The Proceive Blog
Nutrition During IVF: How to Support Your Body Before, During and After Treatment
Nutrition plays an important role throughout IVF treatment. Discover how diet, key nutrients and targeted supplementation can help support your body before, during and after your IVF cycle.
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Do You Know What's in Your Fertility Supplement? Why Formulation and Dose Levels Matter
Not all fertility supplements are created equal. Discover why formulation, ingredient quality and dose levels matter, and learn what to look for when choosing nutritional support for conception.
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Why Sperm Health Should Be Part of Every Fertility Conversation
A personal IVF journey revealing why sperm quality matters more than most people realise - and how lifestyle changes helped turn heartbreak into renewed hope.
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Why Maternal Nutrition is the Foundation of a Healthy Pregnancy
Pregnancy nutrition is about more than supporting a growing baby. Discover why nurturing the mother’s nutrient stores is essential for a healthy pregnancy, birth, and recovery.
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Understanding Egg Health: The Questions We Hear Most
Learn how egg health, nutrition and simple lifestyle choices can support fertility and help prepare the body for pregnancy. A positive, balanced approach can make a meaningful difference.
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Trying to Conceive with PCOS? Your Nutrition and Supplement Guide
A clear and supportive guide to understanding PCOS and natural conception, with practical steps you can take right now. From nutrition to supplements and lifestyle tweaks, discover what may help you feel more confident on your TTC journey.
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You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup: A Guide to the Fourth Trimester
An honest, supportive reflection by Alexandra Teasdale on the fourth trimester, reminding new mums that healing, rest and self-care matter just as much as caring for your baby.
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Empowering Reproductive Choices
Explore the many paths to fertility, from IVF and egg freezing to natural preparation.Discover how nutrition, lifestyle and support can help you feel informed, confident and in control of your journey.
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Can I Get State-Funded Fertility Treatment in Ireland If I Already Have a Child?
Struggling to conceive a second child? From June 2025, couples in Ireland with one child can access state-funded fertility treatments, including IVF, through the HSE. Learn how to apply, what’s changed, and how nutrition - including targeted supplements like Proceive® - can support your fertility journey.
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6 Self-Care Tips for Breastfeeding Mothers
1. Prioritise Rest and Recovery Breastfeeding is energy-intensive, so rest is essential. Sleep whenever your baby sleeps, and don't hesitate to ask for help with household chores or other children. Even a short nap can help recharge your energy. If your partner is looking after the baby, take the opportunity to rest. 2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished Your body needs extra fluids and nutrients while breastfeeding. Keep a water bottle within arm’s reach during feeds. For quick and easy meals, we recommend dishes that are easy to eat with one hand- like shepherd’s pie. You can make it ahead of time and freeze it, so it's ready when you’re short on time. Plus, it won’t slide off the plate easily, making it a great choice for one-handed eating during feeds. If you’re relying on quick meals and worried about nutrition, Proceive Breastfeeding is specially designed to support you with 24 essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid(in L-Methyfolate form), Vitamin D3 and Calcium. If you are not getting two portions of oily fish per week, we recommend that you also take Proceive Omega 3. 3. Create a Comfortable Feeding Space Set up a cosy spot for feeds, whether it’s a special chair or a corner of the sofa. Use pillows to support your arms and back, and keep essentials like water, snacks, and a phone or book within reach to make feeding time more comfortable. 4. Make Time for Yourself It’s easy to lose yourself in the demands of motherhood, but taking time for yourself is essential. Whether it's a walk, a hot shower, or a chat with a friend, small moments of self-care help recharge your energy and mood. 5. Listen to Your Body Breastfeeding changes over time, so pay attention to how you feel physically and emotionally. If you notice any pain, discomfort, or feelings of overwhelm, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. There’s no need to go through it alone. 6. Prepare for cracked nipples, Cracked nipples can be a common issue, lanolin-based products can provide relief. We love the MultiMam compresses, they are fantastic for soothing sore nipples, pro-tip pop them in the fridge overnight.
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Breastfeeding: A Unique and Ever-Changing Journey for Mother and Baby
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural ways to feed your baby, but it can also be one of the most demanding experiences for mothers. It’s a journey filled with precious moments of bonding, alongside challenges that may take time to navigate. Every mother’s breastfeeding experience is unique, and there’s no right or wrong way to approach it. Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, combination feeding, or expressing milk, it’s important to look after your own well-being while caring for your baby. As a mother, your body works hard to provide nourishment for your little one, and that requires energy, rest, and support. 1. Understanding Your Nutritional Needs When you’re breastfeeding, your body prioritises the production of milk to help meet your baby’s needs. While the composition of breast milk naturally adjusts to provide essential nutrients, maintaining your own health is equally important. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is key, alongside staying hydrated and getting as much rest as possible, although we know that sleep can be elusive with a new baby in the house! Breastfeeding mums often report feeling hungrier and thirstier than usual, which makes sense considering your body is working hard to produce milk. That’s why it’s important to focus on eating regular meals and snacks that contain a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources. For some mums, taking a breastfeeding-specific supplement, like Proceive Breastfeeding, can be a convenient way to help support nutritional intake during this stage of motherhood. 2. Navigating the Emotional Side Breastfeeding isn’t just a physical process; it’s an emotional one too. Many mothers feel a deep bond with their baby during feeds, but it’s also normal to experience a range of emotions, from joy and fulfilment to exhaustion and frustration. It’s important to remind yourself that no two breastfeeding journeys are the same. Some mums find it comes naturally, while others may need time and support to get the hang of things. Both experiences are completely valid. If you encounter challenges, you’re not alone. There are resources and support groups available to help you navigate any difficulties, including lactation consultants, breastfeeding support helplines, and online communities. It’s important to seek help when you need it, doing so can make a world of difference. 3. Why Self-Care Matters In the whirlwind of looking after a newborn, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. However, your own well-being plays a big role in your breastfeeding experience. Here are a few simple ways to support yourself during this time: Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle nearby when breastfeeding to remind yourself to drink regularly. Eat regularly: Nourish yourself with meals and snacks that contain a variety of nutrients. Rest when you can: Even short naps or moments of relaxation can help recharge your energy. Ask for help: Whether it’s from your partner, family, or friends, don’t be afraid to ask for support. 4. The Role of Proceive Breastfeeding At Proceive, we understand that a mother’s nutritional needs change during different stages of life. That’s why we developed Proceive Breastfeeding, a tailored supplement designed to support mothers from the early postpartum period and throughout their breastfeeding journey. Containing 24 carefully selected vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, Proceive Breastfeeding provides targeted nutritional support for mums during this important time. Key nutrients include: Vitamin D – recommended for both mother and baby Calcium – supports bone health Iron – helps reduce tiredness and fatigue B Vitamins – contribute to energy production While no supplement can replace a healthy diet, Proceive Breastfeeding can be a helpful addition to your routine, especially during a busy and demanding time of life. 5. Every Journey Is Different, And That’s Okay It’s important to remember that there’s no “perfect” way to breastfeed. Some mothers breastfeed for months or even years, while others stop earlier due to personal preferences or circumstances. Some find it easy, while others face challenges. Whatever your experience looks like, be kind to yourself. You’re doing your best, and that’s what matters most. If you have any questions about Proceive Breastfeeding or need advice, our team is always here to help. Feel free to reach oumast to us at info@proceive.com or send us a message on Instagram.
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Proceive’s Certified Vegan Products: Nutrition for Every Lifestyle
Proceive’s Conception, Pregnancy and After-Pregnancy ranges are certified vegan, offering advanced nutritional support without compromise.Designed to support your fertility journey while respecting your dietary choices.
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