Wildflower Nursing Poncho ~ Add a Bohemian vibe!

Featuring our new nursing cover . A lovely sprinkling of wild flowers. Check it out here.

No nursing room? No problem!

And lets face it, who'd like to be stuck in a nursing room and miss out on the action?

Here are 6 good reasons why our nursing covers are fab for mums on-the-go:

1. Our nursing covers are designed in a ponchos style to provide all round coverage. You can breastfeed discreetly without the anxiety of someone peeking in or accidentally exposing yourself around the sides of the nursing cover.


2. They are soft and breathable. Made of soft jersey fabric, they are so comfortable against the skin.


3. They are easy to use. No fiddly bits to adjust. Simply just slip it over your head and that's it!


4. Portable and lightweight. Our nursing ponchos can fit easily into any bag. There is no need to fold to keep it back into your bag, you can simply roll it up and stuff it into your bag.


5. Stylish. We have many designs for you to choose from and you can wear it as part of your outfit, with jeans or leggings.


6. Multi-functional. They are great as shopping cart seat covers, swing covers, baby swaddle wrap or blanket and as a stroller cover. Really versatile.


Check out our full range here.

   

New collection of Nursing Ponchos / Nursing Covers

We are really excited to present our new range of nursing ponchos.  PLUS the launch of our 2nd website Nursing Ponchos by Ubermums. 

Check out our wide range of nursing ponchos and take your pick from the collections.


Stripes Collection

 Floral Collection

                   





Solids Collection

              



See the whole range here. 

You'd be happy to know that we are giving free shipping on all our nursing ponchos for orders within Singapore.

Diaper Samples - Updated September 2017

(We have updated our list to include Sensi Baby Diapers.)

Hi mums and mums-to-be,

You'd be interested to know that you can get free diaper samples to try out from a few diaper companies in Singapore. Its a fabulous idea because many new parents I know try a few different brands till they get the one that works best for their baby. 

One of the cheaper brands we bought, had poorly constructed sticker tabs, that actually tore off if you do not unfasten them very carefully! We had to use sticky tape to fasten the diaper. Needless to say that was the last time we purchased that brand of diapers.

Here is the list of the diaper brands. Click on them to get to their website links to obtain the free diaper samples in Singapore.

1. Huggies
2. Kao Merries Tape Diapers / Walker Pants Diapers
3. Drypers
4. Mammy Poko
5. Nepia Sample Pack ( There is a $5 charge per set of sample diapers, with free delivery)
6. Sensi Baby Diapers  ( Email to info@diapersdirect.com.sg or call 6100 3427 to request for your preferred samples.)

Stretch Marks and Pregnancy ~ How to Minimize their Occurance

Stretch marks. Striae Gravidarum. The marks of pregnancy. Call them what you will. But they are the one thing that all women dread will occur as soon as they get pregnant.

But what are stretch marks anyway? And why do they occur?

Well, the reason lies in the anatomy of the skin. The skin has two layers – a thin upper layer called the epidermis, and a thicker, lower layer called the dermis. Scattered in the dermis are fine protein filaments called elastin that, like a piece of rubber band, are capable of stretching on being pulled. But just as a rubber band can stretch only so far and no further, these elastin fibres can also be stretched only to a certain extent. If stretched further, they snap. The increasing bulk of the uterus during pregnancy causes the skin to stretch to a great extent and the elastin fibres are torn. The torn elastin produces scars on the skin called Stria Gravidarum or stretch marks.

They occur on the lower abdomen of all pregnant women, right?

Well, right and wrong. They appear in most pregnant women, but not in all and not just on the lower abdomen. Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched in a very short period of time, as in pregnancy or in obesity. 

They occur:

-In the lower abdomen in pregnancy.

-Along the sides of the breasts either in pregnancy or in obesity.

-Upper thighs.

-Occasionally even on the inner sides of the upper arms.

But can stretch marks be prevented?

Thankfully, the answer is yes, to a certain extent. Although some women are genetically prone to develop stretch marks, it has been noted that athletes and women accustomed to heavy, physical labour get very few or no stretch marks. This is regardless of whether their female relatives have stretch marks or not. The reason for this is that that these women have very well-developed and strong abdominal muscles. These muscles can easily take the weight of the growing uterus and prevent it from pressing forwards on the skin – rather like wearing a strong muscular belt under the skin. The skin is thus stretched less, less elastin fibres are damaged, and there are fewer stretch marks.

Again a supple, healthy, well moisturized skin is capable of stretching more without any lasting damage. So if a woman can strengthen her abdominal muscles and keep her skin healthy and supple, there is less chance of her developing stretch marks.

But how? How do I develop my muscles and keep my skin moisturized?

1. Exercises

Gentle exercises for the abdominal muscles can be started as soon as pregnancy has been confirmed or even as pregnancy is being planned.

Exercise 1 : Standing erect, raise both arms above the head. Bend forward slowly to touch your toes. Hold the position for a count of 100. Then slowly straighten up. Do this exercise at least once daily.

Exercise 2 : Standing erect, raise both arms above the head and clasp your hands. Now bend slowly to your left as far down as you feel comfortable. Hold for a count of 10. Straighten up slowly and then bend to your right. Hold to a count of 10. Straighten up. Exhale as you are bending and inhale while straightening up. This makes one set. Do at least 3 sets once daily.

Exercise 3 : Stand straight with feet about 12 inches apart. Place hands on your back at the waist. Slowly bend back, as far back as you feel comfortable. Hold to a count of 10. Straighten up. Now bend forward slowly, hold the position to a count of 10. Then straighten up. Exhale as you are bending and inhale while straightening up. This makes one set. Do at least 3 sets once daily.

These three exercises will strengthen the abdominal and back muscles as well as gently stretch the skin. They also improve the posture during pregnancy.

2. Caring for the skin 
Keep the skin moisturized by applying oil – olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil or any good baby oil – thoroughly over the skin of the abdomen, hips and thighs. Massage it in with sweeping upward strokes. You can do this before you exercise so that the oil is properly absorbed as the skin is stretched during exercise. This will make the skin supple and healthy and capable of stretching without damaging the elastin fibres. The elastin and collagen growth can be stimulated to some extent by cocoa butter, Vitamin E, wheat germ oil and lanolin. But to remove the marks completely, laser surgery, blue light therapy and other surgical treatments are the only options. Many creams and lotions available on the market also claim to be able to remove stretch marks but have yet to be medically proved.

3. A Good Diet
Take a good diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and adequate liquids. And do not forget your daily vitamins. This will ensure a healthy and supple skin.

Do I need Maternity Nighties?

Well, you could wear oversized non-maternity nighties in a few sizes bigger, but chances are the sizing for the shoulders and sleeves will be off proportion and too big. 
Maternity nighties are designed to accommodate the baby bump, while keeping the proportions of the maternity sleepwear intact.


How about maternity pajamas? 

Maternity nighties win pajamas hands down for 2 good reasons:

• Firstly its much easier to use the toilet without having to pull down and pull up the pajama pants. 

• Secondly, for mums who have undergone or planning to undergo Cesarean Section birth, its best not to have any restrictive parts of clothing (such as the pajama pants elastic band) against the body near the wound area. Loose fitted clothes are recommended.

What do we look for in a maternity nightie?
a. Soft Fabric
b. Breathable Fabric ~ Cotton or cotton blends are best as they keep the body cool too
c. Comfortable ~ Loose and non restrictive
d. Practical ~ Wash and wear fabric, no ironing needed
e. Pretty ~ Nothing drab
f.  Presentable ~ Decent enough when guests visit at the hospital or at home.
g. With Nursing Openings ~ for easy breastfeeding

See here for our full range of maternity and nursing nighties.

We love lace. It adds that X-factor to any dress. There is never a better time to wear this fabric then during the year end festivities. 

We are happy to have our new collection of lace dresses just in time for the Christmas season. These beautiful dresses are duo purpose, which means not only can you wear it during your pregnancy, but you can also enjoy wearing them while breastfeeding.

Do check our new category on our website specially for the lace collection.

Pass the mustard !

Inject freshness into your wardrobe with a a pop of mustard colour. Feel re-energized in our Madison maternity & nursing dress in Dijon.

Loving the Colourblock

Whats that?

Colour Blocking in fashion is matching a few totally different solid colours together in a outfit.  When done correctly, it gives a unique and interesting effect.

 Some of the techniques of colourblocking:

1. Monochromatic Colours : One colour in different tones , such as different tones of blue). 
   
Our example below is the Issa Maternity & Nursing Dress has different berry tones.

2. Complementary Colours: Using colours from opposite sides of the wheel. These have a contrasting effect. For example: green-red, or orange-blue combinations.

             

                                                         THE COLOUR WHEEL


3. Analogous Colours : Using colours next to each other on the wheel. There are hues that quite similar to each other. They are pleasing to the eye and are one of the popular albeit 'safe' choices people make.


Tips and Techniques:

1. Keep the tones in the same family ( For eg pastels with pastels, neons with neons).

2. Mix and Match : Colour block by using different colours for separate clothing articles.

3. Stand-Alone: The dress or accessory is already colour blocked by the designer. The Issa Maternity & Nursing Dress in blue tones with a contrast waistband below is an example.
                                                              

4. Colour block with accessories. For example wearing a statement piece choker in a contrasting colour to your dress. 

Studio Maternity & Nursing dress 

5. The possibilities and permutations are endless. But as a general rule, use 2 or 3 colours to achieve the best effect. Anymore than that, you could be drawing the wrong attention!

Have fun and experiment with colours! 

The Perfect Drape

The artfully draped Aura Dress ~ hides imperfections and so wonderfully soft. In a sophisticated slate grey, you'd glow in this flattering dress. Created with a cross-over draped front, it flatters the figure for instant confidence.

To Nurse: Push aside the drape fold to access the nursing openings in the inner layer.

 

Pregnancy & Hair Loss

First of all congratulations on your pregnancy!

One of the major changes is change with the hair like other parts of the body. It could thin or fall out, or it could also thicken. Understanding why this happens during pregnancy and what you can do to help the problem will help you in fighting the thinning and loss of your hair or with extra hair growth.

Hormones have lot of effects on your hair. The main reason your hair will change during pregnancy is the change in hormones. Estrogen plays a large part in the way that your hair is shaped. If your hair begins to grow faster and becomes thicker, it is most likely because there is an increased amount of estrogen that is moving through your body. 

Estrogen moves to the hair follicles in your body to increase the growth rate. There will also be extra nutrients that are provided from the estrogen increase, which will also increase hair growth. This is usually a result of the estrogen allowing the metabolism to move faster, which then supplies extra nutrients throughout the body.

Another change that you may notice from pregnancy is a change in the style. Your hair may not only be fuller or thinner, but may also change from straight to curly, or have the opposite effect. This is usually attributed to the hormone changes as well. The hormone increase that you experience will automatically move into the cortex, where hair begins to grow and add the texture to it. Usually, this will not change back until the hormones return to normal after pregnancy.

These same changes also occur after your baby is born. You may realize that your hair is thinning or falling out. Usually, the first three to six months after pregnancy will cause a change in your hair. This should be expected and is normal after a pregnancy. This usually occurs because the estrogen levels are able to move back to normal and slow down the nutrients that are moving through your body.

One of the things to be aware of is if your hair falls out during your pregnancy, it is most likely a result of not receiving enough nutrients for your body to produce the right amounts of estrogen. Without those essential nutrients, your body is unable to produce the amount of estrogen it needs.  This is especially a problem within the first trimester because of morning sickness and nausea. It is important to make sure that you are getting the right amounts of nutrients during this time to allow your body to stay balanced.

Knowing what changes your body goes through during pregnancy will help you adjust your hair routine to keep it healthy. Additional vitamins and other supplements will help your hair and scalp healthy and your hair beautiful.

Some suggestions to avoid/prevent hair loss:

1. Avoid tying your hair too tightly.

2. As hair is more fragile when it is wet, avoid tying your hair while it is still damp.

3. Use a wide tooth comb to slowly untangle your hair, starting from the ends up.

4. Supplement your diet with the following vitamins and supplements:
- Vitamin B Complex
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin C
- Zinc

5. Avoid Stress!  Avoid potentially stressful situations. If you have a stressful job, take short breaks in-between for a breather.

Never thought of wearing green colour?

Never thought of wearing green? You'd change your mind with the Madison maternity and nursing dress in a gorgeous shade of Kelly Green.

Coming Soon ~ New Range of Maternity Nighties

Good Exercises to Do When Pregnant

Most women can and should exercise when pregnant. Unless your pregnancy is high risk or your doctor has ordered you to stay in bed, there is no reason in fact you can’t exercise while pregnant.

Studies show that there are numerous benefits to exercising while pregnant. You can improve your energy levels, get your blood pumping to your legs and improve your circulation, and improve your chances for a speedy recovery.

Another reason to exercise? Moms who worked out while pregnant generally had shorter and easier labors.

So what kinds of exercises are good to do when pregnant?

Well let’s start with those you should avoid. You should avoid embarking on any stringent exercise program you are unfamiliar with. Avoid running and other jarring activities unless you are a very experienced runner. Even then you should consult with your physician.

Here are some generally good and safe exercises that are recommended during pregnancy:

Walking – This is the best overall exercise for pregnant mothers anywhere. It is low impact but still gets your heart rate up and your blood pumping. Walking is usually safe throughout the entire pregnancy.

Slow Jogging – Jogging can be done safely if you are an experienced jogger. You should reduce your jogging regimen however the further along you are in your pregnancy. If you are not able to have a conversation when jogging, then you are working out too hard.

Swimming – This is the number one exercise and the safest exercise when it comes to pregnancy. Swimming alleviates the heaviness you feel from weight gain associated with pregnancy. It also provides you with optimal cardiovascular benefits and helps you feel light and refreshed.

Stretching – Stretching can help you maintain your muscle tone and stretch out tight ligaments during pregnancy. 

Light Weight Training – Light Weight training is a great way to maintain and build muscle during your pregnancy. Just keep in mind you should avoid heavy weights and weight bearing exercises that require you to lie on your back.

To be safe you should always consult with your doctor or physician before beginning any exercise program. Most pregnant women are fine to work out particularly if they’ve been active before.

If you are just starting a program be sure to take it easy initially. You should also commit to exercising regularly. Generally 30 minutes of exercise 4-7 days per week is

recommended.

One last point… be sure to keep hydrated and avoid over-heating which can be dangerous for you and your baby. Avoid getting your heart rate much over 140 and stop any exercise if you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Also don’t forget the importance of warming up before any and all activity. You’ll reduce the likelihood of injury. Warm up after activities will also help your heart rate return to normal. 

Everyone's all time favourite colour ~ Blue !

Everyone's all time favourite colour ~ Blue ! 


Featuring the Hailey Nursing Top, Lumiere Maternity and nursing dress, Glow maternity and nursing tank top and the Marseille maternity and nursing dress.

Breastfeeding Tops in Jewel Bright Colours !

Soft and Comfortable breastfeeding tops that will quickly become your wardrobe staple.
See the complete range here: http://www.ubermums-shop.com/nursing-wear/nursing-tops.html

Mid Year Sale now on!

Celebrate with us as We Turn 4 !

6 Foods to Avoid during Pregnancy

It is essential that you take care to avoid certain foods when pregnant. This is due to your baby’s immune system not being sufficiently developed to fight any infection you may pass to it whilst within the womb. It is believed that a mum-to-be’s immune system may not function at its peak during pregnancy so it is essential that all necessary precautions are taken

Foods to Avoid


1. Cheese

Not all cheeses contain bacteria but there are some, especially soft cheeses which could be potentially harmful to a pregnant mother. Do avoid soft cheeses which usually have a surface mould or rind such as Brie, Camembert and Danish Blue. Also avoid cheeses coated in wax such as Gouda, Post Salut. It is best to stay clear of the majority of blue veined cheeses such as Stilton, Gorgonzola and Roquefort. There's a chance these soft cheeses could contain listeria, a bacteria that would otherwise get killed during pasteurization. This infection can lead to miscarriage or preterm delivery.

Hard Cheeses such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Red Leicester fall into the safe category as do softer cheeses made from pasteurized milk such as Cottage cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, processed cheese and cheese spreads. If in doubt, play safe and avoid eating it.

2.Eggs

The salmonella bacteria is most commonly found in eggs. It is best to avoid eating soft or half boiled eggs or any foods made with raw or partly cooked eggs such as homemade mayonnaise, cheesecakes, sorbets or mousses. Eggs are only safe if they have been cooked long enough so that their yolks are hard. Shop-bought mayonnaise is usually safe as long as they have been made with pasteurised eggs. Always check the label if in doubt.

3. Unpasteurized Milk

Avoid all products which have not been pasteurized. Unpasteurized or raw milk are available on dairy farms and some have advocated that raw milk is the freshest form of milk that is beneficial . However, studies have shown that unpasteurized milk can contain bacteria, parasites and virus that can make you and baby seriously ill. Traces of the cow's faeces have even been found in raw milk. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that unpasteurized milk can be a serious health risk.All pasteurised products are safe to use all through pregnancy and beyond.

4. Meat

Do not eat raw or under cooked meat or poultry. Also avoid meats which have been preserved in nitrates such as salami, frankfurters and luncheon meat. Always cook meat so the juices run clear and there is no ‘pinkness’ or blood within. When touching raw meat and poultry always wash your hands thoroughly before touching any other foods. Liver contains vitamin A in the form of retinol which if taken by a pregnant women can increase

her levels way above the recommended daily level and become damaging to the baby. Liver should be avoided aswell as products containing liver such as pate and liver sausage.

5. Seafood

Oysters and any raw or uncooked fish should be avoided. Also shelled seafood such as crab, prawns, and cockles should be avoided unless they have been thoroughly cooked and are hot. Most seafood bought from a fishmonger or supermarket should be safe. Fresh tuna should only be eaten once a month due to the potential levels of mercury found within. This is also true for swordfish and shark. Tinned tuna contains lower levels so this is safe to eat every week.

6. All prepared shop-bought salads are best to be avoided. So too are dressed salads such as coleslaw, potato salad and Florida salad. It is best to make your own and ensure that all leaves are thoroughly washed free from soils and other deposits found on the leaves.

Is Maternity Wear Really Necessary?

Over the past few months, high profiles moms-to-be like Kate Upton have come out with statements that claim maternity clothes to be unnecessary, opting for choices and adaptations to their existing wardrobe that can be extended beyond pregnancy.  While I’m in favor if living on a budget, and stretching your wardrobe as much as possible, I think that turning to maternity wear can provide a great deal of benefits that you may not find at your traditional clothing stores.

Comfort or Cute?

You can look really cute in maternity clothing!  You’ll otherwise be going through the discomfort of pregnancy.  During your pregnancy, it’s best to wear the most comfortable clothing that you can find.  Maternity wear places an emphasis on your expanding baby bump while maintaining the proper proportions for the rest of your body.  Many women tend to just buy clothes a few sizes larger.  This can look sloppy.  Here at Ubermums maternity, we work hard to design maternity wear that wouldn’t look out of place in your normal wardrobe, and can be worn after you’ve had your baby!

Keep in mind that a good deal of maternity clothing is being made with very breathable fabrics, so you’ll not only look incredible, you’ll also feel great!

Rock those Curves Girl!

Mommies-to-be are flaunting their new found figures in well fitted clothing that are miles removed from dumpy maternity smocks that you may have seen in the past.  Form-fitting clothing is simply more flattering than baggy clothes.  Even with the baby bump, you may have some assets that you’d like to show off.  Many women wear tops to show off a pretty decollete and skirts and dresses to flaunt their legs.

You Don't have to Spend a Bomb

With the the costs of strollers, a crib, and things for the new addition to your family, not many of us would want to spend a small fortune on a maternity wardrobe. Ubermums maternity fulfils that by keeping the prices of our stylish maternity wear very affordable.  

Looking Good is Feeling Good

Pregnancy can be one of the most stressful experiences that a woman can go through.  Every little thing that you can do to improve upon that stress, even something as simple as looking nice, is going to benefit both you and your baby.   If you look like a million bucks, you’ll feel like a million bucks (which is good for baby too)!