Maternity Blog & News | New Beginnings
Top 10 Tips for Postpartum Recovery
After giving birth, whether through a vaginal delivery or c-section, it's important to remember that the postpartum period is a time of recovery. This means that you, Mumma, need time to rest and recoup. Regardless of how smoothly your pregnancy went or how easy your delivery was, your body has undergone significant strain and needs time to heal so you can embrace being a new mum. We’ve put together our top 10 suggestions of things you can do to help cope during this time. 1: Rest! Easier said than done when you’ve just had a baby and it feels like there’s a never-ending list of things to do, but for the next few weeks you need to be able to ask for help and accept it when it’s offered. That means the washing, cleaning and anything physical can wait. 2: Eat well Eating well not only helps you heal faster, but if you’re breastfeeding, it also helps with your baby's development. So whether you order a weekly meal plan full of nutrient rich foods delivered to the door, or your parent, friend or partner is a whizz in the kitchen, make sure you’re filling your body with foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. 3: Stay hydrated Sometimes it’s hard to keep track of how much water you’re drinking per day. Here are a few tips to keep you hydrated: Always keep a full water bottle in close reach Put a reminder every hour on your phone or watch to remind yourself to have a drink Jazz-up your water by adding a little flavour with slices of fresh fruit or a cold, flavoured tea bag Opt for herbal tea – this will help keep you warm and hydrated all in one go It’s extra important that Breastfeeding mums prioritise adequate hydration. Producing milk takes a toll on the body and staying hydrated will help facilitate the first postpartum bowel movement. 4: Dealing with discomfort Postpartum pain and discomfort are expected but manageable. Stock up on pain relief methods recommended by your healthcare provider and warm compresses. If you notice any discomfort as a result of breastfeeding, try our New Beginnings breast care range. Our Aqua Gel Breast Pads and Hot + Cold Breast Packs are a lifesaver. And as the saying goes, if pain persists, see your doctor! 5: Light exercise The best and fastest way to recover will be to slowly introduce moving your body a bit more each day. Start with some short walks and see how your body goes. There are also exercises you can do without even getting up, like strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, with kegels. Just remember, always consult your doctor before beginning any major exercise regimens, and make sure to check in at the 6 week postpartum milestone before getting started. 6: Listen to your body If you don’t feel up to something, don’t push yourself. This isn’t the time to be kicking goals or checking off to-do lists. 7: Healing time Postpartum recovery usually takes around six to eight weeks after delivery, but of course, there are some cases where it can take longer. This is where tip number seven is important, after all, slow and steady wins the race. 8: Vaginal bleeding During this time you’ll also experience things like postpartum bleeding & vaginal discharge. Both, while not pleasant, are your body's way of getting rid of the blood and tissue that was inside your uterus while being pregnant. Make sure you stock up on maxi pads – our New Beginnings Bamboo Maternity Pads are a great option! 9: Trouble in the toilet Experiencing constipation after childbirth is quite common. This is mostly due to pain-relieving meds or if you had an epidural during delivery. Rest assured there are ways to combat the problem: Drink plenty of water Eat high-fiber foods or get yourself some metamucil Try taking a bowel softener from your local chemist If your doctor advises you to take any iron supplements, make sure you select ones that don’t cause constipation 10: Reach out for support Postpartum recovery can bring up a rollercoaster of emotions. This is an important time to surround yourself with the emotional support of your partner, family, or friends. Joining local mother’s groups or seeking counseling can also provide a safe space to share your experiences. Above all, remember to be patient and kind to yourself. Embrace the ups and downs, celebrate small victories, and remind yourself that you're doing an incredible job! Finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs? Visit our New Beginnings website, where you’ll find a range of helpful articles, products and tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood.
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How to prepare for breastfeeding
As your pregnancy journey nears its beautiful finale, getting ready to nourish your little one through breastfeeding is a wonderful step. Here's your guide on how to prepare for breastfeeding.
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Breastfeeding Myths vs. Facts: Your questions answered
World Breastfeeding Week (Aug 1-7) is just around the corner, a global awareness campaign which reminds us that we all have a role to play in protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding. This year, #WBW2023 is focused on creating breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, and highlighting the importance of paid leave and workplace support for new parents. If you’re an expecting mum, the whole idea of breastfeeding might seem daunting. Especially with a sea of misinformation out there - from your friend that swears your small boobs won't make enough milk to the well-meaning ladies at the supermarket who insist exercise makes your milk sour (what the…?) In celebration of WBW, we’ve separated the old wives' tales from the science to give your bub (and boobs) the best start. Myth: Breastfeeding is easy Those mamas on Instagram make it look so easy – but unfortunately, low or oversupply, cracked nipples, and mastitis are common challenges on the breastfeeding journey. Be prepared with New Beginnings Nipple Shields at the ready, to help with latching and inverted nipples making for a pain-free breastfeeding experience. And if that doesn’t work out? Fed is best, always. If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, you can contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association Helpline for guidance and support. Fact: Most babies naturally know how to feed Newborn babies have a natural sucking reflex that helps them find the nipple and latch, literally seconds after birth. It's incredible how their little instincts kick in! Myth: You can’t use formula if you want to breastfeed Are you desperate to give your nips a breather, but have heard mixing feeds might cause your baby to go off the boob altogether? Although “nipple confusion” is possible, bub will likely be fine to switch between the two. Opting for a bottle with a slow-flowing teat, taking frequent breaks during feeding, and holding the bottle at a slight angle instead of straight up (so they have to work for it a little) are all great options to help minimise the likelihood of any issues with this transition. Fact: Breast Milk is the perfect food Even better than a superfood smoothie, your homegrown milk is packed with all the essential nutrients, enzymes and hormones your baby needs to thrive. (But don’t feel bad if you go for formula – it’s still a healthy choice with loads of goodness). Myth: You can’t breastfeed if you’re sick You might feel rubbish, but it’s perfectly safe to continue feeding through common illnesses, like the cold, flu, or stomach bug. Just make sure to flag it with your doctor or pharmacist that you’re feeding if you need some meds. Fact: Breastfeeding can keep your baby healthy Breast Milk is an antibody powerhouse, helping boost your baby's immune system and stave off infections, allergies and illnesses. Even more impressive, the exact cocktail is tailored to your exposure to pathogens in your environment, giving your bub protection to what it needs most. Myth: Exercise will make your milk sour There’s zero evidence for this one – so go forth and sweat it out (provided you’ve got your doctor's okay). Fact: There are health benefits for you, too Bonus: breastfeeding can reduce your risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Plus, it burns around 500 calories daily. Myth: Breastfeeding makes your boobs sag Nope – it's actually pregnancy that causes changes in size and shape, with factors like multiple pregnancies, pre-pregnancy bra size, and even smoking coming into play. Your boobs may feel a little deflated right after you stop breastfeeding, but in the following months, fatty tissue will gradually replace the milk-producing tissue and pump them back up. Fact: Size doesn’t matter Whether you have big boobs or are a card-carrying member of the itty bitty titty committee, your body will likely produce precisely what your little one needs. It’s all down to your hormonal signals and the demand from your baby (more feeds = more milk) that influence milk production. Need some help on your breastfeeding journey? Our New Beginnings breastfeeding collection has got you covered, from Aqua Gel Breast Pads to help cool sore nipples to Hot and Cold Packs to soothe mastitis. If you’re finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs, our other blogs offer more tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood. More Truths & Tips Breastfeeding 101: Understanding Newborn Feeding Habits What Should I Do If Breastfeeding Is Painful? 10 Tips for a Pain-Free Breastfeeding Experience
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Breast Pumps: Comparing the New Beginnings Breast Pumps
To help you choose the best breast pump for your needs, we've created a comparison table.
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A parent's guide to UV sterilisers
A UV steriliser for baby is one of those products that sounds complicated until you actually use one. No water, no chemicals, no waiting for things to dry. Here's the honest guide to what they are, how they work, and whether one is right for you.
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How to put yourself first this Mother’s Day
Celebrate Mother’s Day, every day. One day a year people everywhere shower their mums with cards, gifts and little celebrations to remind them how wonderful we all think they are. But why should you limit yourself to one day a year when you’re a mother 24/7, 365 days a year? This year we’re encouraging mums, carers, guardians and anyone playing that vital role in a child’s life, to take some time for themselves and practice some good old self care and love. Every family is different. We recognise that there is no single definition of what it means to be a mother. A mum can come from any background, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. They can be single or in a relationship. They can work full-time or be a stay-at-home parent. A mum can choose to have children biologically or adopt, be young or old, and identify as a parent whichever way she chooses. And we acknowledge that not all mums may identify as a ‘she’. So however you choose to parent, we applaud you! You’re doing a great job. Self care for mothers. What is it and what does it look like? We hear this word a lot these days, and while it’s all well and good to hear it, what does it mean and how can you start doing it? Self-care is the practice of taking intentional actions to improve your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It involves taking care of yourself through activities that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and self-improvement. Here are 5 ways you can start practicing self care today: Take time for yourself: Set aside some time every day to do something that you enjoy. It could be anything from reading a blog like this one, to taking a walk outside. Get enough sleep: It's essential for your mental health and physical wellbeing to get adequate sleep. While it feels nearly impossible to do this when you have a newborn or toddler, asking your family to take the kids for a few hours when needed so you can get some shut-eye is sure to make a world of difference. Eat a balanced diet: While sometimes very challenging, eating well can have a significant impact on your mood and energy levels. So instead of just prepping your kid’s meals each week, pack yourself a lunchbox too! Fill it with all of the nutritious foods you want your kids to eat more of too – they love to follow in your footsteps! Exercise: While running around after the kids does technically qualify as exercise, it’s the time you take for yourself to exercise which boosts your mood and reduces stress levels. Even if it’s just a few minutes of physical activity each day, you’re mind and body will thank you. Connect with other mums: Being around others who understand and relate to your challenges can provide social support and validation, reduce feelings of isolation and offer opportunities to learn coping strategies. Additionally, spending time with like-minded individuals can boost self-esteem, promote relaxation and provide a much-needed break from the demands of motherhood. So what are you waiting for? Pick up that phone and start making plans! Retail therapy: When was the last time you bought something for yourself? If you’re taking a few minutes to think, then it’s time to get that cart firing! Buying yourself little things like jewellery, clothes or even takeaway will give you a psychological and emotional boost. Ready to start shopping? Why not start at New Beginnings where you can find everything you need as a new mum. At New Beginnings, we're committed to supporting mothers and families from pregnancy onwards and want to take this moment to wish you all a very happy Mother's Day, today, tomorrow and every single day of the year! Finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs? Visit New Beginnings, where you’ll find a range of helpful articles, products and tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood.
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Will I ever stop crying over everything?
Will I Ever Stop Crying Over Everything? Understanding Emotional Ups and Downs During Pregnancy For many expectant mums, crying over seemingly small things can become a frequent occurrence, leaving them wondering if they will ever stop feeling this way. And while it’s totally normal and nearly every mum will experience it, it’s helpful to know why it’s happening and how you can manage it. Why am I feeling so emotional? Pregnancy is a time of intense hormonal changes. Your body is producing more estrogen and progesterone than usual, which can affect your moods and emotions. These hormones can cause you to feel more fearful, anxious, and bring on sudden crying spells. It can also cause big mood swings, taking you from feeling deliriously happy one minute, to deeply sad the next. Whenever you feel it, however you feel it, just know that it won’t last, and when you start sobbing during infomercials, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Will being so emotional affect my baby? Many mums worry if their sudden bursts of emotions are harming their baby. The short answer is no. But it's important to remember that taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health during pregnancy. How to conquer crying spells? Crying spells can be challenging to manage, but there are some things you can do to help reduce their frequency and intensity. Sleep One of the most important things you can do is get enough sleep. Pregnancy can be exhausting, and lack of sleep can make your emotions more volatile. Stay active Staying active and exercising regularly can also help you feel more balanced and reduce stress. Talk to someone Talk to your partner, friends, or family members about how you're feeling. Sharing your emotions can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of support and understanding. Getting your ducks in a row When you’re feeling overwhelmed it helps to make a list of everything you need, and tick those things off one by one. We offer a huge range of resources as well as maternity essentials, breast care and feeding products that can help you cope with how you feel now, and prepare for what’s to come. In summary, experiencing emotional ups and downs during pregnancy is completely normal and won’t last forever. But if you do find yourself not coping, please reach out and speak to your doctor. They can assist with professional guidance to help you navigate your way through your pregnancy. Finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs? Visit New Beginnings, where you’ll find a range of helpful articles, products and tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood.
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Do I Really Need a Breast Pump?
It's on almost every baby checklist. It's in almost every hospital bag guide. And yet plenty of mums arrive home with a newborn and realise they have absolutely no idea whether they actually need one, how to use it, or which of the seventeen options on the market is right for them. So let's answer the actual question first, then get into the types. Do you need a breast pump? Maybe. It depends entirely on how you plan to feed your baby and what your daily life looks like. What we can tell you is that for a significant number of breastfeeding mums, having a pump on hand makes a real and practical difference, and knowing which type suits your situation before you buy saves a lot of frustration later. Why Do Mums Use a Breast Pump? There are more reasons to use a breast pump than most people realise before they have a baby. You might use one to [1]: Relieve engorgement when your milk comes in and your breasts become uncomfortably full Build a freezer supply so your partner or someone else can feed your baby while you sleep, rest, or return to work Maintain or increase your milk supply, since milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis and regular expressing helps signal your body to keep producing [2] Continue providing breast milk if your baby is having trouble latching, is premature, or is unwell and unable to feed directly at the breast Have flexibility, so feeding isn't entirely dependent on you being present at every single feed If none of those apply to your situation, you may genuinely not need one. Some exclusively breastfeeding mums who are always with their baby and have no supply concerns never pick up a pump. But for most mums, at least one of those reasons will be relevant at some point in the first twelve months. What Are the Different Types of Breast Pumps? There are three main types and they suit very different situations. Manual Breast Pumps: Simple, Quiet, and Portable Manual pumps are hand-operated, affordable, and require no power source. You control the suction yourself by squeezing a lever or handle. They are quiet, lightweight, and easy to take anywhere. They are well suited to mums who only need to express occasionally, want a simple backup option, or are primarily breastfeeding and just need something on hand for the odd missed feed or engorgement relief. The Silicone Manual Breast Pump is made from 100% food-grade silicone, is soft and silent, and can also be used as a passive milk catcher on the opposite breast while feeding [3]. The main limitation is that manual pumping takes more physical effort and time than electric options. If you plan to express regularly or for extended periods, an electric pump will serve you better. Electric Breast Pumps: Efficient for Regular Use Electric pumps use a motor to create suction and are significantly more efficient than manual options. They come as single pumps (one breast at a time) or double pumps (both breasts simultaneously). A single electric pump works well for mums who express occasionally at home and want something more powerful than manual but don't need to maximise speed. The Single Electric Breast Pump is a practical choice for this kind of moderate use. If you are pumping frequently, returning to work, exclusively pumping, or want to cut your expressing time in half, a double pump is the more efficient option. The Double Electric Breast Pump expresses from both breasts at once, which not only saves time but can also produce a better let-down response. "What a lifesaver!" This has been a lifesaver with my first baby! I was initially having some issues expressing from my left breast but now with the double breast pump my expressing has never been better. — Gladis T., Double Electric Breast Pump Wearable Breast Pumps: The Most Flexible Option Wearable pumps sit inside your bra and operate hands-free. No cords. No tubes. No being anchored to a power point while you wait for the session to finish. You can express while working, cooking, feeding another child, or simply moving around the house like a normal person. The Wearable Breast Pump uses LacTech™ technology to mimic the natural rhythmic phases of breastfeeding across four modes and nine suction levels, giving you a personalised and comfortable pumping experience. It holds up to 180ml per cup, runs for up to 2.5 hours on a full charge, and comes with multiple flange sizes plus a nipple ruler so you can find your correct fit from the start, which makes a significant difference to both comfort and output. For mums who are going back to work, pumping frequently, or just want the freedom to get on with their day while expressing, a hands-free breast pump changes the experience entirely. "A solid nod of approval" This double wearable breast pump pack has been designed with a new mum in mind, right down to having fewer parts to clean and assemble, and having the ultra handy nipple ruler to ensure you can find the right fit straight from the get go. My first time round breastfeeding and then exclusively pumping was made so difficult with not knowing my correct flange size, but this time around the Lactech Breast Pump has all the info and supporting parts to ensure this would not be a problem again. The pump is ultra quiet, comfy to wear and easily slides into my bras. — Kaylie035, Wearable Breast Pump Manual Vs Electric Vs Wearable Breast Pumps Manual Breast Pump Electric Breast Pump Wearable Breast Pump Operated by hand. You create suction with a handle or squeeze body. Powered by a motor for consistent suction and faster expression. Completely hands-free and cord-free sits inside your bra for quiet, discreet pumping. Best for occasional use, quick relief, or travel. Great for daily or exclusive pumping and building supply. Perfect for multitasking mummas who need to pump on the go (or while eating toast one-handed). Small, lightweight, and super quiet. Some noise from the motor, but efficient and powerful. Ultra quiet and compact. No cords, no bottles hanging off you. Lower cost and easy to clean. Ideal as a backup or starter. More expensive, but worth it for frequent pumpers. Higher price tag, but convenience and freedom are priceless. One breast at a time. Single or double options for faster pumping. Typically double - express both sides while staying mobile. No charging or cords, just you and your pump. Requires power or battery; most are rechargeable. Rechargeable and wireless wear, pump, and move freely. Shop the Silicone Manual Pump Shop the Double Electric Pump Shop the Wearable Breast Pump Related Reading More from the Spill the Milk blog: Why Every Mum Needs a Wearable Breast Pump How Long Should a Newborn Feed For? How To Care For Your Breast While Breastfeeding? Glass Baby Bottles for Mixed Feeding: Why Material Choice Still Matter? FAQs About Breast Pumps Do I need a breast pump if I am breastfeeding? Not necessarily, but most breastfeeding mums find one useful at some point. Common reasons include managing engorgement, building a freezer supply, sharing feeds with a partner, or maintaining supply when returning to work. If you are always with your baby and have no supply concerns, you may not need one. But having a pump available gives you flexibility that feeding directly at the breast alone cannot. When should I start using a breast pump? This depends on your reason for pumping. To build a freezer supply before returning to work, many lactation consultants suggest starting to express once breastfeeding is well established, usually around four to six weeks postpartum. If you need to pump from the start due to latch difficulties or a premature baby, your midwife or lactation consultant will guide the timing. Browse the breast pumps collection to find an option suited to your stage. What is the difference between a single and double electric breast pump? A single pump expresses one breast at a time, while a double pump expresses both simultaneously. Double pumps are faster, often stimulate a stronger let-down, and are generally better suited to mums who pump frequently or want to maximise efficiency. Single pumps work well for more occasional expressing. Is a wearable breast pump as effective as a traditional electric pump? For many mums, yes. Output is influenced more by comfort, consistency, and correct flange fit than by pump type alone. The Wearable Breast Pump uses hospital-grade suction with LacTech™ technology and includes multiple flange sizes to help you find the right fit, which is key to both comfort and effective expressing. How do I know what flange size I need? The correct flange size allows your nipple to move freely in the tunnel without rubbing or pinching. Using the wrong size is one of the most common reasons mums find pumping uncomfortable or get poor output. The Wearable Breast Pump includes a nipple ruler and multiple flange sizes so you can measure and trial from day one. If you are unsure, a lactation consultant can help you find the right fit. Can I use a breast pump to increase my milk supply? Yes. Milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis, so regularly removing milk from the breast, whether by feeding or pumping, signals your body to produce more. Expressing after feeds or adding pumping sessions can help increase supply over time. If you have supply concerns, speak with a lactation consultant or your maternal health nurse for personalised guidance.
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Managing back pain during pregnancy
Back pain is one of those things you can add to your ‘cons’ list during pregnancy. The good news? There are things you can do to help ease back discomfort during pregnancy. We’ve cut it down to 6 best tips to manage back pain during pregnancy.
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