Deciding on The Right Breastfeeding Supplies Can Be Overwhelming
As an expecting or new mom, you may feel overwhelmed with trying to decide on the right breastfeeding supplies that will be most essential to your journey. It does not have to feel complicated or expensive and you only need a few essential supplies to begin with. These items can help you and your baby to enjoy a more successful and stress-free breastfeeding experience. At Breastfeeding Perspectives, we have compiled a list to help you prepare for this important phase of your life. Let’s talk about the 10 most essential breastfeeding supplies that you need to consider as a new or expecting mom.
8 Must-Have Supplies for Breastfeeding Moms
1.) Nursing Bras
If you are looking for ways to make breastfeeding easier then you should definitely consider nursing bras as a priority on your list. They have convenient clasps that make it easy to open the cups with one hand and nurse your baby more comfortably. These bras come in different styles and sizes to fit your unique needs and preferences while providing you with the support and comfort that you need during your breastfeeding journey.
2.) Breast Pumps
Breast pumps are valuable tools because they make milk expression easier and much more convenient. They also help to prevent clogged ducts or mastitis. They come in handy in situations in which you may have someone else feeding the baby or if the baby can’t/wont nurse. They can be electric or manual, depending on what you prefer. But remember to sanitize your pump at least once a day.
3.) Nursing Pads
As a new mother, you may experience issues with leaking breast milk. This is a common issue for new mothers, especially when they are in the early stages, so you don’t have to be concerned. By utilizing disposable or reusable nursing pads, you can stay dry and avoid leaks which may look embarrassing. These pads can fit comfortably in your nursing bra and help to keep you feeling comfortable and confident.
4.) Nipple Cream
Breastfeeding may sometimes feel painful and discouraging when you experience sore and cracked nipples. But it does not have to be this way. By applying nipple cream after each feeding, you can protect yourself, prevent further damage and alleviate any feelings of pain or discomfort.
5.) Breast Milk Storage Containers
There also needs to be a way to safely store your expressed breast milk. That is why breast milk storage containers are so essential. They come in various forms and sizes to make it easier to freeze, refrigerate, or store milk at room temperature. It is also important to label each container with the right dates.
6.) A Reusable Water Bottle, Healthy Snacks & Supplements
It is really important for you to stay well-hydrated in order to produce healthy milk. So consider keeping a reusable water bottle nearby along with healthy snacks to help you refuel and maintain your energy and milk production. Lactation supplements are a great addition to your kit, especially if you struggle with milk supply. These supplements often contain ingredients that boost milk production but remember to consult with a lactation consultant in order to determine the right supplements. Click here to another article where we talk about healthy foods for breastfeeding mothers in more detail.
7.) Breastfeeding Pillow
Breastfeeding pillows are also called nursing pillows and they are designed specifically for comfort. When breastfeeding, there may be times in which you experience a strain on your back and neck. Your baby may also not be latching correctly. So nursing pillows help to prevent these situations and they come in varieties of shapes and sizes to meet your unique needs.
8.) Nursing Covers
There will be times when you need to breastfeed in public so nursing covers help to make your experience more convenient by providing more privacy, discretion and comfort. They come in various designs to fit your unique style and they can sometimes serve as stylish shawls or scarves. They help you feed your baby with comfort while maintaining your modesty.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, you may also consider keeping books that teach you more about healthy breastfeeding. But remember to read the reviews before purchasing and avoid books that were written too long ago. There may also be breastfeeding support groups that you should consider. But by speaking with a lactation consultant, you receive more personalized guidance on your journey.
Breastfeeding can be challenging but by having these 8 essential breastfeeding supplies, you can navigate the journey more smoothly, comfortably and successfully. I hope you found this article helpful. Please remember to share it with anyone you know who may also be an expecting or new mom. If you found this article informative then you may also be interested in a previous article on Breastfeeding Difficulty: 5 Common Issues That Mother’s Face.
