Mother Nurture: Breast Pumps Nursing Bras Baby Carriers Slings Cloth Diapers Kentucky

QuestionsFind answers to commonly asked questions here. You may also send us your questions through our contact us page and we will answer them here.

Why should I buy from you when I can get it cheaper online? TOP

There are many reasons that you should choose to spend your money at Mother Nurture and other local businesses. Click here for an article on the importance of supporting local businesses.

I understand, my prices may be higher than online stores. This is because I run an actual storefront. This was very important to me when starting my business. I began Mother Nurture because I was frustrated that there was nowhere to see, feel and try nursing bras, baby carriers and cloth diapers locally. I needed help getting started with those things and didn't have much help here. I spoke to other women and found this to be a common problem. So, I decided to fix it!

I learned (and am still learning) as much as I could about cloth diapers and babywearing. I became a certified bra fitter and am learning the basics of lactation problem-solving. In planning my business, it was very important for me to have a storefront business that would allow people to see, feel and try things and get support for using these items. I prefer that my customers try on bras, try out the carriers and ask a lot of questions before they buy them so that they will be satisfied with their purchase.

As a local businesses owner, I am also able to respond to the individual needs of our community. For example, I had added several breastfeeding support services such as lactation consultations, breast pump trials and breast pump rentals. I have expanded our product offerings to include healthier items such as USA made wooden toys as we became aware of dangerous products or ingredients. These were not an original part of my business plan, but I have been able to respond to the apparent need for these items in our community.

I live here in Lexington and am dedicated to our community. I make thoughtful decisions to spend my business and personal dollars within our community as much as possible. I also try to buy as many domestically produced items and WAHM-made items as possible.

I also want my store to be warm and nurturing for you and your family. We have comfortable chairs for you to sit, take your time and nurse your baby. Toys are available for older children to entertain themselves. I encourage you to take your time and be confident in your purchases. I am here to support families, not just to sell things to them.

I hope that you can feel confident that by spending your dollars at Mother Nurture that you will receive excellent customer service and support and truly know how to use all of your products when you get home. You can also be confident that you are contributing to our local enconomy. Thanks!

How many nursing bras do I need? TOP

Most women like to have about 5 nursing bras which can include a combination of bras, tanks and sleep bras. At the very least, you should have at least 3 regular nursing bras - one on, one in the wash and a clean one waiting. You also need a sleep or leisure bra to hold your nursing pads in place overnight.

Think about how many non nursing bras you have. Let's face it - you'll use your nursing bras in a much different way than those. Quality and functionality is very important when it comes to finding the right nursing bra.

How do I know what size nursing bra to buy? TOP
You should come into the store to be fitted. We are certified bra fitters and will be happy to measure you for a correctly fitting bra. We are also knowledgeable in the variations of sizes between brands and styles. You've probably heard that most women are wearing the wrong size bra. We have found this to be true. Typically, most women are wearing a larger band size and smaller cup size than they should. Many women are shocked at their true bra size!

When should I buy my nursing bras? TOP

During the last month of your pregnancy, your breasts will likely be the same size they will be while you are nursing. You should buy a comfortable transitional style bra to wear during the first few weeks when your breasts are very full and 3-5 regular nursing bras in the appropriate size. If you cannot come in before your baby is born, you may come in afterwards to buy a leisure bra and return when your milk supply settles to get your regular bras.

Of course, each woman's body is different. We cannot guarantee that your body will follow this pattern. However, we carry several transitional style bras that are made of stretchy materials and fit a range of sizes that are more likely to fit longer.

How much can I expect to spend on a nursing bra? TOP
Our bra prices range between $20 - $75. All of our bras are chosen based on the quality of the product. Unfortunately, good-quality larger bra sizes (E cup and larger) tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum. However, many of our larger-breasted customers have found that their properly sized, good-quality nursing bras have been the best, most-supportive bras they've ever owned!

Can I wear an underwire bra while nursing? TOP

An incorrectly fitting nursing bra with underwire may cause serious problems. However, if the bra fits correctly, you may wear an underwire. This is one reason that we highly recommend that you come in and be fitted. Our Certified Bra Fitters can check the fit of the underwire in the bra in relation to the breast tissue. Women who have experienced clogged ducts and mastitis should avoid wearing underwire bras while breastfeeding.

Is cloth diapering hard? TOP

Cloth diapering is much easier than most people expect. The supposed inconvenience of cloth diapering is imagined. Also, cloth diapering has come a long way. So, even your grandma might be surprised to learn how easy and convenient it can be. While your baby is solely breastfed, your washing machine can do all of the work for you. There is no need to swish diapers in the toilet or soak your diapers in bleach water (please do not bleach your diapers!). Many new products have made cloth diapering very convenient:

Washable pail liners allow you to put all of your diapers in the wash without touching them!
Wet bags have a waterproof liner on the inside so you can store your soiled diapers in the diaper bag.
Snappis are used to hold prefold diapers on instead of pins.
Cloth Diapers come in so many varieties including fitted diapers, pocket diapers and all-in-ones which may cloth diapering less intimidating.

We'd be happy to show you the variety available and help you make a decision about cloth diapering.

I own a sling/somebody gave me a sling, but I can't figure out how to use it - can you help? TOP
Absolutely, bring in your sling and we'll show you how to use it. Sometimes, it just takes a few pointers to figure out how to use your sling correctly and make it more comfortable for you. Occasionally, there is a new product that we are not familiar with, but we'll do our best!

I want to use a sling, but how to I choose the right one? TOP

The best way to know which baby carrier is right for you is to try them on. The right carrier for you will depend on what is comfortable for your body, your baby wearing goals, who will be using it and the age of your baby. I really encourage you to come to the store if at all possible and try out each type of sling so that you can make your own decision about what is best for you and your family. We will happily show you how to use each type of sling. Wearing your baby can be a life saver. See my article on babywearing for more information on the benefits of babywearing.

Is it too late to start using cloth diapers? TOP

Absolutely not! Many people decide to start using cloth diapers after their childs first year or as their child starts potty training. Cloth diapers will always save you money and the environment. Older children may go through fewer diapers so the investment may not be as overwhelming. Cloth diapers can also help with potty training. Cloth diapers will allow your child to feel wet which is important for understanding cause and effect and knowing when to go to the potty.

How do you wash cloth diapers? TOP

There are as many different ways to wash cloth diapers as there are cloth diapering families. Some factors that will determine how you wash your diapers are: the type of diapers you use, how many diapers you have, how often you want to wash, your washer and dryer set up and what type of water you have. We have handouts in the store with a few washing options. Usually, the process is very simple and only entails an extra rinse cycle or two.

Why does it hurt when I pump? TOP
Pumping should never be painful. The goal with pumping is not to work your way up to the highest settings, but to find a setting that is comfortable and effective for your body. If your body is in pain, it will shut down and may not produce as much milk as possible.

It is also possible that you are using the wrong size breastshield or flange (the part that cups the breast). Breastshield and flange size has nothing to do with the size of your breast. It has more to do with the size of your nipple and the way your nipple reacts to the suction created by the pump. Unfortunately, it is not one of those things you can predict before you start pumping. Most women fit well into the standard 24mm shield. However, larger and smaller sizes are available for all quality breast pumps. It is also something that can change over time and many very from one side to the other. So, you may use the 24mm fine for the first few weeks and then realize that another size would be more comfortable. Some women use a 24mm on one side and a 27mm on the other (or any variation of the different sizes).

If you are experiencing pain or difficulty while pumping, call us at 859.335.5949 to schedule a pumping consult. Our Certified Lactation Counselors can help troubleshoot your issues, determine a proper fitting breastshield size and answer your questions about pumping and returning to work.

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