Preparing for Breastfeeding
Here are few tips to set yourself up for breastfeeding success….{If you are having a baby shower add all this to your registry OR this is your “green light” to spoil yourself in preparation for baby’s arrival!}
Finding the right nursing pillow makes a HUGE difference-“My Brest Friend” is the best one out there. Believe me! They have all different fun patterned covers for it-or you can get the waterproof cover-all options are machine washable! {In my opinion The Boppy isn’t great for breastfeeding but it does help with tummy time and sitting assistance as baby gets older}
Nursing bras and tanks make the transition to feeding easy, and a nursing cover might make you feel more comfortable breastfeeding around visitors/in public. (Some nursing covers double as shopping cart covers as well!)
A nice comfy Rocker/chair for the nursery or area you will be planning on spending most of your time is a bonus.
Don’t forget an insurance supplied breast pump (if you need to supplement, want your spouse to give bottles or for back to work pumping) Reach out to your insurance company and ask them which pumps they cover and do some research. If you want a pump that is not on their covered list you may be able to write an appeal to get it covered.
I recommend making a “breastfeeding basket” to put near your bedside and couch/chair where you will most frequently breastfeed. Fill it with anything you might need while nursing your baby… nursing pads (disposable or reusable), lanolin (the most magical healing nipple cream-safe for baby), insulated water bottle-filled to the brim, haakaa silicone pump or milk catchers (to wear on opposite breast to catch any leaks or if your baby isn’t a two-breast feeder you can slowly build a freezer stash with that extra milk), nipple shells (Medela therashells/soft shells-for nipple relief in between feedings and to keep your nipples away from friction causing clothing-help promote healing of damaged nipples), granola bars/protein bars for easy to grab fuel, extra hair ties to keep your hair out of the way, a pack of gum for those days you may have forgotten to brush your teeth, and anything else you might think of!
In case you need another reason to go to Target!! Happy Prepping!
