I am a first time mom to a 8th month old Yukio Kaya. I admit, being a newbie is very challenging. I have read books, asked for advices from other moms, and even attended seminars pertaining to parenting andbreastfeeding. I actually have no idea on how to breastfeed. All I know is that exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months after birth is best for my child because it can boost his immunity, provide him with a well-balanced nutrition and reduce the risk of certain illnesses. It can improve both the health of the baby and the mother as well.
Yes, 8 months and better if longer. That was my dilemma when Kaya had his first latch. “Is my milk supply enough? Will my milk last until 6 months or even up to 2 years?” These are just some of the questions running in my mind every time I feed my child.
I remember that during the first few weeks postpartum, my milk supply was low plus I had sore nipples. I wanted to quit breastfeeding. But, thankful I have a supportive husband who would always remind me to eat healthy food, to keep myself well-hydrated and to nurse our child as often as possible. He even gave me a thermal pillow for me to use as a warm compress before breastfeeding.
That’s when I tried the wonders of Kimochi Aroma Pillows. It was very helpful and practical. It can be applied both as a warm compress, which I always use to initiate my breastfeeding session and as cold compress, to soothe my sore nipples afterwards. The use of moist heat immediately before nursing can help the milk let-down, thus increases milk flow. While applying cold compress to your breasts and under your arms between feedings can help reduce swelling.
Kimochi Aroma offer different sizes and designs of thermal pillows to match your personality and style. Their XS size can be used as hand warmers which is perfect for busy hands like mine! While the wrist, square and XL (3 cut wrapped around) sizes can alleviate pain and swelling in different areas of the body. Their 3 cut-wrapped around size fits my chest and the pillow comes with a lavender scent, which made breastfeeding more relaxing. But for those who would want their pillows to be scent-free, Kimochi Aroma Pillows can customize according to your needs. This is a perfect home remedy for headache, fever, sore eyes, eye bags, sprain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, menstrual cramps, joint pains and even for breastfeeding! Just pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, medium heat (for square and XL sizes) or in the fridge for 4 hours, then it is ready for use. Definitely a must have for every mom!
At first, breast feeding was really a struggle. My dilemma turned out to be a wonderful experience that every mom should encounter. Breastfeeding is a time to bond with your little one while providing him with all the nourishment he needs. At work, I pump and I strictly follow my routine in feeding. And at night time, I make sure that I breastfeed my child. It is all about having a mind set and using all the resources that you have to reach your goal.
Now, it’s already been 8 months since I started exclusively breastfeeding Kaya and up to now, my milk supply is still up and I will never get tired of nursing him as long as he wishes to continue. Thanks to all who helped and made breastfeeding easy.
Article by:
Michelle Camille N. Barros
Physician and Proprietor, Kimochi Aroma
