Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms: Preconception, Pumping & Parenting Support

If you’ve just given birth, you’ve already noticed that your life has changed completely from the way it was before you had your baby. Indeed, things are different for you both physically and emotionally, but it’s the physical changes that many new moms notice first. If you feel like your body will never get back to the way it was before, don’t despair because there are things you can do to change that.   What Do Mothers Need After Giving Birth? The word “postpartum” usually refers to the first six weeks after childbirth, and to be sure, mothers need a lot during this time frame. With all of the physical and emotional changes taking place, a new mother’s needs are extensive. To make things a little easier on you, here is a helpful postpartum checklist you can follow to help feel better both physically and emotionally.   1. Eat Healthy Foods As a new mom, it’s crucial that you eat healthy whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Keep certain “power” foods around and eat them as often as possible. These foods include veggies such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, asparagus, and kale; fruits that include pumpkin seeds, cantaloupe, and mangoes; and foods such as lean meats, beans, rice, and eggs. What you put into your body right now is more important than you think.   2. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins You’re going to feel better if you continue to get a lot of vitamins and minerals, and prenatal vitamins have everything your body needs to be healthy. You can take a standard vitamin supplement if you prefer, but taking a prenatal supplement will ensure your recovering body gets what it needs to survive and thrive. The supplements also help on those stressful days when you can’t or simply don’t eat right.   3. Sleep When the Baby Sleeps When your body is healing, it needs a lot of rest, but if you don’t sleep when the baby sleeps, you might not get the amount of rest you need. For at least the first six weeks, ask your partner or family to help with housework and laundry so that you can nap whenever the baby is napping. If you don’t have any other children, this is much easier to do, but you can also have someone babysit the older child so you can get some rest.   4. Try to Exercise When You Can Make sure you check with your doctor regarding when to start exercising again, and keep in mind that you’re not training for a marathon. Just a short walk daily can help a lot, or you can do some stretching or step exercises. Don’t overdo it, but a little bit of exercise at least three or four days per week will go a long way in helping you feel better.   5. Don’t Be Shy About Asking for Help It’s normal for things to feel overwhelming when you first get home with your new baby, so it’s a smart idea to ask for help with household chores, errands, babysitting your other children, and even cooking a meal once in a while. The more help you get, the faster you’ll recuperate both physically and emotionally from childbirth, so don’t hesitate to ask friends and family members for assistance.   6. Recognize the More Serious Symptoms Moms don’t always know when they have postpartum depression, but if you’re crying uncontrollably, feel extreme sadness, have frequent mood changes, or you’re having a lot of trouble sleeping, it’s time to consult with your doctor. You may be experiencing postpartum depression, and the doctor can help you get through it.   7. Drink as Much Water as You Can It’s easy to become dehydrated when you’re recuperating from childbirth simply because you’re too busy to concentrate on drinking enough water. Muscle soreness is one of the symptoms of dehydration, but if you concentrate on drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water per day, you’ll stay hydrated and therefore, your body will heal much faster.   8. Try Some Herbal Teas to Help You Relax In addition to your physical health, you need to also concentrate on your emotional health. It might sound difficult but it’s easier if you tell yourself that you are worth caring for when you’re a new mom! Drinking some herbal teas can help, and some of the best ones include Mother’s Milk tea, chamomile tea, and red raspberry tea. And make sure you check the labels because not all herbal tea is caffeine-free, and you don’t need caffeine when you’re healing.   Other Things to Remember When thinking about your postpartum recovery essentials, keep in mind that you need to take good care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Your hormones are running amok right now, and you don’t have control over everything they’re doing. Nevertheless, one of the things you should remember is to recognize when you need to call the doctor. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible: Sadness and crying that last more than two weeks Feelings of guilt or worthlessness Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby Loss of interest in daily activities The desire to withdraw from your family Lack of interest in your baby   Conclusion When you have a baby, both your body and your mind go through a lot of changes, and if you feel like you’ve been put through the wringer, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are things you can do to start feeling better quickly, and it starts with taking care of yourself.

If you’ve decided to breastfeed your baby, you’ve made a good choice because in every study ever done, nothing can replace breast milk. Unfortunately, many women have trouble breastfeeding, but that doesn’t mean your efforts should be abandoned. While breastfeeding involves more than just placing the breast in the baby’s mouth, there are a few things you need to learn about it before you get started, and this article should help. A Few of the Basics To breastfeed successfully requires both physical and mental preparation, but this doesn’t mean it is difficult. One thing to remember the entire time you’re nursing is that your body needs a minimum of 300-400 extra calories per day just to make the milk. This is why many doctors recommend adding 500 calories or more per day to your diet, and this is one of the most important breastfeeding tips you can learn. It’s also important to remember to start breastfeeding as soon as your baby is born. Why? Because in the first two or three days, your body is making colostrum and not milk. Colostrum is a yellowish liquid that is filled with tons of antibodies and therefore, it strengthens the baby’s immune system. This is something that baby formula can’t do, so it’s an extra perk you can pass on to your newborn. Timing is also important when it comes to successful breastfeeding, and by “timing,” we mean this: if you wish to get the baby used to both breastfeeding and the bottle, you have to firmly establish their ability to feed off the breast first, which means not introducing the bottle too early on in the process. This is because in general, babies find bottles easier to feed from, and if you introduce the bottle too soon, they may reject the breast. This is why it’s recommended that you breastfeed exclusively for a minimum of three to four weeks before you introduce the bottle. This way, the baby will be comfortable enough with the breast and won’t automatically prefer the bottle. After about three or four weeks, it’s a good time to introduce the bottle, preferably a bottle filled with breast milk. Other Tips to Remember When Breastfeeding When it comes to breastfeeding essentials, the above-mentioned tips are important, but there are other suggestions that also make breastfeeding more likely to be successful. Below are a few of the dos and don’ts to follow when you’re breastfeeding your baby. Dos: Breastfeed every two hours in the beginning. It helps increase the flow of milk and allows you to make more so your baby has enough food at all times. Change the baby’s diaper before the feeding starts. In studies it was shown that babies tend to eat more when they are wearing a diaper that is clean and dry. Remember that just because you’re not using bottles doesn’t mean there’s nothing to sterilize. Wash your hands, keep yourself clean, and sterilize the breast pump and equipment before you start to nurse. Make sure you are getting as much rest as possible and eating right so your baby gets the most from each feeding. Also, drink eight glasses of water a day to replace the fluids lost while breastfeeding. Always place the entire areola in the baby’s mouth when feeding. If they suck on just the nipple, you can experience soreness or even bleeding. Don’ts: Remember not to take any type of painkillers if you are nursing. When you’re breastfeeding, everything you take for pain has to be approved by your doctor first. Never eat spicy or gassy foods, including broccoli and cabbage, as it can affect both the smell and the taste of the milk once it gets to the baby. Don’t breastfeed if you are feeling too anxious, angry, or nervous. Try to do something to relax first, such as taking a nice warm bath or listening to your favorite music. Never give your baby anything that you think will soothe them, such as honey, sugar water, or any product with glucose in it, especially before the very first breastfeeding session. For the new breastfeeding mom, it might seem there are tons of rules you need to abide by, but if you relax, learn a few basics, and have some confidence in yourself, you’ll quickly realize that breastfeeding is not as overwhelming as it may seem in the beginning. Plus, the more you do it, the more natural and the easier it will be for both you and the baby. Of course, you’ll want to consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about breastfeeding. If you’re still in the hospital, there will likely be a lactation specialist on staff who can help you get started, which is invaluable. The most important thing to remember is to trust yourself because you are giving your baby a huge gift. When you keep in mind a few basic types, you can be a breastfeeding pro in no time. Conclusion Breastfeeding is natural and has been used to feed babies since the beginning of time, but that doesn’t mean that mothers, especially new mothers, don’t run into some challenges along the way. Keeping yourself healthy, breastfeeding frequently, placing the breast in the baby’s mouth the right way, and consulting with your doctor if you’re feeling any pain are just a few of the tips that are important to remember when you breastfeed. Keep in mind that the hospital’s lactation specialist and your obstetrician are both excellent sources of valuable information when you need it.

Breastfeeding an infant is providing that child with a great gift because there is no baby formula on the market that can offer the same benefits as breast milk. Breast milk has all the nutrients a baby needs to grow and thrive, and this includes tons of antibodies that boost their immune system. In fact, breastfeeding even has advantages for the mother, including a lower risk of breast cancer and other serious illnesses. Nevertheless, there are still important breastfeeding tips to keep in mind before you get started, and below are ten of the most important ones.   1. DO Take Good Care of Yourself When you’re breastfeeding, you should treat your body like you’re still pregnant. Eat healthy, exercise when you can, and try to get as much rest as possible. In addition, you should drink eight to ten glasses of water a day to replace the fluids you lose when breastfeeding. Finally, skip the alcohol because everything you consume, the baby will also consume.   2. DO Avoid Certain Foods Since the baby consumes what you’re consuming, it’s best to avoid foods that are too spicy, gassy, or unhealthy in any way. Stick with veggies, fruits, whole grains, and lean meats whenever possible, and remember to add roughly 500 calories per day to your diet so you are able to produce the milk the baby needs to thrive. Without doing this, you may feel weak or even sick after you nurse.   3. DO Remember to Take Care of Your Emotional Health Giving birth can be stressful, and postpartum depression is not that uncommon. One of the most important first-time mom tips to remember is that your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Before you breastfeed, make sure you aren’t stressed or have any negative feelings you’re covering up because it can affect your milk supply.   4. DO Consult with Your Doctor If You’re Experiencing Pain Sore nipples are common when breastfeeding, but you may also have pain related to a C-section or even a vaginal birth. If it goes on for too long, you should consult with your doctor so you can get some painkillers that are acceptable for breastfeeding moms. Never take any medication without checking with your doctor first. This includes both prescription medicine and over-the-counter products.   5. DO Learn How to Express Your Breast Milk Expressing your breast milk regularly allows you to store it for those times when someone else wants to feed the baby but you still want the child to be fed breast milk. An electric breast pump is well worth the expense because you’ll likely be pumping daily for as long as you’re breastfeeding. There are good manual pumps, but pumping is much easier with an electric one.   6. DON’T Start Using a Bottle Too Soon If you want to give others in the household the opportunity to feed the baby from a bottle, don’t give the baby a bottle right away. Babies find it easier to feed from a bottle and might reject the breast altogether. For the best results, breastfeed exclusively for at least three to four weeks before introducing the baby to the bottle. Then, give them a bottle once a day and increase from there.   7. DON’T Forget to Sterilize Sterilizing bottles isn’t just for moms who bottle-feed exclusively. You should regularly sterilize your breast pump and breast shield until the doctor says it’s no longer necessary. You should also keep the breast and nipple area clean and wash your hands before you start to breastfeed, at least for the first six weeks or so. If you’re not sure how long to sterilize, ask your doctor.   8. DON’T Give Up Too Soon If you’re a new mommy and feel like breastfeeding isn’t going well for you, there is usually an explanation, so don’t give up too soon. Keep breastfeeding and in the meantime, seek help from a lactation specialist, your doctor, or organizations such as La Leche League. Most of the time, you can turn things around quickly once you know what the problem is.   9. DON’T Take Any Medications Without Your Doctor’s Approval While you’re recuperating from childbirth, it’s only natural to experience pain and soreness, but many over-the-counter medications you take will pass on to the baby’s system. Because of this, you should never take any type of painkiller without the approval from your doctor. In most cases, Tylenol is one of the few medications that will be safe for you to take.   10. DON’T Give Your Baby Any Type of Sugar to Soothe Them Years ago, moms often gave newborns sugar water or even honey when they couldn’t calm them down, but this is never a good idea. Babies not only do not need any type of sweetened product, but it can be downright bad for them, especially raw honey, which they should never consume until they’re at least one year old. In fact, many doctors recommend waiting until they’re two years of age before they consume honey. Conclusion While breastfeeding is natural, it can be a bit challenging for a first-time mom. That being said, there are dos and don’ts when it comes to nursing, and once you learn what they are, breastfeeding can be a lot simpler. The most important tip to remember is to stay in contact with your doctor and always check with them beforehand if you wish to take medication, consume certain foods, or anything else that you are unsure of when it comes to nursing.

Grandparents are often a source of love, support, and wisdom. However, they may also be a source of unsolicited advice. While their intentions may be good, their advice may not always be welcomed or appropriate. This can be especially challenging if you feel pressured to follow your parents' advice or risk damaging the relationship. I think learning how to handle unsolicited advice from grandparents, or any other family members, is an important skill for anyone to have. It requires a delicate balance of respect, assertiveness, and empathy. By setting boundaries, communicating effectively, and understanding where your parents are coming from, I think it is possible to navigate these situations with grace and maintain a positive relationship with your parents and child’s grandparents. In this article, I’ll explore some tips and strategies for handling unsolicited advice from grandparents.    Tips For Effectively Handling Unsolicited Advice from Grandparents Parents often provide unsolicited advice to their adult children, especially when it comes to raising their grandbabies. While I genuinely think their intentions are usually good, and come from a place of love for their grandchildren, it can be challenging navigating this advice, especially when you didn’t ask for it and don’t agree with it.  I believe challenging grandparent styles requires a delicate balance between respect and assertiveness. Here are my tips for managing unsolicited advice from parents and grandparents or any other family member offering unwelcome advice. Set Boundaries with Grandparents Grandparents may have a tendency to offer unsolicited advice, which can sometimes be overwhelming for new parents. Therefore, setting boundaries is crucial to ensure that grandparents understand and respect the parents' decisions. Communicating Your Parenting Style It is important for parents to communicate their parenting style to grandparents. This includes discussing how they plan to raise their child, the values they want to instil, and the rules they intend to enforce. By doing so, grandparents can understand the parents' perspective and avoid offering advice that conflicts with their parenting style. Establishing Clear Limits Parents should also establish clear limits with grandparents. Setting clear boundaries with grandparents will vary depending on their grandparent styles, for example are they are ‘line crosser’, a ‘Scorekeeper’, or ‘The Hazard’. However some strategies can include setting boundaries on the amount of time grandparents spend with the child, the types of activities they engage in, and the level of involvement they have in decision-making. By setting clear limits, parents can ensure that grandparents respect their boundaries and avoid overstepping their role as grandparents.   Effective Communication Techniques Active Listening Effective communication starts with active listening. Grandparents often feel the need to give advice because they want to help. Whilst you might not agree with the advice, I think it is  important to listen to their concerns and understand where they're coming from. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, and show them that you're interested in what they have to say. This will help to build trust and create a more open dialogue. Non-Confrontational Responses When receiving unsolicited advice from grandparents, it's important to respond in a non-confrontational way. Avoid being defensive or dismissive, as this can lead to hurt feelings and a breakdown in communication. Instead, acknowledge their input and respond with a calm and respectful tone. This will help to keep the conversation positive and productive. Expressing Appreciation It's important to express appreciation for the advice that grandparents offer, even if you don't plan to follow it. Thank them for their input and let them know that you value their opinion. This will help to create a sense of mutual respect and understanding. It's also important to remember that grandparents often have a wealth of life experience and can offer valuable insights and perspectives. Choosing Battles Wisely When it comes to handling unsolicited advice from grandparents, it is important to choose your battles wisely. Not every disagreement is worth arguing about, and it is important to know when to compromise and when to stand firm. When to Compromise One strategy for dealing with unsolicited advice is to consider whether the advice is harmful or simply a matter of personal preference. If the advice is not harmful and does not significantly impact your life, it may be worth considering a compromise. For example, if a grandparent suggests a certain type of clothing for a child, but the clothing is not inappropriate or uncomfortable, it may be worth compromising and allowing the child to wear the clothing. This can help maintain a positive relationship with the grandparent and prevent unnecessary conflict. When to Stand Firm However, there are times when it is important to stand firm and assert your own boundaries. If the unsolicited advice is harmful or goes against your own beliefs and values, it is important to assert yourself and make it clear that you will not tolerate such behavior. For example, if a grandparent suggests using physical punishment on a child, it is important to stand firm and make it clear that such behavior is not acceptable. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but it is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of the child above the relationship with the grandparent.   Building a Supportive Relationship Fostering Mutual Respect One of the most important aspects of building a supportive relationship with grandparents is to foster mutual respect. It is important to acknowledge that grandparents have a wealth of life experience and knowledge, but at the same time, it is important to recognize that parents are the primary caregivers and decision-makers for their children. To foster mutual respect, parents should try to listen to their parents' advice and opinions without dismissing them outright. They should also try to explain their own perspective and reasoning in a calm and respectful manner. By doing so, grandparents are more likely to feel heard and valued, and parents are more likely to receive constructive advice that can be helpful. Creating a Positive Environment Creating a positive environment is also crucial in building a supportive relationship with grandparents. This means setting clear boundaries and expectations, and communicating them in a respectful manner. For example, parents can let their grandparents know what kind of advice they are open to receiving, and what kind of advice they prefer not to hear. It is also important to show appreciation and gratitude for the grandparents' involvement in the family. This can be done through small gestures such as saying thank you, inviting them over for family events, or simply spending quality time together. By creating a positive environment, grandparents are more likely to feel valued and respected, and parents are more likely to receive helpful advice without feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. Seeking External Support When dealing with unsolicited advice from grandparents, seeking external support can be helpful. This section will discuss two options for external support: professional guidance and community forums. Professional Guidance One option for seeking external support is to consult with a professional, such as a therapist or counselor. These professionals can offer guidance on how to navigate difficult conversations with grandparents, especially in the case of a broken relationship. They can also help provide tips and advice for grandparents how may also be feeling unheard.  It is important to find a professional who is experienced in working with families and understands the dynamics of intergenerational relationships. A therapist or counselor can provide a safe and confidential space to discuss concerns and develop strategies for managing difficult situations. Community Forums Another option for seeking external support is to participate in online community forums. These forums can provide a space for individuals to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges with grandparents. There are many online forums and support groups dedicated to topics such as grandparenting, family relationships, and parenting. These forums can provide a wealth of information on grandparent advice handling and support, as well as a sense of community for those who may feel isolated or alone in their struggles. Just be mindful, that it is important to approach online forums with caution and to verify the credibility of information before relying on it. Additionally, it is important to remember that every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Guest Author Alison Banfieldproudhappymama " Hi, I'm Allison! I'm an experienced mom of two, wife, and founder of Proud Happy Mama! Backed with a Masters Degree in Public Health, a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion, a long career in health and safety, and 10 years of hands-on experience using, researching, and testing baby products, I love to use my parenting experience to support and encourage other parents. "

As a busy mom I know how challenging it can be to manage your time effectively. Between work, family responsibilities, and personal obligations, it can be difficult to stay on top of everything. And let’s not forget about self-care! However, there are some productivity tips that have worked great for me, and think can help other busy moms make the most of their time and achieve their goals. Whether you are a working mom, a stay-at-home mom, or somewhere in between, these busy mom productivity hacks are designed to help you manage your time more efficiently and reduce stress in your daily life. Just take note though, you don’t need to implement all of these mom-friendly productivity tools and tips. We are all different, so choose the ones that resonate with you.   Productivity Tips for Busy Moms Set Your Routine It’s funny how some days you can feel so busy yet feel like you accomplished nothing. This is where I find establishing routines can help to streamline your day and increase productivity.  For me, I’m a morning person, thankfully as my youngest gets up at 5am each morning! So, I find starting the day off on the right foot is crucial. I love having my morning routine to set me up for the day. For me, it is making time for my cup of tea and getting all the little chores out the way, like making the beds and putting the laundry in the washing machine. I even use it to plan out dinner. Maybe you’re a morning person like me or maybe you feel more productive in the evenings when your kids are asleep, the key here is to find a routine that works for you!  Prioritize The truth is, there will always be something that needs to be done. But that doesn't mean you need to do it all that day. My productivity hack is to use tools like to-do lists or productivity apps to create a list of all the tasks I want done. I need to write them down, so I don’t mull over them.  Then I prioritize them and pick my top 3 that need to be accomplished that day. This helps me to focus on the most important tasks first and avoid wasting time on less important ones. Some days I might get way more done than just the top 3. Other days I might just choose to do the top 3 and then take some time out for me. Delegate Delegating is one of my most favorite 2024 productivity trends for mothers! I’ll admit, it can be hard to let go of certain tasks, but there are plenty that do not bring me joy and I am very happy to delegate or outsource when I can. Delegating tasks can be as simple as asking your parents to pick the kids up from school or teaching your child a new skill so they can do a task themselves rather than you doing it for them. Or if your budget allows it, you may want to outsource tasks to professionals, such as a housecleaner or a meal delivery service. Depending on if you are also trying to balance work and being a mom, you could potentially hire a virtual assistant to take care of work tasks, freeing up your time for family. Decluttering Your Space A way to reduce your workload, is to declutter your space. If there are less clothes to wash, toys to pack away, surfaces to clean, and so on it can really help to shave off hours of time in maintaining your home.  You can use tools like the KonMari method, which involves sorting through items by category and only keeping items that ‘spark joy’.  You don’t have to throw everything out though, decluttering can be as simple as placing half your child’s toys into a storage tub and then rotating them every few weeks. Not only does it make it easier to maintain your space, but the toys then feel like new again, so it is a win for your child too.  With the kids’ clothes, I will sort through them each season. If it won’t fit next season I will donate them straight away, for those that will fit I put them in storage container, so they aren’t adding to the pile of clothing clutter when I open the drawers. Use A Family Calendar Another way to involve the family in productivity is to create a family calendar and schedule. This can help keep everyone on track and ensure that important events and appointments are not forgotten. Consider using a shared digital calendar or a physical wall calendar that everyone can access and update. Encourage family members to add their own events and commitments to the calendar to ensure that everyone is aware of each other's schedules. Embrace Technology It’s 2024 and smart home technology has come a long way in recent years! And I think this is something busy moms can take easily advantage of to automate household tasks and save their valuable time for more important things.  Smart thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature based on your family's schedule, while smart lighting systems can turn lights on and off based on motion detection. Smart appliances like washing machines and dishwashers can be programmed to run during off-peak hours, and let’s not forget robotic vacuum cleaners can keep floors clean without any effort on your part.  Even ordering your groceries online can save you a ton of time, money, and stress versus heading to the shops with kids in tow. Smartwatches are also another great tool that can help you stay on top of your schedule and receive notifications without having to constantly check your phone. Bluetooth trackers can help you keep track of your keys, wallet, and other important items, while smart locks can allow you to remotely lock and unlock your doors. There are also plenty of productivity apps available that can help you manage your to-do list, track your time, and stay focused. By integrating technology into your daily routines, you can save time, stay organized, and keep your families entertained and educated.  Guest Author Alison Banfieldproudhappymama " Hi, I'm Allison! I'm an experienced mom of two, wife, and founder of Proud Happy Mama! Backed with a Masters Degree in Public Health, a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion, a long career in health and safety, and 10 years of hands-on experience using, researching, and testing baby products, I love to use my parenting experience to support and encourage other parents. "

Spring is a beautiful season for new beginnings, and what better way to celebrate than with a baby shower for an upcoming spring baby? Finding the perfect gift for a baby shower can be a daunting task, especially when the baby is due in a specific season. However, with a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can easily find the ideal gift for a spring baby. When it comes to choosing spring baby shower gift ideas, I recommend considering items that are both practical and seasonally appropriate. There is no point buying a baby snow suit or extra warm sleep sacks in the middle of spring as by the time winter comes around the baby will more than likely have outgrown it. It’s also another item for the new parents to store, which can be an issue especially if storage space is limited. The good news is, it’s easy to find a spring gift for newborn that will make both the baby and the parents happy.   Spring-Themed Baby Shower Gifts Spring is a season of renewal and growth, making it the perfect time to welcome a new baby into the world. If you're searching for the perfect gift for a spring baby shower, then take inspiration from my list of spring-themed baby shower gifts. Baby Clothes Newborns grow quickly, so it's important to have a variety of clothing in different sizes. Consider purchasing onesies, sleepers, and outfits in sizes ranging from newborn to 6 months.  Look for clothing made from soft, breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo.  And if you really want to add a touch of springtime flair, I highly recommend you choose clothing with floral or pastel patterns. Diaper Backpack There is nothing quite like going for a relaxing walk on a beautiful spring day, so why not help a new mom out and gift her with a gorgeous and practical diaper backpack so she can enjoy the spring air. These backpacks are designed to be worn on your back, and hold all of the essentials, such as diapers, wipes, bottles, and snacks. They often come with additional pockets and compartments for organization. Some even have built-in changing pads, making diaper changes on-the-go a breeze. Look for a bag that is both stylish and functional, so that new parents can use it for years to come. Sensory Play Mat Sensory play mats are a great way to stimulate a baby's senses and help with their development. These mats come in a variety of textures, colors, and shapes, providing a fun and interactive playtime for babies. Some sensory play mats even come with toys attached, making it easy for babies to explore and play. These are also great for new parents to be able to pop outside to enjoy some of the gorgeous spring weather. Cloth Books With Spring Themes Cloth books are a great way to introduce babies to the world of reading. Books with spring themes such as flowers, animals, and insects are perfect for a spring baby. These books are not only educational but also colorful and engaging, making them a great addition to any baby's book collection. Portable Play Yards A portable play yard is a great way to keep the baby safe and contained while outside on a gorgeous spring day. Look for a play yard that is easy to set up and take down and has a sunshade to protect the baby from the sun.  Sun-Protective Gear Protecting the baby from the sun is essential when spending time outside. Consider gifting sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, baby swimsuit, and baby sunscreen lotion. Look for items that have a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50+ to ensure maximum protection.  Muslin Swaddle Blankets Muslin swaddle blankets are a versatile and practical gift for any new parent, especially in the as the weather starts to warm in late spring. They can be used as a swaddle, a nursing cover, a burp cloth, or even a stroller cover. They are lightweight, breathable, and come in a variety of cute patterns and colors. Plus, they are affordable, making them a great option for those looking for inexpensive baby shower gifts. Themed Bedding Sets A themed bedding set can add a touch of whimsy and personality to a baby's room. Whether it's a floral print or a cute animal design, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular themes for spring include butterflies, birds, and blooming flowers. I recommend buying fitted crib sheets as these are always practical. Mobiles and Wall Art Mobiles and wall art can be both decorative and stimulating for a baby. A mobile can be hung above the crib or changing table and can feature colorful shapes or animals that move and sway. Wall art can include framed prints, canvases, or decals that add a pop of color and personality to the room. Look for pieces that match the theme of the bedding set or the overall decor of the room. Lightweight Strollers A lightweight stroller is a must-have for any outdoor springtime adventures with a baby. Look for strollers that are easy to maneuver and fold up compactly for transport.  Seeing a stroller is a big-ticket item, you may want to check with the new parents for their preference before purchasing. I also think this is a great give idea if you want to pool together with others to buy a larger gift item. Universal Stroller Organizer If you have a stroller, then a universal stroller organizer is a must! These are designed to attached to your strollers handle and store all your essential items like keys and phone within quick reach. Baby Carrier I personally think a baby carrier is a must-have at all times of the year, but they are extra handy in the spring months when you plan to get outdoors more. They are also a great way to for a bond with your newborn baby. You may want to check with the new parents to see what type of baby carrier they prefer. Car Shades For Windows Car shades are a unique baby shower gift that help prioritize the safety and comfort of the baby by shielding them from direct sunlight and harmful UV rays during car rides on those sunny spring days.  Whilst some newer cars may have these inbuilt, if the new parents’ vehicle lacks these built-in shades, they can simply install aftermarket car shades for the windows. A set of window shades that adhere to the glass is all that is needed. Wearable Breast Pump Springtime or not, a wearable breast pump makes for a fantastic baby shower gift for any breastfeeding mom. Not only can she easily express her breastmilk, but she can do it on the go, handsfree!  My top pick is the MomMed S21 for it’s easy of use, comfort, and great suction! Guest Author Alison Banfieldproudhappymama " Hi, I'm Allison! I'm an experienced mom of two, wife, and founder of Proud Happy Mama! Backed with a Masters Degree in Public Health, a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion, a long career in health and safety, and 10 years of hands-on experience using, researching, and testing baby products, I love to use my parenting experience to support and encourage other parents. "

Welcoming a new baby into the family can be an exciting time filled with joy and anticipation. However, it can also be a challenging time for older siblings who may struggle to adjust to the new addition. Helping your older child bond with your newborn is an important step in creating a harmonious family dynamic and ensuring that everyone feels loved and included. So, let’s take a look at ways to encourage your older child to bond with your newborn.    Understanding the Sibling Dynamic When a new baby arrives, older siblings may feel left out or neglected, which can turn into jealousy and competition among siblings.  It is important to recognize that they may need extra attention and reassurance during this time. I remember my son being extra clingy when my daughter was born and understandably as they have gone from having all your attention to now having to share it. I think one of the best things parents can do is understand that these sibling rivalry feelings are normal and to address these feelings by acknowledging them and reassuring their older child that they are still loved and valued. It is especially important to avoid comparing siblings or favoring one over the other.   Ways To Help Your Older Child Bond with Your Newborn  Involve Your Older Child in the Pregnancy Start early, by involving your older child in the pregnancy to help prepare them for the arrival of your new baby. You can start by explaining to them what's happening and what they can expect. You can also take them to doctor's appointments with you so that they can see the baby on the ultrasound and hear the heartbeat. This will help your older child feel more connected to the new baby and understand what's happening. Another way to involve your older child in the pregnancy is to let them help you prepare for the baby's arrival. You can have them help you pick out baby clothes, toys, and other items. We actually got my son to pick out a welcome to the family present that he could give to our daughter when she arrived. He loved it! You can also have them help you set up the baby's room and decorate it. This will help your older child feel like they have an important role in the baby's arrival and will help them feel more connected to the new baby. Set Expectations I feel it's important to set expectations with your older child before your new baby arrives. Let them know that there will be changes in the family dynamic and that they will need to share your attention with the new baby. You can also talk to them about what it means to be a big brother or sister and how they can help take care of the new baby. You can also set expectations for how your older child should behave around the new baby. Make sure they understand that they need to be gentle and careful around the baby. You can also talk to them about the importance of not touching the baby's face or hands, and not giving the baby toys or other objects that could be harmful. By involving your older child in the pregnancy and setting expectations, you can help them feel more connected to the new baby and prepare them for the changes that will come with the baby's arrival. Create a Positive First Meeting The first meeting between your new baby and your older child is crucial in setting the tone for their future relationship. It is important to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere for both children. Here are some things that can help: Have your older child bring a special gift or toy to give to your baby as a welcoming gesture. Encourage your older child to talk to the baby in a calm and gentle voice. Allow your older child to hold your baby with adult supervision and guidance. Praise and acknowledge your older child's positive behavior and interactions with the baby. Encourage Gentle Interaction It is important to teach your older sibling how to interact with your new baby in a gentle and appropriate way. Here are some tips for encouraging gentle interaction between your first and second born children: Teach your older child how to hold and support the baby's head and neck. Show your older child how to touch and play with the baby's hands and feet. Encourage your older child to talk to the baby and sing songs to him or her. Remind your older child to be gentle and calm around the baby at all times. Shared Activities and Responsibilities One way to foster a bond between your older child and new baby is to involve them in shared activities and responsibilities. This can include simple tasks like helping to change the baby's diaper or holding the baby during supervised playtime. Additionally, finding activities that both children enjoy can be a great way to encourage bonding. This can include reading books together, playing games, or going on family outings. Encouraging your older child to be a positive role model and helper to your new baby can also help strengthen their bond. Teach Empathy and Patience Another important aspect of building a strong sibling relationship is teaching empathy and patience. This can involve helping your older child understand the needs and feelings of your new baby and encouraging them to be patient and understanding when the baby requires attention. Modeling positive behavior and communication can also be beneficial in teaching empathy and patience. Encouraging your older child to express their own emotions in a healthy way and listening to their concerns can help them feel valued and understood, which can in turn strengthen their bond with the new baby. One-on-One Time with Each Child I am a big believer for one-on-one time with your kids, even more so now are mine getting a little older and you get less time with them due to schooling and other commitments.  One of one time doesn’t need to be extensive, especially when you’re trying to juggle a newborn. It can be as simple as reading a book together or going for a walk. I often let my kids choose what they would like to do together, so again they are involved in the process, and I know it is meaningful to them.  I find this helps to really foster your parent child bond, especially when introducing a new baby into the family dynamics. It’s great to be able to spend that one-on-one time together, without any interruptions from the baby or other distractions. Celebrate Individual Achievements Whether it's a picture they drew, or a new skill learned, make sure to acknowledge and praise each child's accomplishments. This will help them feel valued and important, even with the new baby around. Handling Regression and Acting Out It is not uncommon for older children to experience regression or act out when a new baby enters the family. They may feel jealous, neglected, or displaced, and may resort to behaviors such as temper tantrums, bedwetting, or clinging to parents. To help your older child cope with these challenges, I believe it is important to acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that they are still loved and valued. Encourage them to express their emotions in a healthy way, such as through drawing, talking, or playing. Try to involve them in caring for the baby, such as by letting them hold or feed the baby under supervision, or by giving them special tasks to do. It is also important to set clear boundaries and consequences for negative behaviors, while praising and rewarding positive behaviors. Avoid comparing your children or favoring one over the other. Remember that it may take time for your older child to adjust to the new family dynamic, and that patience and understanding can go a long way. If your older child's regression or acting out persists or becomes severe, or if you are concerned about their emotional well-being, it may be helpful to seek professional guidance. A therapist or counselor can help your child process their feelings, develop coping skills, and improve their behavior.

Bonding with a new baby can be an incredibly rewarding experience for parents. However, it can also be a challenging one. Newborns require constant care and attention, leaving little time for parents to focus on themselves or their relationship with their partner. Fortunately, there are many ways to bond with a baby that can help parents feel more connected and confident in their role as caregivers.   Understanding Infant Attachment Before we dive into ways to nurture you baby bond, I think it is important to understand infant attachment, which is the emotional bond that forms between a baby and their primary caregiver.  Infants form attachments through early interactions with their caregivers. These interactions include feeding, cuddling, playing, and responding to the baby's needs. When caregivers respond consistently and sensitively to a baby's cues, the baby learns to trust and feel secure in their relationship. On the other hand, when caregivers are inconsistent or unresponsive, the baby may become anxious or avoidant in their attachment.  So, forming these bonds with your baby becomes critical for their long-term social relationships and emotional regulation.   How To Bond with Your Baby You can strengthen your bond with your baby by being responsive, consistent, and nurturing. This includes responding promptly to your baby's needs, providing them with comfort and affection, and engaging in positive interactions such as playing and talking. Understand Your Baby's Needs Babies are unique individuals with their own set of needs and preferences. As a parent, it is important to understand and address your baby's needs as soon as possible in order to develop a strong bond with them. However, babies cannot communicate their needs through words, so it is up to you to interpret their nonverbal cues. Thankfully there are some common cues babies use to show us their needs: Hungry: includes nonverbal cues such as rooting, smacking, and sucking on their hands.  Tired: cues include rubbing eyes, yawning, and fussiness.  Uncomfortable: such as a dirty diaper, tight clothing, or a fever, they may communicate their discomfort through crying, fussiness, or pulling away.  By understanding your baby's needs and responding promptly, you can develop a strong bond with your baby and support their growth and development. Respond to Cries Crying is a baby's way of communicating. Responding promptly and sensitively to your baby's cries can help build trust and a sense of security. Try to differentiate between different types of cries, such as hunger, discomfort, or tiredness, and respond accordingly. Physical Touch Babies crave physical touch, and it is one of the most natural ways to bond with your little one. Physical touch can include skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, massage, and cradling and cuddling. I loved using a baby carrier to promote physical touch with my babies.  So, hold your babies close, hold them often, and know that you’re helping to strengthen your bond. Communication Talking to your baby is a great way to communicate and bond with them. Even if they cannot understand you, they will still respond to the sound of your voice. Talk to them about your day, describe what you are doing, or simply tell them how much you love them. This will help your baby feel loved and secure. Another option is singing and humming to your baby which is a great way to soothe them and help them relax.  Reading aloud is another great way to bond with your baby. It helps them develop their language skills and promotes bonding between you and your baby. Choose books with colorful pictures and simple words whilst they are still in the infant stage. Eye contact is also a powerful way to communicate with your baby and build a connection with them. When you look into your baby's eyes, they feel seen and understood. You can make eye contact with your baby while you talk, sing, or play with them. You can also try to imitate your baby's facial expressions and see if they respond. Playtime and Activities Playing with your baby is not only fun but also helps with their cognitive and physical development. You can try simple games like peek-a-boo, singing songs, or playing with toys. Make sure to follow your baby's lead and let them take the lead in the playtime. This helps them feel more secure and builds their confidence. I think baby classes are another excellent way to bond with your baby while also promoting their development. There are many types of baby classes available, such as music classes, baby yoga, and swimming lessons. These classes provide an opportunity for you to interact with your baby while also meeting other parents and babies. Outdoor Activities Going outside with your baby is a great way to bond and also helps with their physical development. You can take them for a walk in the stroller or baby carrier for the added physical touch, play in the park, or even just sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. Make sure to talk to your baby about what you see and hear around you. This helps them learn about their surroundings and builds their vocabulary. Encouraging your baby to explore their surroundings can also help build their confidence and sense of independence. Provide a safe and stimulating environment for your baby to explore and be there to support and encourage them as they discover new things. Establish a Daily Routine A predictable schedule can help your baby feel secure and comfortable, knowing what to expect and when. It can also help you plan your day and make time for activities that promote bonding. To establish a daily routine, start by determining your baby's natural rhythms. Take note of when they wake up, eat, play, and sleep. Then, try to create a schedule that accommodates these patterns. Stick to the routine as closely as possible, but be flexible enough to adjust it as needed. Bedtime Rituals Bedtime rituals can also help your baby feel safe and secure which helps to reinforce your parental bond. A consistent bedtime routine can signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Try to establish a routine that includes calming activities such as a warm bath, a lullaby, or a bedtime story. Share Emotions Babies are highly attuned to emotions. They can pick up on your mood and respond in kind. Sharing positive emotions, such as joy and excitement, can help your baby feel happy and secure. On the other hand, if you are feeling stressed or upset, try to remain calm and soothe your baby with a gentle voice and touch. Guest Author Alison Banfieldproudhappymama " Hi, I'm Allison! I'm an experienced mom of two, wife, and founder of Proud Happy Mama! Backed with a Masters Degree in Public Health, a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion, a long career in health and safety, and 10 years of hands-on experience using, researching, and testing baby products, I love to use my parenting experience to support and encourage other parents. "  

If you choose to breastfeed your infant, you are making the best choice because breast milk is indeed a perfect food. It is filled with antioxidants and nutrients that provide everything the baby needs to thrive, not to mention the fact that it builds up the baby’s immune system. This being said, what you eat directly affects not only how nutritious your breast milk is, but also how much of it you make. Fortunately, there are breastfeeding superfoods that can help with both of these things.   What Are Superfoods, and Do They Work? Superfoods are foods chock full of vitamins and minerals that make breast milk super-nutritious, but they do more than that. The foods that can help increase your breast milk supply and make it healthier include foods with the right combination of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. If you’re not sure what these foods are, here is a list of some of them:   1. Seeds In addition to protein, seeds contain a lot of calcium, iron, zinc, and healthy fats. Some of the best seeds to eat include hemp seeds, which also contain a lot of amino acids; flaxseeds, which can help you maintain a healthy weight; and chia seeds, which have a lot of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. 2. Legumes and Beans All beans and legumes are healthy for you, but some are better than others when it comes to lactation. This includes both soybeans and chickpeas, both of which have been used for centuries to increase milk supply and make it healthy.   3. Oats When it comes to the best natural foods to increase breast milk supply, oats are right there on the top of the list. Oats are a whole-grain product that provide good carbs, help fill you up so you don’t eat as much, help prevent constipation, and help lower blood sugar levels, in addition to other benefits.   4. Orange and Red Root Vegetables Orange and red root vegetables such as yams and carrots do a great job of nourishing both mom and baby. They are nutrient-dense foods that both increase and improve your breast milk. They have been used for centuries by many different cultures for that purpose.   5. Leafy Green Vegetables Leafy green vegetables are some of the best power-packed vegetables to boost breast milk production, and the best ones are cabbage and broccoli. In fact, because leafy green veggies contain phytoestrogens, they, along with lots of other vegetables, are smart foods to eat if you feel that your supply of milk is low.   6. Mushrooms Not all mushrooms are good for lactating moms, but the ones that contain beta-glucans are. These include oyster, maitake, reishi, shimeji, and shiitake mushrooms. The higher the beta-glucan count, the better they are at helping your milk supply and its healthiness.   7. Avocados We’ve all heard that avocados contain a lot of healthy fats, but they can also help you feel fuller for longer periods of time, which is perfect for new moms who don’t always eat right. Avocados also have a lot of vitamins C, E, and K, B vitamins, potassium, and folate. Plus, they’re yummy!   8. Nuts Nuts have tons of important minerals, including zinc, iron, and calcium, but they don’t all have the same nutritional value. When shopping for nuts, aim for almonds, macadamia nuts, and cashews for the best results. You also get lots of protein, essential fatty acids, and both B and K vitamins when you consume nuts.   9. Ashwagandha Also called winter cherry or Indian ginseng, ashwagandha is an herb that helps your endocrine, neurologic, reproductive, and immune systems. It can reduce stress, which can negatively affect your ability to breastfeed, and taking 300 mg twice a day can also increase your energy level and decrease your cortisol levels.   10. Turmeric In studies, turmeric hasn’t been proven to help a lot with breastfeeding, but it does have excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This means that it can help prevent mastitis (breast infections) and even ease the symptoms of overly engorged breasts.   Tips to Keep in Mind Keep in mind that when it comes to these foods, you still need a good nutritional balance when you are breastfeeding. In other words, choose a good balance of veggies, fruits, protein-rich foods, nuts, and herbs to both increase your milk supply and help it be more nutritious for the baby. There are also drinks that you can consume to help with these things, including: Water: A simple way to increase your milk supply. Nursing or lactation teas: These are usually filled with herbs that help improve and increase breast milk, including milk thistle, fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel. Oat milk: This type of milk is naturally sweet and you can drink it, add it to cereal, or use it in recipes. You should also try to eat fresh foods instead of trying to take a supplement. Supplements are good when it comes to things such as ashwagandha, but stick with fresh or frozen varieties when it comes to the foods you’ll be eating.   Conclusion When it comes to both increasing your milk supply and improving its nutritional value, certain superfoods can help a lot. These include foods such as leafy green veggies, nuts and seeds, certain root vegetables, mushrooms, and numerous others. Make sure that the foods are either fresh or frozen, and don’t forget to drink a lot of water, lactation tea, or oat milk to have the healthiest breast milk in the end.

Most people have heard of postpartum depression, but not everyone realizes that the symptoms can vary greatly from one mom to another. If you believe that someone you know is showing signs of postpartum depression, it’s a good idea to do some research so you can know for sure. Most importantly, if you believe that friend is indeed experiencing postpartum depression, there are easy ways that you can help them without having to be a therapist or counselor.   What Are the Signs Associated with Postpartum Depression? Having the “baby blues” after giving birth is not that uncommon, but postpartum depression is more than just the blues. Postpartum depression can include both physical and emotional pain and can be quite severe in some new moms. Postpartum depression causes symptoms that include: Extreme sadness Feelings of isolation Irritability Problems sleeping Guilt Feelings of hopelessness In rare or extreme cases, some women experiencing postpartum depression may feel as if they want to harm themselves or harm the baby. This is why learning exactly how to help someone with postpartum depression is so important. If you pay attention, you can pick up on signs that something is wrong and you can alert someone if you feel that the symptoms are severe. Most women, when experiencing postpartum depression, will not admit that they feel this way. In fact, many women may not realize that this is what they are going through or they may try to hide it from family and friends. The thing is that if the symptoms are ignored by the mom herself or others in her circle, they may get worse in both physical and emotional ways.   What Should You Do for a Mom with Postpartum Depression? In most cases, moms who have postpartum depression can benefit from therapy, but whether the symptoms are minor or extreme, there are things you can do to help them feel less alone and less stressed. Remember that any small act can make a huge difference in this mom’s daily life, so don’t feel as though you have to tackle all of these tasks yourself. Here are some things that you can do to help out a friend with postpartum depression: Offer to help babysit for their other kids if they have more than one Ask them if they’d like to attend exercise classes with you Ask them regularly how they’re doing and really listen to their answer If the postpartum depression seems severe, help them find resources that can help Bring them a meal occasionally or even regularly Deliberately schedule times for the two of you to get together The important thing to remember when it comes to recognizing any postpartum needs for mom is to “check in” with them on a regular basis, which could include just a quick phone call or text. Anything that you can do to help them emotionally or physically, regardless of how insignificant it seems, can be a huge help in the end.   How to Tell If the Situation Is Serious While most postpartum depression is nothing to worry about, roughly one in one thousand new moms have symptoms that are much more serious. Known as postpartum psychosis, symptoms are much more serious and can include: Auditory hallucinations (hearing things that aren’t there) Visual hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there), which are less common Delusions (believing in things that are completely irrational) Pacing and restlessness Anger and agitation Odd behaviors or feelings If you have a friend who you believe is exhibiting any of these behaviors or you’re simply concerned about their behavior or demeanor, you should talk with a mutual friend about getting them the help that they need. Indeed, suffering with these types of behaviors is a serious type of postpartum depression that usually requires medication and therapy, and sometimes even hospitalization. In short, if you sense or have a feeling that your friend needs help, don’t be afraid to help them find it. The longer the symptoms go on, the more serious they can become, and the sooner the new mom gets the help they need, the better it will be for them, their partner, and even the baby.   What New Moms Can Do to Lessen the Risk of Postpartum Depression If you’re expecting a baby or have just given birth and you’re concerned about postpartum depression, there are things you can do to reduce the risks of this happening. These things include: Don’t become isolated; stay in touch with family and friends When you first get home, limit the number of visitors you get Exercise if you can Eat healthy and get as much rest as you can Screen your phone calls Be realistic and accept that you’ll have good days and bad days Ask for help! Keep in mind that postpartum depression can include both physical pain, for which you can take a variety of pain relievers, and emotional pain, which may require medication and therapy at least temporarily. If you’re concerned about your own well-being, never hesitate to contact your doctor because they can be a great source of help.   Conclusion Postpartum depression is more than just “baby blues.” In fact, this type of depression can be fairly severe and include symptoms such as insomnia, loss of interest in various activities, irritability, and feelings of hopelessness, to name a few. If a friend seems as though they have postpartum depression, try to help by babysitting, bringing meals, and maybe even taking an exercise class together. Keeping an eye on their emotional and physical health can help you learn if the symptoms become severe.

There are numerous ways to raise children and many styles of parenting, so if you haven’t yet decided how you wish to raise your children so they grow up happy, healthy, and self-confident, keep in mind that there are many styles available to you right now. Some parents are stricter than others, but it can be difficult to learn how strict is too strict or what is considered too lenient. The following information can help.   Parenting the Authoritative Way Some of the most common parenting styles used by today’s parents include permissive, uninvolved, and authoritative. Permissive parenting includes a warm but lax style of parenting that typically results in kids who are impulsive and aggressive and have little self-control. Uninvolved parenting usually involves unresponsive and uninterested parents and can produce children who have low self-esteem and little self-confidence. On the other hand, authoritative parenting is parenting that includes being nurturing and supportive but setting strict limits at the same time. Parents who are authoritative always listen to the child’s point of view, but they don’t necessarily adhere to it. These kids tend to grow up friendly, confident, cooperative, and with a desire to achieve.   Why Use the Authoritative Style? To be sure, using the authoritative type of parenting results in adults who other adults enjoy being around because they are confident and get along great with others. It is not always easy, but it’s the type of parenting that most kids find easier to respond to in the end. If you’re interested in this style of parenting, here are a few things to keep in mind: Let your kids express their opinions Place limits and consequences on the kids’ behaviors Make sure that discipline is consistent but fair Encourage your kids to be independent Let kids express different options to the situation Always be nurturing and warm Make sure that you always listen to your kids Keep in mind that authoritative is not the same as authoritarian. The former allows the child to be independent and express their concerns and opinions without worry about repercussions. The latter usually includes a focus on punishing kids’ mistakes and a very strict atmosphere, without being truly involved in the child’s life. If you’ve overly strict but show no real interest to nurture the child and encourage their independence, you get unpleasant results. You get much better results when kids feel encouraged to be themselves and to grow emotionally but still feel like you care about what’s happening in their lives. It may sound like there’s a fine line between the two styles, but that isn’t really the case.   Top Tips for New Parents If the authoritative style of parenting is the style you’ve chosen, here are a few tips that you can follow to make it work for you: Encourage kids to think for themselves and be independent even if they make mistakes. If they do make mistakes, allow them to experience the natural consequences that follow because this can help them learn and grow. It isn’t enough to have rules; instead, those rules need to be clearly communicated so they are clear in the kids’ minds. They should know exactly what their expectations and boundaries are regardless of the situation. Always concentrate on your relationship with the child and put it first. Strengthen the relationship and make sure that they always feel supported regardless of what they are doing. Never control every single thing they do. Make it clear what your expectations are and what will happen when those expectations are not met. If you have to discipline them, make sure you follow through with the punishment you established in the beginning. Concentrate on always exhibiting warmth, support, compassion, empathy, and care. Kids react much better to rules and even discipline when they realize that deep inside, you love them and care about their well-being. With this style of parenting, you shouldn’t be either too strict or too lenient. You have to be somewhere in the middle. It is also a style of parenting that lets kids see you not just tell them how you want them to act, but lets them see models of the behaviors in their own parents’ lives. This is good for the kids because they’ll know that you are “practicing what you preach.” New moms and dads are used to getting both solicited and unsolicited advice, but if you’re going to give any type of parenting advice to new parents, keep in mind that the authoritative type of parenting is one of the best, according to a lot of experts. Parenting is hard these days, in part because both kids and adults show signs of exactly how they were raised, and that can be either good or bad. Each family is different, but one thing is certain: you can’t go wrong when you use support, encouragement, care, and empathy, and you combine these things with the right types of discipline that you always follow through with when the situation arises. The authoritative style of parenting seems to be the best one for these and many other reasons when it comes to raising kids.   Conclusion Rather than raising your kids using a permissive or uninvolved type of parenting, the authoritative type works much better. It is neither too strict nor too lenient, but it includes a very supportive environment that encourages a child’s independence and creativity while letting them know that there will be consequences for certain actions. You’ll be offering compassion while setting boundaries that they’ll know they have to follow at all times.

NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the dynamic realm of short-form videos, TikTok stands out as a prominent trend. MomMed, a leading brand in the maternal and infant sector, known for its highly recommended pregnancy and ovulation test strips and the revolutionary S21 wearable breast pump, is now unveiling its latest product – the Electric Bottle Brush Cleaner Set, debuting on the TikTok Shop. Expanding its sales channels, this new addition provides an excellent holiday gifting choice for parents this Valentine's Day.     The MomMed Electric Bottle Brush is crafted to cut bottle cleaning time in half, serving as the ultimate time-saver for busy moms. Unlike traditional manual brushes, this electric cleaner not only boosts efficiency but also guarantees a more thorough cleaning, eliminating the hassle of dedicating valuable feeding moments to bottle cleaning.   Featuring two modes and three brush heads, this cleaner is versatile, suitable for various bottle types, including bottle nipples and straws, complemented by a stirring rod. Its design ensures a quick and thorough cleaning, leaving no corners untouched.   Boasting an impressive 15-day battery life on a single charge, the cleaner features BPA-free, antibacterial silicone brush heads for longevity and safety. Dishwasher and sterilizer safe, the set's compact design facilitates effortless storage.   In celebration of Valentine's Day, the Electric Bottle Brush Cleaner Set comes elegantly packaged, making it an ideal gift for partners. This product is designed to ease the cleaning struggles of moms and dads, giving them extra time to unwind, cherish, and enjoy precious moments with their family and baby.   Recognizing the growing TikTok user base, MomMed seizes the unique opportunities on this platform. The product launch aligns with the creation of MomMed's official store on TikTok, focused on offering top-notch products to a broader parent audience. Dedicated to easing the challenges of preconception, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting, MomMed aims to simplify and enhance the parenting journey for ultimate happiness.   To learn more about MomMed's Valentine's Day Sale and discover the innovative MomMed Electric Bottle Brush, visit our TikTok Shop or mommed.com.   About MomMed:   We're not just a baby brand; we're your devoted companion in motherhood. Exceptional products for preconception, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting. Elevate your incredible journey with us.

When you’re pregnant and experience any type of pain, many doctors recommend taking Tylenol because it doesn’t harm the fetus, but what about when you’re breastfeeding? With rare exceptions, most breastfeeding moms can also take Tylenol without any harm to the infant. Although most medications you take will pass through the breast milk to your baby, the amount the baby gets is next to nothing, making Tylenol a very safe OTC medication for breastfeeding moms to take.   What Is Tylenol? Tylenol is a brand of acetaminophen, which is an analgesic and a pain reliever. If you’ve ever wondered what pain medication is safe while breastfeeding, most doctors will tell you to take Tylenol. In contrast, medications such as Motrin and Advil contain something called ibuprofen. Even better, acetaminophen does a great job of relieving all types of pain, including headaches and pain from childbirth, breastfeeding, C-sections, menstruation, and even colds and flu. This brings us to another point -- whether or not breastfeeding while sick is a good idea. In fact, with rare exceptions that include illnesses such as HIV and chickenpox, doctors will tell you that you can breastfeed even if you have a cold or the flu. You can wear a mask and wash your hands frequently to prevent the baby from getting too many germs, but otherwise you can breastfeed as you normally would. Indeed, Tylenol and other brands of acetaminophen help relieve all types of pain and are safe to take while you’re breastfeeding. This includes breastfeeding pain such as sore nipples and engorged breasts, as well as fevers if you should ever experience one while breastfeeding. This being said, a few precautions that you’ll need to follow include: Never drink alcohol while you’re taking Tylenol Always watch the dosage you’re taking Regular Tylenol has 325 mg of acetaminophen in it, and the higher the dosage, the more acetaminophen will seep into the breast milk. Nevertheless, most doctors will tell you that as long as you’re not getting more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day, you and the baby are both safe. If you take more than 4000 mg per day, you can risk damage to your liver.   More About Dosages So, if you’ve asked yourself, can I take Tylenol 500 mg while breastfeeding, or even, can I take 1000 mg of Tylenol while breastfeeding, the answer should be “yes,” as long as you don’t take more than 4000 mg in a 24-hour period. Keep in mind, however, that the larger doses may mean that a little more of it will pass through the breast milk to your baby, which is something to consider. If you are also taking doctor-approved cold or flu medication that contains acetaminophen, you’ll have to add that dosage to what you’re getting when you take Tylenol on its own. To be sure, if you take Tylenol according to the directions, which usually includes two tablets every four to six hours, you should be safe, but if you have any concerns whatsoever about your doses, you should err on the side of caution.   Not All Medications Are Safe for Breastfeeding Moms Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are safe to take while you’re breastfeeding, but that doesn’t apply to all medications. While you’re breastfeeding, the doctor may tell you to continue with the prescription medications that you were taking before the pregnancy, but as a general rule, you need to be honest with your doctor and let them know about everything that you take on a regular basis. As a layperson, you will not know which medicines are safe and which are unsafe for breastfeeding moms, which is why you need to let the doctor know about everything that you’re taking. Even herbal supplements need to be disclosed because these are not regulated; therefore, you’ll have no idea what effect they have on you. In short, never take any type of medicine, vitamin, or herbal supplements without running them through your doctor first. Most drugs are rated according to a system developed by Dr. Thomas Hale, with L1 being the safest drugs and L5 being the drugs with contraindications; in other words, they are the least safe. Acetaminophen, including the Tylenol brand, falls under the L1 rating, which means that it has been through a lot of studies and no adverse effects have been found to occur. You can also use Tylenol when you’re breastfeeding if you suffer with muscle aches, sore throats, soreness from vaccinations, joint pain, toothaches, and basic arthritis pain. If you pay attention, you’ll notice that pediatricians even give Tylenol to infants for various types of pain. Some of the other medications considered safe for breastfeeding moms include: Naproxen sodium (Aleve), for short-term use only Certain penicillins, including amoxicillin and ampicillin Loratadine (Claritin, Alavert) Fexofenadine (Allegra for allergies) Miconazole (Monistat 3, Monistat 7) Anything with pseudoephedrine in it, but use sparingly because it can decrease your milk supply You might be surprised to find out how many medications are indeed safe for breastfeeding moms, but never take a chance; always check with your doctor first.   Conclusion When you’re in pain and you’re a breastfeeding mom, you need to be cautious about what you take to relieve that pain. As a general rule, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is safe to take, whether you’re taking it for breast and nipple pain, C-section pain, or a simple headache. While you need to check with your doctor before you take any type of medication, it’s good to know that doctors almost always approve Tylenol because it has been proven to be safe when you’re breastfeeding.

When you’re breastfeeding, this doesn’t mean that you can’t occasionally get sick. If you experience a cold or even the flu and you need a decongestant, it’s tempting to take something reputable such as Mucinex, but is that really a smart thing to do? You already know that you have to be careful what you take when you’re breastfeeding, but fortunately it’s safe to take Mucinex.   What Is Mucinex? Mucinex is an expectorant medication that gets rid of cold and flu symptoms and loosens mucus so you can breathe better. It is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine that can get rid of headaches, chest congestion, body aches and pains, sore throats, and even sinus pain and pressure. The main ingredient in Mucinex is guaifenesin, and you can buy it as a tablet, liquid, dissolving granules, and gel capsules. Mucinex offers both night and day formulas, but while many of them contain only guaifenesin, others can also contain acetaminophen, pseudoephedrine, or dextromethorphan. This is important to know because with most of these ingredients, there is a limit on how much you can take per day. If you take Mucinex with acetaminophen in it and you also take Tylenol that day, you may be overdoing it. The bottom line is that you should read your labels so you can know what you’re taking, and you should always talk to your doctor first before taking anything. This includes prescription medications, OTC medications, vitamins, and even herbal supplements. Some of these are not regulated; therefore, you’ll need a doctor’s help to decide what is safe and what isn’t.   How Safe Is Mucinex for Breastfeeding Moms? When it comes to medications and their safety for breastfeeding moms, they are rated by a scale that was developed by Dr. Thomas Hale, who is the author of the book Hale’s Medications & Mother’s Milk 2021: A Manual of Lactational Pharmacology. The scale goes from L1 drugs, which are considered extremely safe, to L5 drugs, which are considered not at all safe. Mucinex falls under the L2 category, which makes it a very safe drug when you’re breastfeeding. Does this mean that Mucinex does not pass through the breast milk to a nursing infant? No, it does not, but the infant will get very little of the medication by the time they get to that point. In fact, once the infant is two months of age, the medication amount is so small that there is virtually no risk to their health. This is one of the reasons why Mucinex is safe for breastfeeding mothers and why some doctors even recommend it. At this point, you might be wondering if you should even be breastfeeding if you’re sick, but not to worry because with only a few exceptions, breastfeeding while sick is perfectly acceptable. You do not have to “pump and dump” your milk when you’re ill, but you should take precautions not to spread the germs to your infant, such as washing your hands before nursing and wearing a mask. In some ways, Mucinex is smarter to take than many other cold and flu medications because it is free of alcohol, and it’s always best to avoid alcohol when you’re nursing. And as long as you take Mucinex according to the directions, you can feel confident about taking it while you’re nursing. Generally, the directions tell you to take 200 mg to 400 mg per dose, although some slow-acting types of Mucinex may recommend higher doses. Of course, while Mucinex (and the generic guaifenesin products) are safe for the baby, don’t be alarmed if your infant shows signs of drowsiness after you take it. The drowsiness should be very minor, and if it isn’t, you should talk to your doctor about it. Each infant is different, and this doesn’t happen to all of them. Make sure that you consult with your doctor if you’re concerned.   Be Careful in Certain Situations Reading labels should be a given when you’re breastfeeding, and in some products -- most notably Mucinex D -- an ingredient called pseudoephedrine is added. This is not an ingredient that you need to stay away from completely, but you’ll want to use it in small doses because if you use it in larger doses, it can decrease your milk supply. While Mucinex is safe for breastfeeding mothers, some moms choose more natural products instead. For instance, honey, lots of fluids, teas, and sinus flushes may help a lot when you’re congested. Even better, some of the teas can contain ingredients that will both help you feel better and increase your milk supply. Some of these ingredients include fennel, stinging nettle, and blessed thistle. Regardless of what you decide to try when you’re sick, it needs to be checked out by your doctor first. Your situation might be different than another mom’s, which is why your doctor needs to be consulted before you take anything. It’s always better to be safe when taking anything while breastfeeding because nothing is too good for your baby.   Conclusion You can indeed take Mucinex if you’re breastfeeding, but it’s best to try to take the forms that don’t have a lot of extra ingredients. It’s important to read labels so you don’t get too much of any one ingredient. Mucinex can help with congestion and sinus-like symptoms. It is an amazing product, but you still have to take it according to the instructions to make sure the dose is safe for both you and the baby. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience for both mother and baby, but it doesn’t start that way until you decide how to hold your baby first. After childbirth, you’ll be sore and tired regardless of how you gave birth, so determining a specific breastfeeding position might be more difficult than you were expecting. Nevertheless, there are enough positions that all breastfeeding moms should be able to find the perfect position quickly and easily.   How to Choose the Right Breastfeeding Position for Your Baby Learning how to hold your baby to breastfeed is important because if you aren’t comfortable, the baby will sense it and be uncomfortable, too. Tension can affect your milk supply as well, but fortunately, there are enough breastfeeding positions to keep any mom happy. All that you have to do is get familiar with them and then decide which one is right for you.   1. Cradle Hold This is the position that most people think of when they picture a breastfeeding mom. The baby will be lying across your tummy and you and the baby will be belly-to-belly. The baby’s head and shoulders will be in your arms for support, but you have to keep your breasts at the right natural level because if you don’t, the baby may find latching on to be difficult. There is also a cross-cradle hold, in which the baby is in the same position as the cradle hold except their body lies in the opposite forearm. The position is still comfortable but is easier for babies to lift their heads so they can latch on to the breast. In many ways, it’s easier to support the baby’s neck and shoulders with this position; plus, you have a free hand to help shape and hold the breast while you nurse.   2. Upright or Koala Hold This one can be a challenge with a newborn because the baby is essentially sitting on your lap or thigh in an upright position. If the baby has reflux or gets ear infections, this is a good position, and it also makes it easy for the baby to latch on to your breast. Even newborns can be fed this way if you place a soft pillow underneath them.   3. Dancer Hand Hold If your baby has a disability or has trouble latching on for one reason or another, this is a good position to try. Start by placing your hand underneath the breast, placing your thumb on one side and your fingers on the other. Slide your hand forward until the index finger and thumb make a U shape on the front section of your breast, making sure that your remaining three fingers support the breast underneath. At this point, the baby’s jaw should rest on the thumb and index finger as you feed them. The baby’s chin will be at the bottom of the “U,” and your thumb and index finger can gently hold each of their cheeks. With this position, you can see exactly how the baby is latching on and alter it some if necessary.   4. Dangle Hold This one may sound odd, but if your breasts are engorged or very full, it may be a more comfortable position to use. With the dangle hold, you simply get on all fours and dangle over the baby, placing the breast in their mouth whenever you feel that you’re ready. You can practice this position on your bed or place pillows or cushions underneath your knees and hands for more comfort.   5. Side-Lying Hold This one is particularly easy if you’ve had a C-section. To do it, you and the baby are tummy-to-tummy but in a lying-down prone position. You can prop one arm up behind you and use the other one to position the breast. This means that it’s easy to see just how the baby is latching on, which enables you to help them latch on properly.   6. Football or Clutch Hold This is a good position for moms of twins, small babies, or moms who have had C-sections. The baby’s head will be at the breast but the feet will be facing in back of you. The pressure is off of your stomach and you can still watch to make sure that the baby latches on correctly. Think of how a football is held and you’ll understand this position!   7. Laid-Back or Reclined Hold In this position, you are either in a reclined position or lying flat on your back and the baby is on your chest. If you have a baby that is having trouble latching on or who doesn’t like their heads or bodies touched too much, this is a good position to practice because you can usually just let them lie there and get in a position that makes them most comfortable. It’s also a good position for moms with big breasts but small babies because the baby is on top of the breast and not the other way around, which makes it easier for them to latch on properly and securely. You can still hold them gently with your hands, but it’s a simple pose to practice.   Conclusion There are many different types of breastfeeding positions, and all of them affect the baby’s position, your position, and the latching-on process in a different way. All of these factors are important for successful breastfeeding, and if one position doesn’t work for you, there is no need to worry because there are lots of them available. Indeed, finding the right nursing position is never difficult.

When you decide to breastfeed, one of the things that you have to think about is how to hold the baby properly, which sounds simple but in certain situations can be quite a challenge. You have to be comfortable while nursing in order to do so successfully, and while there are numerous breastfeeding pillows that you can buy for comfort, you may still need to adopt a certain hold so that both of you can be ready to nurse.   The Football Hold: Best for C-Section Moms So, just what is a football hold? It is a hold used by many women who find it uncomfortable to hold the baby directly on their bellies, and it goes like this: The baby will be facing up Place a pillow underneath the baby if you like Place the baby’s feet facing in the opposite direction that you’re facing (in back of you) The baby’s face will be close to your breast Hold the baby’s face with the hand on the same side as the breast you’re using In other words, this position, which is also called the clutch hold, looks just like you’re holding a football! The baby is not laying on your stomach but instead on your side, so the benefits of a football hold for breastfeeding include the fact that if you’ve had a C-section, you never have to place the baby directly on your tummy where the incision is. Of course, other moms find the football breastfeeding pose very beneficial as well, including women with large breasts, women who are feeding twins (one on each breast), and women whose babies are smaller than average or even premature. If for any reason you do not wish to hold the baby on your lap or tummy when breastfeeding, the football or clutch hold is often recommended. The clutch hold is also helpful for moms who want a better view of their infant while they’re being fed and moms with inverted nipples. When this is the case, moms need to make sure that their baby is latching on properly and this is much easier with the football hold. Other scenarios that benefit from a football hold include women whose let-down reflex is very strong and babies who have problems with reflux, because they can remain more upright. It is really a very simple hold, especially once you get used to it, which is why so many breastfeeding moms use it. Many moms, in fact, are not doing it because of C-sections or flat nipples but simply because they consider it a much more comfortable pose. To be sure, the more comfortable you are while breastfeeding, the more successful the feeding session will be in the end.   Tips for Making Breastfeeding More Successful While breastfeeding is fairly easy, it is still possible to experience some challenges along the way. Regardless of the hold or pose you decide on, you have to relax, and relaxing while breastfeeding gets much easier the more you do it. Remember that nursing success depends on both physical and emotional factors, and the number-one rule is to relax and feel confident that you can do this. Another tip is to add 500 to 800 calories per day to your diet. This is what’s needed to make the milk, and you should be drinking lots of fluids throughout the day. Just like when you’re pregnant, the baby is getting everything you eat and drink, so make sure that your diet is healthy and you’re getting enough fluids and calories every day. If you don’t get the emotional support that you need, this can also affect your milk supply. Even if you come from a family of non-breastfeeding moms, let them know as early in the pregnancy as possible that you’re going to breastfeed. Even if you don’t get their support, move forward with confidence because breast milk is best for the baby. Period. Most women choose the cradle hold while breastfeeding, but there’s nothing wrong with deciding that you don’t feel comfortable with this particular hold. Besides the cradle hold and the football hold, there are other ways to hold a baby while breastfeeding. The trick is for you to try them until you find one that’s just right for you because comfort is crucial for successful breastfeeding.   In Addition to the Right Hold Regardless of the hold you choose when you nurse, comfort is a must. If you’re not comfortable in that particular position, your muscles may unknowingly tense up and cause you problems. To make sure that you’re in a comfortable position, try one or more of the following tips: Invest in a good breastfeeding pillow Choose to nurse in either a glider or regular rocking chair Invest in several quality nursing bras Always use breast pads for leakages If it’s more comfortable, use an ottoman or footstool as you nurse Always have a breast pump in case the baby sleeps through a feeding, which can cause engorgement Indeed, the hold or position you choose to breastfeed won’t make much difference if you aren’t comfortable yourself. Both you and the baby need to be comfortable for breastfeeding to be productive.   Conclusion When you decide to breastfeed, you’ll find many ways to hold your baby while nursing, and the football hold is a good one for women who have had C-sections or have other challenges. In this position, the baby is held like a football and is more to your side and not in front of you. Some women without challenges prefer it as well.

Breastfeeding is usually a round-the-clock job because let’s face it -- no one else can breastfeed for you. Indeed, unless you fill up a few bottles with pumped breast milk so someone else can feed your infant, you are your baby’s number-one source of food. Because of this, you have likely already asked yourself, can I breastfeed while sick, and the answer to that is “yes,” in most situations you can.   Why Is it All Right to Breastfeed If You’re Sick? When you get sick, your body automatically starts making extra antibodies to fight off the illness, and those antibodies are found in your breast milk. This means that when you’re sick, your baby is getting those extra antibodies and actually getting healthier each time you nurse. If you are breastfeeding with a cold or something similar and you’re concerned about your baby getting sick while you nurse, you can always wear a mask. The truth is that in most cases, by the time your cold or flu has been diagnosed, the baby has already been exposed to it, which means that it won’t do you any good to stop nursing. You may be tempted to go ahead and wean the baby, especially if you’re very sick, but the baby will benefit much more from those extra antibodies they’ll be getting than they would from switching to formula at this point. According to the Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP), breast milk will not transmit viruses such as cold and flu to the baby, so you don’t have to worry about it from that perspective. While you may feel lousy as you’re nursing, the baby will not be negatively affected because they cannot get sick from your illness and the extra antibodies are protecting them anyway.   Does This Mean That it’s Safe Regardless of the Illness? Studies have shown that even if the mom has COVID-19, she can still breastfeed her baby. COVID-19, colds, and even the flu aren’t a reason to stop nursing your baby, but there are some rare illnesses which mean that you should stop nursing for a while or altogether. These include: HIV infection Chickenpox Untreated tuberculosis (after two weeks of treatment, you can resume breastfeeding) Untreated brucellosis Certain flu types, such as H1N1 Any Herpes Simplex lesion found on the breast (try nursing on the other breast instead) Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (either Type I- or Type II-positive) If you stop nursing temporarily but you still want to nurse when you’re well, you can “pump and dump” your milk to keep the milk supply from dwindling away. For permanent conditions such as HIV, it’s best not to breastfeed at all. As you can see, breastfeeding when sick is acceptable in most instances, but if you have any concerns, you should consult with your doctor. One thing that you’ll want to do regardless of the situation is to wash your hands thoroughly before you nurse, and make sure that your breast pump is clean and sterilized before you use it. The cleaner everything is, the fewer germs will be spread to the baby, which should keep them a lot healthier in numerous ways.   What If You Need to Take an Antibiotic? If you’re sick enough to need an antibiotic, keep in mind that there are medications that are safe for breastfeeding moms and those that aren’t. Among the “safe” antibiotics are: Penicillin Amoxicillin Azithromycin As far as unsafe antibiotics, they include sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, doxycycline, and clindamycin. Nevertheless, before you take any type of antibiotic, you need to let the doctor know that you’re breastfeeding because each patient is different. Indeed, it’s a smart idea to ask your regular doctor if you can take a prescribed antibiotic since you’re nursing, as the answer may vary. Even though the answer to the question, can you breastfeed while sick with the flu, is “yes,” this doesn’t mean that some precautions aren’t recommended. While you’re sick, wash your hands frequently, limit close contact with the baby, avoid touching your face, and consider taking a probiotic to speed up the healing process. And when you’re feeling extra lousy but you don’t want to take medication unless you have to, you can try numerous natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar (ACV), elderberry syrup, honey, garlic, and of course, chicken soup. In fact, you can pour honey (preferably local honey) in tea or even hot water and drink it to help you feel better faster. To be sure, nursing while you’re ill can be done without worrying about the baby’s health, and if you feel too poorly to breastfeed, go ahead and pump some milk into a bottle and let someone else feed the baby. If you have any concerns whatsoever, make sure that you contact your doctor, but in the majority of cases, the doctor will tell you that you can nurse just as you would if you weren’t sick. Finally, use a little common sense in these instances. Do everything in your power to keep as many germs as possible away from the baby, wear a mask if you can, and wash your hands frequently.   Conclusion Even if you have a cold or the flu, you can still breastfeed your baby. In fact, with rare exceptions such as HIV or chickenpox, not only is breastfeeding allowed but it is often recommended by the doctor. This is because of the extra antibodies your body is producing to fight off your illness, which are great for both you and the baby.

When you intend to breastfeed, you should know that the milk isn’t produced until several days after you give birth. In the beginning, you’ll produce colostrum, which is a thick, sticky liquid that has tons of antibodies in it, which in turn strengthens the baby’s immune system. Colostrum is important to a baby’s development and cannot be reproduced in any type of baby formula. This is why many moms and expectant moms collect and store their colostrum for when the baby comes.   Why Do Some Moms Store Colostrum? Before we talk about how to store colostrum, let’s talk about why so many moms are starting to do this. Simply put, colostrum is amazing for a baby’s immune system, and it cannot be replicated in a lab. Colostrum has both antibodies and other healthy ingredients, including the right amounts of protein, fats, and sugar. If you have a premature birth, it is even more important to give your baby colostrum. This being said, some mothers run into challenges when they’re giving birth and aren’t able to nurse their baby immediately. No one knows in advance that this will happen, so collecting colostrum and storing it for future use is becoming more and more commonplace. If you do this, your baby is still able to enjoy this nutrient-rich first food even if you can’t breastfeed. Of course, even if you are able to nurse right away, many mothers still like having colostrum around because there is no such thing as your immune system being too strong. Moms can easily feed their baby the colostrum instead of or even in addition to breast milk. Many times, moms-to-be will collect and then store the colostrum in syringes in order to feed it to the baby in small doses and so none of it is wasted.   When Should You Collect Colostrum? So, when do you start making colostrum? While pregnant, your body will begin making small amounts of colostrum by 14 to 16 weeks, or three to four months. This does not mean, however, that you should try to collect colostrum this early. Indeed, most doctors recommend that you do not start collecting colostrum until your 36th week and no later than your 39th. This brings us to the next point, which is this: never collect colostrum until you’ve checked it out with your doctor. While it is a safe thing to do as a general rule, each expectant mom is different. Only your obstetrician will know for sure if this is something you should do. In most cases, the OB-GYN will approve of collecting colostrum, but you’ll want to be sure. By the 36th week of pregnancy, many women start leaking small amounts of colostrum, and as soon as you get your doctor’s approval, you can start collecting it. How? While you can use a pump, many moms-to-be find that hand-expressing colostrum is much easier. You’re not going to be producing tons of colostrum, so using a pump might be painful.   How to Collect and Store Colostrum You can collect colostrum both before and after you give birth, but expressing or pumping before birth allows you to have colostrum on hand as soon as the baby arrives. Buy small syringes and make sure that they are sterilized before using them. Start by sterilizing any item you’ll be using, and make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly before you do anything. Single-use syringes work best because remember, you won’t need to give the baby a large dose of colostrum. You can also fill up several syringes and place them in a resealable freezer bag. It’s just easier to grab the bag on your way out to the hospital if you choose to bring them with you when you give birth. You have two options when it comes to storing the colostrum: refrigerate it or freeze it. If the baby is already here, you can place the colostrum in the refrigerator, where it can remain for up to three to four days. That being said, it’s best to use the colostrum within 48 hours if you can. If the baby doesn’t take all of it at once, you can put it back into the fridge, but be mindful of how long it can stay there. After three to four days, always discard the colostrum. If you freeze the colostrum, you should put the date and time on the syringe so you always use the oldest ones first. Colostrum can remain in the freezer for up to 12 months, but most experts believe that using it within six months is best for the baby. Once you open a syringe of colostrum that’s been frozen, it should be used within 24 hours. When you put the colostrum in the freezer, put it in the back of the freezer where it’s the coldest. Never mix fresh and frozen colostrum in the same syringe, and never place the colostrum in the door of the freezer or the fridge because the temperature can fluctuate. It is not difficult to collect and store colostrum for your baby, but you need to be aware of a few “do”s and “don’t”s first.   Conclusion Collecting and storing colostrum for after your baby arrives is a good idea for many reasons, and you can start in your 36th week in most cases. Always check it out with your doctor before collecting the colostrum, and the easiest way to do this is to hand-express or pump to get the colostrum out. Afterwards, store it in small single-use syringes in your freezer for after the baby arrives.

If you are planning to breastfeed your baby, you probably already know that your milk supply is adjusted according to the baby’s feeding schedule. In fact, the more the baby eats, the more milk you make, but how do you know when your milk supply is set and established, which means it will be fairly regular and reliable from that point forward? Generally, it takes six to twelve weeks postpartum for your milk supply to be established, but a lot happens in the meantime.   In the Beginning Right after childbirth, your breasts produce not milk but colostrum, which is extremely nutritious and actually builds up the baby’s immune system. After several days, your milk will come in, and you’ll continue to produce colostrum with the milk for several weeks. In the beginning, you and your baby are getting used to one another, so breastfeeding may not always go as you’d planned. Nevertheless, the more you nurse, the better you’ll feel about the job you’re doing. If you’ve asked yourself, when does milk supply regulate, it usually takes six to twelve weeks, but keep in mind this is not an exact science. Some women have an established milk supply at two weeks, while others’ milk may not be established until after the twelfth week. Every mother is different. In the meantime, here are some signs that signal your breast milk has been established: It is somewhere between six to twelve weeks after you’ve given birth You can pump at least 17 ounces in a 24-hour period by the end of the first week (if you are pumping exclusively) You can pump at least 25 ounces in a 24-hour period by the end of the second week (if you are pumping exclusively) You are leaking much less often in between feedings You have less engorgement, except if you miss a feeding If you skip a feeding or pumping session, you are experiencing fewer clogs You experience fewer involuntary “letdown” responses Your breast feel less full and a lot softer When you pump or feed, you collect less (or no) milk on the opposite breast Indeed, if one of the things you’re experiencing is having full breasts but no milk when pumping your breasts, this is a good sign that your milk is established. In many ways, you’ll know when your milk is established because the entire breastfeeding experience is more productive, more comfortable, and even less messy. It means that the milk is coming in regularly and evenly, making breastfeeding a lot simpler for both you and the baby.   An Established Milk Supply: What Does it Mean? In a nutshell, an established milk supply means the supply of milk is being established by supply and demand and not by your hormones alone. If it’s been at least two weeks since you gave birth, it shouldn’t be difficult for you to produce 24 to 30 ounces of milk in a 24-hour period. This is but one of the many signs that mean your breast milk is starting to regulate itself. If you’re wondering if you can increase your milk supply after it has been established, the answer is “yes,” you can. To do this, just pump in between feeding sessions, or do some “power-pumping” where you pump numerous times over a short period of time. It is easy enough to increase your milk supply even after it’s been established. If you dislike pumping, you can increase your milk supply in other ways, such as drinking more fluids, eating lactation cookies, and taking lactation supplements. There are even yummy shakes that are breastfeeding-friendly, and they come in many different flavors! You can research edible lactation products online to find the ones you might like best. Finally, you can use certain herbs to increase your milk supply, but never use them without your doctor’s approval. Some of these herbs include fennel, alfalfa, stinging nettle, brewer’s yeast, milk thistle, and fenugreek. Some of these herbs cannot be used during pregnancy, so never take any herbs without talking to your doctor first.   When Should You Be Concerned? When breast milk is established, the supply of milk decreases, but as long as you are nursing or pumping regularly, you should have enough milk to feed your baby. At first, you’ll be making more milk than your baby needs, but it will eventually even out and you’ll be producing the amount that your baby needs to grow and thrive. If you’re wondering if your milk supply has decreased too much, ask yourself the following questions: Is the baby showing no (or very slow) weight gain? Is the baby going through only a small number of wet and poopy diapers? If you are concerned at all about your milk supply, you should contact either your doctor or the lactation specialist for options. This is also why regular checkups with the pediatrician are so important. The pediatrician will notice if the baby isn’t gaining enough weight, but you shouldn’t wait for your next appointment to talk to them about any concerns you have. You need to do it now.   Conclusion It can take up to 12 weeks for your breast milk to be established, but some women take longer or shorter for it to happen. If your breasts leak less often, don’t feel as full, and feel much softer, your milk has very likely established. Once this happens, you’ll have less pain and engorgement and the breastfeeding process will be more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and the baby.

When it comes to feeding an infant, no food is more perfect than breast milk, but what do you do if you have an oversupply of breast milk, either because your baby has decided to eat less for a few days or because you’re pumping more than you were thinking you would? Oddly enough, there are numerous things that you can do with breast milk, so if you need some ideas for a little creativity with extra breast milk, you’ve come to the right place.   What Is Breast Milk Made of? The ingredients in breast milk change in order to meet the baby’s needs, but in general, it is composed of: Vitamins and minerals Water Lipids (fats) Carbs Antibodies (immunoglobulins) Proteins Enzymes Hormones Breast milk strengthens the baby’s immune system and provides all of the nutrients that they need to grow and thrive. If you end up with extra breast milk, there are a lot of things that you can do with it. You can always mix extra breast milk into baby food once the baby gets on solid foods, which works especially well with their cereal. You can also make a breast milk donation to a local breast milk bank, which can then be used by other moms who aren’t able to breastfeed themselves. Other than that, what can you do with leftover breast milk? The answer depends largely on how much you have because one small bottle of leftover breast milk isn’t the same as having a dozen bottles of breast milk sitting in your refrigerator or freezer. Let’s take a look at some of the things that you can do with leftover breast milk, regardless of the quantity.   Medicinal Uses for Breast Milk Because of the high antibody count in breast milk, it has numerous medicinal uses. If your child is at least a year old, you can make gummies out of breast milk and honey and give them that when they have a cough, cold, or sore throat. If they’re teething, you can dip a soft cloth in breast milk and rub it on the baby’s gums, or you can even make breast milk ice pops for them to suck on if they’re older. Other maladies can be eased by using a small amount of breast milk. These include eye infections such as pink eye, diaper rash, baby acne, cradle cap, and eczema, not to mention minor cuts, bruises, and small wounds. Just put some breast milk directly on the skin and it will work wonders.   Cooking Uses for Breast Milk If you can use goat’s milk or cow’s milk for various recipes, why not breast milk? Indeed, breast milk can be used to make cheese, popsicles, smoothies, oatmeal, cereal, ice cream, and even butter. In fact, you can even try breast milk soap, lotions, or diaper creams by finding recipes for these products and using breast milk instead of other types of milk. If you choose to make items that need to be cooked, just use the same amount of breast milk as you would if you were using any other type of milk instead. It’s easy to do and lets you enjoy all of these products and more in a much healthier way.   Cosmetic Uses for Breast Milk More than anything else, breast milk is great for the skin -- not just to ease rashes and dry skin, but also to get your skin healthier and smoother. If you try, you can come up with dozens of ways to use breast milk, including various skin treatments such as removing makeup, relieving swollen or painful bumps, or even using it on your stretch marks. You can also use breast milk to: Use in a breast milk bath (combine with oatmeal for even better results!) Give yourself a breast milk facial Improve dark circles under the eyes Ease sore or cracked nipples To be sure, breastfeeding moms have created some very unique ways to use their breast milk. Some, in fact, have even used it to make jewelry such as pendants and rings, allowing them to have a keepsake of their breastfeeding experience. If you look online, you can come up with a few more uses for breast milk so that you don’t have to waste it!   How to Keep Breast Milk Until You Need it If you have lots of frozen breast milk in your freezer, keep in mind that it needs to be taken out and used within six to twelve hours (preferably six). Breast milk can keep for four hours at room temperature and four to eight days in the refrigerator. If your milk is frozen, you need to keep it frozen until you’re ready to use it. Once it’s thawed out, it should not be refrozen because the nutritional value of the milk starts to go down after a while. When getting your breast milk ready for the freezer, you can either place it in resealable plastic bags or a baby bottle with a regular (not nipple) top on it. Once it’s thawed out and warmed up, simply pour the milk that’s in the bag in a bottle and attach a nipple to the bottle so the baby can be fed.   Conclusion It is truly amazing what you can do with leftover breast milk, whether you have a little or a lot of it. Breast milk has cosmetic and skin uses, medicinal uses, and can be cooked with for both food and non-food concoctions. It is not only the perfect food for babies but has a lot of other uses as well.