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As a first time mom, I was oblivious to the fact that breastfeeding was taboo in our society. We live in America, the land of the free and the home of the brave but yet moms have been shamed for nursing their babies in public?!
Why should a stranger scold or shame a mother for feeding her child? It is because of the lack of knowledge or is it because breasts are heavily sexualized in today’s culture. Think about it, society would have you think that people would rather see men fondle breasts as opposed to seeing babies latched to a breast for nutritional purposes.
The thought of breastfeeding was a no-brainer for me. However, I had a few concerns. Will I produce enough milk or will I produce an overabundance of milk? Will my baby latch correctly? Should I exclusively pump?
As I read more on breastfeeding, I joined a breastfeeding support group on Facebook. I met quite a few moms who shared similar concerns. Initially, I was a little leery about this support group since it was on Facebook. I wasn’t too sure if it was credible? Seriously?! I’m just keeping it real. I wanted to be apart of a support group, so if this is as close as I can get, I’ll take it (lol).
My son just turned a year old and we are still breastfeeding strong (Yay)! As a first time mom, breastfeeding was a new process for both my son and I. We’re amateurs (lol). There were days when I wanted to quit because my nipples were sore, I felt like I was the only one doing all of the work and I was tired. Those first few weeks were brutal. In a few months, our journey will come to an end. Before I forget I want to share with you a listing of my favorite breastfeeding essentials.
Top 10 Breastfeeding Essentials
Boppy
I highly recommended this item! You can use the boppy for several nursing positions. It helps to allow you to be hands free (to a point). There are multiple uses for the boppy. If you no longer need it for breastfeeding you can use it for alternative purposes.
Lanolin/SheaMoisture Soothing Nursing Balm
These items are a must-have for sore nipples. Start using them right away, it is essential to establish them into your daily routine. Keep some in your breast pump bag. Continue to use these products throughout your breastfeeding journey.
Nursing Bras
Very comfortable, quick and easy access for baby. The bras have extra padding in them so if you leak through, they’ll catch. Purchase at least 2 or 3.
Nursing Pads
Your breasts will leak a lot. Baby will cry, your breasts will leak. You bend over to pick something up, your breasts will leak. By placing a nursing pad in your bra, it will catch some milk and it will prevent your shirt from being drenched with milk.
Breastmilk Storage Bags
After you have pumped your milk, you will need to store it. If you will not be using your milk today, freezing your milk will be the next best option.
Breast Pump
A breast pump will be your best friend, especially if you decide to exclusively pump. I do not travel EVERYWHERE with my pump, but it does accompany me to work and on long distance trips. In the beginning, I was tired from those marathon feeding sessions. I started pumping excess milk so that dad and other family members could assist with feedings. As a result, I was able to get a few additional minutes of uninterrupted sleep.
Breastpump Accessories
You will need additional breast shields, valves, and membranes. You will also need a handsfree pumping bra. Believe me, it’s a lifesaver.
Medela Quick Clean Wipes
My FAVORITE breastfeeding essential. After pumping sessions at work, the thought of cleaning pump parts in the ladies room was out of the question for me. I received a pack of Medela Quick Clean Wipes at my baby shower and I have put them to use ever since. These wipes will effectively clean your pump parts without soap and water. They also come in handy with cleaning baby’s changing table, toys, and other hard surfaces.
Batteries/Car Adapter
Self-explanatory. This will come in need just in case you need to pump and you’re on the go. Keep them in your car.
Water
This is a must! It’s important to stay hydrated while breastfeeding. By staying hydrated you will be able to maintain your milk supply. I carry a gallon jug of water EVERYWHERE with me. When I do not drink the water, I find that my supply has gone down. It truly makes a difference.
Looking back on this experience, it was awesome. Breastfeeding Moms are the real MVPs. We put in a lot of hard work, we take a lot of sacrifices but it’s worth it in the end. I hope that you were able to take something from my list of essential items. Do you have any items that you could either add to or remove from this list? Share your suggestions/recommendations below and subscribe to my blog. Learn more on my About Me page or by following CoinCountinMama on Instagram.