finding there are so many choices when it comes to nipple cream (and if you’ve been pregnant before, you know how important nipple cream is.) So I was thrilled to test out Nipple Gel by Beaute de Maman, a natural nipple gel alternative. Its not greasy and sticky, so it doesn’t stick to your bra, and it does allow your skin to breath as it soothes chappy, dry nipples. (Okay, I’m not breastfeeding yet, but I’m certainly doing everything I can to lather my dry skin and keep it healthy this time around.) The main ingredient, Calendula, which I’ve written of before, is a fantastic healer that I’ve been using to on my kids “owies” recently, I’m certain is going to be so helpful when the baby begins breastfeeding and my nipples dry out (its ineveitable… at least this time I’m certain to expect it.)

Also from Beaute de Maman, the Stretchmark Cream is a natural cream that goes on light and smooth. Its said to aid in the prevention of stretchmarks and I’ll do anything to avoid those! This cream contains “all natural botanical and herbal ingredients which help to preserve the skin’s elasticity and suppleness.”

Mommies with Style can use coupon code GIFTBOX for $2.00 off any Beaute de Maman product when you order online. Code can be used one time and expires 5.17.2009.

Filed Under: Bath & Body, Breastfeeding, Eco-friendly Tagged With: Breastfeeding

Old Friends Are The Best: My Brest Friend

November 13, 2008 By Momfluential Leave a Comment

Isn’t it nice when you renew an old friendship? Remember what it was you loved about your friend? Appreciate them anew?
I feel this way about my good ‘ol, rediscovered anew My Brest Friend infant feeding pillow. With so many new products on the market, it’s easy to forget about the tried and true ones. Shame on me. It was the My Brest Friend pillow that was there for me 8 years ago when I first became a breastfeeding mom. I still remember the early days when I walked around the house wearing my My Brest Friend pillow. I had the tv remote control, the phone and some lanolin cream stuffed in the pocket. I was good to go! I barely ever took that thing off. I brought it in the car. My husband teased me about my relationship with My Brest Friend. He may have even resented how inseperable we were for a time there. But I felt I would never be able to breast feed without it.
Over the years I grew more independent. I learned how to get along without My Brest Friend. I thought of her from time to time, missing her comforting hug. Let’s face it, everything is better when you have the support of a good friend. I’m just so happy that My Breast Friend is back in my life now. She’s here to stay!
If you are a breastfeeding mom, old pro or beginner, remember My Brest Friend! She’s a true pal, and won’t let you down, even as you “let down”! The My Brest Friend Pillow is available in dozens of patterns and colors. She’s sure to blend right into your scene.

Filed Under: Breastfeeding, For the Home, Nursery Tagged With: Breastfeeding

Medela Freestyle: Top Ten Things To Do While Pumping… If You Dare!

October 7, 2008 By Momfluential 1 Comment

Are you a prisoner of your pump? Bored with sitting around clutching the controls? Would you like to
break free? The new Hands Free Medela Freestyle Pump lets you do so. But what are you going to do with all that freedom?
Here’s a Handy (Hands Free!) Top Ten List for you of things you can now do while pumping… if you dare!

10. Practice all the moves to “Dancing Queen”.
9. Topiary
8. Make a three layer birthday cake with rolled fondant icing
7. Feng Shui the family room
6. Knit your own socks
5. Wash your car
4. Decorate your Christmas tree
3. Steam clean the rugs
2. Play Barbies with your four year old
And of course (perhaps more realistically)…
1. Read Mommies With Style and chat with your friends on the message boards
Continue reading the complete review for all the reasons why the Medela Freestyle is the most revolutionary, mom friendly pump ever! And don’t forget to watch the video at the top for a little mom humor sure to pick up any pumping mom’s spirits.