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What makes women hesitant to breastfeed?

Lack of awareness, family pressure, social taboos and popular misconceptions all contribute to why women are apprehensive to breastfeed. But recently, advocates have found another compelling reason why only a sixth of Filipino infants benefit from exclusive breastfeeding: poor-quality nursing bras that don’t allow mothers to breastfeed comfortably and discreetly.

Mothers complain that most nursing bras available in the market fall in either one of two categories: the cheap ones made of poor quality materials that do not give adequate support for breasts; and the ill-fitting kind (but still generally expensive) which painfully cut into the breasts and armpits. However, even more important than concerns for comfort and economy, the wrong nursing bra can contribute to plugged milk ducts that may lead to mastitis in mothers — a condition characterized by breast swelling and inflammation.

Barbizon, the niche leader in reasonably priced yet fashionable intimate apparel is responding to one of the culprits that discourage breastfeeding by introducing a line of nursing bras that combines strong, yet gentle support with the utmost in nursing convenience.

During my lactating mother days which is some twenty years ago, I had difficulty finding the right nursing bra. During those days, the bras didn’t adequately support the breasts or were uncomfortable.

Barbizon’s nursing bra selections are made of durable nylon polyester with cotton lining for the cups; adjustable smooth straps designed with provisions with for bra extenders and three hook closures. In addition, this line of nursing essentials is available in sizes 34-44, ensuring the perfect fit for all lactating moms.

In line with Barbizon’s tradition of producing fashionable intimate wear, their nursing bras collection is far from the boring, granny-inspired creations of yesteryear. Mothers can choose from two designs— the first with a delicate lace edge and the second embellished with scalloped lace trim. Both designs are available in black and in skin tone.

Even more important than showing off that newly developed cleavage to perfection, Barbizon’s line of quality bras that allow women to breastfeed discreetly and comfortably. Its nursing bras are specifically engineered with a convenient outer cup release that opens easily and discreetly for mothers’ breastfeeding convenience. This ingenious nursing bra is appropriate for the relatively conservative culture of the Philippines that generally frowns upon women who completely bare their breasts while nursing in public.

Please spread the word about the Synchronized Breastfeeding Worldwide, a Filipino-initiated, record-breaking event that will show the world that breastfeeding is making a strong come-back and should be promoted.

[tag]Synchronized Breastfeeding Worldwide[/tag]

Children for Breastfeeding and World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will stage Synchronized Breastfeeding Worldwide on August 8, 2007 at 10 a.m. at your local time. Read more at BreastFeedingworld.net

For questions on Breastfeeding, contact
The Breastfeeding Clinic:
Your Partner from Pregnancy to Parenting
(Managed by two International Board Certified Lactation Consultants)
Nona D. Andaya-Castillo, IBCLC
Elvira L. Henares-Esguerra, MD, FPDS, RPh, IBCLC
Telefax: 632-889-1105
Mobile: 63-919-839-5555

Breastfeeding Websites in the Philippines

• Nurturers of the Earth: A Support Group for an Earth-friendly Lifestyle
• Children for Breastfeeding, Inc.

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