PopSugar

Five Remedies For Breastfeeding Ailments

babysugar — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:01:00 -0800

I never found anything more painful than nursing my child. Thanks to tips from lactation consultants and other mothers, I was able to get through the harsh beginning and make it through many months of breastfeeding. Check out the slideshow to see what my five top recommendations are for nursing mamas.

View Slideshow ›

What Do You Know About Trying to Conceive While Breastfeeding?

LilSugar — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:00:08 -0800

Baby makes three, but what if you're ready to turn your threesome into four? Eager mamas looking to quickly grow their brood might be confused about how to do so if they are still breastfeeding. Take the quiz to see how much you know about trying to conceive while nursing.

Take the quiz

10 Tips For Coping With a Distracted Nurser

LilSugar — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:12 -0800

While experts may agree that breastfeeding is one of the best things mothers can do for their babies, many moms admit it also happens to be quite challenging. Just as you and your baby get into the swing of things, he or she is probably noticing that there's more to life than just mommy. Though it may be a good sign of development, it can make nursing a chore. Many tots are more interested in taking in the world around them and not the milk. If you've got a distracted nurser on your hands (and breasts) check out these tips for coping.

View Slideshow ›

Why Didn't Anybody Tell Me: Smells Like Maple Syrup

LilSugar — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:00:12 -0700

Many breastfeeding mommas opt for reinforcement in hopes of keeping the good stuff flowing and I was no exception. I started taking the herbs Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle when I noticed my milk supply was dwindling. My child's pediatrician spoke very highly of the natural remedy, and while it did work like a charm, she forgot to mention one side effect that I would've liked to know.

To hear the sweet tale, just read more.

After about four days of persistently popping handfuls of pills several times a day, I noticed that something didn't smell right. Upon further investigation I realized that the something was me - and I smelled just like maple syrup! Not exactly the scent I typically go for. I was completely freaked out when I called the doctor but she said, "Oh yeah, that is how you know it's working - the smell should go away when you stop taking the herbs." I continued pumping up my supply with the herbal supplements (and the stink did go away once I stopped), but that kind of information would have come in handy. Thanks doc.

I now know that a syrupy scent is to be expected when taking Fenugreek, but did you ever notice a smell when taking the herb?

We want to hear your shocking, funny, embarrassing, and insightful pregnancy and motherhood stories. Join our Why Didn't Anybody Tell Me? group over in our LilSugar Community and share your tales and tips.

Designer Breast Pads: Ga Ga or Gag?

LilSugar — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:53 -0700

Nursing bras have become sexier and more stylish through the years, so why shouldn't the items we place in them be better looking? Visit almost any drug or baby store and you are likely to find a display of boxes of white disposable nursing pads or neutral colored washable ones.

Two moms who were tired of the drab-colored pads that sat in their bras thought it was time to add some life to these breastfeeding necessities. Using their design skills, they updated the absorbent items and launched Posh Pads ($10 per pair), colorful, washable breast pads made from organic cotton flannel and bamboo.

Would you invest in these designer breast pads to stick some style inside your nursing bra?

Nursing Pillows That Make Breastfeeding a Breeze

babysugar — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:30:46 -0700

What did mothers do before all of the posh pleasures of newborn life were introduced to the modern world? Technology and genius inventions have made the life of a mama much easier to manage, even breastfeeding. Where a pillow and a couch were the only accessories a mom once needed, she can now sit in the lap of luxury with a plush nursing cushion that adjusts to her specifications and even has a pouch to hold her nipple cream and water. Some offer a separate layer to adjust the child's positioning while others turn into lounge chairs for the wee ones. While any woman could get by with her own two arms and her babe, it makes the lactating world a more pleasant place to be when mommy can rest easily.

Fair warning, I've heard of certain men taking control of these tools of motherhood for their football watching frenzies on Saturday afternoons and turning the pouch into a beer and remote control apparatus.

The Sophie Snuggler Is Sassy and Sensible

babysugar — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 05:00:25 -0700

Breastfeeding is as natural an act as anyone could possibly find, but some moms have a tough time feeding their children when they're out in public. The chance that a blanket may slip and expose her breast and the fear of glares from strangers keep many mums from nursing in the open. While several shields have hit the market in recent years, none have done so quite as fashionably or discreetly as the Sophie Snuggler ($45). Created by a pro-breastfeeding mama, these colorful shawls look just like regular ones. Made with organic cotton, the wraps are machine washable, making them a sensible solution for soiled messes and spit-up mishaps.

How Implants Affect Breastfeeding

LilSugar — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 09:00:14 -0700

Fake boobs don't always hinder breastfeeding. Seventy-seven percent of LilSugar readers said they'd consider a Mommy Makeover - a breast lift, tummy tuck and liposuction - if money were no object, but plenty of women undergo a lil nip and tuck before they bear children.

Former Playmate Kendra Wilkinson and reality show star Kourtney Kardashian recently revealed that they hoped to breastfeed once they give birth. Well known for her purchased assets, Pamela Anderson said she nursed both her boys. To learn more about whether or not implants affect a mom's ability to feed her offspring, we spoke with Dr. Robert Zubowski.

On whether or not the placement of implants affects breastfeeding. "The breast implant is typically placed in a submuscular pocket which separates the implant from the breast tissue. Augmentation in a subglandular position or any position directly below the breast tissue can be done safely without affecting the ability to breastfeed."
On incision placement affecting nursing. "Incision placement can make a difference with regard to breastfeeding. Incisions placed in the crease of the breast or in the armpit do not interfere with the gland or the ducts and therefore will not affect breast-feeding. Incisions placed in the lower half of the areola require that some dissection occur through the breast tissue and by consequence through the ductal tissue. Therefore in some cases especially if there is very little breast tissue, this may affect the ability to breastfeed."
On whether or not choosing silicone or saline matters. "The type of implant whether saline or silicone does not matter. Also studies have shown that there is no risk to the baby with regard to breastfeeding whether saline or silicone implants are used."
On engorgement's effects on implants. "Engorgement and pumping of the breast is not effected in any way in those women who have had breast augmentation."

Realistic Words of Encouragement For Nursing Moms

LilSugar — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 06:00:47 -0700

Society preaches the benefits of breastfeeding so it's no surprise that many women try to nurse their newborns. While some mamas respond to unsolicited advice about their babe to boob decision, others look for support during the feeding process. Here are some honest words of encouragement that have helped lactating women. Feel free to add yours in the comments.

View Slideshow ›

Five Things Not to Say to a Nursing Mother

LilSugar — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:47:20 -0700

Wow! You've got big boobs! Adults say the darndest things - especially when it comes to breastfeeding. Nursing mamas are told to cover up and asked whether feeding their baby is worth the discomfort. Perhaps, it'd be better if people kept their mouths shut or thought before talking. We've collected our top five things not to say to a nursing mom, but feel free to add any crazy phrases that have come your way in the comments below.

View Slideshow ›