On vacation but not relaxed: Breastfeeding moms uncomfortable about travel with babies

WASHINGTON, July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Fourth of July is right around the corner which means summer travel season is in full swing. Yet new research from Bravado Designs, a leader in intimate apparel for pregnant and nursing moms, doesn't forecast smooth sailing for new moms on the road. Bravado's survey of more than 1,000 new and expectant mothers in the U.S. shows that only 38% of moms are extremely comfortable traveling with a baby under 1-year old while breastfeeding.

The survey also found that more than half of these moms report being extremely likely to travel this year and that nearly half are concerned about their child's sleep during time changes associated with travel or Daylight Savings Time.

'"We want to help mothers feel confident about traveling with their baby," says Staci Starr, Senior Brand Manager at Bravado Designs. "Advance planning can help moms feel comfortable on the road, in flight, and in their temporary lodging. New moms should be enjoying their vacation time with their little ones, and with the right equipment, attitude, and support, they can be."

Bravado's data comes from a survey of new moms, as part of its Little Victories campaign. Research covers topics important and relevant to new moms, a population characterized by sheer numbers (over 4 million pregnancies occur in the US each year) as well as a generational desire to connect and excel. Additional research topics include breastfeeding in public, back to work and breastfeeding, first generation breastfeeders, and more. Bravado recognizes that within each of these categories, new moms are taking small steps each day, achieving little victories.

Bravado's Little Victories campaign is inspired by breastfeeding moms and the real moments they share, recognizing that being pregnant, having a baby, and breastfeeding are life-changing times that can be rewarding yet challenging. Little Victories come from finding comfort, both physical and emotional, and Bravado's #LittleVictories campaign underscores its ongoing commitment to all mothers - recognizing that comfort and confidence lead to success.

Reinforcing its dedication to providing new moms access to its expertise and network of partners, Bravado has released 8 new videos as part of its #LittleVictories campaign featuring a range of North American experts—including one focused on traveling with baby by Child Mode Founder Nadia Carriere. The campaign, now live on the company's YouTube channel, is grounded in the insight that each accomplishment is a positive step toward helping new moms find success.

"Feed your baby before takeoff and landing," said Carriere. "This keeps them occupied and helps prevent ears from popping. Also bring a baby carrier, pack baby-friendly essentials and keep them close by, and bring a travel system or stroller that allows you to click in your infant car seat." Carriere and other experts provide more tips in the video series on Bravado's YouTube channel.

Co-founders of Soho Parenting, Jean Kunhardt and Lisa Spiegel, offer valuable tips on how to shift your baby's schedule when travelling to different time zones without wreaking havoc on your family's sleep. "When traveling for a vacation of 5 days or longer to a different time zone, go ahead and go by the clock of your new time zone, knowing that your baby will adjust as you do over a couple of days. When traveling for less than 5 days, it often works better to keep your baby on their home time zone."

About Bravado
Bravado Designs, a Medela company, is a leader in intimate apparel design and innovation with a focus on exceptionally comfortable nursing bras for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Established in 1992, Bravado Designs is committed to helping all new mothers achieve breastfeeding success through a wide range of products, community initiatives, and philanthropic partnerships that support women. With a clear focus on connection and care for new mothers, Bravado is fully committed to ensuring that expectant and new mothers have ready access to the tools they need to have a successful breastfeeding experience. For more information, please visit www.bravadodesigns.com, on Facebook and on Twitter@BravadoDesigns.

Media Contact: Samantha McIntyre, Forty Weeks, [email protected],
908-209-4136

SOURCE Bravado Designs