As many of you know, I gave birth to my first baby in May of this year. The past 4 months have been AMAZING, but exhausting. I’ve had some of the best days of my life, along with some of the hardest. Being a mom is SO rewarding, but it definitely comes with its challenges. For me, breastfeeding was one of them. I learned a lot throughout my journey and discovered some great products. Keep reading for some of my best tips and breastfeeding must haves!
BREASTFEEDING MUST HAVES
I always knew I wanted to breastfeed my baby, but was naive to think it would go smoothly. Sore nipples, cluster feeding and a low milk supply almost made me give up on it all-together. While I didn’t let these struggles put an end my breastfeeding journey, they did alter it a bit. I quickly realized that exclusively breastfeeding (which was my plan all along) wasn’t going to work for us, so we began to supplement with formula.
While breastfeeding didn’t pan out exactly as planned, I’m happy knowing I did my best to give my baby everything I could. Throughout my journey, I discovered some amazing products that helped make nursing a little more convenient and comfortable for me as a new mom. I only wish I had known about some of these sooner!
Keep reading for few breastfeeding must-haves that helped me through my journey!
BUT FIRST…
A couple things to keep in mind if you too, are struggling with breastfeeding your little one.
- Ignore the noise. Everyone will have an opinion on what’s best for you and the baby. The only opinion that matters is YOURS. You brought your baby into the world and you, as their mother, know what’s best. Trust yourself and your heart.
- Fed is best – it’s true. Whatever decision you make – whether you decide to breastfeed or formula feed – either is perfectly fine for your baby! The most important thing is keeping that little tummy full and satisfied.
- Do what works for you and more importantly, WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY. A happy mom = a happy baby. Don’t let the stress of breastfeeding ruin any of the precious time you have with your little one – especially during those early days. Easier said than done, but take it from a new mom who’s been there!
BREASTFEEDING MUST HAVES
1. ELVIE PUMP
My number 1 product for nursing (hands down!) is the Elvie Wearable Pump. As a new mom, the Elvie was LIFE CHANGING.
If I could do it all over again, I would have purchased the Elvie pump for Day 1. The biggest hurdle for me was increasing my milk supply and one of the best ways you can increase your supply, is to pump. The main issue with pumping is finding the time to do it with a newborn. I was not prepared for how difficult my recovery would be, on top of caring for a baby (you can read more about my birth story HERE.) I didn’t get the Elvie pump until 2 months postpartum, so I had a good 8 weeks using the Spectra pump and let me say…there is NO comparison. The convenience of the Elvie pump is unmatched. Being able to multitask allowed me to pump twice as much as I was before, which in turn, helped increase my supply.
The convenience of the Elvie pump comes with a high price. If you ask me, it’s worth every penny. However if you’re hesitant to make the investment, consider purchasing the SINGLE ELVIE PUMP. You’ll have to pump 1 breast at a time, but it’s STILL more convenient that being strapped down by a traditional breast pump.
I’ve heard some people say the suction on the Elvie pump is not as strong as standard pumps. I did not find this to be true. I experienced no difference in output between the Elvie and the Spectra.
NOTE: You won’t be able to hold your baby when using both pumps at one time. If you choose to pump one breast at a time, you can hold the baby on the opposite side.
2. NURSING CADDY
Late night nursing sessions are tough. You’ll eventually get used to waking up in the middle of the night to feed your little one, but having a nursing caddy full of supplies close by will make those late night nursing feeds a little bit easier.
Here’s a few items to fill your caddy:
- nursing pads
- nipple butter
- snacks
- burp cloths
- pacifiers
- haakka (see below)
- phone charger
I also keep a Yeti Tumbler full of ice water by my bed for nighttime feedings. You’d be surprised how thirsty you get when you’re nursing! Having easy access to cold water will make all the difference.
3. NIPPLE BUTTER
Nipple butter saved me during the early stages of breastfeeding! I started using it on day 1 and experienced no severe cracking or bleeding. I would apply it after every feeding. The key here is to use it proactively, BEFORE you see signs of damage. This organic formula is also safe for the baby – no need to wash it off before nursing.
4. NURSING PILLOW
PILLOW
PILLOW PROTECTOR
A nursing pillow is another must-have item for any nursing mom! I love the simple design of this BOPPY nursing pillow. It fits perfectly around your waist and is easy to reposition as necessary. It provides just enough support to comfortably hold your little one while they feed. We also found this pillow helpful for holding the baby for extended periods of time. As a c-section mama, I appreciated the barrier of protection between her and my scar as I was healing.
We loved ours so much we bought 2! I kept one upstairs and one downstairs for convenience. Make sure to also purchase the waterproof PILLOW PROTECTOR!
5. NURSING COVERhttps://rstyle.me/+JHmT1ZICiPCTCiohNE_yhw
https://rstyle.me/+JHmT1ZICiPCTCiohNE_yhw
Out of all the covers I tried, this nursing cover was the easiest to use. It provides great coverage and slips easily over your head. You don’t need to spend much time fussing with it to get it in the right position. It comes in black too!
6. RESUSABLE NURSING PADS
Forget about disposable and go straight for the reusable nursing pads! These bamboo nursing pads are SO much softer and more comfortable than the reusable kind. They’re much more gentle on your skin, especially if you experience any cracking or bleeding. They eliminate waste and are machine washable too!
7. SILICONE BOTTLES
If you plan to breast and bottle feed your baby, I can’t recommend Comotomo bottles enough! Our baby took them immediately, with no trouble going back and forth between breast and bottle. They are designed to mimic the touch and feel of a mother’s breast with a soft silicone nipple and wide shaped bottle. They’re also super easy to clean!
8. BREAST THERAPY PACKS
There will be times throughout your breastfeeding journey that you’ll need cold and/or hot therapy for your breasts. I love these gel packs because they can be used hot OR cold. Put them in the refrigerator or freezer to help with engorgement, swelling and pain. Pop them in the microwave to relieve plugged ducts and encourage milk let-down.
9. MILKMAID TEA
If you’re having issues with your milk supply, consider making this MILKMAID TEA or MOTHER’S MILK part of your nighttime routine! I make myself a cup before bed to help with my milk production. It’s hard to know for sure how much this tea helped with my supply, but I enjoyed having it every night knowing that it could be helping even a little bit!
10. ALCOHOL TEST STRIPS
My doctor said an occasional glass of wine was fine while breastfeeding, but to wait at least 2 hours to nurse after having a glass (always check with your own doctor first!) As an extra precaution, I purchased these alcohol test strips to use on the nights I felt like indulging in a glass of vino! They’re easy to use and give you peace of mind.
ARE YOU A NEW MOM OR MOM-TO-BE?
If you’re a new mom or expecting, I have some additional pregnancy related posts you may be interested in! Click below to read!
Baby Registry Must-Haves
Top 10 Pregnancy Must-Haves
My Pregnancy Journey
What I Packed In My Hospital Bag
Postpartum Must-Haves
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My hope is that you re not struggling with breastfeeding like I did; but if you are, this list of must-haves will be an absolute lifesaver. Note: I m particularly grateful to have learned about #8. That little gem was the only thing that gave me any pain relief!
A newborn baby needs mother milk because it’s very important for it’s health😌
Mother’s milk play an important for a baby