Maternity Blog & News | New Beginnings
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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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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Booble Search - Will my areolas go back to normal size?
Worried about areola size after pregnancy? Learn about common changes, breastfeeding effects, and how to maintain healthy breast skin.
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Breastfeeding 101: How long should a newborn feed for?
Breastfeeding a newborn: How often and for how long? Find the answers in our comprehensive guide. Get expert advice to make breastfeeding a positive experience. Read the full article now.
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Breastfeeding 101: What is Newborn Cluster Feeding?
Is your newborn constantly feeding? Learn about cluster feeding, when it happens, its duration, & tips for managing it. Click to read more of New Beginnings' expert guidance!
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Your Ultimate Guide To Choosing A Breast Pump
From short-term reasons such as pain, engorgement or breast refusal to long term reasons such as going back to work, being away from bub or permanent latching issues, there are many situations where mums may need to express and use a breast pump. Whatever the reason is, having a good pump on hand can be a lifesaver. When looking for a pump there are many options to choose from and it can become very overwhelming, so we’re here to help you find what will work best for you and your unique situation. What is a breast pump? Breast pumps are available in both manual and electric forms that allow lactating mums to express milk when they need it. They can allow you to store extra milk, share the feeding time with your partner and help bub feed more efficiently. Choosing your breast pump When considering what pump will be best for you, there are a number of factors to consider: How often you will be pumping (frequency) Budget/Price Size & Portability Speed, strength and suction Noise Which pump should you choose? Manual vs Electric A manual pump is much cheaper, quieter and involves no setup to use. They can be used either for expressing or catching extra let down after feeding so your milk doesn’t go to waste. They use a vacuum seal against your breast to manually express your milk. On the other hand, electric pumps are more expensive and have multiple parts but are very easy to use. As they have a motor they do all the hard work for you, making them super convenient for expressing milk. Single Electric vs Double ElectricA single electric pump is a great option that allows you to express and feed at the same time. A single pump is generally a lot smaller and has fewer parts making it easy to transport and take with you. A double pump however cuts down expressing time by up to 50%, as it draws milk from both breasts simultaneously. A double pump is a great option if you need to store a lot of milk or have trouble breastfeeding To make things a little easier for you, we have provided a chart below to easily compare all the features and benefits of the different pumps available: Why New Beginnings Breast Pumps? At New Beginnings we believe in making high-quality products affordable for all mums. We have developed all our electric pumps with LacTech technology, to mimic the natural suckling motion of breastfeeding, so you can express comfortably and efficiently. All our pumps are extremely lightweight, easy to use and are almost completely silent, making expressing and feeding time that much easier. If you need some more convincing, check out what our NB mums are saying: Amanda - Single Electric Breast Pump “My new 'secret weapon'! Love this quiet, efficient little lady, she's my new BFF particularly when I'm exhausted and want to catch up on sleep - partner can take over, bubs is happy, partner can have some one on one time and mumma can have some much needed Z's!” Kim - Double Electric Breast Pump “I would definitely recommend the New Beginnings Breast Pump to anyone and everyone!! It was sooo easy!!! I was able to connect it all up and because it was so quiet, I was able to express while sitting there watching tv. The different levels of stimulation and suction were great as I was able to customise it depending on when I expressed (whether it was close after breastfeeding or much later). I loved the function of the time as I was able to gain an idea of how long it would take me to express a certain amount of milk. I also loved that it was a double as I could express a large amount of milk in very little time! The New Beginnings Breast Pump was also very easy to clean and reassemble afterwards. The stands for the bottles were also very handy as it meant no spilt milk! ???? I loved everything about the New Beginnings Breast Pump and I found it to be no comparison to another manual breast pump I have previously used. I would hands down recommend New Beginnings as my first choice electric breast pump!”Interested in learning more helpful tips and tricks about breast pumps? Stay updated with our Maternity Blog and News. For more information check out the pages below or contact us on sales@newbeginnings.com.au or on our socials @newbeginningsmaternity. Silicone Manual Breast Pump Single Electric Breast Pump Double Electric Breast Pump Next Up in Pumping Open vs Closed System Breast Pumps CustomFlow vs Standard Breast Pumps: What Makes It Different Wearable Wonder: The Next Generation of Milk Collection
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Is a UV Steriliser safe for your baby? | New Beginnings
Worried about germs? UV sterilisers offer a safe and effective solution. Learn how they work and why they're a great choice for families. Visit New Beginnings today!
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