Babywearing is a trend that does not look like it is going anywhere anytime soon and for good reason. When you wear your baby, you can promote bonding and closeness while still having your hands free to do other tasks. It enables you to be more mobile and take your baby places you may not be able to get a stroller, like a hiking trail.

Best of all, babywearing creates a convenient way to breastfeed your baby. If you are going to wear your baby, it is best to do it safely. Not only does this protect the baby, but it makes caring for your child more convenient. Here are some tips you should keep in mind when wearing your baby and breastfeeding.

Benefits of Babywearing

Wearing your baby has many benefits for you and your baby. For starters, being near you helps to keep your baby calm. The result is that she develops into a secure and confident toddler.

Having your baby close, especially if you can manage some skin to skin contact, can help her to regulate her own physiological rhythms. That nearness can also be useful in facilitating nursing. If you wear a nursing-friendly top, you can breastfeed easily without much adjustment or even being very obvious about it. Activities like grocery shopping, window shopping with friends, brunch, or just taking a walk can simply be done while wearing your little one...and best of all, breastfeeding done at the same time!  You simply make sure your baby is in a comfortable position for the both of you and make sure that her head is properly supported.

These are benefits for mom, too, because self care is an important ingredient for a happy relationship with yourself and baby. Having a baby does not mean that the world will stop for you. There are still chores to be done and errands to be run. There may even be other children who need care. If you can wear your baby, you may find that you have your hands free to accomplish other tasks. In fact, you may even be able to manage other tasks while you are actually breastfeeding.

Methods of Babywearing

• Sling- A piece of fabric that loops around one of the mother's shoulders, across her body to the opposite hip. Your little one may begin taking an interest in the world around him while in this type of carrier. A sling is an easy option to facilitate nursing as the baby is able to be brought down by adjusting the sling strap through the ring. Re-adjust to bring baby back to "kiss the head" position when finished feeding. 
• Wrap- A wrap is also a piece of fabric. In this case, however, just as the name says, the fabric is wrapped around the mother's torso and, generally, both shoulders. It creates a secure place for the baby to rest.
• Soft-Structured Carriers- These are more like backpacks. They can be worn on the back or the front and offer a more structured seat for your baby. They have straps that go over the parent's shoulders, giving them their backpack-like appearance.

How to Breastfeed In A Carrier or Sling

One of the great things about wearing your baby is that he is always close enough to make breastfeeding convenient. Here is a step-by-step guide.

• If your baby is old enough to sit up, you generally want his bottom at or above your navel during general wearing. Ensure his head is close enough to kiss.  During breastfeeding, he can sit lower in order to access your breast then re-adjust to the proper higher position when finished. 
• Keep an eye out to make sure that his face is not smashed into you and that his airway is not blocked.
• Once your baby is in position, it is usually pretty easy to be discreet about opening your top's nursing access to feed her. If you are wearing a nursing tank top or nursing hoodie, the design can make quick access that much more simpler and more convenient. These specially designed tops for breastfeeding are also great for promoting skin-to-skin contact with your baby outside of using the carrier.

A Few Safety Tips 

One of the big concerns about babywearing is safety and positioning the baby to be ergonomic correct. Safety is especially important if you are also breastfeeding while wearing your baby. It is possible to do all this if you follow a few rules.

• Make sure your baby's head is supported. If his head flops around she can be injured and have difficulty maintaining her airway. Keep his head close enough to kiss.
• It is okay for your baby to be in a lying position while nursing if you are stopping to sit somewhere, but you need to support his head. When you are not breastfeeding, it is best for your baby to be in an upright position and again, sitting high enough in the carrier.
• Practice carrying your baby over a soft surface like a bedside until you are confident about your carrying method and securing the carrier.
• Check your carrier for signs that it is becoming worn. If it is carrying your most precious cargo, you want to make sure it is in working order and everything is in tact.  Overstretched wraps and slings should be replaced. 
• When your baby is not nursing, make sure she is positioned properly in a sitting position with legs supported to the knee. The knee should be higher than the hips.  When legs are dangling from the hip, this can result in hip dysplasia.
• While having your hands free may allow you to do other things while caring for your baby, it is best to do activities that allow you to sit while your baby is feeding. Or doing something that is more leisurely like a slow walk when baby is feeding.  Being up and moving around can increase the risk of choking.  

Wearing your baby has many benefits. It promotes bonding and allows you to care for your baby while having your hands free. The closeness of wearing your baby can give you skin-to-skin contact and also makes breastfeeding easier and more discreet. If you are careful about your baby's safety and comfort, there is no reason you cannot enjoy the convenience of wearing your baby.

The best time to breastfeed is whenever your baby wants to, especially at first. But most breastfeeding moms use a breast pump at some time. Let's look at a few different situations that call for a breast pump, and how you can best use it to help you and your baby. 

To Store Milk

There are lots of reasons it's handy to have a supply of breast milk in your freezer, like returning to work, or going out for the evening. Whether you want milk on hand so your partner can take over a feeding or donate some to a milk bank, here are a few ways to schedule pumping so you have a good store. 

• In the morning. The hormones that encourage milk production are most abundant in the morning so it may be worth it to wake up before your baby to capture some of that bounty. Between the hours of 1 AM and 6 AM are the most productive, so you'll have to balance your need for sleep against the need for extra milk. Try to make sure you have at least one to two hours between pumping and breastfeeding, so your breasts have a chance to replenish the milk. 
• Between feedings. Try to give yourself about two hours after a feeding and an hour before the next feeding. 
• Set a schedule. If you'll be returning to work and have a set schedule you'll be following, it's a good idea to start pumping on that schedule a few weeks before going back. This will get your breasts accustomed to producing milk at those times, and give you time to get used to your pump. Like breastfeeding, pumping milk takes some time to get used to, so allow yourself time to adjust to it without pressure. There are other steps you can take to make pumping at work easier on yourself, too.

To Increase Milk Supply

Undersupply can be exhausting and frustrating for both mom and baby. Try some techniques for increasing your milk production. Here are some ways you can use your breast pump.

• Pump after every daytime feed. You may not get much milk, or maybe not any at all. But pumping alerts your breasts that they need to make more milk. Think of it like placing an order for more milk tomorrow. 
• Cluster pump. When babies are going through a growth spurt, they will do something called "cluster feeding" where they nurse frequently outside their regular schedule. You can use your breast pump to simulate this kind of demand. Pump for ten minutes, then take a break for ten minutes. Continue for an hour. Repeat this as often as you can during the day. It's a time commitment, but within a week you should see a noticeable increase in your milk supply.
• Be aware of growth spurts. When your baby is going through a growth spurt it may feel like all you're doing is breastfeeding. Moms sometimes worry that this means that they're not making enough milk anymore. This is a perfectly normal example of "cluster feeding" referred to above. Get comfy and expect to spend a lot of time nursing. Don't worry about increasing your supply right now; your baby is doing just that with a frequent nursing schedule. You can expect to see growth spurts between two and six weeks old, around three months, and again at six months. 

Premature Baby

A preemie may not be strong enough yet to nurse, but that doesn't mean you have to give up on breastfeeding! Pumping is a great way to establish a milk supply for when your baby is big enough to nurse, and the milk you produce in the meantime is a wonderful gift.

• Pump soon after birth. Try to start within six hours of giving birth. This takes advantage of all the hormonal activity in your body to start milk production. You won't produce milk yet, but a small amount of the yellowish colostrum that comes before milk. That's fine; colostrum is very good for your baby, and producing it is the first step of establishing a milk supply.
• Pump frequently. You want to mimic the frequent feeding schedule of a newborn, so pump both breasts eight to ten times a day. Remember the high levels of hormones in the morning that help your breasts produce milk? You'll want to take advantage of those hormones by scheduling two of those pumping sessions between the hours of 1 AM and 6 AM.   
• Set a goal, but don't rush. A good goal is to eventually produce 25 to 35 ounces a day. Don't pressure yourself, though. As long as your supply is increasing, however little, you're on the right track. Once your milk supply is established, try not to go more than five hours between feedings so you can maintain it. 

Breastfeeding is a special journey you take with your baby. Don't be afraid to use a good breast pump to help you on your way.

One very important part of preparing for your new little one is preparing to breastfeed. By preparing, you can feel much calmer and in control when the time comes, thus making it a more enjoyable and successful experience. Thankfully, there are several things that you can do to prepare.

Purchase Clothing You Can Breastfeed In 

In order to make breastfeeding easier, you should consider purchasing some clothing that are easy to breastfeed in. Thankfully, there are so many options now for tanks, tee shirts, and hoodies that are nursing-friendly. These tops have hidden slits in them that allow you to breastfeed your baby without ever having to remove any of your clothes.

These tops are so convenient when you are nursing in a public location, such as a restaurant, the park, church, etc. They can also allow you to start nursing your baby much faster, which can reduce a lot of stress for you when you have a hungry baby who wants to nurse right away. 

If you are baby wearing, these tanks can snap down for easy nursing access and make baby wearing and breastfeeding much more possible.

Sometimes being a new mom, it's harder for some to adjust to nursing in public spaces. The fears and concerns are real, and clothing that offers privacy can certainly relieve the anxiety and nerves for mothers just getting used to it. 

Make preparing for breastfeeding easier by packing your hospital bag with nursing friendly tops like this mom in her Cozy Nursing Hoodie.

Bun's Ribbed nursing tanks are stretchy for wearability during pregnancy and well into postpartum, creating coverage and comfort for nursing in public.

Visit With A Lactation Consultant 

Another great way to prepare for breastfeeding is to meet with a lactation consultant or take a lactation class before you give birth. A lactation consultant is a professional breastfeeding specialist who will let you know what to expect in terms of your milk coming in, pumping, helping your baby get the right latch for the first time, showing you how to hold your baby when nursing, and much more. They can also answer all of your questions and put a lot of your worries at ease.

Set this up at the hospital you give birth in because most of the time, a lactation consultant will come visit.  You can start breastfeeding within the first hour of giving birth and it will be essential for you to garner as much support and expertise as possible to be off to the right start. Discuss that this is part of your birth plan to breastfeed. 

Prior to this, you can attend a group breastfeeding class taught by a lactation consultant or you can choose to have a one-on-one consultation. Taking a lactation class before the baby arrives can boost your confidence and give you the much needed knowledge to prepare you for your nursing journey.  If you so desire, you could meet with the lactation consultant again after you've had your baby for even more help hands-on help with nursing your baby.  Many have mommy meet up lactation support groups that are even free to attend. 

It's just not always that easy and doesn't always come naturally for many.  Reaching out can be very empowering and even relieve potential for PPD. 

Talk With Other Breastfeeding Moms 

Some of the best advice that you can get in terms of preparing to breastfeed is from other moms. You can join a mom group in your local area, or even find one online. You could also do something as simple as calling up some of your friends who breastfeed and discussing with them some of your questions and concerns. 

Ask them what they are eating. What is their schedule. How long did it take them to get the hang of everything. 

The support of other moms can also come in handy when your baby arrives and you begin to actually breastfeed because they will be there to encourage you and help you as you begin your breastfeeding journey with your little one.

Keep in mind, everyone has a different experience. Take everything with a grain of salt and use this opportunity to be selective and gather all kinds of information to make your best judgements for what would work best for you. It's okay if someone has less than positive advice to vent to you, but then move on to the next support person that can offer more useful and encouraging words to you.

Purchase The Appropriate Supplies

There are a few different nursing supplies that you can purchase that make nursing more convenient for you and more enjoyable for you and your baby.

• One thing that you may want to consider purchasing is some soothing cream for your nipples. In fact, start now, well before you give birth!  Every time you moisturize your growing belly, do the same to your nipples.
• Well moisturized skin and nipples will save you heartache from pain and dry, cracked nipples.  Use 100% shea butter, natural oil, or lanolin. These creams are safe for your baby and you can easily spread them on your nipples after your baby is done nursing.
• If you have inverted or flat nipples, you may want to consider purchasing a nipple shield, just in case your baby has a hard time latching on. This can help them to get better suction at first and then you can stop using the shield once they have a good latch.
• A nursing pillow is a great thing for you to buy because it puts your baby at the perfect height for nursing. It also allows your arms to rest because they don't have to hold the baby up.  We would say that this is a mama must have!
• Nursing pads. Your breast will leak, so keep these handy.  Be sure you have a bra or sports bra ready as well.  Something without wires is best, to avoid clogged milk ducts and further complications.
• Call your insurance for your breast pump! Do this a month away from the due date.  Your insurance should provide the pump fully covered, but this can depend on your insurance so make this part of your to do list.
• Don't forget those game changing nursing tank tops and hoodies for ultimate ease, convenience, comfort, and style.

Summary

In order to prepare to breastfeed your baby, it is important that you purchase the appropriate clothes for breast feeding, you visit with a lactation consultant to learn more about the process of breastfeeding and what to expect, that you talk with other moms for first hand experience and advice, and that you purchase the appropriate supplies for nursing.

To learn more tips about preparing to nurse your baby, you can visit us here. 

While breastfeeding is indeed a highly personal choice for new mothers, many more mothers are choosing the breastfeeding route as the way that they wish to feed their newborn babies. Having said that, many first-time and expectant mothers also find themselves a little bit apprehensive about breastfeeding and how it is going to work for them.

The following are 15 great tips that expectant mothers can use to help them feel a little bit more comfortable when it comes to breastfeeding their newborn child:

1. Wear Nursing-Friendly Clothing:

2. Utilize Bra Pads If Necessary:

3. Expect Your Child To Nurse Frequently Soon After Birth:

4. Get A How-To From The Maternity Nurses:

5. Allow Your Baby Time: 

6. (If Possible) Let The Baby Sleep In Your Room:

7. Hold Off On Pacifiers:

8. Gauge Your Child's Nourishment:

9. Eat A Healthy Diet:

10. Don't Smoke/Drink Alcohol:

11. Check Your Medications With Your Doctor:

12. Understand Breastfeeding Can Be Exhausting:

13. Get Plenty of Rest:

14. If Breastfeeding is Painful See Your Doctor:

 If you are finding breastfeeding a physically painful process to endure, it may be time to seek help from your doctor. Breastfeeding is not meant to be a painful process. You should not feel physical pain when nursing your child. Some discomfort can be common until you get used to breastfeeding, but pain is a sign that you need to see your doctor or IBCLC.  It can be daunting at first, but a lactation specialist can work wonders for you and help you get the right latch.

15. If You Have Questions Talk To Your Doctor:

Don't forget, every child feeds differently and will develop different eating habits. The aforementioned ideas are simply advice on what is considered within the range of normal feeding behaviors for a baby. Long as your child is gaining weight, getting good reviews from a qualified pediatrician, and is producing wet diapers and having bowel movements on a regular basis things are likely fine.

Remember, when in doubt, your pediatrician and doctor can confirm that behaviors are normal and can let you know if you should ever be concerned about any your child's eating patterns or your ability to breastfeed properly.

Shop stylish and essential breastfeeding clothing here.

Read more tips and tricks on our blog here. 

You know you want to breastfeed, but what about pumping? Do you really need a pump? When should you use a pump? What are some reasons you might need to pump?

If you're new to the world of breastfeeding, these are just a few of the many questions you might have when it comes to breastfeeding versus pumping. Understanding when the breast is best and when pumping is right will help you to be better prepared for life's complications.

When to Breastfeed

Breastfeeding can be one of the greatest bonding experiences you can have with your child. The skin-to-skin contact, those little eyes seeking out your gaze, and the opportunity for you to sit down and pause your busy day to cuddle your little one all combine to make it extremely beneficial for both you and your baby. Plus, there's no preparation needed- the milk is already ready to go, at the perfect temperature, so why not use it?

In short, you should. You should breastfeed whenever it's comfortable and convenient for you and your baby. Don't overthink a schedule and feed baby whenever they show signs of hunger, but expect newborns to need a feeding 10 to 12 times a day.  When things are calm, when you're healthy, and when you're with your child, it's the best way to ensure you're both getting what you need. 

But what about when circumstances are less than ideal? What if you are a mom going back to work? Here are a few times you might want to consider pumping.

When to Pump. When not to Pump.

• Pump in the morning.  Studies show that prolactin is at higher levels at night and into the early morning so pump away.
• When you're apart. This is probably the most common reason moms pump- they have to get back to work but they still want all the wonderful nutritional benefits for their baby that breast milk provides, and they want to continue that bonding with their baby when they get home in the evenings, so they want to keep their milk supply up. Pumping throughout the work day ensures that baby has all the food he or she needs, and it especially ensures that mom's milk supply keeps flowing and stays abundant.
• Speaking of milk supply... Many moms find that baby's appetite is moving faster than their milk supply can keep up, so they add additional pumping sessions between feedings to stimulate greater milk production. These pumping sessions may not result in large quantities of breast milk, but they can help tell your body that it's time to amp up the supply.  Try to pump within the first hour after breastfeeding. 
• On the other hand... Sometimes moms have the opposite problem: they find that their body is producing more milk than the baby can consume, which can lead to uncomfortable engorgement and even clogged milk ducts. In this case, pumping just until the pressure is relieved can ease discomfort without stimulating your body to produce more milk (which would only exacerbate the problem). So don't do that.  Pump till the 'tank is empty'.  
• And speaking of clogged milk ducts... Clogged milk ducts are hard, tender lumps that occur when your breast doesn't completely empty of milk after a feeding or after you pump. Obviously, this can happen because your baby isn't finishing his or her meal, or can even be caused by illness or stress blocking the release of oxytocin.  More frequent feeding or pumping can reduce the chances of clogged milk ducts, but not always. If you notice one, and you're able to nurse, see if baby can help release it; otherwise, you may need to pump to relieve the pressure. As you nurse or pump, apply a warm compress (like a washcloth dampened with warm water) and massage the area until the clog releases. Don't be concerned if it takes a few sessions- a warm shower can also help.

• When you're on medication that's not good for baby. Just like when you were pregnant, as a nursing mother, you really are eating for two- most of what you consume enters into your breast milk in some form, so you have to be cautious about what you put in your mouth. There may be times when you must temporarily take medication that can transfer into your breast milk and be dangerous for your baby, so you'll have to stop nursing for a time until you are healed enough to stop taking the medication. Not only can you pump ahead of time and store your breast milk to help feed your baby while you're on the medication, but if you want to continue breastfeeding once you've finished the medication, pumping can ensure that your milk production stays up. Unfortunately, this "tainted" milk will have to be tossed in what's popularly called a "pump and dump." This is when you pump your breast milk and "dump" it down the drain. It's hard to watch that hard-earned milk get dumped, but it'll be worth it when you and your baby are able to pick up nursing again.
• When nursing is inconvenient. Anyone who's ever traveled cross-country with a baby knows what a hassle it can be to have to stop to change diapers- add in stopping to take the baby out of the car seat to breastfeed and you'll start to feel like you'll never reach your destination! Pumping and having a few bottles prepared ahead of time will keep you rolling and keep baby happy. Many babies also find it difficult to focus on nursing in noisy, busy places, so if you think you'll be in a situation that could prove challenging to nursing, having some bottles for your baby might be handy.

Read more tips here on breastfeeding on a plane.

• When you want to give Dad an opportunity to feed. Believe it or not, many dads envy that special time that mom gets with baby every feeding (although they might change their minds if they had to experience a clogged milk duct or engorgement!) This is an opportunity for dad to help the breastfeeding mom.  If you want to let Dad in on the action, pumping can be a great way to let him serve dinner to your little one and allow him to experience a taste of the closeness with baby that you enjoy as a nursing mother.

Take a look at our nursing and pumping friendly clothes for play or work to help make switching between breastfeeding and pumping easier. 

Are you planning to breastfeed your new little bundle of joy when he or she arrives? Congrats if you will be able to breastfeed, and kudos to you for choosing to provide your baby with Mother Nature's perfect infant nutrition and all the benefits it offers your new baby! You may be a little nervous or apprehensive about the mechanics and the practicalities of breastfeeding, and this is perfectly natural. After all, you're facing a whole new way of life that involves caring for a tiny being who'll depend on you in every way imaginable, and it's unfamiliar territory that you're about to enter.

It should be reassuring to know that women have been breastfeeding since the beginning of time, and babies have thrived on breastmilk throughout the ages! Still, it's a new challenge at a time when it can feel like everything is a new challenge, so it's wise to learn as much as you can before you start. Here are 30 breastfeeding "secrets" to shed some light on the subject and prepare you for the day you finally get to meet your precious new baby and give him his very first meal ...

1. Expect it to hurt -- at least a little -- at first. Your nipples will feel cracked, dry and sore.  This is normal so worry, and it will get better. 

2. Hang in there! Your nipples will "toughen up" and that soreness and discomfort you feel in the early days of nursing will go away!

3. Get yourself some purified lanolin (available at pharmacies). It's so soothing on sore nipples! You can also try coconut oil. (Neither one will harm your baby.)

4. Hook up with a lactation expert -- before you start nursing. She'll be an invaluable source of knowledge and support. Keep her number on speed dial!

5. Learn how to get a good latch by making sure that the lower part of your breast and the areola get into the baby's mouth so that your nipple hits her upper palate, which stimulates suckling.

6. Experiment with different breastfeeding positions until you find the one (or a couple) that work best for you and your baby. If both you and your baby are comfortable, you'll both have an easier feeding time!

7. Invest in some comfortable nursing bras, tank tops, nursing hoodies, and other nursing-friendly clothes. They'll make your life easier, and today's options are downright stylish!

8. Stock up on nursing pads. (You'll be glad you're wearing them when you're in the grocery store and your milk suddenly starts flowing!) The leak is real!

9. Avoid formula if you can while you're in the hospital and for the first few weeks at home. Feeding formula, in the beginning, can interfere with your milk production.

10. Make sure your baby's feet are touching something -- your arm, a pillow, etc. It makes them feel more secure.

11. Don't push your baby to your breast holding the back of his head, which encourages him to clamp down. Instead, hold the back of his neck and gently guide him to your breast.

12. If you're planning for your baby to be willing to take a bottle when you're not available, offer him his first between 4-6 weeks after his birth. If you wait longer, he may refuse it altogether.

13. Use a footstool if you nurse sitting up -- especially if you're on the short side. It can also help ease the soreness of a healing episiotomy.

14. If your baby nods off while nursing, try tickling the bottom of his feet or stroking his chin to wake him up until you're sure he's had enough.

15. Look into getting a quality hospital grade breast pump before you take the baby home. They're usually more powerful than anything you can buy, and you might need that extra pumping power in the beginning while your milk supply is still establishing itself.

16. You might also consider a "double electric pump", with a graduated suction level setting and a variety of flange sizes.  There are also direct pump to bags to save time and make storing breast milk easier. 

17. Ease back into work by starting back on a Wednesday or a Thursday so you're only away from your baby for a few days.

18. Breastfed babies establish how much milk they'll need within the first month. That same amount is all they'll need for the first 6-months. (Nix the formula "rules"!)

19. Don't over-pump believing you have to "stock up" once you return to work. You can end up with clogged ducts or other problems. You really need only a small reserve in the freezer!

20. Ask your lactation expert to help you choose a pump with a flange that fits your breast. (They're not "one size fits all"!)

21. To encourage your milk to let down, consider "galactagogues" -- foods/herbs specifically made to stimulate milk production. 

22. Invest in a nursing pillow. It can take stress off your neck, back and shoulders since it wraps around your body.

23. Consider trying "laid-back breastfeeding", which simply involves leaning back slightly or lying down with your baby (in a diaper only) face down against your chest for skin-to-skin contact. Gently guide your baby's mouth to your breast. Most babies, say, proponents, will instinctively latch on deeply.

24. Don't let anybody tell you that your baby "might not be getting enough" because your breasts are small!

25. If you're uncomfortable with breastfeeding in front of friends or relatives (or in public), invest in a nursing cover or wrap.  Here are tips if you have unsupportive people around you. 

26. Cherish the bond between you and your baby while nursing.  It can go by too fast!

27. If you've set a date for weaning, but when it arrives your baby is teething, put it off for now. It's harder to wean a baby who's already going through a stressful situation like teething.  If you must, try breastmilk popsicles to help. 

28. Have a weaning plan, and wean gradually, starting with the feeding that's most inconvenient for you or the one your baby seems least interested in.

29. If you're not in a hurry to wean, let your baby decide when she really wants to nurse. They can nurse for many years! In other words, don't offer the breast, but don't refuse it either if she really wants it. It's slow, but effective in the long run!  

30. If your breasts become engorged take a short hot shower with a light massage to release some of the milk before pumping. You can also try applying an ice pack for 10 minutes before pumping.

And for all of your nursing wardrobe needs, be sure to spend some time browsing through the great selection at robertwilsonassociates to help you nurse whenever and where ever!

Breast milk has many advantages that can do wonders for your baby’s health. While you were at home, managing to breast feed the baby was not as difficult. Sure, it took you a couple of tries but you had all the privacy and all the time to be able to nurse them.

However, now you are supposed to resume your job.

The thought of balancing work and continuing to breastfeed your baby can be intimidating for most mothers  Pumping at work as a mom can seem challenging, but it does not have to be.

There’s a whole bunch of things that you can do to help manage this task at hand. Follow our simple steps and pretty soon you will get the hang of it.

Step 1: Pause Everything and Buy a Really, Really Good Pump:

The number one step for a breastfeeding mom who is about to go to work is to get herself an excellent hospital grade electric pump. Yes, we know they are expensive, but believe us when we say that an electric pump can help you get the job done so much faster than the manual one. Pump both breasts at the same time. As a breastfeeding working mother, you are short on time already so you need all the help you can to help you save as much time as you possibly can.  If time is money, then this will be a great return on investment for you as mom pumping at work when time is of the essence.

Step 2: Buy the Right Tools:

An electric pump is not the only thing you will need to save time; you will also need tools to clean the pump, bottles etc. faster. A good idea here would be to invest some money in microwave sterilizer bags, breast pump wipes and other cleaning tools. This way, you can pump the milk, store it in bottles and clean everything too without having to spend an hour near the sink.  Oh and don't forget your water bottle.  That's a tool too because you'll need to stay hydrated all day.

Step 3: Know Your Workplace:

Most organizations allow their employees to breast pump at work, but still it is always better to visit your boss and ask them about any particular policies they might be having regarding breastfeeding moms at work.

A really helpful tip here would be to look for other breastfeeding moms at your workplace and get their two cents on the issue. If your workplace does not have a proper place where you can pump, you might even be able to put up a stronger case for having one.  

Note to self, employers should provide a place for moms to pump, and we don't mean the bathroom. Get to know your rights as a breastfeeding mom in the workplace if you need questions answered.

Your workplace needs a refrigerator so you can store your milk in a secure lunch bag or bring a good, we mean very good, cooler such as a YETI cooler, with some ice packs so you can keep your milk at the proper storing temp till you get home.

Step 4: Set Yourself a Routine:

Once you have all the tools, it is important to figure out a routine which allows you to keep the milk stash full and not stress yourself out too much. This routine is just as important as all the other things you have scheduled throughout your day.

A standard example of this could be that you pump the milk in the morning before heading out to work and keep a set bag with all the pumping tools necessary ready to go. Grab that bag on your way out, pump some more milk when you are at work.

When you get back home, freeze that milk and wash all the pumping tools and set your bag for the next morning.

Repeat.

Step 5: Schedule it All In:

Work can be very demanding and with all that usually goes on at work, it is very likely that a pending pumping session might just slip out of your mind completely. It is best to have install an app or even put some markings on your calendar to remind you that you have a pumping session coming up so you can prepare for it beforehand.

An extremely helpful tip here would be to just simply put an alarm on your smart phone or iphone which will act as a reminder that you need to pump milk for your baby at home.

Step 6: Get the Right Nursing Clothes:

You need to be dressed right to be able to pump the milk anywhere, anytime. For starters, invest in some nursing bras and nursing tank tops that come with proper straps that let you do all the adjusting that you have to do while nursing the baby, or even while you are pumping the milk to feed the baby later.

While you were at home, you could wear anything you wanted but now that you are at work, you need to look professional too. Just because you are a breastfeeding mom at work, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your style.

For example, if you want to wear a dress to work, you absolutely can! You just need to pick something which is made from a stretchy material (like cotton knit!) that can be easily used for nursing like the robertwilsonassociates Cross Top Maxi Dress which looks great layered over with a blazer, chunky necklace, and stylish ballet flats. A lil' accessorizing can take your nursing wear to a whole new level of casual work chic.

Nursing tank tops like these are a breastfeeding mom’s best friend because both straps come down, the chest stays covered, you can keep your blazer on, and you can pump away anywhere with ease. Not only do they allow you the easiest (as well as the best) access to your breasts, but they also help you look super professional as a layering piece under any cardigan or jacket.  This is a must for any nursing mom's capsule wardrobe and if you're pumping at work you'll need to get to both breasts at the same time and quickly.

Step 7: Practice and Patience:

Just like it took you some time to get the hang of breastfeeding, similarly it will take some time and practice before you get used to managing breastfeeding and your work schedule as well. It will take some time before you are able to manage pumping breast milk and still show up for your meetings in time. It is easy to feel exasperated and for the moments when you do, just remind yourself why you are doing it.

Many moms suggest watching videos and pictures of your babies, or having baby's onesie on hand while you are pumping milk, it helps staying motivated when you see the reason why you have put your clients on hold.  It also helps the milk flow become stimulated when seeing or smelling your baby's items.  Ahh new baby smell is so wonderful! 

These are the 7 simple steps you can follow to help manage both, breastfeeding your baby and work. A concluding tip that we would like to give to our readers is that tell your caregiver to avoid feeding the baby during the last hour of the workday IF it is okay and baby isn't fussing yet.  This way, when you get back, your baby will be looking forward to you and you two can have a warm union after a long day's work.  Continue to breastfeed whenever you can to keep your milk supply going.

Keep going mama! You're doing amazing! Being mom and working is a rewarding position to be in! Challenges only make you stronger and value what you have even more.  You can do this.  You will do this.

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Women have been breastfeeding since the human race began. It's hard to believe that nursing your baby could ever be controversial, not accepted, or should be kept covered according to some with knowing this information.  Well, guess this is a topic for another conversation.  So back to the main subject...for each mother and each baby, breastfeeding is a new experience.

To help you get started, here is breastfeeding 101 for beginners.

Nursing your newborn

In the beginning, your body will produce colostrum, which is a special milk containing antibodies to help protect your newborn from infection. Amazing superpower stuff right?  That's right, because your body is so crazy amazing with what it can do!

Breastfeed your baby as soon as possible after birth. Start by holding the baby and turning her body toward you so that she is resting against you, chest to chest. Brush your nipple against her upper lip. When she opens her mouth, pull her onto your breast. Her mouth should cover the nipple, plus as much of the areola as possible. You may want to hold your breast for support.

With practice, you will find comfortable positions for nursing. You want a position that won't leave your back and arms aching, since nursing sessions can take around 40 minutes, especially in the early months. Support your baby's head, neck, back and hips. Common nursing positions are cradle, cross-cradle, side-lying, and football. Try using a nursing pillow for arm support while breastfeeding.

Settle in and relax before you start. For the first few days, you may have to waken the baby to start nursing and he may fall asleep again while nursing. If it has been four hours since he last nursed, you may wish to wake him up, to be sure he is getting enough.  

If your baby is premature, he may not be strong enough to nurse right away. In this case, you can pump your milk and the baby can be fed your milk through a tube or bottle until he is ready to nurse.

You will have a better experience if you use easy to nurse in clothing like nursing tank tops, nursing hoodies, and convenient comfy nursing tees to nurse on demand quickly or pump milk since new babies need frequent feedings.

Nursing your newborn boosts her immune system, meets all of her nutritional needs and is a completely priceless bonding experience.  It's hard at first and takes a few days for milk to come in, but keep going and the milk will start flowing!

How often should you breastfeed

Pay attention to your baby's cues. Increased alertness or activity, rooting around for the nipple and mouthing are early signs of hunger.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), you should feed your baby when she shows early signs of hunger, preferably before she starts crying, which is a late sign of hunger.

Newborns have small stomachs so they eat often, usually about every one to three hours, or 8 - 12 feeds every 24 hours. Don't worry about your milk supply. The more you nurse, the more milk you will have. Learn more about the size of your baby's stomach here.

Is your baby getting enough milk?

Sometimes, breastfed babies gain weight more slowly than babies fed with formula and every baby is different, but your pediatrician will be monitoring the baby's weight. In most cases, if the baby is gaining weight he is getting enough milk.

Many new mothers also worry about their own nutrition and its effect on the baby. As a general rule, most breastfeeding mothers need about 200 - 500 extra calories per day. As long as you are eating a well-balanced diet and stay very well-hydrated, you, your baby, and your milk should be fine.  

Don't worry about gaining wait mama!  Eat tons of healthy, nutrient dense food, whole foods, clean and organic foods, and super food packed smoothies and you will be loading with healthy calories that boost milk supply and don't pack on pounds.

Common challenges

Breastfeeding takes patience and practice. Don't get discouraged if your new baby has trouble latching on, or is sometimes fussy (this may not necessarily be a sign of hunger).

It is important to remember that nursing should not be painful. There are remedies for clogged ducts, engorged breasts, or dry or cracked nipples. Blocked ducts, or mastitis, can be serious and painful and may require a doctor's care. If you are in pain or have other problems that may be interfering with breastfeeding, get help. Your healthcare provider can diagnose and treat any medical problems.

A lactation consultant will provide hands-on help, guidance and encouragement, while you and your baby navigate the wonderful new world of breastfeeding. Don't give up. Do it for both of you. 

Keep going mama! Patience and perseverance will succeed!

Main Image Source: dotellanabel.blogspot.com Mama nursing in robertwilsonassociates nursing hoodie.

Babies want touch – they practically thrive on it. Various studies point out to how babywearing your infant for just 3 hours a day can actually make them that much happier. From liking the touch of their mother’s skin on theirs, to the warmth they feel and everything else in between, there are plenty of benefits of babywearing; and not just for the baby, but for the parents too.

Studies also reveal that holding the baby close and skin to skin allows mothers to keenly monitor their movements, which in turn makes them feel more confident that they really know what is going on with their infant.

While there may be many benefits to babywearing for both parties to enjoy, things can, at times, get a little difficult for the mothers, especially if they are breastfeeding the babies. It takes a certain amount of skill (and lots of practice!) to get your baby in just the right position so that they can take their feed conveniently, allowing you to do your work all at the same time.

Babies can be a lot to handle; forget being glued to your baby’s rocker or staying hunched over the couch for hours on end while they take their feed, and just follow our simple tips on breastfeeding while babywearing.

Getting Started:

Before you attempt breastfeeding while babywearing, it is essential that you consider the babywearing safety precautions that you must follow at all costs during this process.

You need to position your baby in a way that it is easy for them to breathe. There should be enough distance between the baby’s face and your clothes at all time, so that their face does not get pressed into them. This would make things very suffocating and potentially dangerous for the baby.

It is also important that you do not cover the baby’s face when you are breastfeeding them while babywearing. Many mothers in search for some privacy resort to covering the baby’s face which can be dangerous. When you cover the face, you are making the baby rebreathe the air they have just exhaled which is very dangerous. So, if you really want privacy, a better option would be to use easy nursing tee shirts and tank tops like the ones from robertwilsonassociates, or a nursing hood, to cover yourself if you feel like doing so, not the baby.

Kissable Height:

What is the right position in which the baby should be placed so that they can breastfeed conveniently? The easiest way to remember this is that whenever you are nursing during babywearing, lower down your baby to nurse and adjust accordingly where you can bring them to a height where you can easily kiss their head (consult your lactation consultant if you are having difficulty finding the proper adjustments).  Make sure you bring them up to a position where they can rest their head comfortably if they sleep while nursing.

Remember TICKS as a great checklist for babywearing. Are they?

• tight
• in view at all times
• close enough to kiss
• keep chin off of chest
• supported back

Pay Attention to Noises:

There are certain typical nursing sounds that you get to hear while you breastfeed the baby. So when you are nursing them during babywearing, it is important to pay attention to what kind of noise is the baby making. Non typical nursing noises like snoring or grunting can be a sign showing that the baby is in distress and that you need to shift gears.

Two fingers width of space should always be present between the baby’s chin and their chest. This is the ideal head/neck position for the baby while you nurse them during babywearing, as it mostly guarantees that their airways do not get blocked.

Practice Babywearing and Breastfeeding Separately:

Another tip that can really help you breastfeed your baby while babywearing them it so practice both the things separately. Babywear your baby, but do not breastfeed them while you are doing so. Get comfortable with roaming around while having the baby attached to you in a sling. At another time, just practice breastfeeding your baby, while not carrying them around in your sling. Once you have gotten the hang of both the things separately, it is then time to combine them together.

Wear Breastfeeding Friendly Clothes:

Not all necklines are helpful when it comes to breastfeeding your baby. For hassle free breastfeeding, it is important that your outfit also co-operates with you. Bun's stretchy tank tops with easy snap straps that can be done with one hand, or double panel nursing tee shirts, allow moms to easily breastfeed, as the need arises.

Delay the Hands Free Approach:

Most nursing mothers want to be able to master breastfeeding during babywearing so that they can do other things at the same time. However, we recommend that if you have just started to babywear and breastfeed your child, it is best that you keep your hands busy holding the baby only. You can go hands free once you have become super comfortable with the process. Until then, use your hands to hold the baby’s head or neck and offer them more support as they take their feed.

During your first few trials with breastfeeding while babywearing, you might also have to use your hands to position and reposition your breast. Nursing hands free is the goal, but do not try to get it only at your second turn. Take your time.

Slings and Carriers:

You can use either slings or carriers to carry your baby around. However, you might have to do things a little differently depending on what you are using for babywearing. For example, if you have your baby in a carrier and you want to breastfeed them, you might want to play around with the adjustable straps until you get the perfect position which allows the baby immediate and easy access to the breast. If you happen to be using a sling for babywearing, make sure to always have one arm supporting the baby’s weight as you loosen the rings on the sling with the other.

Whether you are using a carrier or a sling for babywearing, always remember to reposition the baby properly once you are done nursing them.

Interested in more? Check out the source of the first main image here and what they have to say at http://www.babydoousa.com/babywearing-in-the-first-year/

Before baby wearing consult your physician and Certified lactation consultant for any concerns, questions, and if this is a choice you should be making.  You can also find certified baby wearing consultants in your area here.

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