Breastfeeding Clothes Online - Sale

Our sale continues on breastfeeding tshirts. We have some great breastfeeding tshirts available online. These are a high quality thicker cotton, stretch, slim fitting tshirt with a discrete opening for breastfeeding.



Available in sizes 10 12 14 16 18 and 20.

Grab a bargain while the sale is on.

These are really handy for summer, and can help you to breastfeed in public without showing tummy or boob. *really handy if you have an older child and you have to breast feed your new baby when you take the older child to the park - such as I did this morning!*

View more information about these breastfeeding tshirts on our website page here: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/Breastfeeding_Tee_Shirt.html

Or to view all breastfeeding tops available online, go to here: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/clothing.htm

Found Out today

Found out today that cancer strikes twice, in both sides of my family.

Victim #2 is awaiting further tests. Will find out on Monday.

Victim #1 is now in and out of the hospice. She had a 48 hour pass, but has had to return tonight.

Teats for Medela Bottles

Medela manufacture a range of fantastic breast pumps, bottles, cooler carriers and storage bags etc. But one thing that they dont manufacture is their own brand of medela bottle teats.

Crazy huh?! I'm not entirely sure why this is, it might have something to do with the World Health Organisation code of marketing breast milk substitutes - with this code you can't advertise teats (or bottle nipples as some call them).

But if a mother is going to all the effort of expressing breast milk, she'll need a teat inorder to feed it to her baby.

Here at our webstore, I have finally found some great bottle nipples that will fit onto the Medela range of breast pumping products. These are free of BPA chemicals etc, so are very safe to use.

You can order them at the same time as you purchase a breast pump online, at our webstore http://www.breastmates.co.nz/

Breastfeeding Twins

I had a customer that came to my shop last week, she was expecting twins to arrive. She asked me for some advice on how to breastfeed twins and how to hold twins while feeding them. So I have done a bit of research.

The full article is here: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/adv_breastfeeding_twins.html

Please just be prior warned that many mothers of twins receive criticism from others that do not share their enthusiasm for breastfeeding. They may pressure you to use formula or other foods before they are needed.

Believe in your ability to produce enough milk for your babies. As long as you are offering them breast milk then your breast's will be producing enough milk to satisfy them. Breasts work based on Supply and Demand!

Congratulations and enjoy your baby twins and your twin breastfeeding experience.

View our web store to see some great breastfeeding products that can help you out with breast feeding your twins: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/

Leaking Breasts

Leaking Boobs! Its not the ideal conversation topic for new mothers, but it is something that happens with about 99% of new mothers. When you are a breastfeeding mom, between feeding times your breasts can just sometimes leak out milk. Sometimes if you are walking past a baby, or if you think about your baby, you will also feel the milk let down and have a leak.

The milk let down sensation is a tingling feeling. And the milk leaks will drip out from your nipple.

It is extremely common for breasts to leak regularly when your baby is new born, while your breast milk and breast feeding routine are getting established. Some women also leak more over night.

Then as your baby gets older, and your breast milk production settles down, you may find that your breasts dont leak as much.

The amount of time that breast leak does vary between mothers. Some it may be for 6 weeks, or for others it will be around 6 months, 9 months, or for the entire breastfeeding period.

To absorb leaks you need breast pads. There are several options available, such as reusable breast pads, disposable breast pads, breast shells. The one that you choose to you, will depend on your budget (throwing away disposable breast pads will cost you $$), and it will also depend if you can be bothered with the washing and reusing. The other option now available is for Lily Pads - which are a breathable silicone breast shell which push your nipple down continuously - and prevent leaks from even occurring. We do have some easy care breast pads at our web store.

Personally, my breasts leaked a LOT when my son was a newborn. I was changing them regularly to ensure I didnt get any leakage through my clothing. But now that he is reaching 6 months old, this week particularly, I am noticing that my boobs are not leaking as much.

For more options and to order some breast pads, check out our web store http://www.breastmates.co.nz/

Reusable Hemp Breast Pads - easy to wash, dry and reuse. High absorption.

100% Merino wool breast pads. Soft and absorbent, and the air can circulate to heal nipples. Hand wash.

Disposable Breast Pads. Trim and discrete under nursing bra.

WAHM is a Juggling Act

Someone said to me the other day "PS How on earth do you juggle/find the energy for the business and a newborn and an older one?! Makes us one trick ponies feel quite inferior! "

I never thought about it from that perspective before. I just function. I have to really else we wouldnt have enough income to survive. Some days are auto pilot!

It does help now that my older son (4 years) goes to Preschool for 3 days a week. That is when i get most work done, do website work and accounts, and arrange appointments for visitors that come to my shop.

My baby is still a baby, so he sits with me here in the office and I chat to him about work. I'm teaching the 6 month old HTML coding and SEO haha...

By setting up a home business, our original goal was for me to stay home with the children and generate a little extra "pocket money" - that was 4 years ago now. But now that the home business has grown and become successful, it takes more time away from my children. Kind of ironic really.

Its a juggling act, thats for sure.

(and I am sharing a couple of photos of my boys - note their Ugly Monsters in the background that I made the other day )

You are welcome to check out our home business via our web store: http://www.breastmates.co.nz

Expressing Breast Milk is a Lot of Work

Mothers that express breast milk are obviously dedicated breast feeding moms. It is a lot of extra work to get breast milk to feed your child in a bottle, at a time when the household is already busy and stressful with a newborn baby.

If you are expressing breast milk for the occassional bottle feed, or to get baby used to taking a bottle, then most mothers do this after breastfeeding their baby on the boob. If you express after a feed, then you will only get a smaller volume of milk, as the baby would have had most of the milk to drink first from your breast. But the next day, your breasts will naturally produce extra milk (i.e baby's feed + the volume that you expressed).

when you are expressing breast milk with an electric breast pump, allow about 10 to 15 minutes per side. Expressing with a manual breast pump takes longer. You may need to do this a couple of times to get enough milk for one bottle feed.

How much volume does baby drink? The volume required depends on the age of your baby. Try to aim for 150 mLs to offer to a baby first to see how much volume they are drinking. This is something that you don't know until you introduce a bottle, as with breastfeeding there is no volume guage!

You will need to store the breast milk that you collect.

And you will need to sterilise all equipment that you use.

Personally, I express occassionally. Just to get my son used to taking milk from a bottle. But I am quite lazy and find that feeding from my boob is just a lot easier. It really does make me appreciate how lucky I have been with my breastfeeding journey. Some mothers have to express breast milk as the only way their baby can feed. Go them!!

To view all of our breastfeeding products, visit our website http://www.breastmates.co.nz

Dad's Help with Feeding

I get a lot of enquiries from parents who are looking to purchase a breast pump. Their main intention of using the breast pump is to express some breast milk, so that baby can get used to a bottle, and so that Dad can help with feeding.

This is a really good idea.

Its ideal if you get baby used to drinking from a bottle when they are still very young, as once they get older (like 6 months +) they can get very fussy and refuse a bottle. That can cause quite a stressful time for parents!!

Its a good idea if Mum can express some breast milk with her breast pump during the day, store the milk. Then Dad could do the late night feed (the one at around 10pm, 11pm when most Dad's are still up anyway before they go to bed). Mum can go to bed early and get a longer sleep, uninterrupted.

Its also a great way for Dad to bond with the new baby.

For this purpose, I suggest that the Medela Mini Electric Breast pump is ideal. I do sell all the other Medela Breast Pumps online and Avent Breast pumps online, but the Mini Electric is certainly the most popular for this purpose described.


You can order this online at my web store http://www.breastmates.co.nz/

Mothers and Daughters

I get quite a few enquiries from Mothers who are purchasing gifts for their daughter (or daughter-in-law) who is having a baby. Like a lady who is going to be a Nana or a Grandma for the first time.

A lot of these new Nana's may have been pro-breastfeeding when they had their baby's, and they want to find something to encourage their daughter or daughter-in-law to breastfeed too.

They are so pleased when they find my breastfeeding website, as we really do cater for everything that a breastfeeding mother would need.

Although we have a lot of great products, like maternity lingerie, nappy bags, breastfeeding clothing etc - the most popular things that Nana's or Grandmas purchase from me are breast pumps, breastfeeding books, and gift vouchers.





They often purchase these things as gifts to take with them as a Baby shower gift. But I can also gift wrap, include a card, and send directly to the preggie mummy any where in the world.

Check out my full range of products on my web store: http://www.breastmates.co.nz or contact me if you would like some nice gift ideas.

Some Tips for Your Mother-In-Law

The following are some tips and suggestions for a new Grandmother.

Blog Readers: You are welcome to copy and paste this message, or send her the link to this blog post so that she gets the idea!

Visit your newborn grandchild while mother and baby are still in the hospital. Visiting hours are usually in the afternoon. Knock before you enter the room, and when you first arrive ask the mother if now is a good time for a visit. She may need to breastfeed her baby, and it can be difficult learning how to breastfeed in those first few days. Offer to wait outside while she attends the baby.

Take some treats with you to give to the new mummy, something like a magazine or some yummy snacks & drink would be well appreciated and a nice change after hospital food.

There are bound to be lots of gifts for the new baby, so try and find a lovely gift for the New Mummy.

Tell the new mummy what a great job she has done with the new baby, and tell her how great she is looking.

If you are in the room while the mother is feeding baby, just carry on as normal. Talk to her, make eye contact. If you feel embarrassed and look away while she is feeding, that will just make her feel uncomfortable and stressed about nursing discretely.

When the mother and baby arrive home, always telephone before you visit to ask if it would be a convenient time – also ask if they need you to pick up anything from the store, like bread or milk. Never turn up unannounced and never turn up empty handed.

When you visit in those first few weeks, a pre-prepared meal and/or some baking would be well received. Leave a meal for them to put in the freezer. When you visit, you should offer to make a cup of tea, rather than the New Mummy hosting everyone. Its also a nice idea if you offer to hang/fold washing, vacuum as she may not yet be allowed to do these tasks after labour or c/section. Don’t be offended if the answer is “no” when you offer, she may not feel comfortable with you doing housekeeping for her but it will be nice if you offer.

When the baby is a few months old, you could offer to look after the child for an hour or so, (just after they have been fed) so that perhaps mum could get out of the house for a while. She might need to get a haircut or just enjoy some time out of the house having a coffee. If you plan this for just after baby has been fed and had their nappy changed, then perhaps the child will sleep while mum is away. Mum should be able get an hour or two away before she is needed again.

As a mother in law, only give advice when asked.

Written by Frances, Manager of Breastmates, a website that is popular with mothers around the world. The website has some gorgeous products for mums with new babies. These include stunning maternity lingerie sets and sleepwear, breastfeeding clothing, pillows and breast pumps aswell as Gift Vouchers. The website has some great ideas for new mothers http://www.breastmates.co.nz

Baby Starting Solids

My baby has just recently started solids. We are just starting slowly, with mashed pumpkin and sweet potato, baby rice. All mixed into a sloppy paste using some breast milk.

He seems to be enjoying them so far, and it is really helping him to sleep better at night.

So I thought i would highlight a few "baby feeding" products that i have just loaded onto the website.

Lovely baby bibs - a generous size. Soft and absorbent with velour towelling on one side and

waterproof backing. Great design around the neck so that mess doesnt spill under clothes.

baby feeding spoons

and some breast milk storage containers, which can also double up and be used to store baby food.

you are welcome to order any of these products from our online store Breastmates, the baby things are displayed at http://www.breastmates.co.nz/baby.htm

Thank you for the Advice

Today I had a couple of phone calls from a lady that was doing some research about breast pumps, and what breast pump to purchase. So we had a chat, and decided that the Medela Swing Breast Pump would be ideal for her. Then she phoned back she had some questions about sterilising the breast pump, and whether the medela bottles and avent bottles could be swapped around (no due to the size of the bottle necks not fitting on the different brands).

She placed her order with me over the phone.

Then, just before we finished, she said "oh and I just wanted to thank you for all the advice you have given me, I had been asking at the baby shops but they kept giving me conflicting advice, so thanks for your time"

Wow, that was so nice of her to say that. I was just giving her advice based on my own experience as a mum and expressing breast milk. It was nice that she said thanks.

I love helping mothers, and getting the right products for them.

View my webstore here, http://www.breastmates.co.nz/ and let's see how i can help you!

When to have a pregnancy bra fitted?

When is the best time in your pregnancy to come and get fitted for maternity bras?

You can either be fitted now to have a bra that you can wear during the pregnancy. The Hotmilk bras that we sell are designed for both pregnancy and breastfeeding, and they have no underwire which would otherwise impede the milk ducts. The bras are designed to allow for growth in your breast and rib size during pregnancy.

If you are looking for a bra solely to wear for breast feeding, then a fitting at around 36-38 weeks. Or else come for a fitting after your baby is born, when your milk flow settles down. Around 2-3 weeks old.

View all of our bra options available at our web store: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/lingerie.htm

DIY Ugly Monsters

During the weekend, I spent some time away from the Business, doing something fun for my kids.

Before I started my WAHM business, I was a crafty lady. I always used to have projects on the go.

Yesterday my creative juices needed an outlet. I got out my craft box - and was surprised at all the cool stuff I had accumulated in there. I had forgotten!

Well, I had enough supplies to make these ugly monsters. Didnt even need to go to spotlight to buy anything, it was all here. (and I never knew!)

The boys love them!!

Constipated Baby

So my baby is breastfeed, he has been exclusively breastfed since he was born, and he is now nearly 6 months.

Two weeks ago we started him on solids, just baby rice, pumpkin, and kumara to start with. We only started feeding him solids because he was opening his mouth and copying us when we were having dinner, he can hold his head up by himself, he was mouthing everything, and he had started unusually waking at night.

So he loves his baby food!!

But over the past two weeks since he started solids, he has only done about 3 bowel motions. So a lot of food has been going in, and breast milk, but no poop coming out!

I had thought that breast milk helps to keep baby regular, and stop baby getting constipated. But not quite this time.

he has been unsettled, must have a sore tummy.

My mother suggested dissolving a little bit of brown sugar in water, and giving him this. I have NO IDEA how brown sugar is meant to help constipatation, so cannot give you readers the science behind it.

Gave him the dose of brown sugar at 9am Sunday. No result all day.

It is now 9am Monday, and we have a result. A very very firm turd! YIPPEE I have never been so happy to see a poo! It was huge!

So based on my small trial period, I think brown sugar does work for constipated baby.

Baby now fast asleep and happy at last!

Sadness Looms

It is easy to say "I love you" every day when hubby goes to work, because I know that I will see him again in the evening. Sometimes the words "I Love You" just roll off my tongue as automatic as saying "goodbye, have a good day at work".

But when you know with 100% certainty, that you will not see some one again, and that the end of their life is so close, it is so hard to say I love you. And good bye.

Breastfeeding Video

I am thinking of making a breast feeding video, like a tuition on how to hold, latch, position and feed your baby. Based on what I have learnt, and how I currnently breast feed my son.

I think mothers might find this useful, like an introduction to breast feeding and some free breastfeeding advice, or breastfeeding help for those that need it.

My baby is a good feeder, I'm good at lactating. Maybe someone else will find my information useful.

Will have to record the breastfeeding video and crop out my face!!

I should have done this a while ago, when my baby was still a newborn, and then it would have been "breastfeeding a newborn" video which first time moms might have found more useful. He is 5 months old now. I will try and get my husband to record a short breastfeeding video of me and our baby, and I will upload the breast feeding video to my website articles to share.

Sometimes I have been breastfeeding him while I work on the computer, maybe I should just user the cyber camera thing!! haha

I run a business that supplies maternity products and breastfeeding resources online. All of my breastfeeding advice and breast feeding articles can be found here:

http://www.breastmates.co.nz/Articles_Breastfeeding_Nursing.html


UPDATE: Here is the first "self recorded" video that I made http://breastmates-nz.blogspot.com/2008/12/i-dont-know-if-i-ever-did-post-about.html

Moulded Cup Breast Feeding Bra

So many breast feeding mothers have been asking me about where to find a moulded cup breast feeding bra, well good news!!

We now have a gorgeous gorgeous moulded cup breast feeding bra on our maternity products online store - Breastmates.

This is a Hotmilk Lingerie brand of breast feeding bra. It is made from a deep dark violet colour, with black lace on the top half of the cup. It has fantastic breast support, and also adds a bit of boost to the cleavage.

I am wearing one myself today (am breast feeding baby who is 5 months) I am normally a small 12B cup size, but with this breast feeding bra I have a great boost and lift, and the moulded cup bra gives good outline with (with no nip showing through!).

You can order these breast feeding bras from our website.

Ideal for any lactating mums out there!

or check out our full range of pregnancy bras and breast feeding bras at our store http://www.breastmates.co.nz/lingerie.htm

Belly Bra - Preggie Tummy Support Garment

If you are pregnant and feel that your tummy is huge, heavy, hanging low, or you are experiencing common symptoms of pregnancy like lower back pain or bad posture - then the Belly Bra support garment is just what you need.

The Bellybra is a superior pregnancy support garment and customers are often referred to this by health professionals and midwives.

Lightweight and as comfortable as a singlet. You can wear with or without a bra. The one-way stretch back panel helps improve posture, and the Bellybra is non-constrictive on your bubs inside tummy.

The Belly Bra has some extraordinary design features that immediately offer relief from weight bearing down on the pelvis, lower back pain and poor posture. Especially suitable for the last ten weeks (third trimester) of pregnancy.

I sell these on my online baby products store, having used one myself. Personally, I am a small size 10 women and both my babies were over 8 lbs. The relief i felt from wearing my own Belly Bra was just amazing - so I now stock them at my online maternity store to help more pregnant mothers!

We can send Belly Bras worldwide, just order Belly bras online

Enjoy your pregnancy and good luck for your new arrival!

Baby Carriers - Sling or Frontpack

At our Breastmates online baby products store, we have a few baby products that can help make life easier for busy parents. Such as the Nature's Sway Slings, or Frontpack style baby carriers.

Both of these baby carriers, either sling or frontpack, are a fantastic hands-free way to carry your baby. They are a good way to calm an unsettled baby. Great way to quickly nip around the shops without lugging a buggy. And great if you have an older child who is in the pushchair, this will save you having to get a double pushchair. Great if your baby needs holding, but you have other things to do at the same time!

Slings: baby can lay down in a natural lying position. Or you can have baby sitting up, on your hip.

Frontpack: newborn baby faces inwards to your chest. Older baby faces outwards.

Both the Elite Cruiser Frontpack Carrier and the Nature's Sway slings that we sell are adjustable in the size - so if you purchase just one then you can change the size to fit mum and dad.

The choice of baby carrier just depends on your preference.

View our selection of baby carriers online: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/

Purchasing a Breast Pump Online

When you contact Breastmates to enquire about ordering a breast pump online, we will speak with you to determine what sort of breast pump you require, to suit your breastfeeding and expressing milk requirements.

You can email us with any questions or queries you might have about purchasing a breast pump, or using a breast pump. You can also ask us about spare parts for your breast pump, and any additional items that can make your breast pump more comfortable to use.

There are several different types of breast pumps available, the model that you purchase really depends on how frequently you are planning to express with your breast pumps.

We can send breast pumps nationwide using overnight courier, and we are able to do online ordering of breast pumps with payment by bank deposit or visa. You can also come to our shop and purchase a breast pump directly from us, if you are in Auckland and need a breast pump.

Please take a moment to view the product range, and then you will be directed to a form to complete so we can confirm the correct Medela breast pump before you purchase. You are also welcome to telephone or email us to discuss your requirements.

Breastfeeding: The Safest Way to Feed Your Baby

Breastfeeding really is the safest way to feed your baby.





With all the news reports recently about Melamine in Milk Powder processed in China, contaminating milk powder, baby formula, and milk powder derived products there is sad news that babies have been dying as a result of the contamination. These were babies that were bottle fed with milk powder baby formula with Melamine chemical.

A few months ago there was also alot of reports in the media, that some brands of baby bottles were made from plastic that contained BPA compounds (Bisphenol-A) which also had health affects.


(*Just note on this one, that not all plastic contains BPA. There are SAFE baby bottles to use that don't contain it such as the adiri bottles pictured below).


Is this all a conspiracy theory to start poisoning the babies of the world?

The safest way to feed your little baby, is to breastfeed. It is an uncontaminated food source.

(provided mum does not drink alcohol or take drugs)

For more information about breastfeeding, support and advice, visit Breastmates website http://www.breastmates.co.nz

What Gift for Second Time Mum?

What gift to by a second time mum? A mum with a newborn baby and an older child?

Well, Breastmates is an online mail order business run by mums, so we can help find the ideal gift!!

For a second time mum, we fully recommend that whatever gift you purchase - it is directed entirely towards the mother. She deserves some pampering and to be spoilt! Everyone else gives gifts for the baby, so a treat for mum would be well appreciated.

A gift voucher of $100 will be enough for her to buy something special and let her feel a bit pampered. Such as some gorgeous maternity breastfeeding lingerie. A voucher is ideal if you don't know what size or colour she would like.

A voucher of $100 would also buy some comfortable and pretty maternity sleepwear.

Take a look at our website Breastmates, for some more gift ideas. You can then order a gift voucher and we will send directly to the mom for her to shop online and have treats delivered to her door.

P.S its also a good idea to send a gift or something small to the older child so they dont feel left out

Gift for First Time Mom

Not sure what gift to buy a first time mom?

Think about purchasing a gift voucher - the ideal solution if you don't know what size, what colours, what baby products she already has.

Breastmates is an online mail order store that delivers maternity products to your door. So the mom can use your gift voucher, shop online for maternity clothes or baby products, and have them delievered to her door. (from you of course)

For a new mum with a newborn baby a voucher of around $300 to $500 would purchase her a breast pump, a nappy bag, a nursing feeding pillow, and a couple of sets of breastfeeding bras. Aswell as a few things that she might have forgotten in her layette and needs now.

Have a look at http://www.breastmates.co.nz/gift_vouchers.html for more information.

This business is run by mothers - so we can help find the ideal gift!

What Gift to Buy Preggie Mother?

Sometimes I know it is hard to know what gift to buy a new mother when she has had her baby. You don't know what items she already has, you don't know her size or preferences. It can be hard to think of a gift for a baby shower.

Gift vouchers are the ideal solution, as the mum can buy what she likes. But the key is buying the gift voucher at the right store.

Breastmates is a popular online business that specialises in maternity, pregnancy, and breastfeeding stage of life and our products make great gifts.

But if you don't know the women's size or preferences - get her a voucher.

A gift voucher for a baby shower is a practical gift. Also a great little gift to send to someone far away.

Preggie Mum-to-Be: We suggest that an expectant mum would appreciate a gift voucher of $300 to $500, as that would purchase her a maternity breastfeeding top, a couple of sets of maternity lingerie, and some pregnancy sleepwear aswell as a few baby gifts.

She can shop when she needs to, use your gift voucher, and have maternity baby products delivered to her door.

Check out http://www.breastmates.co.nz/gift_vouchers.html

Note to Self

Its amazing how much better I feel, happy and more in control of my day, when I take time to do my hair. I love my new straightener.

It makes a difference getting dressed and wearing nice clothes. Rather than packing all the Breastmates Hotmilk Lingerie Orders in my dressing gown in the morning.

Must remember to get up, get dressed, do hair straight away. Rather than turning on the computer and checking orders while I am in my robe eating breakfast.

Customer Rewards Program Launched

If you have enjoyed the Breastmates website, our products and service, chances are your friends, family, coffee group, and cyber friends will too.

I've decided to set up this system to say a big thank you to all the mums that are already referring our products to their friends. Here's your chance to earn some credit at the same time!.

It’s easy! Simply promote Breastmates in your emails, internet forums and chat rooms, Facebook social networks, or on your own website using the special banner, code or links that we generate specifically for you.

Any visitor that clicks on the banner or link to purchase from Breastmates will earn you a 2% credit. We will accumulate the balance (which you can log on to check) which you can use at any time to purchase something from Breastmates store. You might even have enough credits to get your purchase for free!!

You can use these credits inconjuction with other offers, and you can transfer to a friend, or gift voucher.

Credits are not redeemable for cash.

It’s free to join! There’s no charge to participate in the program, no long-term obligation and you can opt out at any time

To sign up, check out our page here: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/customer_rewards.html

Breastfeeding and Contraception

Breastfeeding can sometimes be used as a method of birth control.

But only if baby is exclusively breastfeed (i.e nothing other than breastmilk is given to your child)

Only if baby is under six month’s of age

Only if mother’s menstrual cycle has not yet started back again after labour

This method is not 100% reliable.

You could still get pregnant even if you are breastfeeding as ovulation can occur before your period starts back.

A more reliable method of birth control is the "mini-pill" contraceptive prescribed by your doctor which is a progestogen-only pill . Avoid contraceptive pills containing oestrogen while you are breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding Tips

Starting to breastfeed your baby can be a stressful and nerve wrecking experience. It is such a change from having your breasts private! The following tips have been prepared by the mother than runs Breastmates Breastfeeding store, based on her own experience of breastfeeding two children.

1. Stay calm. If you start to feel uptight or wound up, take a break for a few minutes and then try again. Baby may be able to pick up on your anxiety.
2. Don't place high expectations on yourself. It can take a while before your milk flows, before baby gets the hang of latching, and before you get things sorted.
3. While you are still in the hospital or maternity ward, make sure the nurse helps you to latch baby every time you feed. Ring your buzzer to call the nurse.
4. Breastfeeding does hurt to start with. As the baby draws your nipple into their mouth it can be a painful tearful experience for mum. The pain should stop about thirty seconds or so after baby is latched. It may be like this for 3 or 4 days with a newborn. If the problem persists - seek help from your midwife, plunket nurse, doctor or a lactation consultant.
5. The key to successful breastfeeding is making sure baby has the correct latch. Put baby on your breast when their mouth is open wide and full. Pull baby's head to your breast - don't drop your nipple down to baby as you will get sore shoulders and back.
6. When baby is latched their lips will be covering your breast in a "K" shape that looks like the K on Cellog's Special K cereal.
7. Always use lots of nipple cream after every feed. This is really important when you are first starting to breastfeed, so put some in nipple cream when packing your hospital bag. Apply after every feed.
8. If baby has an incorrect latch or if baby is not suckling properly, it is very easy to get cracked, grazed and very sore nipples. Always apply the nipple cream. And if baby is not latched comfortably on you, break the seal of their lips using your finger and start again.
9. If you are getting a sore neck, shoulders, or back it could be due to the weight of supporting baby in your arms while breastfeeding. You could invest in a special breastfeeding pillow which can ease the pressure on you. Or try some pillows or cushions from your bed to raise baby up.
10. It can take a while before you get co-ordinated enough to breastfeed discretely. Initially it will be easier if you have an open front top, and maternity bra. Then you can open the nursing bra cup and feed baby.
11. Be prepared with breast pads. Some mothers have a fast flow and quick letdown, and leak alot. Some mothers don't leak at all. You could try some disposable breast pads, or to save some money have a look at reusable breast pads.
12. Be prepared for the time it takes to breastfeed. Some baby's will take 20 minutes or longer to feed at your breast. And you will have to do this regularly through out the day. Most newborn baby's feed 3 to 4 hourly to start with. Your baby is relying on you for all their nutrition.
13. Get plenty of rest.
14. Drink plenty of water - have a glass of water after every breast feed.
15. And eat well - eat meals with lots of protein.
16. If you have another child, pack a lunch box, drink bottle and special activity box (stickers, colouring in, etc) for them first thing in the morning. Keep this at a level that the child can reach. Bring this out when you are feeding baby to amuse the older child while you are breastfeeding.
17. When you have got through the first two weeks or so, breastfeeding should be an enjoyable experience for you. Its a cheap and quick way to feed a baby.
18. If breastfeeding does not work for you, don't beat yourself up about it. It is important that baby is happy and healthy, and that mum is happy and healthy too.

For more information please view Breastmates specialty breastfeeding store.

For professional medical advice please speak with your midwife, plunket nurse, doctor, specialist, or lactation consultant.

WAHM and Home Business

Being a WAHM (work at home mum) is such a great way to start a business and earn an income from home. I think alot of mothers who work in full-time employment wish they could be WAHM's rather than heading out to the office, and putting their children in daycare. But they don't know the whole story.

But being a WAHM is so hard! This week I have really struggled to stay on top of the chaos, run the business and remain in control! I have managed to display a professional cool & calm friendly face to my customers, but behind the scenes have been a bit crazy this week!

Every day this week I feel like I have run around like a headless chicken but slowly got things accomplished. (Business tasks anyway). Housework was non-existent, meals were pretty basic. And I still had late nights trying to get all the business work done. And then I still have Parental Guilt, or Mothering Guilt that I wasn't the best mother, that I didnt read enough stories this week, that I was rushing my children. (I did try I did try I did try)

I'm seriously considering employing some casual help.

But my point is...ummm... I think if I was still working in the office, my life wouldn't be as chaotic. I would have a pretty fixed routine. Get up, feed children, drop to preschool/care, go to work, come home, play feed bath bed story children, clean up house, watch tv, go to bed. That sounds like bliss! Today I am looking enviously at working mums!

Maternity PJs now in stock

One thing that they didn't tell me when I went to my antenatal classes in Auckland, is that when you are a breastfeeding mum, you will need to be wearing a nursing bra 24 hours a day! All that milk being produced in your breasts means they need support, you'll need to wear a maternity bra. Plus mums also sleep in their maternity bra, to hold breast pads in place.

Well, I have good news!! We now have the Hotmilk Maternity PJs (Breastfeeding Sleep Wear online) now in stock and online. They are made from gorgeous comfy fabrics with a beautiful print design that matches on the pants and top.

You can choose from a camisole style feeding top, or a three quarter length sleeve feeding top. Both of the feeding top styles have a built in shelf support nursing bra - with drop down cups for breastfeeding and nursing. I found these are a really good fit shelf nursing bra, and they can hold breast pads too.

I must say, it makes a NICE change to wear PJs to bed without having to wear my nursing bra to bed aswell. (though having said that, my Maternity Bra are all Hotmilk Bras which are lovely... just nice to take it off once in a while!!)

With these new Maternity PJs (Breastfeeding Sleepwear ) you can mix and match sizes, or you can just buy the top if you want to. These feeding tops make a good addition to your choice of breastfeeding clothing and we are including them in our Breastfeeding Clothing online selection.

For more information, please view the Breastmates website. We ship worldwide of course!

Breastfeeding is Hard

Breastfeeding is hard. It's certainly not as easy as people think. It takes a while to get used to it. Breastfeeding hurts! Its draining. It's not often people share their bad experiences breastfeeding.

But once you get it working right, its all good!

There is alot of pressure on women these days to breastfeed, and some mothers feel guilty if they cant breastfeed. I apologise if Breastmates Limited intimidates any mothers or if the Breastmates Limited makes any mothers feel guilty for not breastfeeding. Please do what ever is right for yourself and your family, you should be proud that you have a happy and healthy baby.

We have prepared some tips on bottle feeding as well as some tips to help breastfeeding work for you. It can be really really hard for mothers to find information on formula or bottle feeding because the World Health Organisation does not permit any advertising for formula for infants under 6 months of age. Please Note that i am not advertising formula to you. http://www.breastmates.co.nz/adv_bottle_feeding_baby_tips.html

If you do need advice on breastfeeding, a little encouragement, some products to help with breastfeeding or just a listening ear (via email), that is what Breastmates is here for, and I can help you.

I am proud that I have been able to breastfeed both of my children, and I would like to be able to help you do the same for your baby.

Here's a recent Pop Art style picture of my two sons. Son#2 is just on 5 months old and loves his boobie juice.

Ambition

Today I have a great new idea. Something to really motivate me, drive me, and a real accomplishment when I have finished.

I've started researching into it. Its going to be a long project but worth it.

Can't wait to get started. I will of course share it with you, just when I have something more concrete to tell you.

And if that Copy Cat person is snooping, its because you were a Copy Cat that you have given me ambition to be better. ;-) Cheers

Induced Lactation to start breastfeeding

Over the past month or so, I have been in contact with three ladies who were starting "induced lactation". It's where you stimulate breasts to produce milk, in the absence of a pregnancy or baby. This is common for women to try if they are planning to breastfeed an adopted baby, having a surrogate baby, or if they had started formula bottle feeding (and milk dried up) but want to start breastfeeding again.

Anyway, the three women that I was speaking to, they were all having surrogate babies.
This just made me stop and think for a moment, these women would have been on such a roller coaster stressful journey in order to have a baby, and what an overwhelming wonderful gift that another was able to carry a baby for them. Makes me appreciate my own 2 children!

I am so proud that these ladies were then starting to prepare for breastfeeding, for when their baby's arrive in a few months time.

They were purchasing breast pumps online from me (the choice was the Medela Swing electric breast pump), maternity bras, and breast pads. That's beside the point though.

I have since heard that all of these women have started to produce breast mik - even though they do not yet have a baby in their arms. So they are "pumping and dumping" all this milk. Even if they saved the breast milk and froze it, it would have expired by the time baby arrives. (See our breast milk storage guides online). Its a shame we don't have a milk bank in New Zealand to save wasting all the boobie juice.

Anyway, huge Thumbs Up to you 3 ladies. If you are reading this blog, just now that I am so inspired and proud of you. (keep me updated!!)

And also I heard recently that a lot of mothers are looking into relactation. Thats when you start breastfeeding again, after you had stopped or after you had weaned your baby. With the contaminated milk in formula, a lot of mothers are looking at relactation to feed their baby naturally again!