Products to help with Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be challenging for first-time mothers, however it can also be very rewarding. Reading books on the subject in advance of the birth will give you confidence and knowledge. See also the topic on breastfeeding. There are many other helpful websites online.
Below are some products used by many mothers, which they have found to be invaluable. Click on a product to read reviews or to purchase.
Nipple Creams
Breastfeeding can sometimes cause sore nipples. This often is due to incorrect latching on. To help to soothe any discomfort it is recommend that you purchase a nipple cream to apply before and after the birth of your baby.
Popular brands listed below:
Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Cream
Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream
Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter
Nipple Shields
Nipple shields can be helpful when you are breastfeeding if you have sore, cracked, flat or inverted nipples. Sometimes even if you latch is good you could experience sore nipples during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Nipple shields can help if your baby is struggling with a fast flow. It is advised that they are only used for short periods when your nipples are too sore to breastfeed. Make sure you buy the correct nipple size shield as these vary considerably.
Popular brands listed below:
Medela Contact Nipple Shields with Case
MAM Nipple Shield Size Small
Nursing pads
Nursing pads are essential for most mothers to avoid milk leaking onto their clothing.
Your breast may leak milk during the day and at night when you are breastfeeding, especially during the early stages. Nursing pads, worn inside your bra, could stop milk leaking on to your clothes. A good nursing pad should be highly absorbent, non-leaking and will not crumple up in your bra or irritate the skin or nipple.
Nursing pads are available in the following types:
- Disposable pads. Most have double-sided sticky tape which will stick to the inside of your bra.
- Reusable cotton pads.
- Silicone pads which prevent milk from leaking by applying gentle pressure to your breast.
Popular brands listed below:
Tommee Tippee nursing pads
Nursing bras
A nursing bra is essential if you plan to breastfeed (and may be necessary for comfort, even if you don't). Do not buy bras too far in advance of the birth as your breasts will increase in size when the milk comes in. Having your bras professionally fitted is an excellent idea, as the fitter will advise you on sizing. If your bra is too tight or any part of the bra digs into your breast this could cause blocked ducts or mastitis. Seamless bras are available along with many other styles.
Popular brands listed below:
Nursing pillows
Nursing pillows are most useful as they fit around the mother’s waist and bring a baby up to the perfect height for breastfeeding. When choosing a maternity nursing pillow, select one which has a removable, machine-washable cover. Pillows differ in size and height, so research these on the internet before purchasing.
Popular brands listed below:
Baby Widgey Nursing Pillow
My Brest Friend Breastfeeding Pillow
Pumps
You may wish to express some milk to freeze and store, or to help relieve pressure. It can be an advantage to have some frozen milk put aside if your baby goes through a growth spurt or if you need to leave your baby with another care-giver for any period of time (or when you return to work).
Getting into an expressing routine once your milk supply is established can give you more flexibility as your partner, husband, mother or friend can feed your baby for you.
An electric pump is preferable for expressing large quantities as they are highly efficient. Manual pumps can also be helpful, particularly if you are out of the house.
Popular brands listed below:
Medela Symphony
You can also rent breast pumps – one of the most popular pumps to rent is the
Medela Swing Electric Breast Pump with Calma
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Electric Pump
Lansinoh 2-in-1 Double Electric Breast Pump