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Welcoming a new baby and starting your breastfeeding journey is such an exciting time. But it can also be stressful.
You may have heard that breastfeeding can be an amazing experience. Even though many moms encounter challenges at the beginning, with a little research and preparation it can be well worth the while.
There are so many breastfeeding products out there, and it can be overwhelming to consider which you actually need.
Below is a list of the most useful items nursing moms might consider purchasing, why they're helpful, how they are used, and in what situations you may find yourself needing them.
Nipple Shields - These are thin barriers, often made of silicone. In some cases, nipple shields can help a baby get better suction. The ones below were recommended to us by a lactation nurse at the hospital and they worked great. They do come in different sizes, 16mm, 20mm, and 24mm.
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Nipple Cream - Nipple cream can be a great way to reduce tenderness or dryness in your nipples, preventing cracking. Great to ease the experience for new moms.
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Nursing Pads - You may find yourself leaking at inappropriate times. Nursing pads are absorbent discs that can be placed inside your bra to soak up any leaks. The ones below are organic bamboo, re-washable. They come in different sizes and colors, and from our experience they work great.
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Nursing Bras - Nursing bras feature flaps, snaps, or zippers that make access easier. They also offer added support and comfort. They come in a variety of colors, designs, and sized.
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Nursing Cover - A Nursing Cover is a great way to get a little privacy if you need it. These work great, cover more than others, are very convenient, and come in different colors.
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Boppy Nursing Pillow - These pillows make it easier to support and position your baby while feeding. They also help ease the burden on your back and shoulder. They have a removable, machine washable cover
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Maternity Nursing Tops - Clothing designed specifically for breastfeeding can be indispensable. Nursing blouses are designed for breastfeeding. They have flaps or slits in the front so that you can breastfeed without having to pull up or remove anything. We found these to be super convenient and they come in different sizes, colors, and designs.
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Reusable Water Bottle - Having a reusable bottle on hand can make it easier to stay hydrated. Getting enough fluids while breastfeeding is important to maintain optimal milk supply. Any bottle will do but the one below comes in great colors and motivational messages on the bottle, which can make it fun.
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Breast Pump - For moms who plan to work or even when you need some rest, or need to leave the baby with a babysitter for a couple of hours, breast pumps are essential. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of the pump and parts. Call your insurance company for more details. You should also invest in a second set of parts, or breast pump steam cleaning bags, if you can; that way, you’re not scrambling to clean the parts after every pumping session. After trying several electric and manual pumps, we can truly recommend the one below. It is lightweight, portable, comfortable, single or double suction.
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Breast Milk Storage Bags - Storage bags are essential for the supply of breast milk you will build up in your freezer. Most bags com with easy zip tops and a write on surface that makes it easy to label each bag with the date and time.
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Breastfeeding Chair - This one is not a necessity but it can absolutely elevate your nursery to the next level with comfort and beauty.
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Why follow Pregnancy Pillows 101's advice?
We gather this information from personal experience. We have researched and had personal input from close family and friends that have experience this wonderful time in their lives, and hope to help new moms with the most common concerns and questions.