Medela Sleep Bra & Tender Care

Nighttime Nursing Minus the Wardrobe Malfunctions

It's a name us nursing mamas know by heart and after being hooked up to one of their beauties religiously for many long weeks myself, the words pumping and Medela are forever ingrained in my brain.  What you may not know is that in addition to their awesome pumps the folks at Medela have been paying attention to what other things a nursing mama needs.

For new moms struggling with sore, cracked or just plain leaky (glorious isn't it?!) nipples, the Tender Care line has pads and shells perfect for soothing your new high priority assets. We're huge fans of the the reusable 100% cotton nursing pads which will not only save you from embarrassing spots but are much easier on the environment than the plastic and packaging heavy, disposable variety.

Once you have all those ouch, latch and leak problems under control it helps to have a comfortable nursing bra that will work with your wardrobe (or lack there of). Medela has stepped up here too with a new collection of intimate apparel, full of nursing bras that are big on comfort and easy on your budget. The Sleep Bra [$20] is a must have for any nighttime nurser. It's supportive yet breathable enough for you to forget it's there, and the tag-less, racer back style help even more. Best of all it slips on over your head so there are no clasps to dig into your back just as you finally settle in.  The drawback cup means easy access when you need it and no need to snap anything back into place.

-Ashlee

Michael Stars Maternitees

It's In The Stars

The style and comfort of a good luxury tee should not be sacrificed during pregnancy. Actually, this is the time you should be draping your expanding belly in only the best. Michael Stars Maternitees have made the top of my belly list.

I'm certain that there is magic in these tees. How they can make even the bumpiest of bumps (and sides and behinds) look flattering and trim is beyond my comprehension. But hey, I'm going to stop wondering and just start wearing. The gathered sides of the Maternity Shine Ruched Sleeveless Tunic [$48] make this tank sexy and slimming, bringing the eye only to your round tummy full of baby. Even simple basics like the Supima Capsleeve Scoop Neck [$46] can be worn for both the everyday and a night out.

Choose which tee is best for your bump by first, second, or third trimester- the collection accommodates growing Mamas of all shapes... and they all come in one size. Skeptical I was at first, but oh so pleased how several styles have fit me like a glove and returned to their original shape after multiple washings. Ban those frumpy, too-roomy, shrunk-up shirts and welcome to paradise. Michael Stars Maternitees will remain a wardrobe staple well after baby has arrived, I'm sure. It feels too good to look good. I'm not taking mine off.

Win it!
We're giving away the tunic and scoop neck tee linked here, one to each of two lucky readers! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Stars as your subject. Let us know which tee you'd like, what size you'll need, and what line is NEW at Michael Stars. Giveaway ends July 06, 2008.

-Steph

Ripe Maternity

When Your Belly’s Ripe

As my belly is growing with a new life inside, I’m looking longingly at the summer fashions ahead. I am hoping that I can stay in style and still look good, despite the roundness that is now my body. Maternity collections continue to pleasantly surprise me, but design isn’t the only thing I’m concerned about. Comfort is key. Oh goodness, comfort is a must.

At the park you’ll most likely find me sporting the crisp and cool Tomboy Shorts [$79] by Ripe Maternity Wear. The longer shorts are flattering for Moms-to-be and can even go from park to date night with just a change of shoes and shirt. Versatility in maternity wear is almost as important as comfort in my eyes. Invest in a few simple quality pieces and you can stretch your maternity wardrobe a long way. And hopefully that’s the only stretch marks you’ll see.

Win it!
We're sending one mama to be a pair of Ripe's Tomboy Shorts! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Ripe as your subject. Let us know which other item from their summer collection you love and be sure to include your size (S-L).

-Steph

Pump In Style Advanced 2008

A Little More Like Baby

I started my nursing days off with a machine. No sweet little baby to get the milk flowing but the joy that is an electric, hospital grade double breast pump. I pumped, and I pumped, and I pumped for weeks and weeks and weeks, until my tiny baby was finally able to nurse on his own and then I pumped some more. I knew what I was doing was best for my boy and would ensure my eventual nursing success, but lets just say I felt more like livestock than someone's Mommy.

While I'm sure we would all love to have our babies at breast, there are times and circumstance when we can't provide them the milk they need straight from the source. Thankfully, our friends at Medela are dedicated to making things a little bit easier for the nursing mom. The classic Pump In Style Advanced has been updated for 2008 and sweet is an understatement. Breakthrough 2-Phase Expression pumping comfortably mimics baby's nursing rhythm to maximum milk flow, a technology previously available only on hospital breast pumps. And the ability to double pump can cut your expression time in half.

Unlike other pumps that are best suited for pumping in one place, the Pump In Style is designed for the busy Mama on the go. In addition to all the essential pump parts you'll find a battery pack and cooling element that will keep things cool up to 12 hours, meaning you can pump and store your milk anywhere at anytime. Best of all you can carry your pump incognito thanks to the stylish bags [$250-$400]. With your choice of backpack, shoulder bag or metro messenger style no one has to know that you're toting around your liquid gold.  Oh, and all pump parts that come into contact with your milk are BPA/DEHP Free.

I'll take my baby over an industrial boob sucker any day, but when you gotta do what you gotta do, I am grateful Mama's anywhere can now efficiently pump in comfort and style.

Win it!
One lactating Mama will win their very own Pump In Style Advanced 2008! To enter send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Medela as your subject. Giveaway ends midnight February 09.

If you're not sure the Pump is Style is right for you, be sure to check out Medela's Breast Pump Selector.

Inca Mama

Warm This Mama Up

Keep that baby bump warm and wrap up with the sensually-soft Peruvian Alpaca sweaters by Inca Mama. Chic and versatile, you can stay cozy and in fashion during your pregnancy and beyond the post partum days. I’m not even expecting and am, ahem, way post-baby with a two-year-old, but you’ll still find me throwing my Francia wrap over a tank top or fitted tee. The loose cut of Inca Mama’s designs keep the maternity factor incognito… it doesn’t look or feel like you’re wearing maternity clothing at all.

Inca Mama’s collections accommodate the casual or dressy Mom and Mom-to-be. Every wardrobe longs for the multi-functional Miraflores Wrap [$127] available in several colors to compliment your closet. The Shaina hoody will be your snuggly best friend in the spring breeze, cool summer night, and chill of fall.

While you’re giving you & your baby the warmth of a luxurious sweater, you’re also giving back to children in need. Inca Mama has made a commitment to send $1 of every purchase to organizations that provide food and education for the poor children of Peru.

There’s just no comparison to such quality lavish yarn. Inca Mama is timeless in value and style, sure to become a staple of your Mama runway to the park, grocery store, Mom’s Night Out and of course, Mom’s Night In.

-Steph

Ciao Bella

A Mother-to-be’s body goes through some beautiful changes, as well as some not so lovely stretch marks and aches & pains. Bella B Natural Bodycare by Mother’s Intuition has come to the rescue!

Bella B Natural Bodycare, made of clinically proven ingredients free of petroleum, mineral oils, and parabens, is designed to be gentle for your body and peace of mind.

To prevent stretch marks, Tummy Honey Butter [$20] will sweeten your skin with its thick, non-greasy, oil-based formula that maintains the skin’s moisture and elasticity. And you can take it on the go with the Tummy Honey Stick [$20] For stretch marks that have already made their appearance, apply Tummy Honey Cream [$25] as it includes a unique plant extract proven to fade stretch marks typically 30-50% or more! Go for it all with Body Buzz [$25], proven to even firm skin and reduce cellulite!

Breastfeeding Moms will find comfort with Bella B’s Nipple Nurture Butter [$10] and Nipple Nurture Cleansing Pads [$10] designed to clean nipples before and after breastfeeding. The pads help heal and protect the entire area, while being completely free of animal by-products.

Bella B’s Tummy to Toes body cream [$19] will cool and revitalize tired legs and feet- something not just for pregnant Moms. By the end of a long day, we all need a little tingle in our step and I found this to be just heavenly! 

Be natural with Bella B Natural Bodycare and treat your skin just as you would care for your precious baby’s- with only the best!

Win it!

We're giving away a container of Bella B's Nipple Nurture Cleansing Pads! Just send an email to reviews[at]mamaspeaks.com with Bella B as your subject and answer the following question. What year was Bella B founded?

-Steph

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Got Boob?

Are you pregnant? Are you tired of looking frumpy? Then you need Boob Maternity! Boob Maternity has the latest fashions for the chic. When you're pregnant you need to feel good about your body and embrace the changes all that growing brings, it's easy with these fabulous clothes. You can walk out of your house feeling confident and looking great in clothing made to accentuate your new body. And not only do they look great, but the soft and stretchy pieces feel great too. With tops, tanks, jeans and dresses you'll find something for every occasion.

And even better than Boob's maternity wear is their nursing collection. So many nursing tops leave you struggling with straps and snaps, tucking and pulling and all too often you end up with your belly hanging out and your shirt halfway over your head anyway. Boob's tops make it all too easy, the slit right under your bust lifts right up for easy access and because there's one opening, switching sides is easy even if you find yourself nursing in the middle of a crowd.  Nursing can be challenging enough as it is, your top doesn't need to make it any harder.

For free shipping use code "BOOB Free Fall 07" at check out from Stockholm Objects.

-Jaymi

Yummy For My Poor Tummy

When you're pregnant you just need that little bit of extra pampering. And if you're "over due" like me, you really need all the pampering you can get! Bella Mama has the perfect Full Term Set for all of us. Hot flashes, scratchy tummy, swollen feet, you name it and Bella Mama can help you out!

I don't know what I'd do without my Face and Body Spritzer. Seriously a life savor for the hot flashes, or just hot days. Spritz a little on your arms, legs, face, or anywhere and instantly drop a few degrees. I keep it in my tote never leave the house without it! Mama's, give me a shout if you hear me about the tummy itching? Oh, you know! Your belly grows and with the stretching comes the itching. Bella Mama has the perfect product- Belly Butter. It goes on so smooth and creamy and relieves those irritating itches.

Pregnancy is glamorous huh? Bring on the swollen feet! I know about this one oh, too well! There's nothing better in the evenings when the swelling is at it's worst than Bella Mama's Foot Salts! Soak those tootsies and have that hubby give you a nice foot massage.

And someday, if I ever have this baby, I'll be able to try Bella Mama's Nursing salve, which I can only imagine is as wonderful as the other products! The best part? You can get the whole Full Term Set for an easy $61.50! So incredibly worth it! And each set comes beautifully packaged in a unique Bella Mama gift set!!

-Jaymi

Win it!
We're giving away 5 Bella Bundles! Let us know what gift sets are available from Bella Mama (reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com) by midnight September 09.

Rockin' the Tee

Everybody has their favorite tee, right? That tee you just can't get rid of because it's broken in and oh so comfortable. Well, move over old tee because Rockstar Moms is taking over! These tee's, along with being baby soft and having irresistible original designs are so nicely form fitting you won't want to take them off.

Wear them down with a pair of jeans, or dress them up with a cute black skirt. Whatever your style, you'll be IN STYLE with these. And one of the most fab things about this company? All made in USA! The Rock tees are our favorites, but you'll find the complete collection of tops, bottoms (skirts!) and yoga gear to be bea-u-ti-ful. And if you're not ready to give up the gear when baby arrives, just keep on rockin' it (your little one can too.)

Enter STYLISHMOM for 15% of your entire purchase at Rockstar Moms!

 

-Jaymi

Express Yourself

We begin to wrap up World Breastfeeding Week with a spotlight on stylish nursing wear. If you've ever nursed a baby you know how uncomfortable "normal" clothing can be, a shirt hiked up to your neck or pulled down to your belly button isn't the most comfortable thing! Launched in 2000, by a breastfeeding mama of four, Expressiva Nursingwear has just the thing to make feeding on the fly a whole lot easier.

Expressivia's eEssentials line has all the basics to make nursing a breeze. These simple, yet stylish pieces are sure to become staples of of your wardrobe. If you're looking for something with a bit more flair the Goddess top [now $20] says it all in the name. With a close fit and comfortable styling this one might just stay in your closet even after your nursing days. You'll also find  a complete selection of dresses (yes, dresses!) bras, sleepwear and plus sizes. And new items are arriving for fall.

With the great offering, monthly giveaways and amazing sales, Expressiva can't be beat. As long as you make milk, they have you covered.

Win it!
We have an Expressiva Twinset for you! (size small) Just send an email to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight August 06.

Bum Beautiful

It's very true that it's what's on the inside that counts, and sometimes it's what you have on under your clothes that can make you feel just right. Belabumbum (pronounced "Bella boom boom" and Portuguese for "beautiful bottom") specializes in beautiful under things for all women. Their lines of lingerie, lounge wear, maternity/nursing lingerie and maternity swim wear are simply stunning. This Brazilian important features innovative cuts and fabrics that accentuate the female body like nothing else.

Belabumbum's gorgeous lingerie is perfect for everyday and special occasions. And is a favorite of us mortal women and celebrities alike. For pregnant or nursing mama's we highly recommend the Lotus Lace [$38] nursing bra and Olivia girl short [$30]. And their coordinating PJ's will make you want to stay in bed all day long.

With just the right amount of detail, Belabumbum lingerie is playful yet sophisticated. And the perfect thing for your beautiful bottom!

Simple Screen, Safe Nursing

After nine months of abstinence, many mama's are ready to have the occasional drink once baby arrives. In fact it's not unheard of for a lactation consultant to "prescribe" a glass of wine to help a newly nursing mama unwind and get her milk flowing. But everyone metabolizes alcohol differently and any alcohol in your milk supply is a real danger to baby. In the past, women have had to stay away from alcohol completely, pump and dump or simply guess if and when it was safe to mix a drink or two with nursing.

Milkscreen [$20 for 8 strips], a simple two minute test for the detection of alcohol in breast milk, eliminates uncertainty. You simply saturate a Milkscreen test strip with freshly expressed breast milk, wait two minutes, and read your results. An obvious change in color indicates the presence of alcohol in your milk (with 99% accuracy) and no change means you're safe to nurse away.

Two minutes in exchange for piece of mind? We'll toast to that! Now if only they made for one for caffeine.

Win it!
Would you like to give Milkscreen a try? We have a box of 8 test strips to give away. Just send your answer to the following question to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight August 4: According to Milkscreen's website, what are negative impacts of alcohol in breast milk?

Luxe for All Your Nine Months

Oh, times they have changed! Just because you have a baby on the way doesn't mean you have to wear the moo-moos of your mama's time. While many mama's-to-be are opting to wear their "normal" clothes as long as possible we're all about the maternity gear. If nothing else when else do you have an excuse to buy a whole new wardrobe?!

Japanese Weekend Maternity is the gold standard in contemporary maternity and nursing gear. From casual tee's and jeans to office ready work wear, lingerie to yoga gear you'll find everything you need all in one place.

We especially love their during & after nursing line. The beautiful tops are designed for easy access and discreet nursing and the gorgeous styling will work with jeans or dressed up for a party. Japanese Weekend's Luxe Jersey Sash Top [$70] has just the right amount of stretch meaning it will grow with you all the way to the end of your pregnancy and leave you with a wonderful silhouette in the weeks after.  It's perfect, feeling fabulous doesn't need to stop once baby arrives!

Win it!

We're giving away the Japanese Weekend d&a Sash Top pictured! Send your answer to following question to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight August 3. (please include your size) Who is the owner/designer of Japanese Weekend Maternity?

Brava! Bravado Knows Breast

A breastfeeding mother’s dream… trendy nursing undergarments with comfort, support, & style. Bravado! Designs was created by two young mothers who refused to succumb to Granny’s over the shoulder boulder holder.

The Essential Nursing Bra Tank is truly fabulous inside and out. I wore mine all day and even to bed- it was that comfy. And I found it quite enhancing as it actually didn’t flatten my chest, but kept me feeling quite lifted! Imagine that!

Celebrity Moms are raving about the Lifestyle Microfiber Nursing Bra, which is famous for its comfort, breathability, & amazing shape. And finally a fashionable nursing bra that fits a wide range of sizes!

Purchase Bravado’s Essential Nursing Kit and get a free breastfeeding DVD! The Kit includes the Original Nursing Bra (you can choose from 6 colors, including leopard!), The Essential Nursing Bra Tank, & the Lifestyle Microfiber Nursing Bra.

Bravado! Designs is committed to operating in a green, sustainable fashion, so feel good about shopping where you’ll not only be doing the best for you and your baby, but you’ll also be making a difference to the world!

Win it!

We have a Bravado! Original Nursing Bra for you (size medium)! Just email your favorite nursing photo to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight August 2 to enter.

Haute Mama. Cool Babe.

While I won't claim to have been a fashionista before motherhood, I will admit that the wardrobe has slipped a bit since baby made three. I tend to stick more with practical and comfortable (even it means wearing yoga pants for a week) than anything that could be mistaken for a fashion statement.

There is, however, help on the horizon. Mama Tonjia Coverdale, owner of DivasNBabes, is encouraging us all to ditch the over sized tee's and baseball caps and release our inner diva. Her Haute Mama Line [$11-$30] is full of comfy, casual clothes that will help you make a statement and the Cool Babe collection [$8-$30] has tees perfect for your favorite sidekick.

Just for Mama Speaks readers, DivasnBabes is offering 15% off your total purchase with code MS15. And in honor of World Breastfeeding Week are extending another 25% discount off all breastfeeding/babywearing shirts!

Win it!
Of course we have something special for you. We're giving away an "I Pump Milk, not Weights" tank for Mama and a "Breast Friends" tee for baby. Just email the name of Tonjia's tot to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight August 1.

 

Che Bella!

I would be the first one to burn my bras if my ta-tas didn’t need the support. They can’t survive without one. Bella Materna is a dream come true. The Adjustable Anytime Nursing Bralet [$54] is pure pleasure and comfort, and I literally forgot I even had a nursing bra on the first time I wore it. This bralet has the best support available without underwires. The uniquely designed Bella Materna Strap Keep™- wide set adjustable straps- won’t keep falling down & the ballet back gives you support in a sexy silhouette. Yes, Bella Materna puts sexy in maternity and nursing bras!

Bella Materna also features luxurious maternity must-haves like the Halter Dress [$118] and Transition Lounge Pant [$78] for before and after baby. We love that Bella Materna has revolutionized the nursing bra and fabulous maternity & transition wear, proving that fashion and function can beautifully coexist. We also love that all of Bella Materna’s items are manufactured within the United States and are always produced under safe, healthy conditions!

Bella Materna is offering free shipping on any order using promotion code: FREEMAMA. If there is ever a time to feel luxurious in your lingerie, it’s as a pregnant or nursing mom. Indulge!

-Steph

Sugar and Spice

To say, since I’ve had kids my style has taken a back seat, would be an understatement.  Thankfully black yoga pants go with absolutely everything in my world.  But I always say it’s what’s underneath that counts and with that in mind, PassionSpice Maternity will have you feeling runway worthy.

PassionSpice Maternity will take you through pregnancy (looking HOT I may add) and beyond like oh, 2+ years beyond with their sexy nursing bras.  I know, I know nursing and sexy don’t normally go hand in hand but check out the black Carla Nursing Bra [$49] with the sweet pink accents and you’ll know just what I mean.  With their quick access nursing clasps you can look great and be functional at the same time.   Add on the coordinating Tap Pant [$9] and you’ll remember just how you became a mother in the first place.  Which is completely OK because the maternity sleepwear which my virgin eyes, ahem, can hardly bare will be there waiting for you.

- Cara

Win it!
You sexy mama-to-be, we have just what you need! Enter to win a Giselle Babydoll & Bikini set [$45] (size small). Just email your due date to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight July 09.