I have been nursing my twins for more than 2 years now and before that, I nursed my eldest son up to the time I gave birth to the twins. Total of about 4 years!
I have a full time job.. at home. BUT, I travel quite heavily and usually outstation or out of country to places like Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand. I like travelling and I enjoy keeping my full time job. The other full time job that I cannot not love and cannot stop just cause I am travelling is NURSING.
Like a cow, I brought my Ardo Calypso Dual Pump everywhere I went. It was the most important thing after my passport and phone. Armed with lots of ice packs, Styrofoam boxes and plenty of bottles.. always ready to pump when it was time.
Pumped on the plane, in the car, at airports, shopping centres (nursing rooms and changing rooms), highway rest area, restaurants.. discreetly done with my home-tailored nursing cover.
Throughout my breastfeeding journey, I did not wear dresses for work. It was the usual blouse and skirts or pants. Used to wear dresses for convenience sake (no need to mix and match) but now, as I am still nursing, two piece attire is more appropriate. And, I do not have to be concerned about looking for special dresses or attires. Just a simple 2 piece will do and with my nursing cover, I can pump anywhere, anytime.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
My 1st Marathon - 12KM
Told Hubby one day that I had a new dream. I would like to be a MARATHON RUNNER.
We simply registered for a 12KM marathon in Melaka. The Mahkota Medical Centre Charity Run was our 1st marathon. Right after registration, found out about other marathons with shorter distances. Oh, what did I just do.
Looking forward to the day, we trained. Not too hard, just trained around our housing area. The kids had fun at the playground as Hubby and I jogged around the playground. They had fun too I believe. When we put on our shoes and sports attire, they would already be anticipating a visit to the playground. They chased after us and tried to stop us as we ran pass them. It was fun! We all had fun.
Soon, running 3KM was not a problem anymore. We managed to finish within 25 minutes or so.
We ran at the park nearby our housing area as well.
Finally, the day came. We woke up so early in the morning, that itself was already a huge challenge. Lil Jas saw me in my running attire and said, "Mummy, we go playground?". I was puzzled but not long after I figured out that she thought we were all going to the playground as usual. Oh, poor Lil Jas. Had to tell her that she was staying home with Ah Kong and Ah Ma as Mummy and Daddy would be away without them for a few hours.
There we were, a little late but just in time to join the warming up session. We were all excited!
Everyone then moved to the Starting Point and at exactly 7PM, we all started our Marathon. It felt so good running on the road with so many people, guarded by a few traffic police along the way.
The 1st 3KM was not too easy but after that, we just could not stop. I ran up the Melaka bridge and down and went pass a few people who were already walking in exhaustion. Saw a very Old Uncle running in the opposite lane, on his way back to the Finishing Point already! Wow, Uncle.. he was at least 6KM ahead of me.
Finally, caught up with Hubby who was ahead and was also already walking by then. Went on to 9KM, bid farewell to Hubby and I went ahead of him.. (evil laugh)..
Walked a little at around the 11th KM. Final 500m to go! Run!
Obviously I did not make it to the Top 10 but making it to the Finishing Line at 1 hour and 22 minutes was a personal record! That was enough to surprise me. Hubby came at 1 hour and 23 minutes.
Bumped into the Old Uncle again and found out that he was 80 YEARS OLD. And, he was a national basketball player in the past. Very inspiring indeed. His advise - Run! The more you run, the younger you will be!
Uncle Boleh.. saya pun BOLEH!
P/S - I am still breastfeeding my twins at night, outside working hours now.
We simply registered for a 12KM marathon in Melaka. The Mahkota Medical Centre Charity Run was our 1st marathon. Right after registration, found out about other marathons with shorter distances. Oh, what did I just do.
Looking forward to the day, we trained. Not too hard, just trained around our housing area. The kids had fun at the playground as Hubby and I jogged around the playground. They had fun too I believe. When we put on our shoes and sports attire, they would already be anticipating a visit to the playground. They chased after us and tried to stop us as we ran pass them. It was fun! We all had fun.
Soon, running 3KM was not a problem anymore. We managed to finish within 25 minutes or so.
We ran at the park nearby our housing area as well.
Finally, the day came. We woke up so early in the morning, that itself was already a huge challenge. Lil Jas saw me in my running attire and said, "Mummy, we go playground?". I was puzzled but not long after I figured out that she thought we were all going to the playground as usual. Oh, poor Lil Jas. Had to tell her that she was staying home with Ah Kong and Ah Ma as Mummy and Daddy would be away without them for a few hours.
There we were, a little late but just in time to join the warming up session. We were all excited!
Everyone then moved to the Starting Point and at exactly 7PM, we all started our Marathon. It felt so good running on the road with so many people, guarded by a few traffic police along the way.
The 1st 3KM was not too easy but after that, we just could not stop. I ran up the Melaka bridge and down and went pass a few people who were already walking in exhaustion. Saw a very Old Uncle running in the opposite lane, on his way back to the Finishing Point already! Wow, Uncle.. he was at least 6KM ahead of me.
Finally, caught up with Hubby who was ahead and was also already walking by then. Went on to 9KM, bid farewell to Hubby and I went ahead of him.. (evil laugh)..
Walked a little at around the 11th KM. Final 500m to go! Run!
Obviously I did not make it to the Top 10 but making it to the Finishing Line at 1 hour and 22 minutes was a personal record! That was enough to surprise me. Hubby came at 1 hour and 23 minutes.
Bumped into the Old Uncle again and found out that he was 80 YEARS OLD. And, he was a national basketball player in the past. Very inspiring indeed. His advise - Run! The more you run, the younger you will be!
Uncle Boleh.. saya pun BOLEH!
P/S - I am still breastfeeding my twins at night, outside working hours now.
Breastfeeding Twins - First few days..
Delivery was at HUKM via C-Sect at about 9.10PM and 9.11PM - http://buzzymummydiary.blogspot.com/2014/09/week-38-c-sect-delivery-at-hukm.html
Okay, my bundle of joy only popped out after 9PM at night and the nurses wheeled me back to the ward after all the 'cooling down' procedures. I only had a glance of my twin son right after the C-Sect. My twin girl was sent away for monitoring due to the drop in her body temperature.
Back at the ward, I asked my Hubby for pictures of the twins. The Nurses just would not let me see them. They only told me to rest and sleep through the night. They would only let me see the twins in the morning and they were definitely not joking about it. I did not really sleep well as I could hear babies crying from the nursery. First thing that popped into my mind was.. could that be my Lil Jas or Lil Jus? I even called for the Nurse and she simply told me that my twins were sleeping very soundly. I gave up asking for them and dozed off.
The next morning, I was asked to tidy up my place. I just had my C-Sect last night and by 9am, I was already expected to go to the toilet on my own, bathe (I did.. :p), tidy up my place and only after that, they allowed me to see my twins.
They wheeled me Lil Jas and Lil Jus.. I was alone at that time as it was not yet the Visiting Hours. Lil Jus was sleeping so peacefully and Lil Jas was looking a little more stressed up. In just a little while, she was already nursing at my breast. She was 2.62kg, so much smaller compared to her big brother, Jen who was 3.65kg at birth.
A little while after that, looked at Lil Jus. He did not wake up. And again, Lil Jas woke up for another round of nursing. And a while more, another round! But Lil Jus did not wake up at all from his 'beauty' sleep. I got worried.
Called for the Nurses. One came and started stroking his feet, even tried to slap him on his feet. He only flinched a little and went back to sleep. Back to Slumberland.. By about 1PM, I called for the Nurse again and they brought Lil Jus to the nursery. Believe they fed him with a little formula by force to prevent dehydration.
We stayed another night at HUKM. It was a government hospital and they sort of lacked manpower. We Mummies at the ward took care of our own babies, twins or not, they were ours right after they were 'released' from the Nursery. That included nursing, changing diapers and clothes and etc.. Lil Jas slept with me on the bed since she was nursing so frequently whereas, sleepy Lil Jus slept soundly in his own cot.
Next morning came and quickly, we 'checked' out of the hospital. I needed more pairs of hands to help take care of the twins. Nonetheless, they did not take anything other than 'Mummy's golden liquid' and it was quite a relief that I managed to pull through the night and day smoothly.
So, yes, first few days, it is definitely possible for twins to survive only by breastfeeding.
Okay, my bundle of joy only popped out after 9PM at night and the nurses wheeled me back to the ward after all the 'cooling down' procedures. I only had a glance of my twin son right after the C-Sect. My twin girl was sent away for monitoring due to the drop in her body temperature.
Back at the ward, I asked my Hubby for pictures of the twins. The Nurses just would not let me see them. They only told me to rest and sleep through the night. They would only let me see the twins in the morning and they were definitely not joking about it. I did not really sleep well as I could hear babies crying from the nursery. First thing that popped into my mind was.. could that be my Lil Jas or Lil Jus? I even called for the Nurse and she simply told me that my twins were sleeping very soundly. I gave up asking for them and dozed off.
The next morning, I was asked to tidy up my place. I just had my C-Sect last night and by 9am, I was already expected to go to the toilet on my own, bathe (I did.. :p), tidy up my place and only after that, they allowed me to see my twins.
They wheeled me Lil Jas and Lil Jus.. I was alone at that time as it was not yet the Visiting Hours. Lil Jus was sleeping so peacefully and Lil Jas was looking a little more stressed up. In just a little while, she was already nursing at my breast. She was 2.62kg, so much smaller compared to her big brother, Jen who was 3.65kg at birth.
A little while after that, looked at Lil Jus. He did not wake up. And again, Lil Jas woke up for another round of nursing. And a while more, another round! But Lil Jus did not wake up at all from his 'beauty' sleep. I got worried.
Called for the Nurses. One came and started stroking his feet, even tried to slap him on his feet. He only flinched a little and went back to sleep. Back to Slumberland.. By about 1PM, I called for the Nurse again and they brought Lil Jus to the nursery. Believe they fed him with a little formula by force to prevent dehydration.
We stayed another night at HUKM. It was a government hospital and they sort of lacked manpower. We Mummies at the ward took care of our own babies, twins or not, they were ours right after they were 'released' from the Nursery. That included nursing, changing diapers and clothes and etc.. Lil Jas slept with me on the bed since she was nursing so frequently whereas, sleepy Lil Jus slept soundly in his own cot.
Next morning came and quickly, we 'checked' out of the hospital. I needed more pairs of hands to help take care of the twins. Nonetheless, they did not take anything other than 'Mummy's golden liquid' and it was quite a relief that I managed to pull through the night and day smoothly.
So, yes, first few days, it is definitely possible for twins to survive only by breastfeeding.
Week 38 - C-Sect Delivery at HUKM
Long delay in my post about the crucial part between being pregnant and having a kid or two. In my case.. I had two.
Because I was expecting twins and the doctors were not able to allow me to go on medical leave, I requested the doctor to schedule me fot C-Section as soon as my twins were matured enough. That was Week 38.
My C-Sect was scheduled on a Monday because I was under that group of doctors. And I admitted myself to the hospital the evening before as instructed. The interesting part was.. I was wheeled to my ward despite me telling the nurse I could still walk at way reduced speed. Special treatment?
Dinner was served. 'Hospital grade' food never tasted good anyway. Hubby brought me dinner and since it was past visiting hours, we dated at the bench outside my ward.
After that.. from midnight onwards, no more food and drinks. Time to fast for the big day.
By about 8pm or so, a young handsome doctor came and told me that he had to put the drip chamber on me already. Ouch.. but my operation was scheduled tomorrow. He insisted, so, okay.
Next day came.. my twins birthday. Doctors came for their morning rounds and I asked one nice lady doctor about my C-Sect time. She said I was scheduled before 2pm.
Not too bad.. 2PM. I used to drink at least 3 big bottles of water a day but since I had to fast for the operation, I had to just forget about my thirst for water. By noon, no signs of me being prepared for the operation and the lady that was scheduled before me was still there opposite me in bed. BUT.. the doctor had already inserted the urine tube for me.. how uncomfortable.
By dinner time.. I was still there in bed and by that time, I was already feeling really weak and lifeless. No water and food.. I was just feeling tired and hungry and so thirsty. My twins were probably feeling them too.. just lying in there quiet and not moving alot.
I kept asking the nurses and doctors about my 'turn' and poor them, too many emergency cases to handle.
By 9pm, a lady doctor came. She asked if I woild like to reschedule my operation but after a second thought, she was afraid that if I waited any longer, I might need to go for emergency C-Sect which would definitely put us 3 in danger. So, the next option was to get my permission to be operated on by the next shift of doctors. I was so tired and blur at that time.. anything was fine as long as my twins would be fine.
So.. 9.10pm my twin boy was delivered and my twin girl followed by 9.11pm. The operation was smooth and there a few doctors around.. for me and my twins.
Happy beginning to 'twinhood'.
Friday, October 4, 2013
Ardo Calypso - Warranty Period is now 2 Years Again..
My pump broke down last 2 weeks ago and the very first thought that came to mind what that my pump broke down again. This would be the 3rd time. I checked with the shop where I bought the pump from and also online for the warranty period and then, found some numbers to call up to the agent directly. WARRANTY PERIOD MIRACULOUSLY EXTENDED TO 2 YEARS! Heard that the change was because of the change in the agent/distributor in Malaysia. What good news!
However, after a quick check, it was my adaptor that was spoilt. The adaptor, the original one was MYR125 each. That was quite a big chunk out of the total price of Ardo Calypso! Searched online and I finally bought the OEM adaptor that was only MYR69.90.
AND now my Ardo Calypso is up and running again. So far the longest lasting and hardiest unit I ever have.
With a 2 years warranty behind me, I am confident now that I want and I can breastfeed my twins till they are TWO. Happy yeah.. :)
However, after a quick check, it was my adaptor that was spoilt. The adaptor, the original one was MYR125 each. That was quite a big chunk out of the total price of Ardo Calypso! Searched online and I finally bought the OEM adaptor that was only MYR69.90.
AND now my Ardo Calypso is up and running again. So far the longest lasting and hardiest unit I ever have.
With a 2 years warranty behind me, I am confident now that I want and I can breastfeed my twins till they are TWO. Happy yeah.. :)
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Balinese Massage + Face SPA @ Malacca S** (Megan Setapak)
I had to call a few times to get though to someone human to speak to on my appointment. The phone line always ended with the fax dialling tone. Understood that no reminder would be given prior to the appointment date. And, to settle on an appointment date and time was not easy as they were quite fully booked, surprisingly even on weekdays.
The place was in a well developed area. The interior gave me a close to nature feel, with lots of wood around.
Greeted by the lady boss and she asked if I wanted to upgrade my facial to a full facial instead of just a face SPA, which I firmly rejected. Checked also if I would like to upgrade my massage oil to a better quality one, which I also rejected.
The Balinese massage was done by an Indonesian lady. I noticed that there was only her and her lady boss around. So, asked her if there was any other people around. She said that she was the only one as 2 of her colleagues had recently quit. The lady boss had been advertising the massage plus face SPA service at a very low rate and the number of customers they got was too overwhelming. Each masseur had to massage for at least 8 customers in a day and on top of that, perform the face SPA as well. That was why her colleagues quit recently. No wonder weekdays were fully booked. I was the only customer at that time. Even lunch time, the lady had to serve customers.
Face SPA was really quick. Also, the Indonesian lady told me that they usually charge customers for the facial sponge as they only use the facial sponge once due to hygiene reasons. The lady boss did not inform in advance.
Fixed next appointment with the lady boss and I never returned. Felt bad for the poor ladies working there, exploited to the max.
Just recently I saw the advertisement again for similar package. BOYCOTT!
The place was in a well developed area. The interior gave me a close to nature feel, with lots of wood around.
Greeted by the lady boss and she asked if I wanted to upgrade my facial to a full facial instead of just a face SPA, which I firmly rejected. Checked also if I would like to upgrade my massage oil to a better quality one, which I also rejected.
The Balinese massage was done by an Indonesian lady. I noticed that there was only her and her lady boss around. So, asked her if there was any other people around. She said that she was the only one as 2 of her colleagues had recently quit. The lady boss had been advertising the massage plus face SPA service at a very low rate and the number of customers they got was too overwhelming. Each masseur had to massage for at least 8 customers in a day and on top of that, perform the face SPA as well. That was why her colleagues quit recently. No wonder weekdays were fully booked. I was the only customer at that time. Even lunch time, the lady had to serve customers.
Face SPA was really quick. Also, the Indonesian lady told me that they usually charge customers for the facial sponge as they only use the facial sponge once due to hygiene reasons. The lady boss did not inform in advance.
Fixed next appointment with the lady boss and I never returned. Felt bad for the poor ladies working there, exploited to the max.
Just recently I saw the advertisement again for similar package. BOYCOTT!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Ardo Calypso - Satisfaction BUT..
Apologise for the delay in posting up my review on Ardo Calypso. Well, to start with, I am pumping with it now as I blog.
AND my twins are exactly 1 year old today! Finally we have reached the 1 year milestone set in my breastfeeding journey and we are still going strong. My twins are a pair of boy and girl and they are now about 8.8kg and 8.2kg respectively. Happy boy and girl!
Ardo Calypso has been a great pump so far, in terms of the performance versus the price. I bought the pump with some complimentary items, i.e. bag, ice packs, bottles, etc..
I like the design as it is light weight enough for travelling and the colour - cheerful green and beige seems like perfect combination, though some commented that it looks like a toy to them. The pump comes with 2 difference sizes of flanges. I am probably not the best judge on which size to use but I am comfortably using the bigger one.
No problem adjusting the pump to suit my needs, in terms of the suction level and speed. The suction is quite good. It has a total of 8 suction (vacuum) levels and usually I use level 5 or 7. There is also a total of 8 speed levels. To stimulate let down, I usually adjust the speed to about 6 or 7. Once milk is flowing, I reduce the speed level to about 5.
Each session for me usually lasted for about 20 mins minimum to about half an hour maximum. When my twins were less than 11 months old, I was able to consistently get about 10-15oz each session with 5 hours interval in between during working hours. Sometimes, even 18oz - after some durian-booster session the night before.. :) Now that my twins are older, I can only manage to get about 8-12 oz each session, which is sad but still, enough to fill them up in between solid meals. So, still a good balance of supply and demand.
As I travel for business quite regularly, I pump outside alot. At malls, in the car, plane, office, home, even restaurants. It was quiet enough for me to pump discreetly under nursing cover.
BUT, it is a problem when I am at places where no electrical point is readily available. Ardo Calypso has no built in battery. Can be used with electrical supply, battery and car adapter (it fits Ameda's). Best is with electrical supply and on "stable ground". When used in car with car adaptors, the pump will show the error light if I accidentally shake the pump. The low performance alkaline battery is only enough for 1 pumping session, whereas, Energizer can last longer but still, the suction seems lower than normal which is not enough for me since I am used to high suction levels.
The pump unit will also show error light when used at high suction, high speed levels for single side pumping, in other words, when not used for double pumping. Due to this reason, I got my pump unit replaced once, after about 3 months of usage.
The next time I got my pump replaced was because the pump just would not come alive no matter how I tried to revive it. It just went dead.. and it died on me when I was on an outstation business trip. Lucky I did bring my manual kit along.
The manual kit was bought from Singapore. I did not manage to find it in Malaysia. It consist of only 3 parts and you can fit it onto the existing flange. In Malaysia, I found shops that only offered the full manual pump set.
In conclusion, I like Ardo Calypso BUT too many technical problems. This is the upgraded version bought in year 2012 but I think they definitely has to work on the reliability of the pump and at least, extend the warranty up to 2 years from child's date of birth rather than only a year. MY PUMP WARRANTY PERIOD EXPIRES TODAY!!! Due to the problems, I have to survey for a spare pump to keep me company for another year.
P/S:- I wish to breastfeed my twins till they are 2 years old. Wish me luck!! :)
AND my twins are exactly 1 year old today! Finally we have reached the 1 year milestone set in my breastfeeding journey and we are still going strong. My twins are a pair of boy and girl and they are now about 8.8kg and 8.2kg respectively. Happy boy and girl!
Ardo Calypso has been a great pump so far, in terms of the performance versus the price. I bought the pump with some complimentary items, i.e. bag, ice packs, bottles, etc..
I like the design as it is light weight enough for travelling and the colour - cheerful green and beige seems like perfect combination, though some commented that it looks like a toy to them. The pump comes with 2 difference sizes of flanges. I am probably not the best judge on which size to use but I am comfortably using the bigger one.
No problem adjusting the pump to suit my needs, in terms of the suction level and speed. The suction is quite good. It has a total of 8 suction (vacuum) levels and usually I use level 5 or 7. There is also a total of 8 speed levels. To stimulate let down, I usually adjust the speed to about 6 or 7. Once milk is flowing, I reduce the speed level to about 5.
Each session for me usually lasted for about 20 mins minimum to about half an hour maximum. When my twins were less than 11 months old, I was able to consistently get about 10-15oz each session with 5 hours interval in between during working hours. Sometimes, even 18oz - after some durian-booster session the night before.. :) Now that my twins are older, I can only manage to get about 8-12 oz each session, which is sad but still, enough to fill them up in between solid meals. So, still a good balance of supply and demand.
As I travel for business quite regularly, I pump outside alot. At malls, in the car, plane, office, home, even restaurants. It was quiet enough for me to pump discreetly under nursing cover.
BUT, it is a problem when I am at places where no electrical point is readily available. Ardo Calypso has no built in battery. Can be used with electrical supply, battery and car adapter (it fits Ameda's). Best is with electrical supply and on "stable ground". When used in car with car adaptors, the pump will show the error light if I accidentally shake the pump. The low performance alkaline battery is only enough for 1 pumping session, whereas, Energizer can last longer but still, the suction seems lower than normal which is not enough for me since I am used to high suction levels.
The pump unit will also show error light when used at high suction, high speed levels for single side pumping, in other words, when not used for double pumping. Due to this reason, I got my pump unit replaced once, after about 3 months of usage.
The next time I got my pump replaced was because the pump just would not come alive no matter how I tried to revive it. It just went dead.. and it died on me when I was on an outstation business trip. Lucky I did bring my manual kit along.
The manual kit was bought from Singapore. I did not manage to find it in Malaysia. It consist of only 3 parts and you can fit it onto the existing flange. In Malaysia, I found shops that only offered the full manual pump set.
In conclusion, I like Ardo Calypso BUT too many technical problems. This is the upgraded version bought in year 2012 but I think they definitely has to work on the reliability of the pump and at least, extend the warranty up to 2 years from child's date of birth rather than only a year. MY PUMP WARRANTY PERIOD EXPIRES TODAY!!! Due to the problems, I have to survey for a spare pump to keep me company for another year.
P/S:- I wish to breastfeed my twins till they are 2 years old. Wish me luck!! :)
Friday, May 25, 2012
My New Breastfeeding Gadget - Ardo Calypso Dual Breast Pump
Finally I managed to get the new upgraded Ardo Calypso Dual Breast Pump as soon as it was released in the market. Although this retailer has an online website (http://www.enjoybreastfeed.com/) where all their items can be easily purchased with just a few clicks, I went all the way to the Enjoy Breastfeeding showroom in Klang just to test out the pump last Saturday.
The shop was pretty small and had 2 staffs assiting the boss and lady boss, Michelle. The shop was basically swarmed by mummies. Some were getting advice on breastfeeding and some were looking for breastpumps for their coming bundle of joy. I went straight to one of the staffs and requested to test out the Ardo Calypso Dual Breastpump.
She explained to me patiently on the pump and I also managed to ask questions on the Ameda and Medela Freestyle breastpumps.
Ameda is great as well and is from the same manufacturer as Ardo Calypso. However, I heard from a friend of mine that it is a hassle when it comes to pumping at weird places like toilets since she cannot think of a suitable place to place the pump unit and the bottles. So, this will also definitely be a problem for me as I travel alot.
Medela Freestyle.. wow.. I must say that I was not pleased at all with the sound that was emitted from the tiny machine. It was loud compared to the pump that I previously bought, Avent Single Uno. AND it sounded weird to me, kind of funny too. However, in terms of size, it is a plus point since the pump unit is smaller than Ardo Calypso's.
Ardo Calypso.. affordable, weight wise is about the same as Medela Freestyle to me. Size of the pump unit is two times the Medela Freestyle's which is big. It is as big as my novel as shown in the picture below:
There is a hook on top of the unit which makes it convenient for me to put a string so that I can hang the unit while pumping. This eliminates the need to look for a suitable spot to place the pump unit while preparing or pumping.
The pumps is also really quiet! This is good. At least I can more discreet when I pump.. :)
Below picture shows what I get from the whole package - The Dual Pump, 3 Ice Packs, 8 Bottles, 1 Bagpack and a free bottle of Fenugreek! Good deal at RM976.
The below show how the pump fits into the bag - Of course I will not be bringing all 8 bottles out at one time, so the pump funnels and bottles will go here:
The pump unit and adaptor will be placed at the bottom of the bag:
Shall look forward to commenting on the performance when I start using it later.. Next week! Soon..
The shop was pretty small and had 2 staffs assiting the boss and lady boss, Michelle. The shop was basically swarmed by mummies. Some were getting advice on breastfeeding and some were looking for breastpumps for their coming bundle of joy. I went straight to one of the staffs and requested to test out the Ardo Calypso Dual Breastpump.
She explained to me patiently on the pump and I also managed to ask questions on the Ameda and Medela Freestyle breastpumps.
Ameda is great as well and is from the same manufacturer as Ardo Calypso. However, I heard from a friend of mine that it is a hassle when it comes to pumping at weird places like toilets since she cannot think of a suitable place to place the pump unit and the bottles. So, this will also definitely be a problem for me as I travel alot.
Medela Freestyle.. wow.. I must say that I was not pleased at all with the sound that was emitted from the tiny machine. It was loud compared to the pump that I previously bought, Avent Single Uno. AND it sounded weird to me, kind of funny too. However, in terms of size, it is a plus point since the pump unit is smaller than Ardo Calypso's.
Ardo Calypso.. affordable, weight wise is about the same as Medela Freestyle to me. Size of the pump unit is two times the Medela Freestyle's which is big. It is as big as my novel as shown in the picture below:
There is a hook on top of the unit which makes it convenient for me to put a string so that I can hang the unit while pumping. This eliminates the need to look for a suitable spot to place the pump unit while preparing or pumping.
The pumps is also really quiet! This is good. At least I can more discreet when I pump.. :)
Below picture shows what I get from the whole package - The Dual Pump, 3 Ice Packs, 8 Bottles, 1 Bagpack and a free bottle of Fenugreek! Good deal at RM976.
The below show how the pump fits into the bag - Of course I will not be bringing all 8 bottles out at one time, so the pump funnels and bottles will go here:
The pump unit and adaptor will be placed at the bottom of the bag:
Shall look forward to commenting on the performance when I start using it later.. Next week! Soon..
Week 33 - Pre-Natal Check Up at HUKM
Yippie! Hubby managed to take leave from work and he could accompany me for my check up this time! Easy, he just dropped me at the entrance and meet up with me after parking the car. We reached early with our McDonalds breakfast in hand.
Needed to pay RM40 again this time for the check up and ultrasound scan. As usual, got my waiting number, took my Blood Pressure, Weight, Urine Test and then waited for my turn to do the ultrasound scan.
The waiting took quite a while but it was okay since we took our breakfast while waiting for it. Read a bit of the newspaper and then it was my turn. A young man did the scan for me this time. Hubby was allowed into the room with me. Little boy was head down whereas Little Girl's head was at the top of my belly. They were both about 2.1kg each now.
After a short while, it was my turn for Doctor's consultation. This time, Doctor commented that the level of amniotic fluid for my little girl was okay whereas my little boy a little more, borderline. The shocking thing at this appointment was that, the Doctor asked if I would like to consider vaginal delivery. Never came across to me since my first appointment with my Gynae at the Pantai Cheras Hospital that I would consider vaginal delivery. He told me from the very first appointment that I would have to go for C-Section for my twins' delivery since my 1st Little Jen was delivered via C-Section and the fact that I was carrying twins made it riskier to consider vaginal delivery. However, of course, I was delighted at the thought of having a chance to deliver my twins vaginally.
The Doctor scheduled me for my next appointment 3 weeks later which would be the 36th week. Hmm.. carrying twins.. I thought appointments shold be closer now but he scheduled to see me only 3 weeks later and that week, he would look forward to an answer from me on my decision to either deliver vaginally or through C-Section.
Needed to pay RM40 again this time for the check up and ultrasound scan. As usual, got my waiting number, took my Blood Pressure, Weight, Urine Test and then waited for my turn to do the ultrasound scan.
The waiting took quite a while but it was okay since we took our breakfast while waiting for it. Read a bit of the newspaper and then it was my turn. A young man did the scan for me this time. Hubby was allowed into the room with me. Little boy was head down whereas Little Girl's head was at the top of my belly. They were both about 2.1kg each now.
After a short while, it was my turn for Doctor's consultation. This time, Doctor commented that the level of amniotic fluid for my little girl was okay whereas my little boy a little more, borderline. The shocking thing at this appointment was that, the Doctor asked if I would like to consider vaginal delivery. Never came across to me since my first appointment with my Gynae at the Pantai Cheras Hospital that I would consider vaginal delivery. He told me from the very first appointment that I would have to go for C-Section for my twins' delivery since my 1st Little Jen was delivered via C-Section and the fact that I was carrying twins made it riskier to consider vaginal delivery. However, of course, I was delighted at the thought of having a chance to deliver my twins vaginally.
The Doctor scheduled me for my next appointment 3 weeks later which would be the 36th week. Hmm.. carrying twins.. I thought appointments shold be closer now but he scheduled to see me only 3 weeks later and that week, he would look forward to an answer from me on my decision to either deliver vaginally or through C-Section.
Week 31 - Pre-Natal Check up at HUKM
This time's check up, I had to go on my own again. That meant driving to the hospital and go through the check up and then drive home on my own. Too bad Hubby could not accompany me since he had to work. Okay, I thought, I could do this, not a problem. I woke up early, sent my Little Jen to my mother in law's place and drived through McDonalds on the way to get a set of breakfast meal with an additional ala-carte egg mcmuffin. Planned to take my breakfast while waiting at HUKM.
Unfortunately, it took me A WHOLE HOUR to look for a parking spot! I finished the Hash Brown in the car since I was already too hungry to wait. I was basically stuck in a merry go round in the parking lot for the whole hour looking for parking spot and the whole area was jammed with cars!
My appointment was at 10am and i reached the parking lot at 8.45am. Usually, the patients will arrive half an hour to an hour earlier than their scheduled appointment to drop their appointment book and wait for their turn. I arrived on the dot this time.
Paid RM40 for the check up and ultrasound scan, got my waiting number, took my Blood Pressure, weighed myself and took the Urine Test. While waiting for my turn to do the Ultrasound scan, I took one of my McMuffins. This time, a young lady did the scan. She asked me to lie down and then, she went out to speak to her colleague on something. I had to sit up while waiting since I could not lie down for long, my belly was just too heavy and I could feel cold sweat on my forehead already. That was not too nice, by the way. Oh.. and no ultrasound pictures for mummy too..
Waiting for the check up after the scan took really long. Finished my other McMuffin while waiting since I was already hungry. It was already past noon and I was still waiting. The Doctor said that I had too much amniotic fluid and that might be a sign of diabetes. So, despite having a negative glucose test in the previous check up, I had to go through another round of glucose test. Both my twins are at about 1.7 and 1.8kg now. Very close to 2kg! Great.. just hang in there for few more weeks..
As they were worried about my high amniotic fluid level that they said might lead to premature labour, they scheduled my next appointment 2 weeks later.
Unfortunately, it took me A WHOLE HOUR to look for a parking spot! I finished the Hash Brown in the car since I was already too hungry to wait. I was basically stuck in a merry go round in the parking lot for the whole hour looking for parking spot and the whole area was jammed with cars!
My appointment was at 10am and i reached the parking lot at 8.45am. Usually, the patients will arrive half an hour to an hour earlier than their scheduled appointment to drop their appointment book and wait for their turn. I arrived on the dot this time.
Paid RM40 for the check up and ultrasound scan, got my waiting number, took my Blood Pressure, weighed myself and took the Urine Test. While waiting for my turn to do the Ultrasound scan, I took one of my McMuffins. This time, a young lady did the scan. She asked me to lie down and then, she went out to speak to her colleague on something. I had to sit up while waiting since I could not lie down for long, my belly was just too heavy and I could feel cold sweat on my forehead already. That was not too nice, by the way. Oh.. and no ultrasound pictures for mummy too..
Waiting for the check up after the scan took really long. Finished my other McMuffin while waiting since I was already hungry. It was already past noon and I was still waiting. The Doctor said that I had too much amniotic fluid and that might be a sign of diabetes. So, despite having a negative glucose test in the previous check up, I had to go through another round of glucose test. Both my twins are at about 1.7 and 1.8kg now. Very close to 2kg! Great.. just hang in there for few more weeks..
As they were worried about my high amniotic fluid level that they said might lead to premature labour, they scheduled my next appointment 2 weeks later.
Week 28+ - Detailed Scan at HUKM
Interesting day today. I shall be able to see my twins again.
UNFORTUNATELY, Hubby could not take leave from work and I had to go on my own to HUKM. I went early and reached slightly past 8am but by the time I reached, there was a heavy downpour at HUKM. I wanted to use the Valet Parking service but it was full. So, I had to go for the normal parking. Looking for parking slot took a little time and effort since I had to stop my little car at a spot and hope for a car to leave. Finally.. managed to get a good spot. BUT then, my umbrella was at the car boot! Oh, gosh. I had to push my driver's seat to the back and then climb out of my seat to the back passenger seats to reach for the umbrella. Imagine me with my big belly doing that!
Walked through the heavy rain slowly and went up the long flight of staircase at the parking area as carefully as I could. By the time I reached the building, I was feeling damp all over. My feets were soaking wet.
I waited for about an hour for my turn to scan. Luckily I brought the newspaper along.
When it was my turn, the Sonographer told me that he would have his trainee to scan me for about 15 minutes and then he would do the scan again for me to re-confirm. However, in less than 10 minutes, I was already feeling hot flushes in my cheeks and cold sweat appearing on my forehead! The Sonographer realised that I was too quiet and asked me to take a break. He said that normally for twins pregnancy, Detailed Scan would be done at week 21 and never later than week 24. He had a twin mummy passing out during the scan itself once and he understood very well the burden that I was carrying. It was just too heavy for me to bear while laying flat down.
After the short break, he did the scan himself - Thank God for that! And, he allowed me to lie sideways with raised back instead of flat. He first scanned my little twin boy. My boy was so cooperative, he managed to get all the required details at one go. He even gave me a 3D picture of my boy's face! He looked so much like his Daddy!
Then, he allowed me to go for another break since scanning each baby would take about 30 minutes. Throughout the scan, he kept asking me if I was feeling uncomfortable and needed a break. I was his last patient that morning and he told me that was why he could take his time to finish the scan.
My little twin girl was not as cooperative. The Sonographer tried and tried and even spoke to her but she just refused to turn over him to have a good look at her. After a total of about 45 minutes, he gave up. He said that she was just too active and shy at the same time.
Overall, they were both healthy and actively moving inside. Mummy had too much amniotic fluid which meants Mummy would have to suffer carrying the big belly with extra weight but they were both having fun inside due to the extra space. Hmm.. :)
UNFORTUNATELY, Hubby could not take leave from work and I had to go on my own to HUKM. I went early and reached slightly past 8am but by the time I reached, there was a heavy downpour at HUKM. I wanted to use the Valet Parking service but it was full. So, I had to go for the normal parking. Looking for parking slot took a little time and effort since I had to stop my little car at a spot and hope for a car to leave. Finally.. managed to get a good spot. BUT then, my umbrella was at the car boot! Oh, gosh. I had to push my driver's seat to the back and then climb out of my seat to the back passenger seats to reach for the umbrella. Imagine me with my big belly doing that!
Walked through the heavy rain slowly and went up the long flight of staircase at the parking area as carefully as I could. By the time I reached the building, I was feeling damp all over. My feets were soaking wet.
I waited for about an hour for my turn to scan. Luckily I brought the newspaper along.
When it was my turn, the Sonographer told me that he would have his trainee to scan me for about 15 minutes and then he would do the scan again for me to re-confirm. However, in less than 10 minutes, I was already feeling hot flushes in my cheeks and cold sweat appearing on my forehead! The Sonographer realised that I was too quiet and asked me to take a break. He said that normally for twins pregnancy, Detailed Scan would be done at week 21 and never later than week 24. He had a twin mummy passing out during the scan itself once and he understood very well the burden that I was carrying. It was just too heavy for me to bear while laying flat down.
After the short break, he did the scan himself - Thank God for that! And, he allowed me to lie sideways with raised back instead of flat. He first scanned my little twin boy. My boy was so cooperative, he managed to get all the required details at one go. He even gave me a 3D picture of my boy's face! He looked so much like his Daddy!
Then, he allowed me to go for another break since scanning each baby would take about 30 minutes. Throughout the scan, he kept asking me if I was feeling uncomfortable and needed a break. I was his last patient that morning and he told me that was why he could take his time to finish the scan.
My little twin girl was not as cooperative. The Sonographer tried and tried and even spoke to her but she just refused to turn over him to have a good look at her. After a total of about 45 minutes, he gave up. He said that she was just too active and shy at the same time.
Overall, they were both healthy and actively moving inside. Mummy had too much amniotic fluid which meants Mummy would have to suffer carrying the big belly with extra weight but they were both having fun inside due to the extra space. Hmm.. :)
Friday, March 30, 2012
Week 27 - 1st Prenatal Check Up at HUKM
On 1st of March, 2012, I went to HUKM Obs & Gyn Unit for registration and to make an appointment with the Referral letter from my Gynae. The Nurses seemed quite helpful and set my appointment on the 15th of March, 2012 at 10am. She gave a form for new registration, told me to fill it up and come back again on the 15th of March for my first appointment. She told to come 30 minutes earlier than the appointment time at 10am so that I would not have to wait for too long for my turn. Usual waiting time can be as long as 3-4 hours and if we are lucky, it can be as short as 1 hour only.
15 Mar 2012 - Went to HUKM for my first appointment with Hubby. After dropping my registration form and waiting for about 30 minutes, I was requested to make payment of RM50 for new registration and given a number. Immediately after that, I sat at the area where they measure the blood pressure and weight. Soon, it was my turn. Blood pressure good.. Weight.. Hmm.. 69.5kg. Then, went for urine check. Had to take our own container from a small window before the toilet, pee in it, bring it to the small window again to be tested. Glucose and protein okay. Washed the container and threw it into a bin for 'Hazardous Biological Waste'.
After that we waited for my turn to do the Ultrasound. Since this is my first time at HUKM, I was asked to do ultrasound. After about 30-45 minutes, finally it was our turn. Hubby entered the room with me. The sonographer kept asking me if I have 1 or 2 placenta and I kept telling her that I am having a boy and a girl. Should obviously be 2 placenta then. Till the end, she was still unsure and had to ask a colleague in to confirm. Laying down flat for the ultrasound was really difficult for me. I was already having cold sweats and gas was building up in my tummy. I just had to let go some gas in the worst manner possible immediately when I stood up. Hubby gave me a weird look (>.<).
Another long wait outside the Doctor's room. Since Hubby was allowed to go in for the ultrasound, we thought that he could also join me in the Doctor's room BUT NO. There were 2 Doctors in the room, each with their own patient. So, for privacy, Hubbies were not allowed into the room. The Doctor seemed pretty young. She asked me a few questions and then examined my belly. Then, requested that I take the Glucose Test and do Detailed Scan. These are so-called standard procedures for twins pregnancy. Glucose Test was scheduled on the 26th of March and Detailed Scan on the 27th of March. I am to see her or her team's Doctor on the 12th of April, 2012.
Overall experience? Not too bad, all staffs are friendly and helpful so far. They are also willing to explain patiently whenever I ask any questions. Just too crowded but.. no reason not to be crowded, it is a government hospital. Why not?...
15 Mar 2012 - Went to HUKM for my first appointment with Hubby. After dropping my registration form and waiting for about 30 minutes, I was requested to make payment of RM50 for new registration and given a number. Immediately after that, I sat at the area where they measure the blood pressure and weight. Soon, it was my turn. Blood pressure good.. Weight.. Hmm.. 69.5kg. Then, went for urine check. Had to take our own container from a small window before the toilet, pee in it, bring it to the small window again to be tested. Glucose and protein okay. Washed the container and threw it into a bin for 'Hazardous Biological Waste'.
After that we waited for my turn to do the Ultrasound. Since this is my first time at HUKM, I was asked to do ultrasound. After about 30-45 minutes, finally it was our turn. Hubby entered the room with me. The sonographer kept asking me if I have 1 or 2 placenta and I kept telling her that I am having a boy and a girl. Should obviously be 2 placenta then. Till the end, she was still unsure and had to ask a colleague in to confirm. Laying down flat for the ultrasound was really difficult for me. I was already having cold sweats and gas was building up in my tummy. I just had to let go some gas in the worst manner possible immediately when I stood up. Hubby gave me a weird look (>.<).
Another long wait outside the Doctor's room. Since Hubby was allowed to go in for the ultrasound, we thought that he could also join me in the Doctor's room BUT NO. There were 2 Doctors in the room, each with their own patient. So, for privacy, Hubbies were not allowed into the room. The Doctor seemed pretty young. She asked me a few questions and then examined my belly. Then, requested that I take the Glucose Test and do Detailed Scan. These are so-called standard procedures for twins pregnancy. Glucose Test was scheduled on the 26th of March and Detailed Scan on the 27th of March. I am to see her or her team's Doctor on the 12th of April, 2012.
Overall experience? Not too bad, all staffs are friendly and helpful so far. They are also willing to explain patiently whenever I ask any questions. Just too crowded but.. no reason not to be crowded, it is a government hospital. Why not?...
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Week 24 - Check Up at Pantai Cheras
This month, Mummy weighed 67kg at the clinic (but at home, the scale was only showing 65). Got a comment from the Nurse, "Wah.. Manyak gemuk.." What a comment but I could not blame her. I put on 7kg this time based on their records. This round I could not blame the festive season for the extra weight since it was history.
Ultrasound scan showed that my girl was about 735g whereas my boy was about 635g. Doctor mentioned that the weight difference was okay. However, I only got the ultrasound picture for my boy. Was not able to get my girls' because of her position.
I got a referral letter from Doctor so that I could go to HUKM for my subsequent check ups. Doctor was very neutral on our decision to consider delivering at HUKM. He even advised to go for the fully government and not the private UKM since we stated cost of delivery as a reason for the consideration. I fully agreed since the private wing of UKM's cost could easily matched my own Doctor's. If so, no reason for me to change my Doctor.
Ultrasound scan showed that my girl was about 735g whereas my boy was about 635g. Doctor mentioned that the weight difference was okay. However, I only got the ultrasound picture for my boy. Was not able to get my girls' because of her position.
I got a referral letter from Doctor so that I could go to HUKM for my subsequent check ups. Doctor was very neutral on our decision to consider delivering at HUKM. He even advised to go for the fully government and not the private UKM since we stated cost of delivery as a reason for the consideration. I fully agreed since the private wing of UKM's cost could easily matched my own Doctor's. If so, no reason for me to change my Doctor.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Confinement Food Catering in Cheras
After I deliver my twins, my confinement will be done in Melaka by my own Mother. She will be providing me with warm shelter, good nutritious food and not forgetting, love and care for the twins. This will be only for a period of 30 days until I am back in Cheras, Selangor for the Full Moon party of the little ones. Of course I have to be back to my Hubby's hometown where his parents are to celebrate this special day.
But, I have an intention to extend my confinement diet up to 40 days at least. I realized the last time, right after my 30 confinement days at home in Melaka, I was a total mess upon returning to Selangor. Still busy working on my breastfeeding skills and also of course, still feeling tired like I never rested at all since the day I delivered Little Jen... And, the food.. normal daily meals tasted bland to me. I barely ate until days after when my appetite came back. BUT I found confinement food like pork trotters in black vinegar really appetizing. With twins this time, all the more I need to take care of myself.. and food is just too important to me (I enjoy eating and hmm.. I can eat).
So, now that I am 27 weeks pregnant, I am searching for some food catering options. Found the following from this link - http://www.malaysiabrides.com/forum/index.php/topic/16166-list-of-confinement-centers-and-food-caterers/:
Lovely Mom Centre, lovelymomcentre@gmail.com, , 220-1125, 229-1105.
Address: No. 50-1, Jalan Temenggung 17/9, Section 9, Bandar Mahkota Cheras.
Huey Huay Confinement Services, ,
Address: No. 48, Jalan SR 8/12, Tmn Serdang Raya, 43300 Seri Kembangan.
SHL Care Confinement Cares www.shlcares.com
Location: Metro Prima, Kepong
Tel: 603-6251 6133 (Joean)
Address: No. 50-1, Jalan Temenggung 17/9, Section 9, Bandar Mahkota Cheras.
Huey Huay Confinement Services, ,
Address: No. 48, Jalan SR 8/12, Tmn Serdang Raya, 43300 Seri Kembangan.
SHL Care Confinement Cares www.shlcares.com
Location: Metro Prima, Kepong
Tel: 603-6251 6133 (Joean)
SN-Nanny
Location: Sri Petaling
Tel: 6012-933 8353 or email at kazyiau@gmail.com
Location: Sri Petaling
Tel: 6012-933 8353 or email at kazyiau@gmail.com
Shall try inquiring if they can provide catering for only 10 days.. :)
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Ardo Calypso Dual Breast Pump Will be Back!
Haha.. I finally got a reply from Ardo. Sent a general inquiry to their website to check on the status of the Ardo Calypso Dual Pump. And, YES, they are upgrading the pump and it will be making a come-back in April. However, since the look will remain the same and the difference will be internal, the manufacturer requested to check with them first before actual purchase to ensure that we are getting the latest model.
April, I can wait since it is not too late. I will be due by end May or early June for my twins. So, enough time to get all this settled before I get busy with the twins.. :)
April, I can wait since it is not too late. I will be due by end May or early June for my twins. So, enough time to get all this settled before I get busy with the twins.. :)
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Ameda vs Avent, Medela, Ardo and Online Retailers Price Review
Visited the Motherhood 2012 expo at KLCC last weekend. Interestingly, Avent ISIS Duo was selling at RM1499 with free gifts i.e Avent's Children Meal set and etc.. I really liked my Avent UNO Pump and so, since I am having twins, naturally, I will want to have the electric double pump from Avent. I got the green light from Hubby and went to the booth again, this time to purchase the set. However, after feeling how heavy the pump was I changed my mind. It was just too heavy for me to carry (I am 6 months pregnant with twins, BTW).
It is just out of my consideration for now since in the long term (I plan to breastfeed my twins for 2 years), I need a double pump which is portable enough for me to carry during weekly business visits and on board flights. With a 5kg pump and a 5kg laptop, I will surely exceed the cabin luggage weight limit, 7kg.
So, next in mind.. Ardo Calypso. Wonderful pump with great comments. BUT heard from a retailer that this model has been discontinued and almost all the online retailers no longer have any units available. Based on comments, it seems comparable to Medela Freestyle at just half the price. It is also light and even quieter than Medela Freestyle.
Why not Medela Freestyle? Hmm.. considering the fact that it is so expensive and also the problem with the possibility of milk getting into the tubes/pump since it is an open system, not at the moment.
Medela PISA or Pump In Style Advance - No, same reason. Cause it is an open system and equally bulky compared to Avent ISIS Duo, maybe only half the total weight but still BULKY for me.
Medela PISA or Pump In Style Advance - No, same reason. Cause it is an open system and equally bulky compared to Avent ISIS Duo, maybe only half the total weight but still BULKY for me.
Too bad.. so now, next... AMEDA LACTALINE DUAL. Closed system, weight is great, price is right! Breastfeeding twins even for only 6 months can easily return the cash I invest in the pump. PERFECT BUT, fussy Mummy here is not too in favour of the design. Turning the dials/knobs on the pump seems too technical although this is actually an advantage over Medela cause instead of fixed suction power/frequency. It is totally adjustable. It comes with battery and power adaptors, great for me since I may pump at weird places. Oh.. the knobs/dials make the pump look a little flimsy too but again, this is not a problem since it comes with manual pump as well and warranty is 1 year, just in case it fails me.
After all consideration, still Ameda is best so far. Wish they change the knobs/dial to some kind of button (>.<).
Looked though the online retailers and found the following:
- Little Whiz
- One Baby World
- Blessed Mum
- Little Baby Ville
- The Baby Loft
- Enjoy Breastfeed
- Mom's Little One
- Fabulous Mom
Prices range from RM750 to RM965 from the above. All except 2 offer free gifts i.e. breastmilk storage bottles, bags, ice packs, etc.. Just got to compare and decide now.
Since warranty starts from the time of purchase except for 1 (This is a little weird since it is the only one that allows warranty to start from baby's DOB and even weirder is that it is also the only one that will charge RM20 if we request that the pump to be sent to Ameda's service center.. Why?), I shall buy at the very final stage of my pregnancy.. :)
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Government or Private Hospital..
Have chatted with a few Mummies on an online forum regarding their C-Sect experience with HUKM. Glad to hear some good comments as in the stitches were great and they had fully support and guidance to breastfeed their newborns after deliveries.
A Medical student that graduated from UKM commented that only Doctors were allowed to handle C-Sect whereas Medical students were only allowed to assist in normal deliveries. If this is true, hmm.. there should not be any harm in trying out for a C-Sect at HUKM.
Anyway, having twins is a good enough reason to be classified as a high risk case, I guess.
This Saturday shall get a referral letter from my Gynae. Then, next week, shall go to HUKM to register and make an appointment. They do not accept walk-in cases, according to the nurse on the other line. >.<
A Medical student that graduated from UKM commented that only Doctors were allowed to handle C-Sect whereas Medical students were only allowed to assist in normal deliveries. If this is true, hmm.. there should not be any harm in trying out for a C-Sect at HUKM.
Anyway, having twins is a good enough reason to be classified as a high risk case, I guess.
This Saturday shall get a referral letter from my Gynae. Then, next week, shall go to HUKM to register and make an appointment. They do not accept walk-in cases, according to the nurse on the other line. >.<
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Twins via C-Sect - Where to deliver?
Headache.. Now that I am a month away from my 3rd trimester, I am really taking into consideration the cost for delivery of the twins. My Doc at Pantai Cheras is great and has been taking good care of me and my precious twins. However, the total cost for delivery via C-Sect is really a mind-boggling issue.
We paid about RM7000 for my C-Sect including a 3 days, 2 nights stay, medicine, baby care and lab testings when I delivered Little Jen in 2010. It was a planned C-Sect and all went smoothly. This time with twins, we are just afraid that the bill may be really high. At least we know that the cost will not be double unless if any of us need any special care/treatment.
Checked with HUKM today and the cost of delivery via C-Sect for twins will be RM1855 all-in. From my tele-conversation with the nurse on the other line, the drawbacks of delivering there to my opinion are (1) You will get a team of Doctors to attend to you instead of one personal Doctor and (2) Visitors including Hubby are only allowed to visit during visiting hours. The good thing is that Hubby can be with me during C-Sect. Forgot to ask about trainees being present during delivery..
The private wing of UKM, UKM Specialist Center on the other hand allow visitors at all time and patients are allowed to choose their Doctor depending on availability. No trainees will attend to Mummies and Mummies will only be attended by Doc and nurses. The cost for C-Sect to deliver twins - RM6000-7000, provided it is a normal C-Sect without any complications. In case of any need to admit the babies to the NICU, they will be sent to HUKM. UKM Specialist Centre does not have their own NICU facilities.
Hmm.. I shall have to discuss with my Doc on the estimated cost when I see him next.. this Saturday!
We paid about RM7000 for my C-Sect including a 3 days, 2 nights stay, medicine, baby care and lab testings when I delivered Little Jen in 2010. It was a planned C-Sect and all went smoothly. This time with twins, we are just afraid that the bill may be really high. At least we know that the cost will not be double unless if any of us need any special care/treatment.
Checked with HUKM today and the cost of delivery via C-Sect for twins will be RM1855 all-in. From my tele-conversation with the nurse on the other line, the drawbacks of delivering there to my opinion are (1) You will get a team of Doctors to attend to you instead of one personal Doctor and (2) Visitors including Hubby are only allowed to visit during visiting hours. The good thing is that Hubby can be with me during C-Sect. Forgot to ask about trainees being present during delivery..
The private wing of UKM, UKM Specialist Center on the other hand allow visitors at all time and patients are allowed to choose their Doctor depending on availability. No trainees will attend to Mummies and Mummies will only be attended by Doc and nurses. The cost for C-Sect to deliver twins - RM6000-7000, provided it is a normal C-Sect without any complications. In case of any need to admit the babies to the NICU, they will be sent to HUKM. UKM Specialist Centre does not have their own NICU facilities.
Hmm.. I shall have to discuss with my Doc on the estimated cost when I see him next.. this Saturday!
Breastpumps.. What to Choose?
With all the emphasis on the importance and benefits of breastfeeding, many new mummies are opting to breastfeed rather than feeding their precious ones with formula milk. Same goes to me.. I breastfed my Little Jen exclusively for 6 months and then continued until 8 months after which I started him on formula milk during the day. Being a working Mummy, my pump was my best friend especially during the first 8 months. I survived with a single electronic Avent UNO pump.
Now that i am expecting twins, I am not too sure if I can cope with only a single electric pump. I had to pump both sides every 4-5 hours and each side would take up to 10-15 minutes to reach the 5 oz mark. Each pumping session would take about 20-30 mins. On good days, I could complete the pumping within maybe 15 mins. For twins, I shall have to double the time and effort but I am not too sure if I can stand spending so much time 'milking' myself. It sounds almost impossible with a single pump.
With a dual pump, I can pump both sides simultaneously and may just have 20 oz within a good 20-30 mins. This means I can focus more on my work or just reward myself with more rest time.
To know whether a single or dual pump is better is easy and here comes the difficult part...
The single Avent pump costed me RM899 when I bought in 2010. A dual pump now can easily cost me more than RM2000. It may be worth the price if you compare the price tag with the total cost for formula milk 6 months to a year down the road, for twins. BUT, I still think it is really pricey.
To buy a new unit from US sounds like a good option, since the price is less than half the local price of Avent Duo. BUT.. my Avent Uno broke down once right after 1.5 months of heavy pumping. I had to send it to the service center in Damansara and lived with the manual pump for a whole month. I have to think twice about buying an imported unit without any local warranty.
A friend I knew from an online social network suggested me to try Ardo Calypso. She commented that it was better than Ameda and quieter than Medela. From online search, it seems like the service center is the same as Ameda's and no bad comments on the service. This is a closed system, so, less likely the milk will get into the pump system and get contaminated or cause contamination.
The price? Less than RM1000 for the dual pump.
Looking forward to seeing the real thing during the coming Motherhood 2012 expo at KLCC this 24-26 Feb. Hopefully I can see the display set.. :-)
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