Crystal Hoshaw

Breastfeeding is a journey, and all journeys come to an end. As you prepare to wean your baby, you’ll likely want to know how to dry up breast milk to maximise your comfort — and your baby’s. From a realistic timeline to what side effects to expect, this stage of breastfeeding is just as important as the rest.

You want the best for your baby. That goes for everything from education to nutrition. But it’s not only what they eat that matters: it’s what they eat from. The bottles and storage containers your baby’s milk goes in need to be sterile to ensure they don’t transfer harmful bacteria. But how can you be absolutely sure they’re really clean?

Knowing how to hand-express milk isn’t just a solid backup plan when it comes to feeding your bub. If your baby is having trouble latching or has to spend time in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), this skill can become a necessity. It’s also a great option if you forget your pump at home or have excess milk to express.

The decision to breastfeed is deeply personal, and so is the decision to stop. Your circumstances and your personal preferences will play a major role in how, when and why you stop breastfeeding.
Want to know how to stop breastfeeding in a way that supports you and your baby best?
Women’s Health consulted two experts — Tara Murphy MSN, RN, IBCLC, of RWJ Barnabas Health Breastfeeding Wellness Center and Dr Lauren Davis, DO, board-certified family medicine and osteopathic doctor and founder of ...

While I lost my breasts, I gained a voice and purpose that drives me to advocate for others who may not feel empowered to share their stories.

When my son was 1, I moved from the tumultuous San Francisco Bay Area to the rolling hills of Northeastern Thailand. When I stepped off the plane, I could tell my parenting experience would be different.

Hormonal changes, nighttime feedings and the physical demands of caring for a baby can take a toll. But of all the new things you’re taking on, from night feedings to diaper changes, is breastfeeding one that can truly make you tired?

I was lucky to be perfectly healthy throughout my pregnancy. However, the bigger I got, the more I found myself plagued by one symptom that drove me absolutely up the wall. Right around my second trimester, it struck: Just as I was about to fall asleep, my legs would twitch and spasm, making it pretty much impossible to relax and drift off.

Whether you’re managing tummy trouble, feeling backed up, or just want to optimize the health of your gut, you may want to give Triphala a try. This traditional herbal remedy supports overall wellness but is particularly famous for promoting a healthy gut.

Whether you’re a first-time or experienced parent, the idea that your baby isn’t getting enough milk is about as scary as it gets. But understanding the subtle signs of an underfed bub can help you take quick, proactive steps to support their nutrition and growth.

Fiber is an important component of a healthy diet. However, those living with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (UC) may avoid fiber-rich foods out of fear that they may worsen gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.

I taught preschool for two years. Frankly, it was delightful. It was fulfilling, meaningful work that left me feeling full-hearted at the end of every day.

I grew up on gold stars and participation trophies as an unwitting member of the self-esteem generation. When I entered motherhood in 2011, I took it even further.

I look at the tattoo each morning and feel proud of my decision, knowing what it took to get me here today.

Emotional competence involves feeling, expressing, and coping with emotions effectively. It can help reduce stress associated with managing chronic illness. Mindfulness can help you get there.