tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37258738432132161292011-07-28T18:51:19.508-07:00Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding advice for new parents, written by Frances McInnesBreastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.comBlogger821100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-7832378537955566842010-09-30T02:43:00.001-07:002010-09-30T02:43:55.663-07:00

FOR MEDIA RELEASE   Bizarre Bra busts into Wearable Art Awards…..  A nursing bra made from formula scoops.   Full story is here – you are welcome to share this on your blog etc   Like this bra?  Show your support by voting for us in the People's Choice Awards and you could win a huge prize from The Dominion Post & WOW. Text WOW with a space and then Mamadonna Nursing Bra to 3100. Each text

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-23422327557987472602010-08-02T02:03:00.001-07:002010-08-02T02:03:19.485-07:00

Here is an article we just wrote about baby’s cord stump.  With the help of a customer who sent us some rather gross (but normal) photos.  Not the greatest photo to look at, full screen, first thing in the morning!!.  But I hope preggie mums find it a little bit useful.   You can read it and see the photos here:  Baby Cord Stump

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-91647807611790829392010-07-27T16:50:00.001-07:002010-07-27T16:50:36.653-07:00

Did you or do you have extremely itching burning skin when pregnant?   Read article      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-50953385352782320202010-07-22T02:29:00.001-07:002010-07-22T02:29:46.782-07:00

We’ve loaded a new article thanks to the wonderful community on our Facebook Page.  Heaps of mothers shared their experiences and difficulties weaning their toddlers.   You can read all the tips here      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-49286915937113803322010-05-12T01:07:00.000-07:002010-05-12T01:08:02.489-07:00

Just shared a post about getting your 13 Week Baby Scan, and a precious photo.  This was when my baby was 13 weeks old and a tiny peanut.  But he was smiling then too.   You can read about it here  13 Week Scan    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-18651611981211406952010-05-03T01:38:00.001-07:002010-05-03T01:38:14.710-07:00

The other day I ran a poll on Facebook, asking people how long it took for their milk to come in, and for them to state whether they had a vaginal birth or c/s. I’ve been a geek and graphed the results to show you.  132 replies.  Nothing statistical or technical, just a graphical indication of results. You can view it here:  Days for Milk to Come In  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-73251149736144613352010-04-19T03:08:00.001-07:002010-04-19T03:08:06.974-07:00

We asked a group of mothers on our Facebook Page for their tips on getting their child started on a bottle.  The discussion below is a group of mothers sharing some tips for starting a baby on a bottle. Some babies can be a bit fussy, clever, and stubborn which makes this whole process very stressful for parents.   If the situation does get stressful and baby is crying and mum distressed, just

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-78446056191989350112010-04-19T02:21:00.003-07:002010-04-19T02:21:48.767-07:00

A few Sleep Tips for adjusting to life with a newborn. You can read the full article here

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-78318909346024541742010-04-19T02:21:00.001-07:002010-04-19T02:21:47.463-07:00

We asked a simple question on Facebook on Friday night:  most annoying things people said to you when you were pregnant. The most common responses were: Have you had the baby yet Are you sure its not twins Do you know what you’re having Will you try for a boy/girl next time   You can read the humorous responses from a large group of women here

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-80917266762437603292010-04-14T02:18:00.001-07:002010-04-14T02:18:37.930-07:00

Baby Led Weaning – some articles we’ve collated based on information shared on our Facebook page today   Baby Led Weaning Mums doing Baby Led Weaning      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-70058213437879644522010-03-31T18:18:00.001-07:002010-03-31T18:18:16.062-07:00

The Department of Labour have released the code of employment practice, for breastfeeding / expressing in the work place. I like that it specifically states that “Toilets are not considered an appropriate place to breastfeed or express breast milk.” You can access the documentation via our page link here:  Breastfeeding in the Work Place

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-1088591987185893602010-03-29T00:15:00.001-07:002010-03-29T00:15:06.727-07:00

Got an email from a lady I was corresponding with 14 months ago, we were originally corresponding as she was enquiring about inducing lactation for her surrogate baby. Today she wrote:   “ Gosh a whole year and a half have passed since then!  Time flys as a mum. Just to let you know that I was able to successfully breastfeed baby until she was 14 months old.  It was such an amazing thing to

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-769009674651345422010-03-25T01:40:00.003-07:002010-03-25T01:42:28.730-07:00

A customer wrote me an email asking which breast pump would best suit her needs, for returning to work 3 to 4 days per week. We can evaluate your needs to, we are here to help you. Read our response to this customer here    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-14992036155165685862010-03-25T01:40:00.002-07:002010-03-25T01:42:21.309-07:00

Over a hundred normal real women share with us how much weight they gained during pregnancy. You can read about it here  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-88852210663976581532010-03-25T01:40:00.001-07:002010-03-25T01:40:42.732-07:00

My girlfriend was in the maternity unit with her new baby, and sent me a text saying “no one told me breastfeeding was going to hurt this much”   = FAIL FROM ME as her friend. = FAIL FROM ME as Breastmates   So I’ve written an article here      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-24708137876418414642010-03-08T17:02:00.001-08:002010-03-08T17:02:59.264-08:00

Latching a Baby for a Breastfeed, you can see three of our new videos here   In one of the videos, were baby was distracted from his feeding, I’m sure mum was getting a bit frustrated that he wouldn’t stay latched on and nursing.  But I just love the way that he looks up at his mother adoringly.  It’s a real loving baby gaze.   Even when I catch up with friends for a coffee, its always work

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-51527757105217061292010-03-02T17:45:00.001-08:002010-03-02T17:45:49.549-08:00

One mum shares a story with us, about how she is exclusively expressing breast milk to feed her baby.  She says “just because it comes out of bottle doesn’t make it any less magic!”   You can read her full story here Expressing for all Baby’s Feeds    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-84814167763758836442010-02-05T16:12:00.001-08:002010-02-05T16:12:29.048-08:00

I just added an article to the website about baby colic.  What causes baby colic, and how you can cope with it. You can read the full article here:  Baby Colic Written by our guest author and Child Birth Educator, Simone from Maternal Journey.      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-37066828754405674352010-02-01T01:08:00.001-08:002010-02-01T01:08:16.099-08:00

A customer emailed me today asking for some tips on weaning.   It’s the “end of the road” with my business and store, but is certainly a relevant topic that I can help with. Starting to Wean a Baby      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-59339181897487847212010-01-17T00:29:00.000-08:002010-01-17T00:30:01.270-08:00

Customer writes to me today “I just wanted to let you know how useful the information on your website about the personal fit breast shields was for me. After being unsuccessful at breastfeeding but not comfortable with putting my baby on formula I have been expressing milk for each of his feeds for the last 3 months. Unfortunately I continually ended up with significant trauma to one nipple,

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-71673788341464448932010-01-16T13:08:00.001-08:002010-01-16T13:08:55.865-08:00

I get a lot of emails from people with questions on how to get their babies started on a bottle and overcoming problems.  So I put a few tips on my website here:  Starting a Bottle   Today I got this reply back:   Hi again Frances, Great news, my daughter is now a pro at drinking from a bottle!! Your tips helped greatly! I found something similar to a Chu Chu teat which I think helped a

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-72386164383557452312010-01-13T19:32:00.001-08:002010-01-13T19:32:02.711-08:00

I’ve made some short videos so that you can see how breast pumps work.  The key information is so that you can HEAR the noise that they make, compared to my voice. Probably not something a normal shop-keeper would tell you about some of these, and you’d never know just by looking at a box You can get to the demo page here

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-70561697782296437642010-01-12T15:10:00.001-08:002010-01-12T15:10:51.728-08:00

A new article on returning to work and breastfeeding in the workplace. You can read it here:  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-22326625619810621982010-01-04T00:54:00.001-08:002010-01-04T00:54:30.326-08:00

We have a new article on our website about washing, sterilizing and storing baby bottles & teats etc. How to Clean Baby Bottles    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-38220268521425596762010-01-03T16:05:00.001-08:002010-01-03T16:05:44.549-08:00

Some tips and suggestions for introducing a bottle for your baby Baby Wont Drink from a bottle Actually this is a very common question that I get asked from mothers that are trying to introduce expressed breast milk in a bottle for their bub    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-18550472245320004592009-12-23T15:13:00.001-08:002009-12-23T15:13:30.780-08:00

Just loaded a new article about Baby Crying – and why some babies just don’t settle in the evenings You can read the full article here:  Baby Crying

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-36754614559571495482009-12-19T01:03:00.000-08:002009-12-19T01:04:02.993-08:00

We are growing a collection of shared breastfeeding and bottle feeding experiences from mothers. If you have something that you’d like to share, plus just drop me an email! ad: Your Story Wanted Please Age Gap Between Sons Age Gap Between Sons Are my Breasts Still Making Milk? Auckland Lactation Consultant Baby Friendly NZ or Tokyo Baby not getting enough Baby

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-1213772360752420752009-12-19T00:49:00.000-08:002009-12-19T00:50:07.635-08:00

We have quite a selection of larger size bras available at our website, with the HOTmilk brand.  How do you prefer this term being called?  Full figure, Plus Size, larger size?  Whatever you call it, it means all the cup and band sizes above the standard.  Alot of people don't realize that the full figure sizes are catered for in gorgeous maternity bras.  All bras above a D

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-33925732511473628912009-12-16T23:54:00.000-08:002009-12-16T23:55:02.761-08:00

Each baby is different too in how they feed.   Some baby’s will take a really long time to feed, some will be quick, some will feed every 2 hours, some every four, whatever the scenario, it’s about what’s ‘normal’ for your baby. Weight gain is something that gives us all an idea that baby’s are growing and thriving, however there are other factors to consider, like

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-32215270032133639402009-12-16T23:49:00.003-08:002009-12-16T23:49:50.063-08:00

There is so much information out there regarding baby’s sleep, so much of a focus on how much and when a baby should be sleeping, as parents it’s no wonder we become obsessed by the ‘shoulds’ and ‘shouldn’ts. We all understand that baby’s need sleep, just like adults, and on paper, theoretically, it makes complete sense.  However managing your baby’s sleep at your place on

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-65758817141504298132009-12-16T23:49:00.001-08:002009-12-16T23:49:49.645-08:00

Getting baby’s into a ‘sleepy’ state (more than drowsy) is sometimes the key to them successfully being able to nod off. So when you see those tired signs you are so well accustomed to, wrap your baby, (if your baby likes being wrapped), and help your tired wee baby slip over into a sleepy state by: rocking patting ssshhhing singing white noise simulating those sounds and

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-27426070020722727932009-12-15T17:17:00.001-08:002009-12-15T17:17:58.113-08:00

Maternal Journey is an education, information and support service working with families through pregnancy, birth and into the first year of life as parents. They offer a range of services, courses, and even yoga.  Including one-on-one sessions for feeding, settling and sleeping your baby. I have met Simone who runs Maternal Journey and I highly recommend her business.

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-90852789871808755922009-12-14T23:49:00.001-08:002009-12-14T23:49:05.864-08:00

Don’t Judge other Parents.  One mother shares her story with Breastmates about switching to formula It’s not the end of the world. You can read the full Breastfeeding / Formula Feeding Story here  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-4717381200512029022009-12-14T01:01:00.001-08:002009-12-14T01:01:20.089-08:00

Breastfeeding story shared with Breastmates Maternity Store from a customer. She breastfed for 21 months with a combination of breast & expressing milk into a bottle.  I am really glad that she shared the bit about doing bottle top ups, you don’t hear people speak about that much.  You can read her full breastfeeding story and tips here.

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-91573009107083162492009-12-14T00:58:00.001-08:002009-12-14T01:03:15.032-08:00

Breastfeeding baby while sitting on the couch. Here is a gorgeous  photo that a mother has shared with us, and it raises some good points to show you. ·        Breastfeeding position on the couch (as most mothers do!) ·        Baby in the cradle position.  ·        Pillow support behind mums back ·        Mums arm resting on the arm of the chair. ·        Minimal baby weight in your

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-27365617353071908882009-12-06T23:18:00.001-08:002009-12-13T12:00:29.283-08:00

Breastfeeding in hospital, and the posters around.  Is this the start of the breast/bottle guilt?  We've written a blog post about Breastfeeding In Hospital Read it here

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-348793403899839092009-12-06T22:44:00.001-08:002009-12-06T22:44:58.015-08:00

  A common question that I get asked about Medela Teats ….. read the full blog post here    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-73125940624445665902009-11-30T23:31:00.001-08:002009-12-13T11:59:16.680-08:00

Breast pumps and expressing... not getting much milk?  Read our article about using expressing with a pump and milk you get. 

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-3990140133262540422009-11-29T17:27:00.001-08:002009-12-13T12:03:34.108-08:00

A story about Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding. A heart felt story shared by a gorgeous mama  Read here This is my sister that shared this with us.

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-51006436494143685202009-11-22T14:01:00.001-08:002009-11-22T14:01:12.016-08:00

Customer asked me: The Medela Harmony Pump I have is no longer working...I think there's a tear in the diaphragm (underneath the handle). Would you know if the Pump covered under a warranty or if this part is replaceable.   These parts are not covered by warranty, as it is general wear and tear, but yes replacement parts are available.   I’m not sure which part you need, so have included a

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-6819558786482460972009-11-15T15:40:00.001-08:002009-12-13T12:04:59.653-08:00

Baby is rejecting breast and wont feed.  Baby rejecting boob and prefers bottle.  I just wrote an article about this.  Baby Rejecting Breastfeeding

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-47832066211424610512009-11-11T02:22:00.001-08:002009-12-13T12:02:41.382-08:00

Second hand breast pumps and buying them on auction sites Trademe.  A strong recommendation not to buy second hand breast pumps.   Read more

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-10375582148656840472009-11-10T00:10:00.001-08:002009-11-10T00:10:56.151-08:00

We now have the new range of Avent BPA free breast pumps.  Manual or Uno Electric versions. BPA free has the ‘honey tint’ colour.

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-83303074634803793652009-11-09T13:14:00.001-08:002009-11-09T13:14:59.833-08:00

I just wrote a new article about Buying a Breast Pump when Pregnant    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-46633629083652006632009-11-08T02:10:00.001-08:002009-11-08T02:10:46.313-08:00

I just wrote a post about finding a surgeon who will do the Tongue Tie snip for young baby    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-2869043529577090862009-11-06T00:06:00.001-08:002009-11-06T00:06:29.389-08:00

I just wrote a quick article about finding bras in larger sizes.

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-29702509303987847622009-11-04T12:20:00.003-08:002009-11-04T12:20:47.843-08:00

Do you have any products that can help with blocked ducks and /or trying to afford Mastitis? I would recommend the Lactagogue Massage Oil and the heat packs  Also lots and lots of vitamin C every day can really help.  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-75718851407657313952009-11-04T12:20:00.001-08:002009-11-04T12:20:40.157-08:00

A lady recently sent me this lovely email:   “Hi Frances   Just wanted to drop a note to say thank you for your site, I have just come across it for the first time. My kids are now 5 and nearly 3, but I still have plenty of friends having their ‘firsts’ and see the stress and guilt they go through, and it reminds me of my first time round.    I had a breast reduction when I was 15,

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-12864384337997229112009-11-03T19:55:00.000-08:002009-11-03T19:56:31.165-08:00

This is a very common question that I get asked, lots of mums melt their breast pump parts. It does get confusing working out which part is which for the pumps, this lady took the initiative and emailed a photo. She has the Medela Manual breast Pump, and just needed a new cylinder.  We can organize that for her no problem. More information on Medela Spare Parts  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-34539040324407522322009-11-03T00:36:00.000-08:002009-11-06T21:33:21.198-08:00

Although it was exhausting being at the Parent and Child show over the weekend, (and my voice is still lost), it was great to catch up with some other mums.  Swapping a few business ideas and having a good ol’ rant.  The Oyster Bay Sav went down a treat.  I definitely made the most of my weekend away in Auckland (without kids and hubby) and had social engagements every night.  Maybe that’s

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-3785251121128408822009-11-01T17:18:00.001-08:002009-11-01T17:18:16.655-08:00

A few tips on starting solids…..     Solids Offered before Bottle Introducing solids Fingerfood and snacks for toddlers Starting Solids      

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-36901632193859258382009-10-27T15:52:00.001-07:002009-10-27T15:52:33.722-07:00

I get asked a lot of questions about bottle and teats.  Read full article  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-55934478540370411672009-10-25T16:10:00.001-07:002009-10-25T16:10:38.695-07:00

some mothers share their thoughts We asked the question from a group of mothers, to prepare other mums-to-be for the truth about life after baby arrives Read the full article

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-55067787241561184102009-10-23T20:26:00.001-07:002009-10-23T20:26:31.782-07:00

A customer recently shared these b/f photographs with us.  View here  cluck cluck  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-26115731200885397292009-10-22T17:20:00.000-07:002009-10-22T17:21:02.065-07:00

The New Zealand Food Safety Authority have provided some key points about warming baby bottles.  Key points and full document can be viewed here: Warming Infant Formula    

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-61747551997940554712009-10-21T15:20:00.001-07:002009-10-21T15:20:43.041-07:00

  A real story from a Dad. "It shocks me that dads don't want to help out with mum and baby especially in those first few days.  Since my wife was hurting I would do all the nappy changes and I would let the new mummy sleep. I loved looking in to my babies eyes and saying I'm your dad and NO ONE can take that away. Coming home, my wife recovered really well after her C

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-77627497818198017072009-10-19T13:36:00.000-07:002009-10-19T13:37:02.146-07:00

I’m involved with the Ministry of Health’s “Breastfeeding Campaign” in New Zealand.  You might have seen some of the adverts on TV and in magazines.   The next phase of their project is using social media, and creating a 2-way communication with NZ mothers.  The emphasis is that breastfeeding is a normal part of life.   It would be fantastic if you could please spread the word to your

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-79826064097164620272009-10-14T19:38:00.001-07:002009-10-14T19:38:42.680-07:00

A few ideas on the perfect baby show gift, read the full article here: http://www.breastmates.co.nz/newborn_baby/Gift_Vouchers.html

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-58409092071431981552009-10-14T16:08:00.001-07:002009-10-14T16:08:05.982-07:00

"My daughter, who is now 18 months old, absolutely refused to latch on when she was a newborn (to my despair). So the first photo shows her at one week old being fed expressed breastmilk via a tube that she sucked from my finger. As you can see in the photo I kept on doing skin to skin contact to hopefully encourage her to latch. After 4 weeks of persevering (and help from my midwife, a

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-12666889099100972562009-10-11T00:09:00.001-07:002009-10-11T00:09:48.739-07:00

A friend of my recently said she would be willing to share her story on Breastmates Website "Due to complications, I had my first baby at 37 weeks by way of "elective" (and I say that very loosely as it was not my choice!!) c-section under General Anesthetic followed by a Total Thyroidectomy operation - and so I woke up about 3 hours after my daughter Emily was born. I was

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-14419537319232658242009-10-08T17:17:00.001-07:002009-10-08T17:17:29.903-07:00

A customer asked me these questions about the Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump: 1. Is the Medela Breast Pump  product BPA free?     Yes all medela products are BPA free.   2. Seems like the breast pump does not come with a teat for the bottle.  Will teats from other bottles fit?  Is there a BPA free teat I can buy that will fit the bottle in this set?  No medela do not manufacture their own

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-13552519646217663722009-10-08T00:39:00.001-07:002009-10-08T00:39:11.549-07:00

 “How Long Do your boobs Stay Big?” When women are in their first trimester of pregnancy, they will usually notice a change to their breasts.  Some may increase a cup size or two, and other women may just have a feeling of more fullness. This size usually then stays the same for the majority of your pregnancy.  You may also notice that the band on your bra feels tighter,

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-89210633907560325842009-10-07T23:55:00.001-07:002009-10-07T23:55:26.912-07:00

Here is a collection of Breastfeeding Videos that I’ve been working on. Ad: Breastfeeding Videos Wanted Baby Feeding Tube Breastfeeding Sounds Crying Baby Milk Squirts Dream Feed Extended Breastfeeding Latching for Feed Nursing Baby Waiting for Letdown

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-58505933803298310762009-10-07T23:54:00.003-07:002009-10-07T23:54:31.618-07:00

Here are some articles that I’ve written about how to improve your breast milk Breastfeeding Food Intake Complan Milkshake Drinking Alcohol While Breastfeeding Improve Breast Milk Supply Lactation Boosting Cookies  

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-33524979813927114222009-10-07T23:54:00.001-07:002009-10-07T23:54:30.943-07:00

I get a lot of questions about breast pump parts, so I'm compiling a list of common questions.  The spare parts for Avent and Medela breast pumps are listed at our store (Breast Pump Parts) but if you are not sure about the parts you need, please contact me. Avent Spare Parts for Manual Breast Pump Avent Uno Breast Pump Parts Breastshield Sizes for Pumps Medela Breast Pump Parts Diagram Medela

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-84336372446672158022009-10-07T23:48:00.001-07:002009-10-07T23:48:40.419-07:00

Here are some beautiful breastfeeding photos that our customers have sent us.  Feel free to send us yours too! We really want to encourage you to take a few shots while breastfeeding your baby, its such a special moment to share between mother and baby Baby Feeding at 6 months Big Brother Helper Breastfeeding 3 hours old Breastfeeding 8 month Old Breastfeeding Newborn Battle to Keep

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-40117276916931918062009-10-07T23:44:00.001-07:002009-10-07T23:44:27.107-07:00

This is a summary of the articles that I have been writing about Bottle Feeding Bottle Feeding - Storage and Heating Bottle Feeding Costs Bottle Feeding Special Teats Bottle Feeding Tips BPA Free Bottles Heating Baby Bottles How to Give Baby a Bottle How to Prepare Baby Formula Large medela bottles Medela Bottles Starting Baby on a Bottle What Baby Formula to Buy

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-28547160500000038862009-10-06T00:40:00.001-07:002009-10-06T00:40:26.099-07:00

I asked a question to the mums on my Facebook page, to describe how it feels when you first feel baby kicks in your belly for the first time  How do you know what it feels like? With my first son, I felt the kicks at about 21 weeks.  But with my second son I did feel them earlier, about 18 weeks, because I recognised the feeling.  For me it was like a muscle twitch - you

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-59088560799756650582009-10-05T18:17:00.001-07:002009-10-05T18:17:57.545-07:00

medela breast pump not working? If your medela breast pump is not working, there are a few things that you can try at home first: With the little white membrane and the small plastic valve parts: Valve and Membrane: Is it there? What condition is it in? Has it become distorted or torn? Are there any cracks in the valve head? Is the membrane clean etc?

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-39124414180253828012009-10-01T14:58:00.001-07:002009-10-01T14:58:09.772-07:00

Expressing breast milk with a breast pump is a very strange experience and it does take a while to get used to it.  Different models of breast pumps make different noises, some are quieter than others Don't be surprised if you don't get a lot of milk when you first start expressing.  For your first attempt a volume of 20mL would be a good effort. It does take time to build up your milk supply

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-33388669704602907142009-09-27T20:15:00.001-07:002009-09-27T20:15:13.078-07:00

Our latest press stuff is involvement with a Little Treasures magazine feature on Yummy Mummy bras.   You can see the full article about nursing bras here

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-62684682344089943232009-09-21T02:05:00.003-07:002009-09-21T02:05:37.595-07:00

Tips to stop your baby biting while nursing A customer recently emailed me: "I'm experiencing a few difficulties breastfeeding my nine-month-old - he has started biting during his afternoon feed. I think it's because my supply is dwindling, and let-down is delayed, and he's getting bored/frustrated" My initial thought when I read this email was that the baby is teething, and

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-32969558624818663972009-09-21T02:05:00.001-07:002009-09-21T02:05:36.083-07:00

If you are bottle feeding your baby, it is CRUCIAL you give them 100mls water per day (boiled & cooled). Newborns will not drink the whole amount of water in one go, so sipping water throughout the day is what is needed. It is more work and another thing to have to remember to do... however if you do not, your baby can become constipated... to the point they split their anus and they are

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-7404912981584864032009-09-19T02:37:00.001-07:002009-09-19T02:37:09.792-07:00

Here are a few steps on how to prepare a bottle of baby formula for your child. Please note that before it is time to make up the bottle, ensure that you have some boiled water (which has cooled) prepared as this is used to mix with the formula powder.  Also ensure that all feeding equipment, bottles, and teats are washed in soapy water and sterilized before use.  Check with your microwave

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-24078075184004453442009-09-18T03:03:00.001-07:002009-09-18T03:04:05.752-07:00

People often ask me how many maternity bras they will need to buy, to use after their baby is born. Well, obviously a salesperson will tell you "at least 40!"  (Thats just a joke from me, since I have a store selling maternity bras!) Here is my honest answer as a mother, rather than a salesperson. You need at least two bras.  Any more will depend on how often you wash them and how wet they

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-78005176877843019242009-09-18T03:03:00.000-07:002009-09-18T03:04:00.392-07:00

When women are in their first trimester of pregnancy, they will usually notice a change to their breasts.  Some may increase a cup size or two, and other women may just have a feeling of more fullness. This size usually then stays the same for the majority of your pregnancy.  You may also notice that the band on your bra feels tighter, which is because your ribs are expanding to allow room for

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-68336713956538093782009-09-18T02:14:00.001-07:002009-09-18T02:27:28.502-07:00

If you need to bottle feed your baby with formula, it can be a really daunting task going to the supermarket and buying a tin.  There are so many tins all lined up, you probably don't know where to start and which one to choose. In my opinion as a mother, here are my thoughts.... All of the different formula brands will come down to a basic age group. The tins will state the recommended

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-73932810960666481952009-09-18T01:43:00.000-07:002009-09-18T01:44:01.465-07:00

Starting to breastfeed your baby can be a stressful and nerve wrecking experience.  Based on our own experience of breastfeeding two children, we have prepared our top breastfeeding tips for you  Stay calm. If you start to feel uptight or wound up, take a break for a few minutes and then try again. Baby may be able to pick up on your anxiety. Don't place high expectations on yourself. It can

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-63521069707613951042009-09-18T01:42:00.001-07:002009-09-18T01:42:05.754-07:00

  If you are going to start giving your baby a bottle (either formula or expressed breast milk) here are a few of my suggested starting tips. To get baby to drink from a bottle, let baby play with the bottle first. (When it is empty or with cold boiled water). Then they might put it in their mouth, suck a little maybe, and must be familiar with

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-48169896476103093392009-09-17T01:53:00.001-07:002009-09-17T01:54:04.779-07:00

Breastfed Baby Poo   Did you know that babies who are breastfed have bright yellow poo?  It is characterized by its mustard yellow colour, with bits that look like tiny seeds.  It can have a very soft slightly runny consistency.  And it can have a sweet yeasty smell (!) Formula Fed Baby Poo    Babies that are formula fed with bottle, have darker poo, which is much firmer and smellier. View

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-78759592308892188372009-09-17T01:53:00.000-07:002009-09-17T01:56:06.982-07:00

It can be a really difficult time if your darling new baby has a cold. When babies are healthy, they can breathe through their nose while continuing to suck and nurse at the breast (or bottle). This is a natural instinct that babies are born with, but they will grow out of it. (have you ever tried to breathe and swallow at the same time - not possible!) So when a baby has a cold, their sinus

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3725873843213216129.post-81105290300747324492009-09-17T01:31:00.001-07:002009-09-17T01:31:35.774-07:00

Well after popular demand, I’m now adding all my Breastfeeding and Bottle advice to a blog, to share for other people that need it.   Here is a little introduction about me, and what I do…..   Breastmates was created from scratch in 2004 by Frances McInnes, who has slowly developed the brand herself over the past few years to become a Specialty Baby Feeding Store with an extensive range of

Breastmateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04018778054929270407noreply@blogger.com0