Weaning Caitlin from breastfeeding

It's ironic that as we celebrate the breastfeeding month this August, I have to wean my nearly 16-month-old from directly breastfeeding from me for medical reasons.

I have been diagnosed with placenta previa totalis and there's a rare chance that it will change before I am due. As is the case, according to my doctor, there is the threat of bleeding that could result to an emergency C-section before I reach my full-term. Since direct breastfeeding involves nipple stimulation and the release of oxytoxin that could contribute to contraction and trigger bleeding, I have been adviced to wean my child from suckling from me.

Although I don't feel any uterine contractions during breastfeeding and I haven't bled since I got pregnant, I can't take any chances for the sake of my baby. The goal is to bring her to full-term healthy.

On a brighter note, I am happy that Caitlin is past one year old with a very good appetite for healthy and nutritious foods so I need not worry too much about her health.

Besides, in the past six months, she has been feeding less and less from me. Sometimes even sleeping through the night without milk. It bothered me at first, thinking that I will dry out of milk, but was gently reminded that breastfeeding, then and now, continues to be demand-led.

So by the time that I have been told to wean, Caitlin has been feeding to sleep roughly four times a day.

Weaning, like beginning your breastfeeding journey, can't be established overnight. I am at least glad that I don't have to stop abruptly because of something I took that could harm Caitlin, for example. So I had the luxury to take weaning a day at a time.

On the first week, I have successfully removed one daytime session only to put it back one day to pacify her when she's all weepy and cranky from lack of nap.

On week two, breastfeeding has been cut to three sessions with the introduction of about one to two ounces a day of fresh goat's milk to her diet since that's only how much she would take.

We're now on the third week and have successfully increased her goat's milk intake to about two ounces during the day and another two at night. The breastfeeding sessions have been cut to two. One in the day and when she wakes up in the middle of the night.

She still prefers breasts at night and I give in or else we all wouldn't be able to sleep.

I have two more months to go before I am due, and I am uncertain what week four will bring. But I am happy to have reached this far, and provided this much for my daughter.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience. Yes, you will have your bad, awkward, tiring, and at first, painful moments. But when you get past those, the bond that forms between mother and child is priceless.

Happy breastfeeding month Everyday Mommy!

- Mommy Smiley

One of those rare times when she gets to drink her fresh goat's milk.

Medela Moms hosts annual baby shower

Medela Moms threw its second annual baby shower for expectant moms at its premises in New Manila on Aug. 4.

The Medela House was filled with pregnant mommies and their supportive husbands who were equally attentive to the discussions on breastfeeding, finding a good yaya, and tips on going back to work, and were even very participative during the fun games.

Loot bags and game prizes awaited participants which included two portraits of each mom by photographer Lawrence del
Mundo and lactation brownies by Mommy Treats, among others.

PGH-certified Lactation Counsellor Abbie Yabot talked at length about breastfeeding, among them, its benefits, the proper latch, and the likely challenges.

She mentioned that the baby is full from the placenta in the first three to five days of life and only needed about one teaspoon of milk to hydrate his or her tummy. Hence, there really is no need to give water or formula as these may disrupt breastfeeding, she said.

Beginning breastfeeding is not a walk in the park. The first two weeks are the hardest, but equipping yourself with the right knowledge can do a lot to help you succeed.

So if you are serious about giving what's best for your child then consider breastfeeding. And once you have decided on breastfeeding your child, plan ahead and seek out support groups or attend seminars such as those offered by Medela Moms. Connecting with other moms during said seminars could also give you the needed pat in the back when you need it the most.

You do not have to be alone in your journey - during your pregnancy and once you give birth. Apart from your immediate family, there's a whole network of supportive moms out there who are wont to help and encourage fellow mommies in their quest at giving what's best for their child or who are simply open to share their experiences to help you as you build your own.

- Mommy Smiley

Some of the treats and prizes for the expectant moms.

Lactation counselor Abbie Yabot talks about breastfeeding.

Happy Breastfeeding Month!

Breastfeeding is one of God's ways to let us know his wonders. It is indeed such a wonder how a mother can produce food for her infant child and how that will be enough for the baby to thrive in his or her first six months of life. Breastmilk, for me, is akin to God turning water into wine - a miracle. A miracle, too, is how a woman's life is changed when she becomes a mother. Becoming a mother and breastfeeding my child Saffron for 16 months now make me feel fortunate to have experienced God's wonders.

So as we celebrate the breastfeeding month this August, let me greet my fellow breastfeeding moms and thank those who helped me in my own journey.

To those who are still breastfeeding, keep it up! To the new moms who doubt their ability to produce milk, believe! You can do this for your baby. To the moms who fight for our right to continue breastfeeding our child vs the monster bill, thank you. We are grateful. To the moms who are advocates of breastfeeding, we need more like you. To my co-blogger mommy Smiley, thank you for being my support (group) so that we can give what's best for our babies. May God continue to bless you and may He always keep you and your babies safe. To my mom for breastfeeding me for the longest among my siblings, thank you. To my Ate for helping me during the first few months of my journey to motherhood and to my ninang Virgie for always encouraging me to breastfeed, my profound thanks. To Maricel and Beng of Medela Moms, thank you for always opening your house to new moms like me and for answering my calls when I was almost at the verge of giving up. To Abbie Yabbot, for sharing your gift and knowledge in breastfeeding to all the moms, thank you. I am also grateful to Dra. Joy Ty-Sy for helping me and encouraging me to breastfeed.

And to my loving husband who's so proud and supportive of me, thank you for giving up your space where I can confortably breastfeed and for waking up every morning to take care of Sam so I could rest more.

So before Saffron turns 1 year and 4 months on August 10, I surprised him with a cake to mark his birthdate and to celebrate the breastfeeding month as well.

Happy breastfeeding!

- Mommy Raquel

Happy breastfeeding month!

UPDATED: Shopping list before giving birth

I have put together my own list of things to buy or have for babies, mommies, and daddies before or shortly after the little one arrives. These items were very useful to me as a breastfeeding mom, and also as someone who practiced ge-lai after birth. Take a look at my list:

Must-have list for babies:

1.   8 pieces one-sided tops (White is best not only because it’s unisex but also because you can see if any ants or other insects have crawled to your babies’ clothes.)

2.   8 pieces pajamas (Those with garters at the bottom are better.)

3.   8 pieces briefs or panties

4.   8 pieces shorts or skirts (For going-out).

5.   8-10 pieces frogsuits (If you will practice ge-lai, buy 12-15 pieces of frogsuits. You won’t be able to use the one-sided tops especially if your air-conditioning is on 24/7. My favorite brand is So-En bebe (size 0). I like this brand because it has a hood so you need not get a separate cap for your baby.)

Mothercare frogsuits with built-in hand covers and socks.

6. 8 pieces baby caps (Be sure to get the smallest cap that you could find. The smallest ones are best for a tiny new born’s head. I bought one that’s too big for Sam. It almost covered his nose. Mothercare sells new baby caps. But do check your baby’s head and see what fits him or her best.)

7. 8 pairs of mittens (I think garterized mittens are better than those with strings. If you do get those with strings, just be careful not to tie them too tight around your baby’s wrist. Also, buy them in plain colors. Mothercare also sells frog suits for new baby and sizes 1-3 months have built-in hand covers.)

8. 8-10 sets of bibs (I prefer those that come in Velcro, but like the mittens, if you do get the ones with strings, just be careful not to tie them too tight.)

9. 20-30 pieces of lampins (I used two different colors of lampins. One was in plain white while the other had a blue pipping on it so in case one falls off, I know which one is dirty.)

10. Baby towels (I love baby towels because they are not rough and they could serve as a swaddling cloth too.)

11. Diapers (Sam’s been on Momy Poko ever since. Momy Poko’s more expensive than other brands, but for us, it suited our baby well. Check out what’s ok for your baby too. EQ and Pampers are more affordable, although they also have an “active line” promising more absorption which also cost more.)

~~Clothe Diapers are also available, clothe are more earth friendly and more economical in the long run. You just have be dedicated to using cloth and must learn how to use it, wash it and know the do's and don'ts once you know it. it will just be a breeze and big savings.

12. Baby bag (I insist on getting a knapsack type of baby bag. I asked one from my sister and she got me one from Goodbaby. I love knapsacks because you free your hands when carrying them. My husband insisted on getting a more “sosyal” baby bag. He got me a green messenger lassig bag, but it’s too big for me and for the yaya. The bag is just sitting inside our cabinet while the Goodbaby knapsack served its purpose. We only changed it when it became too small for our baby’s needs. We are now using badabadaboo’s big kid backpack called Alexander.)

Must-have list for mommies:

1. Breast pump (I am using Medela Swing pump. I got it directly from Medela House where I had the time to fit the right shield for my breast size.)

Medela Swing is very helpful to me. If you have more budget, go for the Medela Freestyle.

If you are pumping your milk, buy 80 ml containers for storage. I use this to store breastmilk, baby food, other snacks such as nuts, yogurt melts, and cookies. 

2. Medela Lanolin (My pediatrician adviced me to get Medela Lanolin as this will help soften my nipples and prevent soreness. I swear by this product. I did not experience any cracked nipples while breastfeeding. There were times when I felt sore, but after rubbing the lanolin, it was all gone. If you can’t get this, spread some breastmilk on your nipples.)

I swear this will help your nipples.

3. Jogging pants and t-shirts (These were my outfits during my one-month ge-lai. I recommend the longsleeve-shirts and undershirts from Spoiled. I still use them up to now as I breastfeed my son in public. I just wish that they have more fashionable designs.)

4. Breast pads (I love Mothercare and Pigeon breastpads. Do not buy too many because you don’t know if that brand suits you. Breastpads are like feminine napkins. You either like the cottony feel or not. Take advantage of the free giveaways and try them on. You may also want to buy the cloth breastpads when you feel irritated by the pads.)

 For some reason, these are always sold-out.

Pigeon is more readily available. You can get them in all baby stores and even in SM Hypermarkets.

5. Maternity bra (I love Mothercare maternity bras. I got myself the simple ones packed in twos for home use and those with pads for going out. For night time, I use Mothercare tube bra.)

6. Mamaway Sando Bra (I love Mamaway’s Sando Bra. It is a sando which has a built-in padded bra. It lets me wear my regular clothes and breastfeed my child without fear of public exposure at the same time.)

I super love this Nursing Tank top from Mamaway. I got the black so it won't discolor. I can also see myself using this even when I am done with breastfeeding. The bra-top is also padded! 

7. Maternity panty (I got mine from Mothercare. What I like about it is the belly support. Before I had my Mamamway Sando Bra, I use this to cover my belly while nursing in public.)

Other useful stuff to have:

1.  Night light

2.  Muji socks (Because it can cover your every toe!)

3.  Dr. Palmers Organic stretch mark lotions (If you have red scratch marks, this lotion will help ligthen them.)

My two bffs. I swear by these products. They made my tummy flawless! 

You may want to check out my previous post: Stretch marks-free on our pre-natal shoot and beyond

4. Disposable gloves (Use it when eating and washing down under. For those who will undergo ge-lai.)

5. Vegetable supplements (This is also for those who will go through ge-lai since you won’t be allowed to eat vegetables and you need nutrients for breastfeeding.)

6. Pigeon wipes (We don’t wash Sam’s butt with water when he poops or when we change his diapers. We use wipes instead. So far, it suits him. No rashes yet.)

Some tips:

1. Before going home after birth from the hospital, ask the nurse to teach you how to bathe your child.

My son on his Tummy Tub

~~I highly recommend Tummy Tub for bathing your child. You can get this at any Rustan's or at Mothercare. To read more about the my Tummy Tub experience Click here

2. If you will be breastfeeding your baby, get your nursing wear at Medela House. You’ll need this when you go out with your baby. Usually, you will come back for a check-up after a week.

3. Don't buy burping pads. Trust the more versatile lampin.

4. If you plan to breastfeed, your doctor may advice you to pump some milk. Make sure that your equipment has been sterilized before using it.

Must-have list for daddies (when packing for the hospital):

• shirts
• pants/shorts
• jacket
• personal effects
• camera
• cash/ATM
• water
• candy
• phone

~~ Mommy Raquel

A Filipina's experience with Chinese ge-lai

Ge-lai is hardly heard of among pregnant Filipino women, but the practice has been associated with pregnancy itself among those with Chinese heritage in the Philippines.

I am a Filipina married to a pure Chinese who was born and raised in the Philippines. Marrying Jon also meant embracing his culture. Among them is the traditional practice of ge-lai after giving birth.

I first encountered the term ge-lai when Jon and I were trying to get pregnant. I did not fully understand it then, but it has always haunted me. So when I got pregnant, i finally asked my husband what ge-lai is really about. In reply, he said that it's a post-natal care followed by the Chinese which means that you won't be allowed to bathe for a whole month. That's it! Hmmm, ge-lai does not sound so dreadful after all.

But as my belly grew bigger in the passing months, I learned more about ge-lai that my husband failed to mention (I think deliberately) when I first asked him about it.

Here's my chronicle:

At one month pregnant: All our friends and relatives knew I was pregnant and they were excited and happy for us. Jon's aunts started asking me if I will undergo ge-lai, and I remember very clearly how Jon answered for me proudly, "Yes, she will!" Some approached me with words of luck. They told me I can do it. I must have looked so puzzled and worried that they all seem to reassure me that it's easy and repeatedly say that I can do it.

At two to three months pregnant: Ge-lai includes tea and I love tea! At this time, my mother-in-law had contacted her classmate for some herb concoction for my ge-lai. She also asked her sister based in Dagupan for some ginger. I asked my husband what the herbs are for and he told me casually that it's for my tea. A ge-lai diet includes lots of tea, he said. I thought that's great because I love drinking tea, but my thoughts were only into jasmine tea or the type of teas that I usually drink. I remembered my husband being very happy about it.

At four to five months pregnant: Ha, Jon started to break it to me gently. My baby bump was showing and I was blooming that people thought I was having a girl. In one of my appointments with my OB, I heard the lady sitting across from me talking to her daughter about ge-lai. In my mind, oh, ge-lai again? But I got curious so I eavesdropped. So the mother was telling her daughter that she will not be allowed to bathe for 30 days or even wash her face. When I got home, I asked my husband about it. He said that since I won't be allowed to take a bath, naturally, washing my face won't be permitted too.

At six months pregnant: Baby showers left and right. One of our baby showers was hosted by my classmate. And in that party, the wife of our friend brought up ge-lai again. But this time, her version really scared me. I learned that aside from not bathing for 30 days, in some cases it's even 31 days, you will not be allowed to wash your hands, what's down there (you know what I mean), eat fruits, vegetables, and use the electric fan directly at you. Your outfit is limited to the following: pajama/jogging pants, long sleeves, and socks. And the most shocking of them all is that you will only be allowed to eat black chicken, pigeon, native chicken, pig's trotters, and lapu-lapu soup!

I am a picky eater. My husband would describe my eating habit as either really expensive or downright jologs. Nothing in between. Plus, I'm not really an adventurous eater. So upon hearing this, I looked at my husband with Ling's signature stare (aka Lucy Liu from Ally Mcbeal). He knew he has some explaining to do when we get home.

At home, Jon comforted me and told me that I need to eat all those food so my body will get its warmth back (apparently we lose it during labor) and to balance the yin and yang of my body. With eyes rolling, all I can say was, "Yeah right!"

At seven months pregnant: Rollercoaster ride of emotions. Early contractions started kicking in at this time and I was adviced to take Bricanyl while undergoing a three times a week monitoring via a non-stress test. But we were still very excited since all the baby stuff are in and the decors for the baby's room are done. One month to go and we could finally see our baby.

One afternoon, while decorating the nursery room with my sister Sarrah, I mentioned to her that I will go through the Chinese traditon called ge-lai. A nurse by profession, she was shocked. Being my ate and a very dutiful sister, she searched the internet for more information. She stumbled upon Giselle Sanchez's blog (yes, the comedienne) and it made me realize that ge-lai doesn't sound that bad. Giselle's blog was centered to the benefits of ge-lai for the mommy. But at this point, I still took ge-lai with a grain of salt.

Then,I got scared again. While having dinner at the House of Wagyu, my mother-in-law said that the stuff she ordered from her friend and the ginger from Dagupan have finally arrived. So while enjoying my steak, ge-lai graced us again. The next day, I took it upon me to check-out the stuff she mentioned. I was shocked to see how many and raw they were. I asked my mother-in-law what all the herbs are for? She told me they were called "o-tso tong sim," and that I'll only be allowed to drink that. I can't have water, she said, and my jaw dropped liked Jimmy Carry from the movie Mask.

At eight months pregnant: I started attending lamaze and breastfeeding classes while looking for my "abugado" or a person who is an expert and who may be able to help me talk with my mother-in-law about the whole tradition of ge-lai and how it affects breastfeeding and the baby.

When I heard that I will only be allowed to drink Chinese tea, I acted fast. I got in touch with Medela Moms, a breastfeeding support group, and told them about my concerns. How do I reconcile ge-lai and breastfeeding my child? Here was my email to the group:

1. I am not Chinese, but I am married to one and I will practice ge-lai. 
2. I am determined to breastfeed my baby, but I don't know if the Chinese tea that I will only be allowed to drink would affect my milk supply.
3. I also don't know if the wine they want me to take will affect my milk and my baby.
4. I really want to show my in-laws that I will do my best to embrace their culture, but I need help.

I was so happy and thankful that Miss Beng referred my email to her partner Maricel Cua. Miss Maricel was so nice in replying to my concerns. She said she had the same dilemma and would be very happy to help and assist me with my ge-lai and breastfeeding. Oh, thank you Lord!

Now, onto finding an "abugado."

Jon and I then looked for a pediatrician who is a breastfeeding advocate and who understands ge-lai. My OB, Dra. Anita Poblete, recommended Dra. Joy Ty-Sy. Ate Bessie called the clinic of Dra. Joy and her secretary, Miss Carina, was so jolly and accommodating to us. So we went and visited Dra. Joy. I asked her to be my son's pediatrician and then discussed with her my concerns. I was happy that she said she will help me with my in-laws. She was glad too that I was exerting effort to undergo ge-lai. She assured me that I can take all the herbs, but not the wine. That day, she became my "abugado." She said she will explain to my mother-in-law that I need to drink water (warm water). She also gave me a two-page list of things to buy to help me with breastfeeding which included her recommended soap, lanolin, and feeding bottles. I was impressed and was sure that she was really an advocate of breastfeeding. I was happy! Oh, thank you Lord!

Dra. Poblete then recommended Rome Kanapi for our lamaze class. Miss Rome is really a sweetheart. She is cool, carefree, and knew what she was talking about. We attended her class because I want my husband to see how it was like to be pregnant and undergo labor.

"Alangan naman ako lang mahirapan. Dapat dalawa kami, regardless kung natural o ma-CS ako," I told Jon.

In one of our sessions with Miss Rome, she mentioned that our bones will loosen-up to accommodate the baby. This is were the yin and yang concept of ge-lai became more logical to me. Then, I knew I was ready to embrace ge-lai. But I gave my husband a condition. I told him that he has to eat all the food that I eat, and to make it really yummy. After all, he is a chef. So as my dutiful husband, he made all efforts to comply with my condition.

At nine months pregnant: I was finally at peace with ge-lai

Bothered and upset with ge-lai, my husband treated me for dinner at our favorite resto.

This photo was taken on April 2, 2011. Eight days before our delivery. I was enjoying my goose liver. I was really pampered for a month before I gave birth because I will only be eating ge-lai food after that.

Some herb that I took before giving birth. After drinking this, wapak!

After a three-hour labor, here's Saffron's first breastfeeding session.

My MC Hammer inspired look! I was all covered up. My breastmilk was not affected by the two thermos full of tea (made of prunes and some herbs) that I drink everyday.

Muji socks and my husband's pajama were my BFF then.

Native chicken for lunch.

Native chicken cooked ala soup version.

The famous black chicken (dry version) and my favorite. We do send this as gifts to our friends. They love it too! =)

Sunday treat: steak ala ge-lai by my husband Chef Jon. I am indeed lucky!

Giving Saffron his bath while wearing gloves.

This is me. Bagong ligo! Yehey!

Sample Menu:

Breakfast: 

Oatmeal with chocolate tablea

O-tso tong sim tea

Lunch: 

Black Chicken (dry version)

Lapu-lapu soup

1/2 cup brown rice

O-tso tong sim tea

1 pc Dark Belgian Chocolate (70 to 80% pure)

Snack: 

Crackers or cookies with chocolate coating

O-tso tong sim tea (warm)

Dinner: 

Black Chicken or Native Chicken (soup version)

1/2 cup brown rice

O-tso tong sim tea and warm water

1 pc Dark Belgian Chocolate

I wasn't swollen during my pregnancy, but after giving birth I was. Someone said I should sit on steamed bayabas leaves so I did. The next day, I am back to my old self. It worked for me. 

I am proud to have done and survived ge-lai. They say that because of it, I would live up to 85 years old and on my second ge-lai I would reach 90! Hahaha! But I would not have done this without the love, help, and support of my husband, mother-in-law, Maricel Cua and Beng of Medela Moms, and Dra. Joy. =)

My experience also inspired me and my husband to cook and sell yummy gourmet ge-lai food. Despite the limited selection in your ge-lai diet, you do not have to suffer bad cooking and preparation. Make your experience lovelier with delicious gourmet ge-lai food.

To those who want to undergo ge-lai, but are scared or turned off with the thought of not bathing for 30 days, I am telling you that it will be worth it. I am now as strong as a horse, and I do not get cold as easily as I used to.

If I survived it, so can you. Leave your comments below if you have any questions or need support.

Happy ge-lai!

- Mommy Raquel

Breastfeeding (nursing) at Rustan's Shangri-la

One of my favorite malls here in Metro Manila is Edsa Shang-ri La Plaza Mall. I like it because it's not congested. Plus, it is very close from our house. (I live in Shaw, Mandaluyong). But when I was pregnant, I began hating going to this mall after an incident with a not-so pregnant-friendly elevator staff.

I went to the mall once when I was heavily pregnant with Sam and had to use the lift. When the doors first opened, it was jam-packed with abled-looking adults so I waited for the next one. The second time it opened, an elderly on a wheelchair was waiting beside me but neither of us got in because it was still packed. By the third time it opened, I put my foot down and talked to the girl manning the elevator about my obvious condition and then pointed to the elderly on a wheelchair and told her why we had to use the elevator. I am sure those abled-looking adults are more capable of using the escalator than me or the elderly beside me. But I think it should not have come from me to have pointed it out. It should have occured to the girl manning the lift.

When I gave birth to Sam, my next dilemma when I go to malls, even high-end ones, is finding a breastfeeding station or a changing table, at least. I do not understand why it hasn't become a standard to put changing tables inside the toilets. I am happy to read though that Shangri-la Plaza Mall now has a breastfeeding station which I have yet to visit. Let me share to you though Rustan's Shangri-La Plaza Mall's own breastfeeding (or nursing) station.

I chanced upon Rustan's breastfeeding station when, while buying stuff for Sam (an excuse to shop for him even if he does not really need them), he soiled his diapers.

Here's my conversation with five staff (!) when I was looking for a place to change Sam's soiled diapers.

 
Me: Excuse me, where is your breastfeeding station?
Staff: Wala po kami noon. 
Staff 2: Ano po yun ma'am?
Me: Breastfeeding section. Iyong pwede ka mag-change ng diaper and mag-feed ng baby. 
Staff 3: Ay wala po kami noon.
Staff 4: Ano po ba yung hinahanap nyo?
Me: Breastfeeding station nga. How come Rustan's Makati has one? Tapos kayo wala? 

A fifth staff who approached me finally knew what I was talking about.

Staff 5: Ahhhh ma'am, meron kami dito nursing station, pero breastfeeding station wala po. 
Me: (Duh!!!!???????? But I calmed myself) Miss, saan iyong nursing station ninyo? 

To my surprise, it was located beside the staff's office.

So here are some pictures of the newly renovated Breastfeeding (err, Nursing) Station at Rustan's, Shangri-la Plaza Mall. 

The walls are designed with cute fairy decors. I think they are more for the moms than anyone else.

Clean and sturdy changing table. Please clean it before and after use.

Comfy seats. It's nice that they have pillows availble here.

Cushioned flooring.

Saffron comfy on a bean bag.

A proud moment: I am still breastfeeding my 13-month old! Clap!

So when you are at Rustan's, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, do check it out.


- Mommy Raquel

Breastfeeding: one year on

Breastfeeding: day 1.

When asked about the first word that came to mind about breastfeeding, I answered "natural." Women have been giving birth and nursing their children since time immemorial. I believe that breastfeeding is normal, a natural course of event, and is expected of mothers.

No one in the first and only breastfeeding support group I attended shared my thoughts. Even as I look back now, I realize that the breastfeeding moms who were there also do not view breastfeeding anywhere near "natural."

When I finally nursed Caitlin, I realize that my expectations have been misplaced. My belief that breastfeeding as a natural course of life for women is now in the remote past.

I learned that the practice has been lost to a lot of women and mothers today. I, myself, was not breastfed long enough for my mom to know what to expect when you are breastfeeding. So this is also why breastfeeding support groups are very important. Without them, it's too easy to fall into the trap of feeding your child formula thinking that you do not have enough breastmilk to give. Without them, it's too easy to give up at the first sign of nipple tenderness thinking that it will only get worse. Without them, it's too easy to give up breastfeeding all together because of the many interrupted sleeps thinking that you'll never sleep tight again with a baby suckling from you.  

There is a wealth of knowledge in books and internet about breastfeeding, but nothing will comfort you best than a loved one or a fellow breastfeeding mom.

If I wasn't nearly due, I would have attended the succeeding meetings and stayed longer to bond and learn more from the breastfeeding moms in attendance. It could have saved me the embarrasment of talking to complete strangers, as if I have no other family and friends to help me, about what I am doing wrong and how to correct my breastfeeding booboos. They could have told me how silly the word "natural" is to breastfeeding and explain why. I would have learned the proper latch, ways to prevent nipple injury and engorgement. Or, simply, tell me how my life would completely change and revolve around the time when my baby feeds from me.


Many thank yous


My determination and perseverance to continue breastfeeding Caitlin would have been nothing if it weren't for my husband Jay, a total stranger and now friend Cha Antinero, breastfeeding advocate Miann Reyes-Oblea, a college friend and mom-of-two Mara Evangelista, and my co-blogger Raquel Chua.

Thank you for all the virtual pats in the back and you-can-do-its. I share my one-year breastfeeding milestone with you, and I am sure that Caitlin is thanking you, too.

Breastfeeding: Day 366. (Because 2012 is a leap year).

- Mommy Smiley



Shopping is more fun with breastfeeding stations around

Mommies, you don't need to cram inside smelly toilets or pay P10 for some luxury to change an irritable baby's diaper when at Shangri-la Plaza Mall. Just head to the mall's breastfeeding station at level 2, in between The Ramp and Planet Sports, and get that quiet nook that you need.


The breastfeeding station not only has two diaper changing mats but it also comes with outlets for pumping milk, a refrigerator to keep them cold, and a kettle for hot water to heat them up.


The room is very spacious and may accommodate up to five breastfeeding moms, all seated, at the same time.


And if nature's calling, the room is just adjacent to a ladies' toilet.


A clean and full baby and a refreshed mommy make for two very happy shoppers.


Thank you Shangri-la Plaza Mall!

Individual sofas.

Other amenities.

Two diaper changing stations.

Wash bins.

- Mommy Smiley

Marathon breastfeeding

I woke up to Caitlin's cries. She just detached from me and I put her back on so she could go back to sleep. I realized that I must have fallen asleep myself. The lights were already out and my husband was now on the bed with us.

Time check: 10:36 pm. Nothing unusual about it save for the fact that I went to bed with Caitlin directly feeding from me at 8:25 pm!

Suddenly, my stomach hurt and my head felt light due to hunger. She was still feeding when I also began feeling uncomfortable since I haven't freshened up for bed yet. I was still wearing my day clothes with traces of her saliva and probably rice from her dinner or even lunch.

Caitlin's been feeding from me for two straight hours. She may not be suckling the whole time, but it sure drained me and left me feeling like I skipped dinner.

When she detached, I drank lots of water to mask the hunger pangs. Sometimes, satisfying your thirst takes the pain away. I then took a quick shower and went back to bed. Unfortunately, the water that I drank wasn't enough and I needed a hot meal.

An hour later, I was back in bed and I haven't even found sleep yet when Caitlin cried again, called me out, and wanted to feed again.

It was bittersweet. Tired and sleepy, hearing her cry out, "mama, mama, mama" made me want to make everything right for her. Even if it would make me prepare another hot meal at 12 midnight.

But at least this time, she didn't stay long on me to drain me of the food that I just ate.

After she just fed, however, sleep has become elusive and what a funny, funny scene it would be for me to catch it a minute before Caitlin calls me out and feeds again.

Ah, this, too, shall pass.

If you are a breastfed child, don't ever, ever take the sacrifices your mom did for you for granted. Ever. Delivering you into this world is one story and breastfeeding you takes sacrifices to the next level.

Time check: 12:48 am. Hello, sleep. Finally.

- Mommy Smiley