Product Review: Compact Tangle Teezer

Tangle Teezer

Just a quick rave on a really cool product that was referred to me called the Tangle Teezer! After a few week’s use, I can honestly say that I am addicted to it! It is now my hair necessity and would bring it for travel so the Compact Tangle Teezer is a great item!

I was also told by some good friends based in UK that it's their only hair brush now and is popularly used in salons around Europe! It's proudly made in Great Britain. It's claim to fame is that it's the only comb in the market that glides through wet, vulnerable and colour treated hair with no pulling, tugging or yanking.This what my good friend Leslie of Little Earth Tiddler told me and I was skeptical but since C was quite happy when he used the demo sample, I was okay with getting it with further research/sampling.
Boy, I am sure thankful that I was referred to this item!
Here is C's test at the Mommy Mundo Fair. He was so eager to give it a try and it got yaya's look of approval.

Here's a better shot of the item that we actually got. As I checked online reviews, most are awesome so I had totally high hopes but was not fully convinced that it was a good purchase since it's a pretty pricey brush for a child.

I use it to de-tangling both wet and dry hair…so note that I when I get out of the shower and wipe down my hair, the only thing that comes into contact with my hair is this Compact Tangle Teezer that I got from Little Earth People! It is easy to use with its ergonomically shaped brush for a painless comb! Aside from ensuring that my hair is combed through with no pain, it also provides a relaxing head massage for most scalps so good for sensitive scalps! I do not have to worry about “pre-brushing” from ends of the hair to work up to my roots. I can use it from roots to tips! It cuts my combing and drying time into a few minutes (I timed it to be 2 minutes) compared to 30 minutes of de-tangling! I can do a lot more things with those extra 28 minutes! Check out my little experiment below...actual test - I'm sold!

This comb is also marketed for fidgety kids, since it combs effectively per stroke and is de-tangles in a minutes!

Funny that the kids and I are fighting over this one brush now since it de-tangles our hair faster and is with less pain (less stress on their maids/yayas)! So far, it's with me (haha!) and I've been using this for days and  have been bringing it around whenever I travel and can't leave home without it
I love how fast I get my hair managed after my shower and the massage is very heavenly! :P


I cannot wait to get more when new shipment comes since my mom and I want one for ourselves! I'm getting a few of these for some good friends of mine for 2014!

You can order your own Tangle Teezer at Little Earth Tiddler via their FB page or their website.

Happy grooming!

Breastfeeding while Babywearing

Love this and had to keep reminding myself and other babywearing and breastfeeding parents out there...

Tips for breastfeeding in a soft structure carrier: (based from the Leaky B@@b's entry)

1. Be confident. Fake it until you are.
2. Be patient.  It may take time and practice and being patient with the process will help in the long run.
3. Practice at home when baby isn’t hungry so you don’t feel stressed or rushed.
4. Release strap on side you’re going to feed from.
5. If necessary undo back clip.
6. Loosen and lower waist if you need to get the baby still lower to the breast.
7. Wear a low cut stretchy neckline and pull breast out the top to avoid wrestling with pulling your shirt up with baby on you.
8. Slip hand in top or side of carrier to free breast and latch baby.  Can use two hands usually if needed.
9. Large breasted women may find a rolled up receiving blanket placed under the breast helpful for support.
10. If baby has trouble latching, leaning forward may help give a little more space.
11. Once latched tighten straps for hands-free Breastfeeding.
12. If you feel you need more coverage snap one side of the hood.  Leave the other open so you can see in easily.
13. Once baby is done eating, slip hand in to put your breast away.
14. Tighten strap and waist to raise baby back to the safest position with the top of their head easily kissable.

How to breastfeed in and Ergo Baby Carrier:-

Breastfeeding carries on!

Babywearing 101: How to Tie Mei Tai's and similar carriers

I am slowly moving to Wordpress to better suite the growing needs of this blog so kindly click on the link below for the details of this entry.  Enjoy!

Babywearing 101: How to Tie Mei Tai’s and similar carriers

Babywearing and Breastfeeding: a perfect match

Another entry in celebration of Babywearing Month...

Breastfeeding + Babywearing Correlation

Just after August's Breastfeeding Month, it's fitting to also mention that breastfeeding and babywearing go well hand in hand. Many baby slings and other carriers offer mothers privacy and for many mothers, the option of nursing hands-free while tending to other activities or household chores. 

Not all mothers can nurse hands-free in a baby carrier. Large-breasted mothers and mothers of small or hypotonic infants may need to support the breast or help maintain proper positioning of the baby's head or body. Even so, a properly adjusted baby carrier can help reduce arm strain and allow a mother more freedom of movement while nursing, even if it does not allow her to be completely hands-free.

Babywearing can help premature babies and babies who are slow weight gainers to gain weight at a faster rate. Since the baby is held up close to the mother, the baby will be able to be nursed more often and often for longer intervals. Kangaroo care is well-studied and has shown clear benefits to premature and ill infants.

Not all parents find breastfeeding in a sling or carrier easy. It is important, before attempting to breastfeed in a carrier, to the first master the art of breastfeeding without a carrier. Latch and position are vital, and it is important to establish these first before adding a carrier to the mix. Where breastfeeding difficulties exist, babywearing can simplify the other tasks of parenting by allowing a parent-free hands to deal with breast pumps, bottles, and other supplementation devices.

Some parents prefer, even with the best carriers, to take time out and sit down to nurse a baby. Some babies may reflexively clamp down when nursing while a parent moves around, so nursing while babywearing is not always entirely comfortable. Individual experience will vary radically not only from parent to parent but also from baby to baby, even within the same family. Some babies nurse very well in slings and carriers, others do not.

Final Note ~ an interesting quote/note to think about:-

"Babywearing is extremely beneficial to getting breastfeeding off to a good start.  When babies are worn, either skin-to-skin or in a baby wrap/carrier, they cry less, are more neurologically centered, and feel less stress.  Skin-to-skin and babywearing in the first month after childbirth has been proven to help bring in a mother's milk more quickly and help develop a sustained milk supply.  

As a breastfeeding mom, it is easier to sense when your baby is hungry because you will notice all of the 'hunger signs' (smacking lips, hands to mouth, rooting) before it accelerates to the last sign (crying!)  

Also, it is very easy to master breastfeeding while babywearing, which allows the mom more freedom to go about her day without worrying about breastfeeding in public or scheduling her day around when her baby might be ready to eat.  For more information about the benefits of breastfeeding and babywearing, check out the website about Kangaroo Mother Care (www.kangaroomothercare.com)."

-- Robin Kaplan, M.Ed., IBCLC, Founder of the San Diego Breastfeeding Center, LLC

Babywearing Celebration continued: Do's and Don'ts of Babywearing

I am slowly moving to Wordpress to better suite the growing needs of this blog so kindly click on the link below for the details of this entry.  Enjoy!

Babywearing Celebration continued: Do's and Don'ts of Babywearing

Babywearing Month: What carrier are you wearing?

I am slowly moving to Wordpress to better suit the growing needs of this blog so kindly click on the link below for the details of this entry.  

Enjoy!

https://wordpress.com/post/multitaskingdoula.wordpress.com/225

Mark Your Calendars: Babywearing Meet 10/12, 2-5pm

Babywearers unite! I'm preparing and deciding what to wear for this event. SO many carriers to choose from!!!

Join us for a babywearing meet on 12 October 2013. The event will be at The Roxy's Event Place at Tomas Morato, from 2-5pm.

There will be activities like short talk on babywearing safety, MomBa, and babywearing Samba.
Come and join us and GET CARRIED AWAY!:)

International Babywearing Month: What is Babywearing?

OCTOBER is International Babywearing Month! 

Yes, I know it's still September but I have to share this in preparation for an exciting month of random babywearing activities! 

I'm excited out of my mind, most especially since I have recently been addicted to it. S's been a real game-changer on how active I am with regards to breastfeeding and now with babywearing. 

And yes, I know it's like the "new age mom activists" popping up.

What Is Babywearing?

Simply put babywearing means "holding/carrying a baby or young child using a cloth baby carrier.

Holding babies is natural and universal; baby carriers make it easier and more comfortable, allowing parents and caregivers to hold or carry their children while attending to the daily tasks of living. Babywearing helps a new dad put a fussy newborn to sleep. It allows a new mom to use both hands to make a sandwich. It lets an experienced parent or caregiver carry a baby on her back and wash the dishes, do the laundry, take a hike, or weed the garden, all while keeping the baby safe and content."

As in anything, babywearing is a skill that takes time to master and as you use it, the better you become. The manuals may say one particular way to do it but it is up to the user to find what is best for them. There are many baby carriers around like

 A commercial baby carrier is not necessary for babywearing since there are many people use simple pieces of cloth to safely and comfortably carry their babies. Additionally, there is a learning curve with any baby product, including commercial baby carriers. Parents and caregivers often benefit from thinking of babywearing as a skill they can learn, rather than as the result of a product they can buy.

Many babywearing techniques can be learned in just a few minutes. Some techniques, such as carrying a baby on your back, take more time and practice to master, but the extra effort is rewarded with liberation and increased comfort.

There are many benefits of babywearing that I can vouch for since I babywear S because:-

• Bonding moments increased with babywearing and fewer dependencies in others. Scientific studies have shown that through babywearing - a mothers' oxytocin is increased through physical contact with her baby, leading to a more intimate maternal bond, easier breastfeeding and better care, thus lowering the incidence of postpartum depression and psychosomatic illness in the mother; similarly, the father carrying the baby has benefits for the paternal bond.
  
  
• Breastfeeding + Babywearing = Happy Baby and Mommy
  I liked the fact that I can breastfeed on-demand, anytime and anywhere with just a sound from S. I do not have to worry about expressing milk to have someone at home give it to her when I go out or pick up my son from school.
  Where breastfeeding fails or is not possible, babywearing can aid attachment by encouraging closeness during bottle feeding and freeing at least one hand.
  
  
• The hands-free option of babywearing enabled me to not worry about having a maid with us while still being able to make sure the house is in order. I go out with S whenever the maid is on leave/vacation and I am not afraid/dreading it. It makes my relationship with my maid better and doesn't make anyone feel bad with regard to giving them space to themselves. Also, it enables me to multi-tasking with one free arm taking care of my toddler son while at the same time, ensure my daughter feeds in a secure manner.  A superwoman feat is correct!
  
  
• Baby S is so used to babywearing compared to C that she is a lot calmer due to all of her primal/survival needs are met with just being in proximity of me. The caregiver can be seen, heard, smelled, touched, tasted, provide feeding and the motion necessary for continuing neural development, gastrointestinal and respiratory health and to establish balance (inner ear development) and muscle tone is constant. Parental rhythms (walking, heartbeat, etc.) have a balancing and soothing effects on infants. Attachment between baby and parent is more secure.
  
  
• Studies showed that baby worn babies developing socially earlier. They are closer to people and can study facial expressions, learn languages faster and be familiar with body language.  Evidence-based benefits for full-term babies include improved state organization and motor system modulation; improved temperature regulation; and an analgesic effect, reduced crying, improved maternal responsiveness, and babies who were more securely attached. I can attest to this but it doesn't mean that Big Brother C is not affectionate. I had to show him affection and be sociable in a different way like encouraging him to talk to other kids under supervision (since they might be total strangers, etc) and giving as much affection without seemingly smothering him. 
  
  
• An interesting benefit I have read on Wikipedia is that babywearing decreases the risk of positional plagiocephaly ("flat head syndrome") caused by extended time spent in a car seat and by sleeping on the back. Sleeping on the back is recommended to decrease the risk of SIDS. Cranial distortion resulting from non-vehicular time in car seats has shown to be more severe than in children who develop plagiocephaly from back-lying on a mattress.  Concern over plagiocephaly has also led the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that infants “should spend minimal time in car seats (when not a passenger in a vehicle) or other seating that maintains supine positioning." None of the babywearing positions require infants to lie supine while being carried. Infants can even be worn while they sleep, also decreasing sleeping time spent in a supine position.
  Also, preterm babies have been shown to receive marked benefits from babywearing including shortened hospital stay decreased illness, higher exclusive breastfeeding rates/longer breastfeeding duration, increased weight gain, improved temperature regulation, and improved maternal sense of competence.

More Babywearing entries as the days come around that I'm so excited about.

I will also try to update you on all of any babywearing events around the Metro for the month. 

Exciting times again!!!

7 Tried and True Breastfeeding Positions. What works for you?

BabyCenter Blog by Dennis Cortes
19 September 2013

Some of my fondest memories as a mother were breastfeeding my children. Touching their soft skin, listening to their contented little sighs, and staring into their eyes as they look up so adoringly at you–it was amazing. Breastfeeding is some pretty powerful stuff.

I can still vividly recall those first few nights at home after my babies were born. It felt like we were the only two people awake in the world sometimes. Sore and a little beat up, I tried my best to position the little squirming ball of humanity to my breast. Do women know how to do this instinctively? Am I doing this all wrong? Why is this so hard?

I had some struggles along the way, that’s for sure. Somehow I managed to maintain a breastfeeding relationship with most of my children. Once I gave birth to baby #6, I realized I became a seasoned veteran at breastfeeding along the way. How did I know this?

I had my favorite breastfeeding positions down pat. There was no need to experiment–I knew which ones were the most convenient and the most comfortable for both of us. Hands down, my favorite breastfeeding position was laying down. When you can both mother your child, feed her and doze in and out of sleep–that’s not laziness, it’s just pure genius. I gave up the notion of a crib a long time ago, which meant we were free to nurse and fall back asleep. I would usually lay my daughter across my hip (which was very soft and padded, by the way) to briefly burp her and then we’d switch sides.

On those occasions when I couldn’t lay down to nurse my baby girl, I would use the football hold. That is until she was big enough to play with her feet and yank my nipple because her attention was directed across the room. Ouch.

I asked a few of my breastfeeding mama friends, and they shared a few of their favorite breastfeeding positions.

 

Lap Position: You will find yourself breastfeeding with your sweet babe spread out on your lap quite often.

 Side Lying Nursing: This is probably my favorite breastfeeding position! Once the oxytocin starts to flow and you begin to feel drowsy, it's the perfect time to nap.

  

Cradle Hold: The most common breastfeeding position. It's easy and comfortable. 

 

Babywearing - Sling: I never quite figured out how to nurse while wearing a sling, but lots of moms swear by it. 

Foodball Hold: This is great for moms who are new to breastfeeding because it gives a great view of baby's latch-on.

 

Lying Flat Back Position: This is supposed to be a restful position for mom--until the baby gets the idea that he's hungry!

Tandem Hold: For the mothers with two young nursing babes, there is the tandem hold. 

My second favorite breastfeeding position--comfortably on your lap, head cradled in your arms, eyes looking up at you and their tiny hand griping yours.

HKG: Breastfeeding out and about in Hong Kong

I love this! This will definitely help and I hope my friends who read this take heed of the very last two lines of the article, that I highlighted.
Note: for Hong Kong nursing Rooms, I have a compiled list of updated nursing rooms in HKG that you can find here.

**************************************
Breastfeeding out and about in Hong Kong: The ‘6 P’s’ to ensure success when nursing in public
Article from Sassy Mama HK dated 11 September 2013
Written by Conchita Amende

So, you’re at home with your newborn, and you have chosen to breastfeed exclusively – congratulations! The feeding is going well at home, with nobody to please but yourselves… but there comes a time when go out you must, for your sanity, if nothing else! At this point breastfeeding in public can seem like a daunting task.

It doesn’t have to be scary. Remember that at this early stage, your baby is at their most portable, and as long as you are there, they will be happy. Breastfeeding whilst out of the home is far more convenient than having to tote bottle-feeding paraphernalia around with you. Yet it is something that many new mothers dread, and ultimately avoid. A few tips can make it bearable… even enjoyable!

1. Plan. Make sure your little one is fed and happy when you leave home, and try to plan your trip around the time you know they are most settled. Plan to be near “civilization” when you know they will need the next feed. A hungry, screaming baby in the middle of the supermarket is not much fun for anyone.
2. Prepare. Know your surroundings, and do a little asking around about the best places to stop and feed. There are many pleasant feeding rooms in Hong Kong (check out Sassy Mama’s Guide to Hong Kong’s best feeding and changing rooms here!), and you are never too far from a coffee shop, which can offer a comfy chair and a welcome break. Of course, breastfeeding is positively encouraged at Annerley and mums are always welcome to pop in for a feed! If all else fails, a clothing store changing room can offer a quiet corner for a quick pit stop.
3. Privacy. We all know breast is best, but in a city like Hong Kong it is inevitable that feeding in public is going to get you some looks. Everyone has heard stories of breastfeeding mums being asked to leave a café, mall or museum, but there are many women who have happily fed all over Hong Kong with no problem at all. Feeling anxious can hinder your ability to nurse, so do what you need to when it comes to feeling comfortable about feeding your baby. There are some wonderful nursing covers on the market, or a light sarong, shawl or muslin square is often enough to provide a little privacy. There are also some very clever nursing tops out there too. Be kind to yourself, and wear clothing that is easy to pull up or down without the extra stress of exposing yourself in public.
4. Protection. Even if you have never needed breast pads before, it is a good idea to have some handy the first few times you venture beyond your comfort zone. Delays, stress, and unfamiliar environments can sometimes lead to leakage!
5. Practice. Have a mock outing whilst at home. Practice feeding without your favourite pillow or cushion, sitting up on a hard-backed chair. Hong Kong’s streets being as they are, baby slings or carriers are very popular here, and it is entirely possible to feed baby within the carrier – the trick is to release the straps whilst sitting down so baby can be repositioned. Try it a few times and you’ll soon get the hang of it!
6. Persevere. Your first experience may not be a wonderful one, but keep going – it will get easier the more you do it. Look confident, because looking confident will make you feel it. Before you know it, you’ll be feeding standing up! You are doing the very best thing for your little one and never let anyone push you into feeding in a toilet.
   Be polite, considerate, respectful but firm. Feeding your baby is a human right.

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Conchita Amende, Annerley Helper & Parent Academy Principal, qualified as a State Registered Nurse in England in 1982 and has continued to work and study for the past 28 years in different areas of health and education such as ante and post natal care, special care baby units, health education, and as an assessor and external verifier. She has been working in the community with families (with children under 5) for the last 9 years as a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (Health Visitor UK), and also lectures at universities. As well as her nursing qualifications, she has practiced as a registered midwife in the UK, has a post-graduate diploma in health promotion, has training certifications and is currently working towards her certification as a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Conchita has 3 grown-up children, speaks a little French and loves to have a chance to practice! She loves living in Hong Kong and having the opportunity to explore Asia and meet new people.

Breastfeeding Symposium: Dr Jack Newman, Guru of Breastfeeding, is coming to Manila!!!

Look look look at who is coming to Manila!!! It is none other than Dr Jack Newman, the writer of The Ultimate Breastfeeding Book! Check out the poster below.

He is the expert in breastfeeding in North America and is considered a "rockstar" in the Breastfeeding Community all over the world. He's done a lot of conference talks and help set up and certify Mother/Baby-Friendly Hospitals all over the world. He's done extensive research in the field of breastfeeding and even upon pregnancy to prepare for a smooth breastfeeding journey. He's written a number of books and his latest and what I have on me is the below. You can read some snippets of his book and I adore and read with gusto each chapter!

The Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers Revised and Updated; The Most Comprehensive Problem-Solving Guide by Random House Publishing Group

   
I joined Mommy Treat's contest on a whim since I wanted to support a fellow mommy entrepreneur, Paola! Lo and behold, I won!!!

See my entry below that got me a coveted spot! :)


"Sharing this to all my lovely friends online...it is a great opportunity for friends in Manila!!!
I would like to win tickets in support of this momentous event because...
- Dr Jack Newman is the front runner of breastfeeding advocacy in the world!
- he has provided countless support and help/tutorials, on and offline to countless women all over the world regarding proper techniques and advice on breastfeeding. Books, YouTube videos, conferences, and seminars are all available for anyone...free!
- The University of Toronto is one of the top 3 medical schools in Canada and Dr. Jack Newman is an alumni!
- a fellow Canadian immigrant supporting another Canadian immigrant coming all the way to Manila
- how can I not seize this moment...breastfeeding superstar in our midst and at a reasonably great location, at Augusto Barcelona Auditorium, Medical City!
- Lastly, this seminar will better me equip myself in joining in the breastfeeding advocacy in giving women support, educate and spread the word, and break down any myths about breastfeeding."

Breastfeeding has become an important part of my life now, most especially when I see the results in front of me through S and comparing my Breastfeeding Journey with C. I have had S heal from colds, snuffles faster (2 days only) than C, who would go through bad coughs and runny noses for about a week or more!?!

As mothers, we all make and have made our own choices just like any human being in general.
I, myself, would like to educate and give as much information as all other mothers out there regarding breastfeeding and its benefits so I hope it wouldn't be used against me in general for being an adamant defender of breastfeeding women's own choices.  AMEN!

I was one of the lucky people who was able to learn a lot from a guru. He discussed a lot about the basics of breastfeeding, jaundice, engorgement, sore nipples, proper latch videos and shared stories of his experiences.

Suffice to say, I enjoyed every moment of the symposium and even if took all day, it was wonderful to be in the midst of so many breastfeeding supporters, mothers, advocates, etc. Empowering, educational and made me decide even more to help as many friends/contacts, etc regarding breastfeeding and babywearing queries. 

I also got to have our book signed!!! It came just in time for the symposium all the via from the US via Amazon! The picture above is him signing it. Too bad, S was asleep when we took the picture. She was a very good student during this lecture with wonderful classmates on my left and right sides. :D

See one of his important videos on proper latching...

The symposium was featured in a local station's feature called "Ok ka Doc".
FYI - S and I were caught breastfeeding! Heehee

A fellow Breastfeeding Pinay, Bing, and friend was also able to get the story straight with regards to breastfeeding and hair treatment/coloring/rebonding, etc!

I hope Dr Jack Newman will be coming back to Manila again soon or some time down the road. For more updates on this, if ever, please head to L.A.T.C.H.'s facebook page. 
 

Willll Dr. Jack Newman be coming back to Manila? Stay tuned and like the LATCH Facebook page to stay updated!

The 7 Natural Laws of Breastfeeding

I love finding new research/features online that help mothers in their breastfeeding journeys and the below article from BabyMama.ph posted recently on their facebook page. Horay for all breastfeeding moms! You are all wonderful and are doing a good job! :D

The Seven Natural Laws of Breastfeeding by By Nancy Mohrbacher IBCLC and Kathleen Kendall-Tackett PhD (Psychology), IBCLC.

• 
  
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ New Harbinger Publications; 2nd edition
  Published Date: October 1, 2010
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1572248610
• Genre: Baby Toddler Parenting, Health, and Fitness 
  
  Available at: Amazon | Google Books | Barnes & Noble | Webpage
   
  

The 7 Natural Laws of Breastfeeding

1. Babies are hardwired to breastfeed
2. Mother’s body is the baby’s natural habitat
3. Better feel and flow happen at the comfort zone
4. More breastfeeding at first means more milk later
5. Every breastfeeding mum and baby have their own rhythm
6. More milk out means more milk made
7. Children wean naturally

1. Babies are hardwired to breastfeed
Babies are born with the ability to get to their food source and feed without much help. A mother’s role is mainly to support and encourage her capable newborn. When she learns to use her baby’s hardwiring breastfeeding becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Babies are born with instinctive feeding behaviours, but for mothers breastfeeding is a learned skill. Even so, a complicated list of rules isn’t needed.

2. Mother’s body is the baby’s natural habitat
Babies are born needing to be held skin-to-skin.
Babies need almost constant touch. It is much more than “nice to have”. If they don’t get it, the odds of feeding and behaviour problems and poor growth increase.
Touch releases the hormone oxytocin in both mother and baby, enhancing their emotional closeness and their openness to breastfeeding.

3. Better feel and flow happen at the comfort zone
Pain is not a normal part of breastfeeding. There is an actual place in the baby’s mouth nicknamed “the comfort zone”, and when the nipple reached there breastfeeding is comfortable for the mother and baby gets more milk.
There are several strategies for helping the nipple reach the comfort zone. But once you know what needs to happen you may come up with your very own approach.

4. More breastfeeding at first means more milk later
At birth, a baby’s stomach is about the size of a marble and is not yet stretchy.
The early milk, colostrum, is purposely small in amount and concentrated so that babies can gradually ease into taking their food by mouth and slowly stretch out their stomach. The healthiest way to do this is to breastfeed often from birth.
Breastfeeding often prevents breast engorgement in the mother and also quickly brings in an abundant milk supply.

5. Every breastfeeding couple has its own rhythm
Normal feeding patterns vary among mammals based on the composition of the mother’s milk.
The breast is not like a faucet, with the same amount of milk available at all times. There is a natural ebb and flow of milk supply over the course of the day, and this affects how a baby breastfeeds.

6. More milk out means more milk made
Fluid intake, diet, and rest have little or no effects on milk supply. Draining the breasts is what sends a mother’s body the message to make more milk. The more times a day a mother fully drains her breast, the more milk she produces.
Breastfeeding patterns can differ greatly among breastfeeding babies. The amount of milk a mother’s breasts can comfortably hold can have a major effect on how a baby breastfeeds.

7. Children wean naturally
All children wean eventually, even if a mother does nothing to encourage it. Like all baby behavior, children outgrow breastfeeding. In most cultures, natural weaning happens after years of breastfeeding, not months.
Natural weaning is safer and more comfortable for both mother and child. No matter what age, there are many strategies that can make weaning a kind and gentle experience.

There is a Youtube video that talks further here if the below video doesn't show.

Breastfeeding Month: Hand Expression (commonly forgotten option)

Before Breastfeeding Month is over, I had to write about this since it's commonly ignored, yet important information. Hand Expression is becoming a forgotten art that needs to be reiterated. It's free, the second most gentle form of getting milk out of a lactating mother (first is direct latching), and what more can you ask for!

I have to really love the web/Internet. If only information about breastfeeding was more forthcoming and readily available when I first gave birth to my son. I was alone and pretty much on my own with regards to being able to ensure I had ample milk and finding the right strategy in moving to breastfeed my son, whether it be mixed (for some time) to exclusively breastmilk back in 2010. Information and support were rarer and were quite limited in information.

Searching about Breastmilk Hand Expression is now so many!!?!!! Just see the below reliable sources that I would like to share with readers and friends who ask me about this. Got to love love love the support and education these writers share with all of us!

It's a more efficient (also under-utilized) mode of breastmilk extraction without the requirement of a pump. I've been using this nowadays when I am lazy to bring my pump. I just make sure I have a bottle and I'm good to go!

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Base on Ask Dr. Sears

Hand Expressing Your Milk

The Low-Tech Approach: Hand Expression

Expressing milk by hand works very well for some women. It's a handy skill to have when:

• You are caught somewhere with full breasts and you don't have your baby or a breastpump, you'll be able to relieve breast fullness and avoid problems with engorgement.
• You do not need to express milk regularly.
• Your breasts are more responsive to the skin-to-skin feeling of hand expression than to plastic pump parts.

HERE ARE 6 EASY STEPS TO EXPRESS MILK FROM YOUR BREASTS BY HAND:

1. Position your hand on your breast, with the thumb above and fingers underneath, about an inch to an inch-and-a-half behind the nipple. If your breast were a clock, your thumb would be at 12 o'clock and your fingers at 6 o'clock. Don't cup your breast in your hand. Instead, your thumb and fingers should be directly across the nipple from each other.
   
   
2. Press your thumb and fingers directly back into the breast tissue, towards the wall of your chest. Don't move them further apart. Just press straight back into the breast.
   
   
3. Roll your fingers and thumb forward to squeeze milk out of the milk sinuses, which are located under the areola behind the nipple. Don't slide the thumb or fingers along the skin--this will quickly make you sore.
   
   
4. Repeat this sequence--position, press, roll--until the milk flow ceases. Then move your hand so that the thumb and fingers are positioned at 11 and 5 o'clock and do it again. Use both hands to work your way around one breast, then switch to the other side until you have emptied all of the milk sinuses. As soon as you see milk squirting from your nipple, you know you are compressing the underlying milk sinuses. (This position is also where the baby's gums should be during efficient latch-on.)
   
   
5. The trick to hand expression is discovering where to position your fingers. Experiment until you find the right spot. Having someone show you how is very helpful, too.
   
   
6. Combining hand expression with breast massage can be a very effective way to stimulate the milk ejection reflex. Massage first, then express. Massage again, and repeat the hand-expressing routine.

"When I relaxed, I could pump more milk. A friend who's a dairy farmer told me that cows yield less milk when they're in a bad mood or if milked by a stranger."

HOW TO COLLECT THE MILK

When you hand-express, milk sprays out in all directions.

• If you're expressing just to make your breasts more comfortable, you can lean over a sink or express into a towel.
• If you want to save the milk, you'll need something in which to collect it. Some mothers manage to aim the nipple directly into a baby bottle. Or, try a container with a wider mouth, like a coffee cup or a small jar. As the cup fills up, transfer the milk to a storage container.
  
  
• TIP: I use the funnel cones (from breast pumps) for hand expression that collects the milk and channels it down into a standard baby bottle --> I no longer use this since I basically do the above which makes it easier.
  
  

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Based on KellyMom.com

Links: Milk expression tips & pump information
July 28, 2011. Posted in: Pumping issues

• More Sharing Services
• Manual/hand expression of milk
• Pumping tips
• Choosing a breastpump
• Used Breastpumps
• Breastpump comparisons and reviews
• Breastpump troubleshooting and repair
• Breastpump Manufacturers
• Insurance reimbursement for lactation services, pumps & other supplies

Manual/hand expression of milk

• Hand Expression of Breastmilk – a great video from the Stanford School of Medicine Newborn Nursery at LPCH
• Expressing Breastmilk from Breastfeeding.com.
• Manual Expression of Breastmilk: Marmet Technique
• The Knack of Hand Expression by Linda Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC
• Making It Work: Hand-Expression from the LLL website

Breast Massage: Therapheutic Breast Massage referred by Maya Bolman IBCLC


HAPPY BREASTFEEDING MONTH!!!

PIA News Feature: 10 steps to successful breastfeeding

By: Joelyn G. Baluyut - See more here.

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, Aug 16 (PIA) -- Breastfeeding is still the best for babies and here’s 10 baby-friendly steps to successfully feed baby.
Department of Health Medical Specialist Dr. Lailani Mangulabnan said that breast milk is the best food since it contains essential nutrients completely suitable for the infant's needs. Because of its importance to the baby, government had created Republic Act No. 10028 or the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act to enable mother to feed her baby. And to attain successful breastfeeding, Dr. Mangulabnan has cited these steps that can help local government units (LGUs) in particular, to fully implement breastfeeding.

First, it must have a written breastfeeding policy communicated to all health care staff; second, it must train all health care staff in skills necessary to implement this policy;third, inform all pregnant women about the benefits and management of breastfeeding; fourth, help mothers initiate breastfeeding within an hour of birth.

Fifth, LGUs must show mothers how to breastfeed and how to maintain lactation, even if they are separated from their infants; sixth, give newborn infants no food or drink other than breast milk, unless medically indicated; seventh, practice "rooming in"— allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day; eighth, encourage breastfeeding on demand; ninth, give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants; and tenth, foster the establishment of breastfeeding support groups and refer mothers to them on discharge from the hospital or clinic.

Mangulabnan said breastfeeding is, “The best bonding moment of a mother and a baby.” Consequently, it helps in building a stronger relationship between mother and child, and it has physiological, psychological, and financial benefits to mothers.

Breastfeeding promotes uterine involution, decreases risk of postpartum hemorrhage and increases period of postpartum anovulation, and decreases the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hip and bone fractures. (CLJD/JGB-PIA3)

Smart Parenting Feature: 19 of the Best Breastfeeding / Nursing Stations in Metro Manila

By Jazer Basan | 16 August 2013
Article is featured here. [Note: I was able to contribute for #5!]

Out with your baby and you need to nurse? Head on to these breastfeeding-friendly locations.

In March 2010, the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 was signed into a law. Also known as Republic Act 10028, it required all establishments or institutions to have lactation stations, or nursing stations, which would provide privacy to mothers who need to feed their babies while they’re out. Since then, nursing stations have been set up in malls, airports, and workplaces in compliance to this requirement. At present, however, supermarkets, restaurants, bus stations and other public facilities are yet to catch up with this ordinance.

Republic Act 10028 requires lactation stations to be equipped with a sink for hand washing, a cooling facility such as a refrigerator to store expressed milk, electrical outlets for breast pumps, a small table, and comfortable seats. Many breastfeeding stations in malls even went beyond these requirements to make breastfeeding comfortable and relaxing for moms. Let's take a look at some of the breastfeeding stations around Metro Manila, and what moms have to say about them.

1. SM Megamall
Location: Lower ground floor of Building A (near the food court and exit to Bank Drive). Its entrance is through the mall's clinic.
Facilities: a sofa, side tables, and a changing table.
Note: SM Megamall is the first mall in the country to put up a breastfeeding station in 2006.

"Their lounge has been useful to me because we frequent this mall. Their seats are comfortable and amenities are okay. Having it beside the clinic is an advantage in case I need medical assistance for myself or my baby."
- Ludy Adrao, Senior Accounting Analyst, mom to Lyka, 9 years old and John Louie, 3 years old

2. SM Mall Of Asia

Location: Inside the mall clinic, at the far end of the 2nd floor on the Southside, Entertainment Mall, fronting Cosmic Kids.
Facilities: a sink, changing table, electrical outlets, and cushioned seats.

"Their nursing station is clean and well-equipped."
- Mercy Yu-Lim

3. SM Cubao
Location: Inside the Department Store, near Cashier 21 and Baby Co.
Facilities: cushioned seats with armrests, sink, electrical outlets

4. SM North EDSA

Location: Lower ground floor of City Center, near the food court.
Facilities: cushioned seats with armrests, sink, electrical outlet.

5. SM Centerpoint Sta. Mesa
Location: Ground floor inside the clinic, near SM Appliance Center
Facilities: electrical outlet, changing table, 1-seater sofas, easy access to the restroom
Note: Only mother and baby are allowed inside for the duration of the feeding.

6. Greenbelt 5 Family Lounge
Greenbelt 5’s Family Lounge was styled by renowned Filipino designer Ito Kish

Location: 4th floor, Greenbelt 5.
Facilities: Private area for breastfeeding, nursing chair with footstool
Lounge Amenities: kids’ play area, tree design bookshelf, a business lounge, computer area with wifi, and restroom with changing table.
Note: Use of the family lounge requires an Amore or VIPinoy card but the use of the nursing area is free.

"I find the couch and lighting sufficient. The curtain provides privacy to nursing mothers but lounge users could mistake the nursing area as another washroom. There's also an electrical outlet for pumps."
- Cheryl Chan-Wong, 35, stay-at-home mom, Mandaluyong City

7. Glorietta Family Lounge

Location: Glorietta 4, 3rd floor near the Food Court
Facilities: 2 private nursing cubicles, each with an electrical outlet, cushioned single arm chair, cushioned stool. The restroom is adjacent to the Nursing Room. There is a changing table in the restroom. The lounge has a play area for kids and a mobile phone charging area.
Note: Nursing are free to use the nursing station. The lounge can be used for free by VIPinoy & Amore cardholders.

8. Trinoma

Trinoma boasts of a spacious breastfeeding room with space for strollers. With dim, relaxing light and cool ventilation, it calms both Mommy and baby for that bonding moment.
Location: Level 3 beside Sony Square
Facilities: sink, changing table, electric outlet, private cubicles
Lounge Amenities: kids’ play area, wifi, lounge, TV, charging station, restrooms
Note: Use of the family lounge requires an Amore or VIPinoy card but the use of the nursing area is free.

"The only thing I was expecting to see in a breastfeeding station is a couch, sink or refrigerator. When we got to the lounge, I was really surprised because it was way, way, way, way beyond my expectations."
- Eva Gozon, nurse and work-at-home mommy to Carlos

9. Market Market

Location: 2nd floor, inside the family lounge.
Facilities: cozy interiors, cushioned seats with armrests, side table with lampshade, changing table, sink
Note: Free use for nursing mothers. The lounge is for the exclusive use of Amore and VIPinoy cardholders.

10. Robinson's Galleria
Location: 3rd floor, East Wing, near Mothercare
Facilities: sofa, changing table, sink

"I actually don't need to use breastfeeding rooms because I use a nursing cover but I did check out the one at Robinson's Galleria. The hallway leading up to it was cheery and bright. The basics are there -- couch, sink, and changing table. It was okay but a bit cramped. "
- Bessie Colet Campillo, Enterpreneur/Owner of Nursingmom shop , mom to Amara and Adriana

11. Robinson's Place Manila
Location: 3rd floor of Pedro Gil Wing, near the Security Office and David's Salon.
Facilities: 2-seater couch with an elevated center partition that can be used as a changing table.

12. Rustan's Shangri-la Mall EDSA
Location: 2nd floor, infants' section
Facilities: Pretty interiors, 4 armchairs, changing table, high chair, side table

"The best breastfeeding station for me would be at Rustans Shangri-la. The walls are designed with cute fairy decors, it has a  clean and sturdy changing table, comfy seats with pllows, cushioned flooring and bean bags for kids. Use of this nursing station is free."
- Raquel Chua, 33, full time mommy to Saffron 2 y/o.

13. Rustan's Makati

Location: 3rd floor infants' section.
Facilities: cozy interiors, couches, crib that can be used as changing table, side tables and a few toys.

"It looks very new. There are cute stickers on the wall. I loved that they really took time to design it. There was a changing table, the couches were really comfortable with lots of pillows."
- Ginger Palma Arboleda, 32 from Taguig, mompreneur and blogger

14. Rustan's Alabang Town Center

Location: 1st floor, infants’ section
Facilities: couch, changing tables, toys, electric outlet, easy access to restroom.

"The Rustans breastfeeding station in ATC is spacious and comfortable. They don't have a sink inside the room but bathroom is just a few meters away."
- Ysabelle Lorenzo

15. Shangri-la Plaza, EDSA
Location: Level 2, near Crossings Ramp and Planet Sports
Facilities: cushioned chairs with arm rests and pillows, refrigerator, water heater, microvawe oven, hand dryer, changing tables, electrical outlets

"Among the nursing stations that I have been to, Shangri-la Plaza Mall is the best. It is complete with amenities for moms who pump and feed directly. Now that I have switched to cloth diapers full-time, having a wash basin nearby is very helpful which Shangri-la has also kindly provided. In the many times that I have been there, there is always someone who is ready to assist, even just to open the door for you. And the place is always kept clean. It is also beside a ladies' toilet if you need to use one. "
- Smiley Bernardo, 31, QC, full-time mommy to Caitlin, 2, and Olivia, 1.

16. Eastwood
Location: 3rd floor, between Babyland and Toys R Us.
Facilities: sink, changing table, cushioned seats with curtain partitions. There are also visuals on proper breastfeeding, and magazines

"Eastwood is one of my favorite malls because of its nursing station. They have 2 curtain-covered stalls and cozy chairs with pillows, unlike others that are open. In my experience, when my baby sees other babies in the room, she gets distracted and wants to play with them instead. "
- Jennifer Baradas-Bringas, mom to Dagny

17. Lucky China Town
Location: 3rd floor, near the pay bathroom, between My Phone and Cherry Mobile.
Facilities: plenty of seats, sink, side table, changing table and TV.

18. Mothercare Bonifacio High Street

Location: In-store, Bonifacio High Street Taguig
Facilities: sofa, sink, changing table, reading materials

"I love the double stations, the safety bars and the big mirror! My little one likes looking at his reflection while I change his diaper. The friendly staff are also always ready to assist."
- Jelyn Parian-Panol, mom to Ethan

19. NAIA Terminal 1

Location: Departure gate after final X-ray, near gate 16
Facilities: electrical outlet, changing table, private cubicles with doors, hot and cold water, long sofa, tissue dispenser and hand sanitizer
Note: Open 24 hours for departing and arriving passengers.

"What’s great about the NAIA feeding station? It’s airconditioned, with 4 cubicles, cots and comfortable chairs. It comes with amenities like hand sanitizers, a water dispenser, bottle warmer and first-aid supplies, and is located right across Duty Free."
- Jenny Ong, mom and breastfeeding advocate behind Chronicles of a Nursing Mom


Sources:
Breastfeeding Pinays
http://www.gov.ph/2010/03/16/republic-act-no-10028/
http://www.unicef.org/philippines/mediacentre_9539.html
http://125.60.203.88/miaa/
http://www.chroniclesofanursingmom.com/
http://www.everydaymommydiary.com/
http://gojackiego.com/
http://kish.ph/
https://www.facebook.com/nursingmom
http://lhenglang.blogspot.com/2009/08/breastfeeding-station.html

Photo credits (used with permission):
Jenny Ong for album access
Jackie Go - Glorietta
Ito Kish - Greenbelt 5
Bessie Colet Campillo of Nursing Mom - Robinson's Galleria
Eva Gozon and Precious Quintos - Trinoma
Germaine Angeles - Robinsons Ermita
Jennifer Baradas-Bringas - SM Cubao photos
Michelle Esteban - NAIA photos
Jelyn Parian-Panol - Mothercare
Megaworld Malls Marketing Communications Team - Eastwood and Lucky Chinatown
Rustans Commercial Corporation - Marketing Communications Department
Shangri-la Plaza Marketing Communications Department
Thumbnail image from babies411.com

Breastfeeding Questions: Is my baby eating enough? Can I give water to my newborn?

I bumped into this information that I really believe this to be very important. I'm crediting the author and posting this a whole below. It's a reminder to all mothers that we are all what our babies need with regards to their sustenance, most especially from newborn up who "feed on demand".

The post below is from Katie Wickham RN BScN IBCLC of Babiesfirstlactation.com.  They have a facebook page here that you can follow. I encourage you read it to further help you build your confidence and take out any doubt that your baby is not getting enough milk.

Is my baby eating/getting enough milk?"I see many new families in the hospital, as a staff Lactation Consultant, and in their homes, with my private practice, and I hear many similar questions.  One of the recurring themes comes across in statements like “my baby can’t be getting very much” or “my baby is feeding so frequently, I must not have milk. This cannot be normal!”  There are many charts on the Internet that show an illustration of the size of a newborn’s stomach, I felt putting these illustrations into real world sizes we can see would be helpful.

Below is an illustration I have created showing the approximate size and volume of a newborn’s stomach on day one, day three, at one week, and at one month.  Newborns’ tummies are tiny, and cannot/should not take in large volumes, so they need to feed frequently.  In the first day or two, their little tummy fills with 5-15 ml during a breastfeed, and then, snuggled in close to your warm chest and familiar heartbeat, they fall asleep.  Just as you may be drifting off to sleep or decide that you too should eat something, they start to wake up and show signs of hunger; their sweet little fists fly frantically to their mouth and their lips start smacking together.  Their little tummies have started to digest that perfect amount of colostrum, and they are starting to get hungry again.  A newborn baby feeds 8-12 times in 24 hours, which means they will be feeding about every 1-3 hours.  They often cluster feeds together; this means your precious little one may breastfeed for 45 minutes then fall asleep, then wake 30 minutes later and feed for another 30 minutes, and fall asleep.  The next feed may happen 2 hours later, then 3 hours after that, then an hour later… I’m sure you get the idea; there is no set schedule.

Many families feel the need to supplement their baby; maybe they are concerned with the frequent feedings, or feeling pressured from their doctor or family.  I often hear my clients comment that they hear their well-meaning family members say “The baby is crying again, she must be hungry” or “The baby is fussing, are you sure you have milk?” or “the baby just ate an hour ago, you must not have enough if he is hungry already.”  This can create, or further feed the insecurity a new mother may already be feeling, and often leads to unnecessary supplementation.  Some families feel they need to supplement due to pressure from the Doctor, and other families are supplementing for legitimate medical reasons.  When you are supplementing it is crucial that you keep in mind how small those little tummies are.  If you supplement too much this will cause baby to sleep longer and feed less frequently and any time they are supplemented away from the breast you losing the stimulation  and removal of milk needed to signal your body to make more milk; this will directly impact your milk supply.  If you are supplementing always seek guidance from an expert in feeding- a board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) will help guide you through how to supplement and how to wean the supplements when the time is right.

Understanding the size of your Baby’s stomach, the average volume taken in during a breastfeed and typical newborn feeding frequency can help alleviate some anxiety a mother feels when she is trusting her body to nourish her child.  Newborns are only this tiny for a short time, those stomachs grow quickly and they get more efficient at breastfeeding which means breastfeeding sessions become less frequent and shorter.  For now enjoy those snuggles, and feel encouraged that your baby is feeding frequently and doing a fantastic job of “demanding” a healthy supply of breast milk.  The great effort you and your baby put in during the first few days establishes a solid start for a happy and healthy breastfeeding relationship."

 ~ Katie Wickham RN BScN IBCLC

Can I give water to my newborn child?

No, newborns are not advised to give your newborn water. Even when a mother's milk supply is just coming in during the first few days after delivery, the baby is getting colostrum, which is enough to keep her well hydrated. Water can interfere with a young baby's ability to absorb the nutrients in breast milk and may prevent her from feeding as much as she should. Most importantly, it can also cause water intoxication, a serious condition that happens when too much water dilutes the concentration of sodium in the body, upsetting the electrolyte balance and causing tissues to swell. It's uncommon but serious, potentially causing seizures and even a coma.
~ reference KellyMom