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.
Showing posts with label Breastfeeding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Breastfeeding. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
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.
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, 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..
Friday, March 30, 2012
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.. :)
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
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.. :-)
Sunday, September 11, 2011
KL - Jusco, Mid Valley Nursing Room
If I recall correctly, there were Nursing Rooms located on both the 2nd and 1st Floor of Jusco in Mid Valley Megamall. I went to the 2nd Floor when Little Jen started to fuss for milk. They renovated the toilet and the Nursing Room there was gone. It is okay, I thought since there was supposed to be another in the 1st Floor where the Baby Department was.
Rushed to the 1st Floor and the toilet was renovated too. Very pretty indeed.. BUT, the 2 Nursing Rooms were occupied. AND, the sofa that used to be at the powder room was also gone! I have my Nursing Cover with me but knowing Little Jen a little too well, he would kick and pull it so that he could see better and breathe better too. So, I had to settle for nursing in one of the toilet cubicles. Good thing, since the toilet was new, it was clean and the 'scent'was tolerable. However, I had to stand while nursing him. It was heavy and not comfortable at all.
I then pulled Litttle Jen away and of course, he shouted for more and in anger. Went again to the Nursing Rooms and they were still occupied. I saw a lady feeding a baby who was in a trolley. Hmm, obviously she was not breastfeeding. I felt a little angry since the Mummy occupied the room which was meant for breastfeeding cause we obviously needed more privacy. I asked to 'tumpang' and there I went, seated in a corner to nurse Little Jen. Another lady came in and tried to breastfeed her baby too. The baby started crying. Little Jen lost focus and did not want to nurse anymore. So, we both went away to find Daddy outside.
Rushed to the 1st Floor and the toilet was renovated too. Very pretty indeed.. BUT, the 2 Nursing Rooms were occupied. AND, the sofa that used to be at the powder room was also gone! I have my Nursing Cover with me but knowing Little Jen a little too well, he would kick and pull it so that he could see better and breathe better too. So, I had to settle for nursing in one of the toilet cubicles. Good thing, since the toilet was new, it was clean and the 'scent'was tolerable. However, I had to stand while nursing him. It was heavy and not comfortable at all.
I then pulled Litttle Jen away and of course, he shouted for more and in anger. Went again to the Nursing Rooms and they were still occupied. I saw a lady feeding a baby who was in a trolley. Hmm, obviously she was not breastfeeding. I felt a little angry since the Mummy occupied the room which was meant for breastfeeding cause we obviously needed more privacy. I asked to 'tumpang' and there I went, seated in a corner to nurse Little Jen. Another lady came in and tried to breastfeed her baby too. The baby started crying. Little Jen lost focus and did not want to nurse anymore. So, we both went away to find Daddy outside.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
TRAGEDY AS BREASTFEEDING MOTHER SMOTHERS BABY AFTER FALLING ASLEEP ON JET
The article below is from Daily Mail at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1232265/Breastfeeding-mum-smothers-baby-jet-falling-asleep.html. During the recent talkshow on Breastfeeding, it was stressed that Mummies will not suffocate their babies during breastfeeding even when lying down together with their baby. I am more subjective on this matter.
If babies are breastfed in the correct manner, the breast should not in anyway obstruct their nose. This is basic knowledge and a skill to be learned by breastfeeding mummies. During breastfeeding, mummies will generally feel sleepy due to the release of a sleep-inducing hormine for both mummies and babies. Hence, I still believe that it is good to take precaution and ensure that the baby is okay from time to time in a breastfeeding session. A session may last for even as long as half an hour to an hour and mummies especially in the first 2 months will be really exahusted as well due to childbirth, loss of blood and the demanding round the clock nursing schedule.
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 2:27 PM on 2nd December 2009
The plane, which was over the Atlantic at 33,000ft, was diverted to London's Heathrow airport just before 10am, where police boarded. The baby girl was rushed to Hillingdon Hospital, a spokesman told the Daily Mail. However she was pronounced dead on arrival at 10.35am. Three days later a post-mortem was performed on her at the Great Ormond St Hospital in London.
Police are still awaiting the results of that. In the meantime, the spokesman said, the death is being treated as 'unexplained'. No arrests have been made in the tragic incident.
A police source told The Sun: 'This appears to be a tragic accident. The girl comes from a loving family. 'Her mum was going to Kuwait to show her to relatives.'
It is not known if the woman was travelling with anyone other than her child.
Officers from Scotland Yard's Child Abuse Investigation Team are now dealing with the incident.
In 2004, Briton Lisa Briggs smothered her baby as they slept less than three years after losing another child to a similar tragedy.
Miss Briggs, 23, fell asleep while feeding five-week-old Keitha and woke in the morning to find her lifeless by her side.
Miss Briggs had lost her four-week-old daughter Cerese in identical circumstances.
However the Royal College of Midwives said in 2006 there are some benefits for breastfeeding mothers to share a bed with their babies, and a blanket message advising them not to do it could be counter-productive.
Melanie Every, a regional manager for the Royal College, said: 'We know that there are many, many cultures and many, many women who will continue to share beds with their babies, even when they are advised not to do it. 'Now, knowing that, it's important to give them advice on the safest possible way of doing it, rather than just saying don't do it.'
Babies can die of suffocation when their airways are obstructed by lying against their mother - a phenomenon known as 'overlying'.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1232265/Breastfeeding-mum-smothers-baby-jet-falling-asleep.html#ixzz1U1wsKGE0
If babies are breastfed in the correct manner, the breast should not in anyway obstruct their nose. This is basic knowledge and a skill to be learned by breastfeeding mummies. During breastfeeding, mummies will generally feel sleepy due to the release of a sleep-inducing hormine for both mummies and babies. Hence, I still believe that it is good to take precaution and ensure that the baby is okay from time to time in a breastfeeding session. A session may last for even as long as half an hour to an hour and mummies especially in the first 2 months will be really exahusted as well due to childbirth, loss of blood and the demanding round the clock nursing schedule.
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 2:27 PM on 2nd December 2009
The tragedy occurred on a Kuwait-bound United Airlines jet, which was diverted to London's Heathrow. A mother accidentally smothered her baby daughter to death on a flight after she fell asleep while breastfeeding. The four-week-old girl was travelling with her Egyptian mother from Washington DC to Kuwait when the tragedy occurred on November 24. Crew on the United Airlines jet were alerted by the 29-year-old mother's screams. A doctor travelling on the plane tried unsuccessfully to revive the baby.
The plane, which was over the Atlantic at 33,000ft, was diverted to London's Heathrow airport just before 10am, where police boarded. The baby girl was rushed to Hillingdon Hospital, a spokesman told the Daily Mail. However she was pronounced dead on arrival at 10.35am. Three days later a post-mortem was performed on her at the Great Ormond St Hospital in London.
Police are still awaiting the results of that. In the meantime, the spokesman said, the death is being treated as 'unexplained'. No arrests have been made in the tragic incident.
A police source told The Sun: 'This appears to be a tragic accident. The girl comes from a loving family. 'Her mum was going to Kuwait to show her to relatives.'
It is not known if the woman was travelling with anyone other than her child.
Officers from Scotland Yard's Child Abuse Investigation Team are now dealing with the incident.
In 2004, Briton Lisa Briggs smothered her baby as they slept less than three years after losing another child to a similar tragedy.
Miss Briggs, 23, fell asleep while feeding five-week-old Keitha and woke in the morning to find her lifeless by her side.
Miss Briggs had lost her four-week-old daughter Cerese in identical circumstances.
However the Royal College of Midwives said in 2006 there are some benefits for breastfeeding mothers to share a bed with their babies, and a blanket message advising them not to do it could be counter-productive.
Melanie Every, a regional manager for the Royal College, said: 'We know that there are many, many cultures and many, many women who will continue to share beds with their babies, even when they are advised not to do it. 'Now, knowing that, it's important to give them advice on the safest possible way of doing it, rather than just saying don't do it.'
Babies can die of suffocation when their airways are obstructed by lying against their mother - a phenomenon known as 'overlying'.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1232265/Breastfeeding-mum-smothers-baby-jet-falling-asleep.html#ixzz1U1wsKGE0
Monday, August 1, 2011
Experience on What Say You - RTM, TV2
9.30am
Morning, Little Jen. How nice of you to wake Mummy up while Mummy is still dreaming of all things sweet. Oh no, Little Jen, why did you pee on the floor.. Okay, come, let Mummy bathe you.
11.30am
Breakfast taken and time for myself to take a bath.
1.00pm
I must admit that I am not a real stylo, my hair was last trimmed and coloured more than 6 months ago. Now looking so dull and flat, I have to get a hair cut and a good hair wash. Once in a while must splurge on good hair wash and scalp massage session, it is worthwhile as all the stress will go down the drain too. Mico in Balakong charged me RM45 for a cut, wash and blow session. No charge for the little hair setting done.
2.00pm
Done with hair wash. Okay, one more last thing, my eyebrows. I get them trimmed too at a beauty salon nearby the hair salon. Hopefully I learn the trick to trim them myself very soon.
2.45pm
Home again and Buzzy Mummy is hungry. Instant Penang Har Mee is the solution. Feels yummy to the tummy and the portion is just nice.
3.15pm
Pat pat a little powder and mascara. Ready to go.
4.00pm
Reach RTM and go straight into Wisma TV. No one is at the Reception area. Hmm, there are 2 little girls at a nearby table. They lead me to another guy. The guy directs me into the make up room. The room is so well-lit with so many mirrors. The lady being made-up looks familiar. Oh, why not, she is the Host of the Talk Show.
The guy Host walks into the room soon after I reached. His heavily pregnant wife is around too.
A young lady walks in and introduces herself as Stella. Stella lead me to the waiting room where there are some refreshment available. Dr. Koe goes into the room the same time as me. She seems so enthusiastic. Later, I get my make up and my hair is made slightly curled up. Nice..
5.00pm
Time to get the video camera rolling. The whole session is quite relaxing except for some parts where my misconceptions or rather my strong opinion are being corrected by Dr. Koe, the Lactaton Consultant and Lily, the founder of Anggugu.com. Hmm.. for some, I still trust my own judgement. The whole discussion makes me feel like Breastfeeding is really subjective and nothing to be judgemental about.
6.15pm
It is over and time to go home. Hubby and Little Jen are happily waiting for me outside the house. Not a bad day after all.. the next day will be another normal day.. (*smile*).
Morning, Little Jen. How nice of you to wake Mummy up while Mummy is still dreaming of all things sweet. Oh no, Little Jen, why did you pee on the floor.. Okay, come, let Mummy bathe you.
11.30am
Breakfast taken and time for myself to take a bath.
1.00pm
I must admit that I am not a real stylo, my hair was last trimmed and coloured more than 6 months ago. Now looking so dull and flat, I have to get a hair cut and a good hair wash. Once in a while must splurge on good hair wash and scalp massage session, it is worthwhile as all the stress will go down the drain too. Mico in Balakong charged me RM45 for a cut, wash and blow session. No charge for the little hair setting done.
2.00pm
Done with hair wash. Okay, one more last thing, my eyebrows. I get them trimmed too at a beauty salon nearby the hair salon. Hopefully I learn the trick to trim them myself very soon.
2.45pm
Home again and Buzzy Mummy is hungry. Instant Penang Har Mee is the solution. Feels yummy to the tummy and the portion is just nice.
3.15pm
Pat pat a little powder and mascara. Ready to go.
4.00pm
Reach RTM and go straight into Wisma TV. No one is at the Reception area. Hmm, there are 2 little girls at a nearby table. They lead me to another guy. The guy directs me into the make up room. The room is so well-lit with so many mirrors. The lady being made-up looks familiar. Oh, why not, she is the Host of the Talk Show.
The guy Host walks into the room soon after I reached. His heavily pregnant wife is around too.
A young lady walks in and introduces herself as Stella. Stella lead me to the waiting room where there are some refreshment available. Dr. Koe goes into the room the same time as me. She seems so enthusiastic. Later, I get my make up and my hair is made slightly curled up. Nice..
5.00pm
Time to get the video camera rolling. The whole session is quite relaxing except for some parts where my misconceptions or rather my strong opinion are being corrected by Dr. Koe, the Lactaton Consultant and Lily, the founder of Anggugu.com. Hmm.. for some, I still trust my own judgement. The whole discussion makes me feel like Breastfeeding is really subjective and nothing to be judgemental about.
6.15pm
It is over and time to go home. Hubby and Little Jen are happily waiting for me outside the house. Not a bad day after all.. the next day will be another normal day.. (*smile*).
World Breastfeeding Week 2011 @ 1-7 August 2011
This year's theme for WBW is "Talk to me! Breastfeeding - a 3D Experience".
As reflected by the theme, communication is encouraged for better breastfeeding awareness and knowledge especially between different generations, sectors, genders, and culture. This encourages the sharing of knowledge and experience, thus enabling wider outreach.
I agree with the problem on the knowledge sharing aspect especially for new mummies trying to get hold of breastfeeding especially before they have the chance to experience themselves since they are usually in their pre-natal stage and also in the first few days after giving birth to their bundle of joy. I myself was one of these mummies too slightly more than a year ago.
As communication is an essential part of protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, I am sharing my experience and knowledge as a normal working Mummy trying to juggle breastfeeding with family, work and my very own self. It is true experience and I am not painting the picture of a bed of roses for you. It is definitely not as easy as it seems.
Naturally yes, Mummies are to breastfeed their babies but it is a path full of potholes and water puddles. Once you get a hang of it by getting more information beforehand and being persistent especially during the first month of breastfeeding, you will very soon be cruising on 5th gear!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Buzzy Mummy on What Say You on RTM - TV2
Buzzy Mummy will be appearing on the talk show focusing on current issues and this time, it will be on Breastfeeding. The live talk show will be on 31 July 2011 at 5pm. There will be a Doctor and a Lactation Consultant together with Buzzy Mummy as the Working Mum as the panel of guests.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Little Jen Diarrhoea for 3 days
Poor Little Jen.. He cried so loudly on Friday night all out of a sudden when he was nursing in the car. We were travelling from KL to Melaka and it was already about 10pm. I could usually calm him down with just some soothing pats or songs but this time, he cried so loudly and seemed to be in pain. Hubby asked if he was crying cause his diaper was soaked.
Oh ya, then I recalled. His butt was reddish earlier in the evening and just minutes ago, he sounded like he pooped. He was having nappy rash and the poop made his butt really sore. I immediately took out his diaper and he calmed down a little but was still crying. Wiped and just as I was about to put on a new diaper for him, he started crying out loud again. Since it was near home already, I did not proceed with his diaper.
Once we reached home, I found that his butt was much redder than before. Applied a nappy rash cream for him and put on a fresh cloth nappy for him. He did not make any noise this time when I put on the cloth nappy for him except when I was applying the nappy rash cream on his butt and in between his thigh and groin. Obviously cloth nappy was much more comfortable since it was softer than a diaper.
The next few days, I noticed he had diarrhoea. Well, I couldn's have noticed earlier since I was not taking care of him during the day as I worked. Tried to nurse him more to soothe his pain a little although my supply had been really low since I had started to wean him off completely 2-3 months ago. I wanted to nurse him since breastmilk is the best - it provides him with antibody and is definitely gentle on his tummy.
We fed him with solid food only as much as he wanted to take. Water was given every now and then since he had lost quite alot of fluid. His poop was liquid, dark green in colour and he pooped about 4-5 times a day instead of his normal 2-3 times. All the while, he worn cloth nappy.
Unless his diarrhoea was gone, there was no way he could avoid nappy rash as his nappy was wet almost all the time due to his diarrhoea and pee. By Day 3, his butt was looking better and by Day 4, he pooped normally and his nappy rash was completely headled.
Oh ya, then I recalled. His butt was reddish earlier in the evening and just minutes ago, he sounded like he pooped. He was having nappy rash and the poop made his butt really sore. I immediately took out his diaper and he calmed down a little but was still crying. Wiped and just as I was about to put on a new diaper for him, he started crying out loud again. Since it was near home already, I did not proceed with his diaper.
Once we reached home, I found that his butt was much redder than before. Applied a nappy rash cream for him and put on a fresh cloth nappy for him. He did not make any noise this time when I put on the cloth nappy for him except when I was applying the nappy rash cream on his butt and in between his thigh and groin. Obviously cloth nappy was much more comfortable since it was softer than a diaper.
The next few days, I noticed he had diarrhoea. Well, I couldn's have noticed earlier since I was not taking care of him during the day as I worked. Tried to nurse him more to soothe his pain a little although my supply had been really low since I had started to wean him off completely 2-3 months ago. I wanted to nurse him since breastmilk is the best - it provides him with antibody and is definitely gentle on his tummy.
We fed him with solid food only as much as he wanted to take. Water was given every now and then since he had lost quite alot of fluid. His poop was liquid, dark green in colour and he pooped about 4-5 times a day instead of his normal 2-3 times. All the while, he worn cloth nappy.
Unless his diarrhoea was gone, there was no way he could avoid nappy rash as his nappy was wet almost all the time due to his diarrhoea and pee. By Day 3, his butt was looking better and by Day 4, he pooped normally and his nappy rash was completely headled.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Breastfeeding After 1 Year
Yes, Little Jen is already 1 Year 1 Week and 5 Days old and I am still breastfeeding him. Since he turned 7-8 months old, I had dropped all the day feedings and substituted with formula milk. Until now, I am still doing that but I have been trying hard to stop nursing him. It was not due to the pain during engorgement that made me nurse him. It is simply because it just feels right for a Mummy to provide the best nutrients for her little one.
By the way, recently, I have tried a little harder to stop nursing and my milk supply obviously reduced quite a lot. I am not feeling engorged by about 6pm although the last nursing was done in the morning at about 8am. It takes a lot of determination to stop nursing.
Now that I passed the 1 Year mark eventhough I only nurse at night, I do not think it is that easy to lose my milk supply unless if I really do not want to nurse Little Jen. However, this is really individual, some Mummies are really not able to maintain their supply if they do not constantly pump or nurse throughout the day. I am thankful to be able to relax on breastfeeding and still provide comfort to Little Jen.
By the way, recently, I have tried a little harder to stop nursing and my milk supply obviously reduced quite a lot. I am not feeling engorged by about 6pm although the last nursing was done in the morning at about 8am. It takes a lot of determination to stop nursing.
Now that I passed the 1 Year mark eventhough I only nurse at night, I do not think it is that easy to lose my milk supply unless if I really do not want to nurse Little Jen. However, this is really individual, some Mummies are really not able to maintain their supply if they do not constantly pump or nurse throughout the day. I am thankful to be able to relax on breastfeeding and still provide comfort to Little Jen.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Travelling to Penang - Day 4
Last night, Day 3 in Penang, I was reluctant to pump at night when I was supposed to. I wanted to pump in the morning so that the milk would be fresher. This morning, Day 4, I am feeling horrible engorgement which costed me a good night of sleep and a lot of youth (*wink*). I pump as usual but not much milk is released from the ducts and I guess I shall have to bear with the engorgement until the end of the day, hopefully, by then, I shall be in the mood to have 'milk let down'.
To be on the safe side, I bring my pump out along with me for comfort, at least I know that I have my equipments handy whenever I need them. Hopefully, I can manage to stand the pain until end of the day!
To be on the safe side, I bring my pump out along with me for comfort, at least I know that I have my equipments handy whenever I need them. Hopefully, I can manage to stand the pain until end of the day!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Travelling to Penang - Day 3
Counting down, 3 more days, exactly 72 hours or less, I shall be home. This means I can keep expressed breast milk (EBM) chilled and then store them in the freezer once I reach home. No more throwing away all the good nutrients my Little Jen has been missing. I sterilise the equipments with boiling hot water and then after pumping, I keep the EBM in the pre-stesterilized bags in the minibar.
Unfortunately, the minibar is not cold enough to freeze my molten ice packs. Thankfully, I have friends in Penang and my friends are kind enough to help. The ice packs are left at my friend's place to freeze and I shall collect them when we meet tomorrow night. Thanks a lot, buddies!
Unfortunately, the minibar is not cold enough to freeze my molten ice packs. Thankfully, I have friends in Penang and my friends are kind enough to help. The ice packs are left at my friend's place to freeze and I shall collect them when we meet tomorrow night. Thanks a lot, buddies!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Travelling to Penang - Day 2
Today is my second day away from Little Jen and Hubby. I just done pumping a total of 5oz and again, this will have to go down the drain. Chilled expressed breast milk (EBM) has to be consumed within 3 days from expression but there is no way my Little Jen will have access to this EBM. I will only be back after another 3 days of travelling.
Mummy is really tired and really missing Little Jen. Daddy put on the webcam and had Mummy on but seemed like Little Jen could not recognise Mummy's face or voice at all. He showed not reactions. Probably the resolution was too poor and the sound was too different. Little Jen could not have forgotten Mummy, I am sure (*smile*).
Mummy is really tired and really missing Little Jen. Daddy put on the webcam and had Mummy on but seemed like Little Jen could not recognise Mummy's face or voice at all. He showed not reactions. Probably the resolution was too poor and the sound was too different. Little Jen could not have forgotten Mummy, I am sure (*smile*).
Friday, April 22, 2011
Little Jen on Formula Milk during day time
I had completely stopped nursing or expressing breast milk for Little Jen between 8am to 6pm in the evening since he was 8 and a half months old. He relied on the expressed breast milk stored in the fridge for more than a month and finally he finished the last pack. So, now, I am buying him S-26 formula milk for 6-12 months old.
During his stay in the nursery right on his first few days out of the womb, he was fed with that particular brand of milk. No allergies and discomfort. So, shall be buying that for him until he can take cow's milk which is A LOT MORE ECONOMICAL. One large can of S-26 only lasts him for less than 2 weeks, and mind you, he only takes formula milk between 8am to 6pm, which is about 4 feedings in total.
Good thing he was exclusively breastfed in the first 6 months and then continued with EBM during the day and nursing at night for the following 4 months. That is a lot of savings!
During his stay in the nursery right on his first few days out of the womb, he was fed with that particular brand of milk. No allergies and discomfort. So, shall be buying that for him until he can take cow's milk which is A LOT MORE ECONOMICAL. One large can of S-26 only lasts him for less than 2 weeks, and mind you, he only takes formula milk between 8am to 6pm, which is about 4 feedings in total.
Good thing he was exclusively breastfed in the first 6 months and then continued with EBM during the day and nursing at night for the following 4 months. That is a lot of savings!
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