You can click the image above to buy your ticket – and don’t forget to RSVP on Facebook, too!

We’re looking forward to seeing you there, Babe!

By Elita of Blacktating.com for the Best for Babes Foundation ©2010

As a mom who returned to full-time work when my son was 7 months old, I can personally attest to how working can be a major “booby trap.”  Domestic Chaos points out the hardships for moms who have to go back to work soon after delivery or who work at a fast-food restaurant.   I know that was truly blessed to have such a long maternity leave, but I found it so hard to pump enough milk for my son and he was typically getting only one bottle of breast milk a day.   I often wished I lived in a country that offered a full year of paid leave so that we could have continued to enjoy our easy nursing relationship. One CEO mom has made breastfeeding work by bringing her baby to work. Because she’s the boss, Sabrina Parsons is able to bring her infant to work with her and nurse during meetings and conference calls. Wouldn’t it be great if more women had this option?  BabiesatWork.org reports that 142 companies now allow employees to bring their babies to work, and there are lots of benefits for companies that join. 

Did your baby receive sugar water after birth in the hospital? You may not realize it, but if your baby was taken to the nursery for blood work or to get a vaccine, he probably got some glucose water as a pain reliever. A new study says this practice should stop because the glucose water actually doesn’t work and may cause brain damage in some babies. What we already know DOES work as a pain reliever? Breastfeeding!

There has been so much anti-nursing in public sentiment being expressed online lately, that I was so pleased to see this rant by IBCLC Norma Ritter. Norma pokes fun at all of the thin arguments used to state why women shouldn’t breastfeed their babies in public in a beautifully tongue-in-cheek post.

Did you lose weight while breastfeeding? I sure didn’t and I was counting on it big time. Yet, new research is finding again that yes, breastfeeding does help new moms lose the baby weight and also helps them stay slimmer and trimmer for the rest of their lives!

This week we were also alerted to the new Breastfeeding Guide added to popular parenting site Babble. Although Babble has accepted advertising from Similac for quite some time, they have now partnered with the formula company to create content specifically aimed at breastfeeding moms—many readers found the content itself to be discouraging to breastfeeding moms. Of course we expect Similac to try and dupe moms into calling their “Feeding Experts” for breastfeeding advice, but are extremely disappointed that Babble is giving them the space and access to their readers.  This sort of back-handed breastfeeding support doesn’t help anyone, not moms who really need help with nursing, or formula feeding moms who may have real questions on how to make formula as safe as possible.   And it doesn’t end there.   WebMD has a breastfeeding guide sponsored by Nestle/Gerber, and some physicians refer patients to formula companies on their websites.  Our Facebook readers were horrified about Livestrong.com’s horrible feeding information, sponsored by Gerber—and since it is cancer-survivor Lance Armstrong’s site, we expect better.  To understand why formula companies want so badly to “help” breastfeeding moms, see Doulala.com’s hilarious explanation.  

 Read the response of  CEO of Babble.com, Rufus Griscom (see comments #87 and #115) to Phdinparenting.com’s blog post.  Are you satisfied with his answer?   Without admitting to any wrong-doing, the Similac ads have been removed from the guide on Babble.com, and replaced with breastpump ads (Medela), but the negative guide itself has not changed.  Is that good enough?   Or is it still a “Booby Trap” for the millions of Babble.com readers, most of whom probably want or wanted to breastfeed?     What actions would you like to see the breastfeeding community take with regards to Babble.com, WebMD.com  to protect ALL moms—breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or both—from misinformation and booby traps?

By Elita of Blacktating.com for the Best for Babes Foundation ©2010

Of course by now you’ve (we hope) gotten the message that breastfeeding is the safest, healthiest way to feed a baby. But every day research shows how beneficial breastfeeding is for moms, too! A new study reveals that women who don’t breastfeed increase their risk of becoming diabetic–even one month makes a difference. Further proof that, when it comes to breastfeeding, every ounce counts and some breastfeeding is always better than none!

We know that the World Health Organization currently recommends that mothers who are HIV positive should breastfeed if they are on antiretrovirals. New research points out that these mothers should avoid Vitamin A supplements because they have the ability to increase the amount of HIV that is excreted in breast milk.

44 pounds on breast milk alone? That is what a mother in China claims about her 10-month-old son who has been nicknamed “Michelin Baby.” Doctors are worried about the baby’s weight gain, particularly since he was born at an aver 7 1/2 pounds. So tell us, does this look like an exclusively breastfed baby? Was your baby a chunker too?

As moms, we face the same challenges and “booby traps” when it comes to breastfeeding, but there are some barriers that are culture specific and can affect breastfeeding rates for minority moms. One of these is the issue of “las dos,” literally “the two” or “both,” short-hand for mixed feeding in Latino communities. A new ad campaign created by the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition, with a little help from one blogger’s husband, aims to counter a common belief among Latina women that feeding by breast and bottle is healthier than exclusive breastfeeding. If you work in breastfeeding support, you can purchase the posters for your office.

There have been several grass roots breastfeeding awareness campaigns produced by health departments around the country. Remember the campaign from Marin County, CA where life-sized cut outs of breastfeeding moms were placed around the city? Now Racine, WI is getting in on the action, with the “We’re Better Together” awareness campaign. This week, 17 life-size photographs of nine women breastfeeding their babies will be placed throughout the community, including City Hall and the public library.

This week on our Facebook Fan Page we asked what off-label uses you’ve found for your breast milk and you were overheard saying…

Christine Lewitke Marasco: Infant acne – pink eye – minor cuts + scrapes

Amy Anderson: Sexual lubrication

Lish Burton: My husband would get terrible burns when he worked in a foundry, the burns I put milk on healed much faster. He also said they hurt less once I put the milk on!

Tawny Thompson: I put it on a cotton ball and use it as makeup remover! Works on all kinds of mascara, lipstick, and eyeliners.

We are thrilled to announce that Best for Babes is partnering with Fit Pregnancy, Big City Moms, and Deva Spa in SoHo for an incredible evening of luxe, pampering, and Beating the Booby Traps!

In the first-ever event of its kind, we’ll be offering expecting and new moms the “BfB Experience:”  there will be mini spa treatments, a raffle of amazing gear, educational presentations by local IBCLCs, a chat with BfB Co-Founders Danielle & Bettina, and of course, some swag!  You may even catch a celeb or two there…

This will also be the official kick-off of BYOBoobz!  Babes from far and wide have contacted us about hosting these mom-led home parties and we are so excited to get them going!

We’d love for you to join us on Wednesday, September 29th between 6 and 9pm!  Tickets can be purchased for $35.  We’d love to see you there, Babe!

For event details and to RSVP, click here to go to Facebook and let us know you’ll be there!

In the tradition of great fashion and lifestyle magazines like InStyle, we’re bringing you all the style secrets from the photo shoot with top photographer Dario Impini.  Dario specializes in the highest quality boudoir photography for women of all ages and sizes.  His studio is dedicated to the delicate, timeless beauty of the female form and is working with the Pink Ribbon Connection Breast Cancer organization to create a fund raising calendar–thank you Dario for bringing your artistry and creative talents to capturing the incredible gorgeousness, feminity and power of breastfeeding!    Our tip to all you breastfeeding mamas out there:  Run, don’t walk, to a great photographer in your area and get some fabulous keepsake photos to celebrate this amazing time in your and your baby’s relationship!  And join our cause so that we can some day get a Best for Babes Champion breastfeeding on the cover of Glamour, Vanity Fair or Newsweek, with a story about the urgency to break down the “Booby Traps” so that ALL moms can make an informed feeding decision and achieve their personal breastfeeding goals.

We are extremely grateful to Juanita for generously donating her time and enthusiasm to advance our mission! She is a fabulous role-model for women everywhere.

At the Cover Shoot

How did the shoot go?

The shoot went really well.  There are some challenges to shooting with an infant, but breastfeeding is such a natural act that it was just a matter of timing everything perfectly to align with Baby Kynon’s desire to nurse.  I would advise others to remember that you only have a 15 to 20 minute window to capture the beauty of this act.  So keep that in mind when you are working with your photographer and making lighting or body position adjustments – you don’t want to nurse during those moments and you want to keep them to a minimum.  It is definitely a rewarding experience; you just have to work in conjunction with your baby’s nursing schedule.

How did the baby handle it?

Baby Kynon was a pro – it was just another nursing session for him.  The atmosphere was very quiet and relaxing.  My photographer even took the extra step of adjusting the temperature in the room to be warmer so that Baby Kynon was comfortable.  He actually feel asleep afterward and was very relaxed during the entire shoot.

What are your busy mom style & breastfeeding must-haves?

Well, as a full-time practicing attorney and mother of two, I tend to gravitate toward comfortable but chic apparel.  I love anything that adds a hint of glamour and sophistication, but remains simple in application because I do not have a great deal of time.  I love nursing tops and nursing bras by ASOS (http://www.asos.com), a UK company with a wonderful assortment of contemporary, chic, and attractive nursing and maternity attire.

One of my must have items in terms of make-up is Bobbi Brown’s Creamy Concealer Kit which has a concealer on top and a sheer brightening loose power on the bottom.  I just feel that the eyes are the window to the soul and the eye area can really make your face look alive and refreshed.

I also love Xtreme lash extensions because they are not damaging to your own lashes, you look effortlessly polished and you never have to worry about applying mascara in the morning.  Add some lip gloss (my favorite color is Purr by MAC) and I have a 5 minute make-up routine so I can quickly get out of the door in the morning!

In addition, I love TIGI S Factor Serious Conditioner with Sunflower Seed Oil.  I don’t know if you can tell from the picture, but I have a LOT of hair.  I don’t use chemical straightening methods so I flat iron my hair quite often which can be drying.  I’ve found that TIGI S Factor Serious Conditioner is a quick way to get a deep conditioning treatment in a fraction of the time and it really helps my hair to stay moisturized and healthy.

Our inspiration for the cover shoot was this photo for Harper's Bazaar by Richard Avedon from 1952. Essence Magazine was not founded until 1968. The first time a black model appeared in a magazine was in 1961; Willette Murphy in Mademoiselle.

Lastly, as far as breast-feeding must-haves – I am attached at the hip to my Medela pump-in-style breastpump! I use it everyday while working and I absolutely love it!  (Note:  Medela is not endorsed by Best for Babes because they do not comply with the WHO Code.  Best for Babes recommends the top-quality Ameda and Hygeia breastpumps.) I also love More Milk Plus and Mother’s Milk Tea; they are a must have if you work in a high functioning high stress environment because stress can effect your supply.  (Note: The best evidence actually shows that stress will interfere with “let down,” and may lead to early weaning, but it is not responsible for lowering milk supply. )

How was it being a national pageant queen while being pregnant and then nursing?

I am so fortunate to have held a national title in the Mrs. Division and I hope that I represented all married pregnant women with integrity and class.  I just feel that maternity and motherhood are gifts that are meant to be cherished.  It was a real honor to experience the journey of motherhood for the second time around while holding a national title.  I hope it inspires other women to know that you can successfully manage career, pregnancy, motherhood and marriage if you prioritize!  I enjoyed crowning my successor this past July.  I juggled making appearances, working and nursing quite well but I am taking some time off now to just enjoy motherhood and life.  I am going to continue to compete in order to have a platform to uplift and encourage others on a larger scale.  I am actually competing for my state’s title in the Mrs. America system in the spring!  Prayerfully, I will continue to have opportunities to support wonderful organizations such as Best for Babes and to have the opportunity to encourage women everywhere to live out their dreams!

Breastfeeding rates are lowest among African-American women, and we have found it extremely difficult to find images of black moms breastfeeding—a fact we are sure contributes to a lack of cultural acceptance of nursing.   What advice would you give to expecting black moms who are the first in their families or among their friends to try breastfeeding?

This is such an important issue within the African-American community.  I would explain to her the enormous benefits breastfeeding provides to our children.  As African-American people, we have higher percentages of obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and  high blood pressure – all of which are illnesses that breastfeeding protects against for children and moms.  I would also highlight the fact that breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer – a disease that is the most common form of cancer for black women, and African American women are more likely than white women to be diagnosed at later stages of the disease and are more likely to die from it. Scientists are still exploring the reasons behind these trends but scientists have found a direct link between breastfeeding and a 59% decrease of breast cancer risk for women with a family history of the disease.

I would also encourage her to gather her own information to build her awareness and ignore the pressure she undoubtedly will receive from family and friends to use formula.  I can not tell you the number of times that I have received unsolicited comments and pressure from family, co-workers, and friends to stop nursing prior to 12 months and use formula.  I don’t know where the disconnect originated from but it is undoubtedly an understood cultural reality that breastfeeding is an optional afterthought.  I would tell her to focus on being the one in her family to break the cycle of formula usage and to be prepared to stand firm for the benefit of herself and her child–it is natural and the absolute best option for the child.

I do believe that it is important to see breastfeeding images that relatable for all women in order for it to become a norm.  That is why I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to be a part of BFB and to put forth an image that prayerfully will encourage women to decide to breastfeed.

Now tell us . . . what do you think of our gorgeous new covergirl?  Any questions for her, we’ll post her answers!!

Best for Babes Recommended Reading & Resources

Blacktating Blog — Check out this fantastic blog by Best for Babes Contributor Elita Kalma.

Black Mother’s Breastfeeding Association — We’re honored to be speaking at the BMBA Seminar on October 25th about the New Look of Breastfeeding!

NPR:  Breastfeeding Often Avoided by Black Moms — Guest host Jennifer Ludden discusses reasons behind the low black breastfeeding statistics with Kathi Barber, author of ‘The Black Woman’s Guide to Breastfeeding:  The Definitive Guide to Nursing for African-American Mothers, Jamila Bey, a Washington, D.C.-based journalist, and Dawn Porter, a television executive.

Momlogic.com — Is Slavery Why Black Women Aren’t Breastfeeding? Kimberly Sears Allers discusses the roots of low black breastfeeding rates, and the devastating impact of the aggressive marketing of infant formula on the African-American community.

The Black Woman’s Guide to Breastfeeding by Kathi Barber is available for purchase on Amazon.com

World Breastfeeding Week was founded by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) in 1992.  The purpose was to unify a global breastfeeding promotion strategy, and what started as a day’s celebration turned into a week every August 1-7.  It is now celebrated by over 170 countries and is endorsed by UNICEF and WHO, the World Health Organization.      Some countries have gone on to celebrate breastfeeding for the entire month of August–designating it as Breastfeeding Awareness Month–and from what I’ve been able to tell, some countries celebrate breastfeeding in September or orther times of the year.    Some state governors, like California’s Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, have officially designated all of August to be Breastfeeding Awareness Month, but it doesn’t seem as wide-spread.  From the World Breastfeeding Week website:

“Overall coordination of World Breastfeeding Week is done at the WABA Secretariat in Penang, Malaysia, which includes the selection of the theme and slogan, identifying resource persons for a specific theme and the preparation and dissemination of World Breastfeeding Week materials such as the calendar announcement, posters, action folders and banners. These advocacy materials serve to stimulate action among local groups, governments, UN and other agencies and other issue organisations for their own World Breastfeeding Week.”

I’m not sure why August was picked, and I’d like to learn why.   I’m writing myself a note to ask our board member, Marsha Walker of  WABA’s little sister, NABA.  but I can see in some ways why it makes sense.   It seems that statistically, the most births happen from July to November (thanks to fall and winter snuggling), with August scoring the most U.S.  births in 2006.   So, maybe the thinking from the folks at the WABA was that breastfeeding should be celebrated and promoted at a time when there are a lot of new babies around.     It certainly makes for lots of potential participants in simultaneous breastfeeding contests, like the efforts in Portland, Oregon this year aimed at breaking the world record held by Manila in the Philippines:  3,738 women breastfed at the same time in 2006.   Apparently it was quite hot because in the video it looks like there were 3,738 fans in motion at the same time too.

So here you have the first of several problems with having World Breastfeeding Week in August—the heat.   I think it’s harder to organize events, celebrations or simultaneous nursing in public when it’s hot outside.   Everybody is more languid, and tired, babies are more fussy if they get too hot . . . though they do nurse more often, which makes for more photo ops of the babies!   The moms, on the other hand, may not be too keen on being photographed when they are dripping with sweat.      Moms who are not so comfortable nursing in public may opt out altogether, because coverups and some slings or infant carrier wraps  can get really roasting in summer.    The logical place to organize a simultaneous nursing contest is a pool, but we’ve already seen how nursing at the pool  freaks people out.  

The biggest problem with World Breastfeeding Week, though, is that most people vacation in August.   In Europe, where vacation leave is 6 weeks, many families take the whole month off.   Even in the work-a-holic United States, lots of families take a week or two off, and try to unplug from technology, TV and the media.    From a marketing standpoint, I am not sure it makes sense to schedule a promotion of breastfeeding when not too many people are paying attention, or even if they are, are not motivated to take action.   Some people argue that it works in our favor, because the media is hungry for news and there isn’t as much competition.   I’m not a marketing or PR expert, but I don’t agree.   I think that breastfeeding is a hot and underestimated topic, and that with a good strategy, we could grab the media and the nation’s attention any time of year.

The last problem as I see it is that although it might make sense to celebrate breastfeeding right when most babies are born, in my opinion that is too late.   Too much breastfeeding education takes place after the baby is born, when the mother is at her most vulnerable and exhausted.   Best for Babes would like to see more moms preparing for breastfeeding in the second and third trimester, just as they prepare the nursery, and take childbirth education courses.   Sure,  there are some things you just can’t get about breastfeeding until you do it, but building your confidence, being exposed to images of breastfeeding that help normalize it, becoming educated about the “Booby Traps” and coming up with a plan to navigate them, is too important to postpone.   At Best for Babes, we believe that breastfeeding success will increase and more mothers will be able to reach their personal breastfeeding goals when they are inspired, prepared and empowered long before the birth of their baby.   It’s like showing up for a race without having trained, without a water bottle or running gear:  you may finish but chances are it will be far more painful and disappointing than you wanted it to be.   (Yes, we’ve been using the race analogy for years–see The Learning Curve–and a few months ago we perfected it with the help of our facebook fans;  we came to the consensus that breastfeeding in our unfriendly culture is like being told to run a marathon in stilettos while people are throwing tomatoes at you.  It’s a handy analogy because Danielle is a runner, and I wish I was!)

So, what do you think?   Should we move World Breastfeeding Week and Awareness Month to a time when it would be easier to galvanize action and command media attention, without literally being too hot and bothered?  Are we always going to be fighting an uphill marketing battle?   Will we ever be able to achieve the type of public awareness and grassroots action that Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October) does–or is that just because their marketing efforts are better organized?    Or is August=boobs already ingrained in our consciousness making a switch too cumbersome?  I’d love to hear what leading media outlets think, or PR and marketing firms like the ones that work with the larger breastfeeding companies.   In my opinion, I would love to see Breastfeeding Awareness Month moved to the spring–say April–to coincide with when the largest number of women are expecting (and April is Earth month, too, so it’s a nice tie-in to the environmental benefits of breastfeeding).   Or how about connecting it to Women’s History Month, in March, or moving it to June, so that it follows Pregnancy Awareness Month? 

Whether we leave it be or move it,  Best for Babes will work to make breastfeeding—and especially booby trap!—awareness bigger and more powerful, so that it is given at least the same respect that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is given—and since Danielle is a young breast cancer survivor, we feel we can say that comfortably.   Breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer and so many other diseases, isn’t it high time to give “the mother of all causes” its rightful place in the calendar?

By Elita of Blacktating.com for the Best for Babes Foundation ©2010

Have boobs will sag? A new study revealed that as many as half of all women age 18-25 don’t plan on breastfeeding because they don’t want their breasts to sag. Numerous studies have already shown it’s actually pregnancy that causes saggy boobs, not nursing. How can we spread the word and let young women know their breasts (and vanity) will still be in tact if they choose to nurse? And that even if breastfeeding did ruin breasts it would still be worth it?

Have you ever had an embarrassing breastfeeding mishap? This week actress and model Ali Landry revealed how hers cost her thousands of dollars. While pumping gas, Ali’s baby began to fuss so she got in the car to nurse her. Her husband assumed she was finished pumping, got in the car and drove off, taking the gas hose with him. Oops!

In the mood for a real tear jerker? Check out this wonderful story of a mom whose preemie was suffering from necrotizing entercolitis and whose life was literally saved by breast milk. The donor mom had already lost her own preemie to the same disease, but one family’s tragedy was another family’s blessing. Although the circumstances are tragic, we’re so pleased to see more parents are insisting on breast milk for their premature babies.

We’ve never liked those formula-filled diaper bags you get upon discharge from the hospital, and it looks like some hospitals in England agree: from now on, moms who are choosing to formula feed will have to bring their own. Now that more hospitals are becoming certified as Baby Friendly, we should see this trend continue.

This week, Muslims around the world celebrated Ramadan, a religious holiday that includes fasting. There has always been the question of whether or not it’s safe for nursing or pregnant moms to fast. Here’s some practical advice from an IBCLC.

In light of more moms being kicked out of or asked to leave public places this week for breastfeeding, it’s even more important that moms feel welcome to nurse in public. LOVE this sign spotted in the Lawrence Public Library. I’ve blogged before about the great signs at the Chicago Children’s Museum. Have you spotted these signs anywhere in your neighborhood?

This week on our Facebook page, we asked you, “I planned to breastfeed for _____, but actually breastfed for_____” and you were overheard saying….

Claire Mogol: I planned to breastfeed for 6 months (exclusively), but actually breastfed for two years and four months… and still going

Jessica Delancey: One day at a time …. over 3 yrs and counting…

Rebecca Clark: I planned to breastfeed till they were in college but they weaned after age three

By Elita of Blacktating.com for the Best for Babes Foundation ©2010

Remember last week when supermodel Gisele Bundchen said she thought there should be a law requiring moms to breastfeed for 6 months? Well, she got her wish. Indonesia passed a law that will go into effect in October that states that all women who are medically able to breastfeed must do so for at least 6 months. Mothers who decline will face up to a year in jail or a $15,000 fine.

Did you hear the one about the breastfeeding advocate who is formula feeding her baby? That was the secret Attachment Parenting guru Katie Granju revealed on her blog this week. Katie, who lost her eldest child weeks before giving birth, said the stress caused her mature milk to never come in. After trying every technique she knew, she finally came to the realization that her baby girl will have to be on formula. A good reminder that when we see moms bottle feeding in public, we don’t know their stories or how hard they may have tried to breastfeed without success.

I loved this article highlighting two hospitals in the Tampa area who are encouraging and supporting moms with babies in the NICU to breastfeed. Nearly 80% of the moms of these sick babies are nursing. Many have said they would have given up a long time ago if not for the support systems in place at the hospital. Don’t you love it when the hospital gets it right and is promoting breastfeeding instead of booby trapping moms?

The Health Ministry in China investigated claims this week by parents who complained, their baby girls began to develop breasts after drinking a particular brand of infant formula. The ministry says “no link” can be found between the formula and the breast growth.

Dr. Thomas Hale, the go-to doctor for information on medicines and breast milk, has opened his Infant Risk Center. This call-in center is now open to take calls from professionals and parents. There is no charge for this fantastic service that will provide accurate, evidence-based information on medications that are safe during pregnancy and lactation.

And just when you thought it was safe to leave the house with your kids, yet another mom has been kicked out of a public place for breastfeeding her baby. This time it was McDonald’s. The owner of the restaurant has apologized, but I’m getting a little tired of reading this story over and over again.

The National Health Promotion Strategy kicked off their “Well Bermuda” program with a Breastfed Baby Photo Exhibit this week. The Minister of Health in Bermuda said of the exhibit: “Every baby displayed on these walls is a winner simply because they were fortunate enough to be given the greatest of gifts.” I agree!

Breastfed Baby Photo Exhibit

We’ve seen a lot of breastfeeding companies doing giveaways and promotions this last week—and in tough economic times, a freebie or a discount is a good thing!   But how many of those companies are truly investing in changing our breastfeeding culture and beating the booby traps?   When only 3% of hospitals are designated baby-friendly; when too few doctors are  educated on the basics of lactation management; when women can are still being harrassed, and even abused, for breastfeeding in public; and when ours is one of the only industrialized countries without paid maternity leave—and the list goes on—moms need more than a coupon or some helpful information on a website.  Building the “mother of all causes” takes some serious cash.

That is why we are extremely pleased to present  the “Ultimate Giveaway that Gives Back” that not only celebrates breastfeeding but also showcases some wonderful companies that are going above and beyond to help moms and babies.  Everyone of the sponsors represented in the baskets below is committed to working with Best for Babes to change the breastfeeding landscape for our sisters, our friends, and our daughters, and really for all of us, because when moms are no longer prevented from achieving their personal breastfeeding goals, everyone benefits.   These companies also happen to make some of the best products on the market, because while all you really need to breastfeed is at least one boob and a baby, there are a lot of things that can make breastfeeding more comfortable, appealing and convenient.  After all, if some cute workout gear can motivate you to go to the gym, then certainly a sexy nursing top can boost your confidence, make you feel fabulous, and empower you reach your breastfeeding goal!   We say, whatever works for you, babe!

How to Win: Here’s the special twist on our giveaway. In the spirit of giving back, we are asking you to nominate someone else for the gift basket, someone whom you really think could benefit from this extravaganza:  for example, a mom who really wants  to breastfeeding but can’t afford a top-quality breastpump to go back to work, or for whom babywearing (and the multi-tasking that goes with it) would make a world of difference.   First, leave a comment describing the person you would like to see win basket (1–Expecting Mom) or basket (2–Working Mom) below, and then, make sure you “Like” our facebook page.   At the end of the month, everybody will vote on the nominations, and we will check and make sure that the winner is legit before shipping the gift baskets in beginning of September.   The generous-minded person who nominates the winner will get a lovely gift too–A Belabumbum Lily Sleepwear set (see the Expecting Babe Basket) and a Best for Babes T-shirt!!   Total value of the giveaway is a mind-blowing $1,500 smackeroos.

#1. Ultimate Best for Babes Giveaway Basket for the Expecting Babe

• My Brest Friend Deluxe Breastfeeding Pillow has a wrap-around design with a silent, quick-release strap, back support and a firm, flat cushion that keeps baby from rolling and promotes the optimum latch; with soft, washable cover.
• Earth Mama Angel Baby Breastfeeding Support Kit includes Milkmaid Tea to support healthy breast milk production, lanolin-free nipple cream to prevent or heal sore, cracked nipples, gel- and toxin-free breast packs ease breasts sore from engorgement or mastitis, and organic, herbal breast compresses provide extra nipple and engorgement care.
• Evenflo Comfort Select Performance™ Dual Breastpump with autocycling vacuum is newly improved and perfect for occasional pumping; it runs on batteries or can be plugged in for traveling convenience.   Two pumps can used simultaneously for greater efficiency, or leave a spare where you are likely to need it, comes in carry case.
• Posh Pads are ultra fashionable, reusable, earth-friendly organic cotton and bamboo nursing pads that are so gorgeous, you can use them as coasters when you are done nursing.   In outrageous colors and patterns to suit every bra and boob.
• Moby Wrap Custom Best for Babes Carrier is made of the softest of cotton fabrics, is extremely comfortable, and is one of the safest baby carriers available today. It distributes weight evenly from parent’s shoulders to hips and aligns baby’s center of gravity as close to the parent’s body as possible.  Svelte black with the signature Best for Babes logo on it!
• Mother’s Boutique Sweet Embrace Necklace is a gorgeous sterling silver pendant on a leather cord, designed by Judy Masucci, owner of the Mother’s Boutique.   It symbolizes the love between a mother and child and represents a breastfeeding mother or any mother holding and loving her child.
• Belabumbum Lily Sleepwear Set comes with a robe, cami and pants perfect for snoozing and lounging and feeling fabulous!  Belabumbum believes that women grow more beautiful while expecting and while nursing, so their lingerie confections encourage women to feel pampered, sexy, and hip — during and after pregnancy.
• Hadley Stilwell Sleeveless Crossover Shirt is ultra-luxe and stylish, perfect for date night or a meeting with the executive committee.  HadleyStilwell designs are meant to be clothes you want to wear – that just happen to accommodate nursing and pumping – and many moms keep them as long-term staples of their wardrobe.  Gift certificate so you can choose the color and size.
• Breastfeeding with Comfort and Joy Book is a stunning coffee table quality book with evocative photos of breastfeeding and parenting combined with clear, expert guidance on how to start and continue a breastfeeding relationship with ease and prevent and solve any problems.
• Sweet Knee Gift Bag includes an adorable, reusable cloth bag filled with splendidly all-natural  bubbly soap, oatmeal cookie bath, bun glaze for tender tushies, 3.2 oz rubbit oil for massaging or moisturizing, and a 3.75 oz hulababy bar soap.
• Be Nice Prenatal Vitamin Drink Mix allows you to get your essential prenatal vitamins and minerals, in easy to take and carry portions for better nutrient absorption and hydration throughout the day. Doctor approved, it comes in two delicious, naturally sweetened flavors.

#2. Ultimate Best for Babes Giveaway Basket for the Working Babe

• Ameda Purely Yours Ultra Breastpump is a top-of-the-line electric breastpump that is preferred by lactation consultants and doctors and  can be converted for one-handed manual use. Cycles per minute and suction can be adjusted to maximize milk output.  The patented diaphragm ensures no milk or bacteria can enter the tubing or motor, and no contaminants from the pump can enter your collected milk.  Comes with a stylish, sophisticated pebble-grained tailored tote, cooler (holds 6 bottles–included), a car lighter adapter, 3 different sizes breast flanges (with more available), and various pump accessories.
• Pumpease Bra Supports make pumping at work or home much easier because it allows you to pump hands-free.   The 6″ wide pumping supports feature patent pending, ‘no-stitch’ horn openings, guaranteed to accommodate any breast pump on the market, in a variety of gorgeous prints that allow you to “express” your personal style and fashion sense.
• Motherlove More Milk Plus capsules contain a special blend of safe and effective herbs designed to quickly increase breast milk for breastfeeding mothers, created by one of the leading companies in the holistic body care industry.   Pure, natural and organic–use under the care of a lactation specialist.   Not for use during pregnancy.
• Breastpumps and Briefcases Audio CD contains valuable information to ease your transition back to work, including how to maintain your milk supply, how to create a pumping schedule, make arrangements with your employer, and store your milk.   Shari Criso’s reassuring manner and tips for succeeding with breastfeeding have helped thousands of moms achieve their personal breastfeeding goals.
• Hotslings pouches allow you carry your baby in fabulous style, safety and comfort.   So pretty they can be worn to coordinate with your designer suit for the boardroom if your employer allows babies at work!  Can be exchanged for a size and print you prefer.  Created by one of the leaders in the industry who also actively writes American safety standards for sling-style baby carriers.
• Mother’s Boutique Sweet Embrace Necklace is a gorgeous sterling silver pendant on a leather cord, designed by Judy Masucci, owner of the Mother’s Boutique.   It symbolizes the love between a mother and child and represents a breastfeeding mother or any mother holding and loving her child.
• Hadley Stilwell Sleeveless Crossover Shirt is ultra-luxe and stylish, perfect for date night or a meeting with the executive committee.  HadleyStilwell designs are meant to be clothes you want to wear – that just happen to accommodate nursing and pumping – and many moms keep them as long-term staples of their wardrobe.  Gift certificate so you can choose the color and size. 
• Breastfeeding with Comfort and Joy Book is a stunning coffee table quality book with evocative photos of breastfeeding and parenting combined with clear, expert guidance on how to start and continue a breastfeeding relationship with ease and prevent and solve any problems.
• Sweet Knee Gift Bag includes an adorable, reusable cloth bag filled with deliciously all-natural  bubbly soap, oatmeal cookie bath, bun glaze for tender tushies, 3.2 oz rubbit oil for massaging or moisturizing, and a 3.75 oz hulababy bar soap.

Our deepest gratitude to all these great companies that support moms and babies and Best for Babes with their generous donations!   Leave a comment below nominating a person you would like to see win a  gift basket, and make sure to say  which one: “#1-Expecting” or “#2-Working”  and why, and jump over and “Like” our facebook page too!  Thank you for giving back, and for helping us make sure that the gift goes to someone who could genuinely use it and for whom it would make a difference in achieving their personal breastfeeding goals.

I knew that World Breastfeeding Week would bring a ton of coverage of breastfeeding in the media, but I had no clue we’d have so much to talk about this week.

First there was drama when supermodel Gisele Bundchen made some provocative comments about making 6 months of breastfeeding mandatory by law. Of course she was exaggerating, but we wish more women could meet the gold standard of 6 months exclusive breastfeeding.  We tried to reach her publicist in the hopes that Gisele would use this opportunity of being in the spotlight to talk about a few laws that we DO need:  like paid maternity leave, and a law enforcing the WHO Code, but had no luck.

The Surgeon General made me proud by releasing a statement in honor of World Breastfeeding Week, acknowledging the disparities in breastfeeding rates and committing to help create an environment that supports all mothers who choose to breastfeed.

We also learned about a new documentary called Prescription Milk, about how donor breast milk is saving the lives of babies in NICUs all over this country, yet many families are unable to obtain the liquid gold. The tear jerker trailer has been released and we can’t wait to see the whole film!

The Central Texas Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies group also presented a “Keep Austin Breastfeeding Flash Mob” at a park in Austin, TX. The flash mob featured dancing, singing and rapping to promote breastfeeding, along with a remix to It Takes Two that you don’t want to miss!

It was a great week for Best for Babes, as several new sponsors signed on, including Motherlove, Hadley Stilwell, and Belabumbum, announcing their commitments to donate a percentage of sales to Best for Babes–these sponsorships are ongoing and we are thrilled to welcome them to the Best for Babes family.   Pumpease announced that all proceeds from their new door hanger will go to BfB.    In addition, We Add Up pledged $3 from the sale of every Breastfeed t-shirt from August 1-7 to go to Best for Babes, we’ll let you know how we made out (special thanks to Babble.com for promoting it).  For more companies that “give back” to BfB when you buy their products, check out our SHOP page and our corporate alliance page.

I also loved two blog posts by Caffeinated Catholic Mama on the ABCs of breastfeeding. She listed 26 benefits of breastfeeding based on the letters of the alphabet. Check out her 2-part series. What are your favorite benefits of breastfeeding?

The folks at Ameda would also like to know why you breastfeed. Join celebrity mom Bethenny Frankel and upload a 20-second video explaining why you breastfeed and it will be displayed on the Ameda I Breastfeed Because site. For every video uploaded, Ameda will donate $5 to the Human Milk Bank Association of North America.

And my favorite story this week came from the NY Times. A group of researchers at UC Davis have discovered that a large portion of breast milk can’t be digested by babies because it is used to coat and protect the infant’s intestines. In what will probably go down as the best quote in breastfeeding activism history, one of the doctors said of breast milk, “It’s all there for a purpose, though we’re still figuring out what that purpose is. So for God’s sake, please breastfeed.”

Finally, we asked you on Facebook what the best thing about World Breastfeeding Week was and you said…

Kacey Brooke Tinsley: Taking part in Portland’s, “Big Latch On” yesterday.

Kati Ford: my son, born with severe neurological impairments, who many (including myself at times) never thought could nurse deciding he wanted it from the source Sunday, nursing consistantly the whole week.

Kristen Marie Troutmask: The feeling of family from my online community (that I am mostly lacking in my real life community)! ♥