Breastfeeding Essentials for mommies

While being pregnant, I realized that I was very much focused on what my baby will need once born and not on what was also important for me to have, after the delivery. So around the 30th week of my pregnancy, I started looking for all the essentials I would need regarding breastfeeding but also for my recovery.

If you decide to breastfeed your baby, the best thing you could do is to prepare and inform yourself by talking with a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist so that you are aware of any potential breastfeeding problems and their solutions (post available about my experience with breast engorgement).

All the items listed below are what I found useful to have during my breastfeeding journey and I hope that this list will help you too!

• Nursing bra

Nursing bras are quick to unclip on the front part of each breast and the baby can reach the breast easily.

• Breastfeeding nightwear

The ideal nightwear would be something very comfortable that allows easy access to your breasts.

• Pure Lanolin cream for your nipples

That is the best cream to soothe and moisturize the nipples, which could be irritated during the first days of breastfeeding. The specific cream is non-toxic and hypoallergenic, so there’s no need to wash it off before breastfeeding your baby.

• Breast pads (for hot & cold) in case of swelling

They can be soothing in the days following the birth, especially when the milk starts coming in.

• Breast pads

These pads are great as they are absorbent and will keep your bra dry, especially when your first breast milk – colostrum – leaks from your nipples

• Nursing tops & dresses

Wearing clothes that will allow your newborn to feed easily, will make breastfeeding easier too especially in the early days. Plus you will also need something more comfortable for your post-partum belly and bigger breasts.

• U-shaped nursing pillow

This nursing pillow could make breastfeeding your newborn easier and more comfortable, especially if your baby is born by c-section.

• Silicone breast pump

I did not use it regularly, as I was using the electric one more but it's very handy because it is easy to use and comfortable when your breasts are swollen and you need to massage them without losing the milk. They attach perfectly to the breast and I used them a lot during the first weeks of breastfeeding when suffering from breast engorgement.

• Breast milk storage bags

Besides storing milk in bottles you can free up space in your fridge by using the breast milk storage bags too. They can be stored in the fridge or the freezer and I would always note the pumping date on the bag. You can store your milk in the fridge for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 6 months.

• Breastfeeding cover or apron

This will give you some privacy while you feed, especially outside the home or when you have visitors.

• Breast pump

I was using an electric breast pump from Philips and I was very happy with it. The part that attaches to your breast is made of soft silicone and it is very comfortable. Regarding the noise, I found it to be a quiet pump and didn't irritate me much.

I used all of the above items and I would go with the same list if I had to breastfeed again. I hope that the above list would be of use to you too, in case you decide to breastfeed your baby.

Thank you for taking the time to read my post and see you soon!

All the best,

Clio