mellomouse* » Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding, pt 3 – Weaning.

mellomouse — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 16:35:33 +0000

I didn’t expect to wean Nate. I had ideally planned to let him outgrow the need on his own naturally. If I wasn’t pregnant, I know I would still be breastfeeding.

I started by reducing 1 feed at a time — he was still having 3 — when I was 6 weeks pregnant. It was a good thing that I had begun cutting down because by week 8, I could barely get out of bed from extreme fatigue. Not to mention the excessive vomiting

During my 1st antenatal appointment on 23 August, Dr Tan also advised to stop breastfeeding. He cautioned that the hormone oxytocin stimulated by breastfeeding might trigger uterine contractions, possibly causing miscarriage. So by 2 Sept 2011, I stopped breastfeeding all together. Natey was 18mths and 4days when he had his last moo.

I am thankful that the transition was smooth. Natey never asked for my breast after that day we went cold turkey on him. With his nursing pillow out of sight — hubby hid it that night — it’s like he had totally forgotten. Looking back now, I do feel a bit sad to be forgotten so easily after all those months *sobs*

Do I miss breastfeeding? Although I appreciate the rest — growing a baby is tough job — I certainly missed those treasured time spent together with my firstborn.

We have come a long way. 18 months is definitely a milestone for us. Soon I’ll get to start a new one with LBT too. My sweetest consolation! Hopefully this time equipped with expriences aplenty, we will have a smooth beginning and a “pain-free” journey for Mommy *fingers crossed*

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 12: Breastfeeding, pt 2 – My Milestone.
Postnatal 02: Breastfeeding, pt 1 – My Journey.

Growing Up Milk, pt 1 – Anmum Essential Step 3.

mellomouse — Fri, 20 May 2011 14:51:25 +0000

We are finally at this stage of researching for the “right” formula milk. Although I am still breastfeeding 3-4x and expressing 1x a day, I know my supply is quickly depleting and I need to hurry up to introduce cow’s milk to Nate before he rejects the taste totally. The boy doesn’t like liquids other than plain water *shocker*

Anmum Essential was suggested to me by my Mom after she watched their “No Added Sugar” advertisement on TV. Doing my bit to find out more, I did a quick examination of my own at the milk powder aisle in Jusco and was sold to the brand’s USP too. But that’s just me, how about Natey?

Before deciding to buy a box off the shelf, I played it safe by visiting Anmum’s website and requested for their sample. After waiting for 2.5 weeks and still no sample, I shamelessly asked my sister to get some from her colleague

As instructed, I introduced 1 scoop of formula to 45ml of water. With no added sugar, it sure tastes sweet. I cannot imagine other formula brands with the added sugar. Did Natey liked it? As expected, he spitted it right out! So instead of giving him the formula on its own, I used the 45ml to mix with his morning cereal. It has been a week now

They’re finally here!
After a month long wait & twice resend

Now that the samples are here, we have the opportunity to try the honey flavoured milk, and it really smells of honey! If you ask me, I prefer the plain flavour better. As usual I mixed the 45ml formula to 2tsb of cereal with a scoop of pureed prunes & raisin. So far so good too *phew*

I’m going to finish up the samples and slowly introduce the formula on its own. Hopefully soon he will agree to the taste and accept it in a cup *fingers crossed*

You Might Also Be Interested:
Rafferty’s Garden Banana Milk Rusks.
Why Not? Organic Cereal.
Bellamy’s Organic Toothie Pegs.
Dutch Lady Kid, 1-6 years: Chocolate.
Dutch Lady Kid, 1-6 years: Full Cream.

Postnatal 12: Breastfeeding, pt 2 – My Milestone.

mellomouse — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:49:34 +0000

This is our 13th month! For half of that time, Natey was fully breastfed before he started his solids at 6mo. For 6 months, he survived on nothing — except that few weeks of supplement *boo* — but his Mommy’s milk *beams*

In the beginning 2 cells became one, he grew and fed within me for 38 weeks, then born into the world and continued to grow “outside” of me while still feeding through me. That’s really amazing, don’t you agree? *awed*

My journey was not easy. Once I had enough supply for Nate, I had too much and fed the sink. Scubby was more than happy to lick up any leftovers his Little Brother couldn’t finished *keke*

I was painfully engorged all the time. Buying the right bra was a lifesaver, and that lifesaver was Carriwell. Then investing in a good double pump was the next godsent. And not forgetting my Brest Friend is truly “the” Best Friend — till this very day!

Now that Natey is 1yo — I still experience engorgement — when does weaning begins? The Government recommends 3yo, and experts too. Friends already began weaning theirs before the first birthday. If you ask me, this is a matter of choice. Not to be conditioned or pressured into.

I am an idealist. And ideally, I quote: “Your baby will nurse until he outgrows the need. This is called natural, or baby-led weaning.”

Saying that, this is my choice: To stop breastfeeding naturally when Natey has had enough. With 3 solid meals a day and occasional snack, he rarely has the space for nursing. Or time to be nursed now that he is busy waddling around everywhere

So before he says enough, I will still be his personal Moo Bar when nap/sleep time beckons. Here’s to more months of breastfeeding goodness to us! *woot*

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 02: Breastfeeding, pt 1 – My Journey.
Breastfeeding, pt 3 – Weaning.
Postnatal 04: Breastmilk Storage Bottles.
Postnatal 01: Confinement, pt 1.
Postnatal 07: Nursing Bra, pt 2.

Little Bean Sterilizer.

mellomouse — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 06:17:06 +0000

Little Bean Sterilizer & Baby Warmer
NP: RM199.90, Sale Price: RM179.90

My Verdict:

If you remember back in Oct 2009, when I prepared my 1st Nursery Checklist, I actually slashed this off after reading the thread in MsiaBrides. Most of the Mommies agreed that a sterilizer kit is a waste of money. Well, I beg to differ.

My Dad bought this after the 3rd week into my confinement. After seeing the headless chicken (us) running about — especially when Natey cries his little lungs out — he went out and got this for us.

What we have is the Little Bean’s Combo Pack. It comes with a sterilizer and a baby warmer. Both are certainly indispensable at the early days of 1st time Mother/Parenthood! Manual sterilizing of boiling, pouring and soaking can be a bit tedious — Every 2 hours ya. Or boiling too hot a water to over warm your EBM.

The sterilizer can keep all your bottles and whatnot sterilized for 3hours. It is pretty spacious inside, so you can plop all your other baby utensils inside when you begin solid feeding. My Lactaline breastpump goes right in everytime too!

The baby warmer is very handy as well. It has 3 markers of: 40˚ (EBM/Formula warm up), 70˚ (solid food warm up) and 100˚. Newborn babies take their time when feeding, so to keep the feed from getting cold — especially if you’re bottle feeding in an aircon room — just put it right back into the warmer

If a friend is offering you a gift, this would definitely be a good one to ask for. Else, it’s a good investment too from your own wallet *winks*

You Might Also Be Interested:
Cloth Diapers, pt 4 – Velcro vs Snap Buttons.
My Brest Friend, Nursing Pillow.
Gifts From Heaven, pt 1 – GHG2.
Gifts From Heaven, pt 2 – GHG3.
Cloth Diapers, pt 6 – Journey thus Far, Recap.

Postnatal 11: Aunty finally Visits.

mellomouse — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:09:47 +0000

Sixteen months. The Aunty has been on sabbatical since last June. I was really looking forward to her prolong absence at least after Natey turns One. But She has decided to retire from her long holiday and resume her monthly duties as usual. How responsible! *sulks*

What in the world am I talking about? If you haven’t already know, Aunty Visit or Yee Mah in Cantonese, means the time of the month is here. Or stay clear, The PMS Biatch is here *ha*

Breastfeeding and Period

Breastfeeding interrupts ovulation and causes irregular periods.

During the production of milk in the body, the pituitary gland secretes greater amounts of prolactin, a substance that suppresses the function of the ovary.

The First Period

The 1st period may not come until breastfeeding stops. This is nature’s way of protecting us from an immediate pregnancy while our baby is still in infancy.

Period that begins during breastfeeding are irregular. They could come and go every 3 weeks, 6 months or not at all.

It is common that the menstrual cycle to be of shorter or longer length than normal during breastfeeding days.

Fertile Even Without Periods

Ovulation happens even without periods. So beware

I am still breastfeeding exclusively. Planning to do so indefinitely, should God blesses me with His abundance. Or till Natey decides to wean himself. So that means irregular period till then *humph*

I really enjoyed the PMS free days. I’m going to miss it. With that freedom gone, it’s only obvious that The Biatch is Back!

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 02: Breastfeeding, pt 1 – My Journey.
Postnatal 12: Breastfeeding, pt 2 – My Milestone.
Postnatal 04: Breastmilk Storage Bottles.
Postnatal 01: Confinement, pt 1.
Postnatal 03: Hot Mama.

My Brest Friend, Nursing Pillow.

mellomouse — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 15:43:40 +0000

If there’s 1 other necessity besides my Lactaline that I can’t live without these days, that would definitely be my nursing pillow. So YES to its namesake — It is My Breast Brest Best Friend. Both Natey’s and mine!

MBF in Pink Gingham
NP: RM188, Sale Price: RM169.20

My Verdict:
I am totally dependent on this comfy heaven. Not a day has gone by the past 7 months that I don’t rely on it. I even packed it for our short 2D1N trip away on Monday. Can you imagine the suitcase? *hehe*

If you are planning to breastfeed your newborn, I highly recommend MBF. It may be a little pricey — double of Bumble Bee’s — but I promise, the investment is totally worth it!

You will never have to worry about support and positioning. Especially between the “graveyard” shifts of breastfeeding during the early months, where you’ll be most likely a zombie. No kidding!

Natey has been using this since he was a few hours newborn. Although a little bit oversize now — feet dangling overboard — this pillow is still the most comfortable. He definitely prefers this over any other alternatives.

With his weight almost tripled, it’s also easier to balance him on MBF rather than just using my arms. Or finding the right pillows. Breastfeeding outside is a pain

So cheers to MBF. May it also be your best friend too ♥

MBF: Features & Benefits
#1 Choice of Lactation Consultants

Psst… Don’t forget to pack it in your Hospital Bag!

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 06: Nursing Bra, pt 1.
Postnatal 07: Nursing Bra, pt 2.
Little Bean Sterilizer.
Cloth Diapers, pt 3 – Finally!
Gifts From Heaven, pt 3 – GHG2 vs GHG3.

Asian Parenting Today.

mellomouse — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:06:15 +0000

This book was 1st introduced to me by the writer herself, Jennifer during my confinement. I called her for a postnatal home visit — RM150 for 1.5hrs — to help me with my breastfeeding dilemma, and she was an enlightenment. Natey has been fully breastfed ever since!

Sadly, I didn’t really pay attention when she mentioned her book. Else I would have gotten this sooner and save another RM150 for Natey’s sleeping dilemma 2mths later. Not forgetting the headaches of disagreements on what should and shouldn’t be done.

Asian Parenting Today
Jennifer Hor, Ho Ai Ling & Jocelyn Oo

My verdict:

A definite gem for every 1st time Mommies & Daddies!

This book is so relevant — for Asian, especially Malaysians — and easy to read. The best time to begin would be weeks before delivery. Then everything would stay fresh in mind. Otherwise, a handy bedside bible!

What I like about this book is the FAQ right after each tiny topic. Some questions might seem ridiculous but they were some of our doubts exactly. And I bet, it could be yours too

I highly recommend buying this book — whether as a gift, or for yourself — as it would certainly be cheaper (RM39.90) than calling Jennifer for SOS when you can get everything in these pages!

Btw, if we knew about Jenlia Maternal Services during my pregnancy, we wouldn’t have signed up for Gleneagles’ Parentcraft and somehow feel cheated of our RM180 for 3 lousy sessions. Instead pay RM310 for 4 sessions at Jenlia, with Jennifer being one for the speakers.

Since I can’t turn back time, but you are on the crossroad of deciding for yours, why not check them out

You Might Also Be Interested:
Little Bean Sterilizer.
Parentcraft – 2 of 3.
Parentcraft – 3 of 3.
Postnatal 06: Nursing Bra, pt 1.
Gifts From Heaven, pt 3 – GHG2 vs GHG3.

Breast Pumps, pt 5 – Manual vs Electric.

mellomouse — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:11:25 +0000

It’s a Tie folks!
Harmony 4 : 4 Lactaline

I know I promised sooner, but it did take me this long to get a hang of my new toy. When you have a baby, experimenting is not really a luxury *bleh*

Anyhow here’s the verdict based on my personal experience. So take it with a pinch of salt. It might not be the same for everyone

Manual Breast Pump
(Medela Harmony, RM211.65)

My Verdict:
Harmony gives me total control: 1) Speed/Cycle — How fast I choose to pump and 2) Suction — How strong the expression to be.

In moderation, I can empty my breast in 15 minutes if they are full. For both would be around 30-40 minutes or it can go up to an hour *yawns*

There are only 3 parts to assemble and wash. Harmony is quick and easy to use without any fuss for batteries or DC to relief a much needed engorgement.

The only drawback is the time required to pump both breast separately. And not forgetting a sore wrist if you are expressing 5-6x a day.

If so, electric would be a wiser choice. Which brings me to my next verdict below.

Electric Dual Breast Pump
(Ameda Lactaline Personal, RM754.60)

My Verdict:

Once you’ve mastered the 2 dials on the pump — Cycle & Suction — the control is yours. Before that, practice makes perfect!

It took me 2 weeks playing with the dials. I was only using it once a day during the 4am expression while I’m still half asleep. I was disappointedly wondering why my yield was so poor compared to Harmony. I only found out last week from Ameda’s Technician — thinking that the pump was faulty — that the suction I used was too gentle.

After gritting my teeth with a higher suction — it wasn’t that bad — I can get the same amount as Harmony with half the time! Because I can pump 2 together *duh*

Ironically though, I still prefer using it as a single pump. That way I can hold with 1 hand and massage with the other.

Obviously there are more parts in Lactaline compared to Harmony. What I do is — a lazy person’s roundabout — I keep 1 side sterilised, and the other as my use-wash-keep aside for quick relief pump. That way, I don’t need to worry about washing and sterilising every time.

For less than RM1000, you get a dual pump that can go single, batteries or DC operated, light and compact on the go. Definitely best deal in the house!

So if you have the budget, I would highly recommend Lactaline.

If you are deciding between manual and electric, Think long term!

For example: 1) When your baby is teething and direct latch on is painful, 2) When you go back to work and 3) You want to continue bottle feeding breast milk as long as possible. Not forgetting 4) You have developed a permanent sore wrist

All the above scenarios point to an electric breast pump. And a dual would be fantastic!

Breast Pumps Sequels
Breast Pumps, pt 1 – The Research.
Breast Pumps, pt 2 – The Purchase.
Breast Pumps, pt 3 – My Verdict.
Breast Pumps, pt 4 – Ameda Lactaline Personal.
Breast Pumps, pt 5 – Manual vs Electric.

You Might Also Be Interested:
Breast Pumps, pt 3 – My Verdict.
Breast Pumps, pt 4 – Ameda Lactaline Personal.
Breast Pumps, pt 1 – The Research.
Breast Pumps, pt 2 – The Purchase.
Little Bean Sterilizer.

Postnatal 07: Nursing Bra, pt 2.

mellomouse — Mon, 17 May 2010 03:33:44 +0000

True to its namesake
I am being Carri(ed)well since Friday

My Verdict:
2 words — God Sent! *breath with utter relief*

Since wearing my new Carriwell bra last Thursday night, I did not have to deal with the painful ordeal of engorgement caused by blocked ducts. I still experience pain from the fullness, but certainly not as agonising as before.

What I love about Carriwell is that the side panels can expand 2 cup sizes when the breast are full. This is definitely an intelligent and thoughtful invention!

I suspect that I am experiencing engorgement because my FM nursing bras become too tight when my breast are full. Hence plugging the ducts along the way and turning my breastfeeding joy into a nightmare.

I bought 2 pairs to try — a black (I was wearing when photo was taken) and a white — each for RM89.90 and I am now tempted to get a third. Shall wait for Mega Sale soon

If this design looks too boring for you, try the lace range going for RM129.90.

I would definitely recommend this bra to any expecting and nursing Mommies. The super comfortable material is simply to die for. No regrets!

Added 24/5/10, 12.42pm:
I really heart this bra. My life saver! The husband bought me another pair yesterday ♥

I recommend getting the white ones, as I find the black have lint problem

Added 27/11/11, 8.30pm:
After a year plus of wear and tear, I finally bought another 4 pairs today at the GBS Warehouse Sale. I vouched that Carriwell is still the best nursing bra in town.

These bras are now going at RM119.90 retail price. I got them 30% at the warehouse. These are my best Xmas gift

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 06: Nursing Bra, pt 1.
My Brest Friend, Nursing Pillow.
Postnatal Massage Therapy, pt 1 – The Research.
Postnatal Massage Therapy, pt 2 – My Review.
Postnatal 04: Breastmilk Storage Bottles.

Postnatal 06: Nursing Bra, pt 1.

mellomouse — Thu, 13 May 2010 06:41:15 +0000

How many pairs of nursing bras does a nursing Mommy needs? Well if you are a shopping jinx like myself, you’ll probably have too many to go around BUT none of them fit. At least, not anymore.

To date, I have collectively bought 12 pairs of nursing bras from Fabulous Mom: 2 Eunice, 4 Amber and 6 Sarah. Total spent RM323.00! *hubby faints* There’s no point of going to FM anymore because these are already *ahem* their biggest size in the shop.

So here I am engorged with no adequate support for my “girls” and squeezed into 2 sizes too small causing pain to the point of passing out. I need new ones and I need to get them quick! *sweats*

This morning I called Roberta — my Brazilian Mommy girlfriend — for rescue advice and she highly recommended me Carriwell’s Nursing Bra. By the look of the video below, I am crossing my fingers and toes that it is my Salvation!

Did you know that the breasts can increase by TWO cup sizes between nursing? I didn’t! No wonder I’m in so much agony. Why didn’t I thought of asking her earlier? *smacks self*

I’ll endure what I can now — had been for 3 weeks! — and wait for the husband to bring me shopping after work. I called 9 months at Pavilion earlier and they have the size I need. Hopefully Carriwell will work for me as they did Roberta *fingers crossed*

I promise to do a review on this soon. So if you’re planning to get yours, Don’t Yet!

You Might Also Be Interested:
Postnatal 07: Nursing Bra, pt 2.
My Brest Friend, Nursing Pillow.
Postnatal Massage Therapy, pt 1 – The Research.
Postnatal Massage Therapy, pt 2 – My Review.
Postnatal 04: Breastmilk Storage Bottles.