weeAsked: What makes breastfeeding easier?
This week’s Big Question confirmed what we already hypothesized: breastfeeding is not easy, and each mom faces her own challenges. The good news? Doing what makes you happy will keep your baby happy, and that’s a win-win.
Some common themes: A great support network is key, be it a partner, a group of new parent friends, or even a lactation consultant. Comfortable chairs, pillows, nursing bras, and tank tops make a world of difference. And stay hydrated and well-fed!
The most creative must-have to make breastfeeding easier: A Netflix subscription; entertainment while nursing is critical! (For some of us, this may just be another new-mom friend to email with at 3am!)
This week, we saw a lot of similarities across lists, but we loved these three because of the unique items that set them apart. Check them out, and keep an eye out for our next Big Q on Sunday!
1. Medela Symphony Breast Pump: This is a hospital grade breast pump available for rent. Get it paid for by your insurance if you can!
2. Advil: Take the appropriate dose when you’re dealing with engorgement.
3. Bravado Nursing Bras: Comfort is so important!
4. Yogi Woman’s Nursing Support Tea: Certain herbal teas can increase milk production.
5. Boppy Pillow: Get lots of them (depending on the size of your house) so one is always nearby when you need it.
6. Moby Wrap Original Baby Carrier: You can breastfeed in it … with practice.
7. Hands Free Pumping Bra: How else could you do it?
8. Medela Disposable Nursing Bra Pads: Because leaking is embarrassing.
9. Sharpie Markers: Use these for writing the time/date that you pumped the milk on the bottles in the fridge (and bags in the freezer).
1. Simple Wishes Hands-Free Breastpump Bra: Multitasking is key when you are pumping.
2. A Watch: Use the timer or alarm to track how long you’ve been pumping for, or to alert you when it’s time to switch sides.
3. An App: This is another easy way to log feeding times and sides.
4. BPA Free Water Bottle: Staying hydrated helps to keep up your milk supply.
5. Medela Pump in Style Advanced Breast Pump: This pump is portable, plus double pumping saves time.
6. Nursing Cover: Find one you like for discrete feedings.
7. Milkmakers Lactation Cookies: Try these for help with supply issues.
8. Lansinoh HPA Lanolin: Soothe your tender and sometimes cracked nipples.
9. A Support System: Turn to your husband/partner when you think you want to give up because you have low supply or are just too tired. Call a lactation consultant or mommy group to get pointers and tips on technique and proper latch, or even mommy friends who are going through what you are and can relate with their stories and experiences.
1. Medela Pump in Style Advanced Breastpump and Washable Nursing Bra Pads: This is a great pump. The pads don’t show through clothes and can be washed with anything.
2. Ergo Baby Carrier: You can nurse and walk around! The hood is nice when you feel modest.
3. Aquaphor: This worked best for my sore nipples.
4. CamelBak BPA Free Better Bottle: I always have mine filled to drink when nursing.
5. Dr. Brown’s Bottles: These are the best bottles for your husband to use when he takes a night feeding.
6. First Moments Receiving Blankets: I use them as burp cloths and as a cover when nursing in public.
7. Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags: Store expressed milk in these bags. They seal and travel well.
8. Planter’s Energy Mix: I love this for a great burst of energy.
9. Nursing Tank Tops: Any brand you like will work great and cover your tummy.
So… we want to know: What are your breastfeeding must-haves?
