It’s not necessary for a nursing mom to spend money on the myriad of breastfeeding gadgets available today. However, there are a few products that moms have used to make breastfeeding more convenient that can actually serve to enhance rather than getting in the way of the breastfeeding relationship.
Here are 4 essential breastfeeding supplies worth considering. Wherever possible, we have included any natural or organic alternatives that are available.
The 4 Essential Supplies for Breastfeeding
1. A good nursing bra or tank
A supportive and comfortable nursing bra can help a mom, especially if she is full busted, to avoid problems with plugged ducts. A nursing bra should be stretchy and very soft to accommodate a mother’s changing breast size throughout the day. It should also make nursing convenient, with one handed access so ease of use. Generally speaking, a soft cup versus an under wire cup should be used as under wire can help create plugged ducts. Most women find that their breasts increase by one cup size when their milk supply increases a few days after birth but then levels off within a few weeks.
The Bravado Nursing Bra is a very popular style that comes in various cup sizes. The Bravado Nursing Tank is my personal favorite. It has an excellent breast support layer and great coverage for breastfeeding nipples. I could not do without this tank throughout those hot summer months!
2. A good breast pump
Many mothers nurse their babies without ever using a pump. But for some moms, owning an effective pump means they will make exclusive breast milk feeding a success and avoid formula.
When deciding on a pump, first assess your needs. If you’ll only need a pump for occasional use (such as a mom’s night out), a manual pump like the Avent Isis is all you need. If you’ll be going back to work full time or have a premature baby who you will need to pump for frequently, invest in a good hospital quality, electric single or double pump like the ones made by Medela. In general, breast pumps made by companies that also market infant formula are to be avoided. They tend to be poor quality and cause pain.
If the plastic aspect of pumps is an issue for you as it was for me, try pumping into the pump receptacle and then immediately storing your milk in a sterilized glass feeding bottle for additional peace of mind re: the BPA and phthlates issue. For freezing your milk, Baby Cubes are a safer alternative to freezer bags and single use storage cups.
3. A baby sling
While not a breastfeeding product, a baby sling has proven to be a lifesaver for many nursing moms. Life with a new baby in the house can be stressful. A baby sling can make things much easier. A sling allows mom to hold her infant, reducing crying (crying babies have a harder time nursing and often suffer with more gas due to swallowing a lot of air) while allowing her to get things done. A baby sling is also helpful for newborns whose limbs flail around and get in the way of a good breastfeeding latch. Many sling styles allow mom to breastfeed easily and discreetly which is very nice when mom is out in public.
There are many different types of carriers to choose from. My personal recommendation for a carrier that was versatile from baby to toddler is Canadian made Hug Of Joy. The fabric is some of the best I’ve come across for stretch, durability, moisture wicking and more. For more sling suggestions, see Mothering’s tips for babywearing as a first step in selecting a good sling.
4. A good breastfeeding book
Having an informative book on breastfeeding empowers a mom. We read alot of books and attended some breastfeeding workshops to better prepare ourselves for good breastfeeding technique and management . The most important thing is making sure you are empowered and have something to refer to when challenges arise. Two great books for your library are: The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League International and Breastfeeding, Keep it Simple by Amy Spangler.
To be sure, all a baby needs is his mother for breastfeeding. There are many additional products that are suggested for breastfeeding moms but these 4 items can actually enhance your breastfeeding relationship without breaking the bank. Once your breastfeeding is established, you’ll be the best judge of additional products you can add or avoid.
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This would be a wonderful guide for moms who are in a process of Breastfeeding. I like all the 4 Essential Supplies for Breastfeeding here in this post. Thank you very much for shaing.
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