Most of the time breastfeeding is such a beautiful experience. There is nothing like looking down at that little peaceful face, feeling the closeness and enjoying a quiet moment. But every once in a while, it can literally be a pain in the breast!

When breastfeeding is going well, I don't think about some of the common problems that can occur. Then out of no where, I'll get a painful reminder. From engorgement to mastitis, breastfeeding can hurt. Just last week I had a blocked duct. Wow, I forgot how uncomfortable those little clogs can be!

Most of these common issues are temporary and easily treated. So thankfully, after two unpleasant days, my little plugged duct was gone. The pain is just about forgotten and it's back to the peaceful, quiet, beautiful moments that I treasure. Well, at least until those teeth finally break through, but that's an entirely different pain in the breast.

Photo © A.D.A.M.

Did you ever wonder what is in breast milk?

The composition of breast milk includes components for natural, complete nutrition as well as properties that fight off illness and disease. Breast milk actually changes and adjust with a baby as the baby grows, and the benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding last long after the baby is weaned.

There are many so many wonderful health and developmental benefits from breast milk and breastfeeding. It is no wonder breast milk is called a "superfood"!

We already know that breastfeeding is best for babies, and previous studies have shown that mothers who breastfeed lower their risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and certain cancers. Now, a recent study suggests that breastfeeding moms can also benefit from a lower risk of high blood pressure.

The study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology looked at over 50,000 U.S. women who participated in the Nurses' Health Study II. All the women had at least one child. The researchers found that women who breastfed exclusively for at least six months had a reduced risk of high blood pressure compared to women who formula fed there children over 14 years.

Even taking into consideration diet, exercise and smoking, women who did not breastfeed had a 22 percent higher risk of developing hypertension than those who breastfed exclusively for six months. This study by itself does not prove that breastfeeding directly protects against high blood pressure, but indicates that breastfeeding benefits the overall long term health of women.

It is already recommended that women breastfeed exclusively for at least six months, and continue for one year in conjunction with solid food. Now, due to this study and other findings that provide evidence of the positive health benefits of breastfeeding to moms and babies, researchers are making additional recommendations to encourage breastfeeding and make it easier.

Did you ever notice how breastfeeding covers tend to be so obvious? They look like big pieces of fabric that come in strange, bold patterns. I have always found this interesting because my main objective is to be discreet and they tend to draw even more attention to the fact that I am breastfeeding. I still have one, and I do use it when I am out, but I am really not that fond of it. Besides the pattern, it's not flattering at all and it doesn't really stay where I want it to. Using baby blankets isn't much better. At least a baby blanket is cuter and less obvious, but let's face it, it always fall down.

I decided to search for a more stylish, less obvious product and recently came across MoBoleez Breastfeeding Hats. I love, love, love this idea! Forget a blanket or a breastfeeding cover, this adorable hat is the cutest. It comes in different colors and patterns, it's reversible, and has a large brim that provides privacy while nursing. There is even a little messages on the brim that says "hi mummy" that you can read when you are feeding your baby. Such a unique idea, and would make a great gift!

What do you think of this product? Has anyone else found a great breastfeeding cover or alternative?