Thanks to everyone who entered the Lena Loves… Medela Freestyle giveaway. I can honestly say having this breast pump on hand is one of the principal reasons that I stuck with breastfeeding. It helped establish my (now abundant) supply, provided options for nighttime feedings (thanks hubby!) and allowed me to be away from Baby Reid while still nourishing him with my own milk. LOVE it!
I’d also like to send hugs to everyone who offered breastfeeding/pumping tips. Some of my faves include:
thesehappydays said…
My best tip is to visit a lactation consultant if you are having issues. I am forever grateful to my public health nurse for pushing me to go – I thought I would figure it out on my own, but the advice and confidence of the lactation consultant improved things tremendously.
Amanda Schoonjans said…
My best bf tip is to get your husband involved! When you are bf in the middle of the night have him help by changing diapers and getting babe back to sleep so you can be ready to be up again in a couple hours:)
Meg said…
Don’t give up or try and think of a good reason why its not working, it takes time! After a couple weeks, it’ll be so easy!
Aimee Perez said…
My tip for new moms is to switch things up. Make sure you alternate sides with each feed, but also try different positions. That way the baby can empty all the milk ducts, to help you avoid mastitis.
pawsnhooves said…
My best advice, Keep trying!!! Eat and drink right. Get help if you need it :)
Kelsey said…
My Best pumping tip is to massage your breast first and get your milk flowing before you start to pump. I found this way I got a faster result and it didn’t hurt my breasts as much.
Kathryn Mitchell said…
My best breastfeeding tip is to put a small safety pin on your bra strap to help you remember which side to start with at the next feeding. Then switch the safety pin to the other side after each feeding.
Shannon H said…
Empty breasts fill faster than those that aren’t, so don’t worry about trying to “save” some for the next feed.
Deb said…
Use breast compressions to keep your baby awake at the breast. Maintaining a good flow of milk is essential to a good feed and will buy you more time between feeds.
Angèle said…
My best ‘breastfeeding’ tip : whether you’re pumping, nursing, or both – get your CALORIES in! and remember to drink LOTS of water – I found on days when I didn’t drink enough water, or if I skipped a meal, I didn’t feel as ‘full’.
Chrissy said…
My best pumping tip (if you want to increase your supply) is to express by hand for a few minutes after you think you’ve pumped yourself dry. You might be surprised by how much more you get… and it can increase your supply if you stick with it.
I’ve also collected your questions and will be forwarding them to a Medela lactation consultant. Answers will be posted shortly!
Now, without further ado…. the winner is Amanda Schoonjans! Congratulations!
Please send me an e-mail with your full contact details so that I may have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks to everyone who participated, and to Medela!