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When I found out I was pregnant, all the “new mom” decisions flooded me. One of those decisions was breastfeeding versus bottle feeding. I am definitely one that is an advocate for moms to choose what’s best for them and their babies with NO guilt. I had originally planned not to nurse. I didn’t believe that it would fit into my lifestyle, and I was nervous about the pain I heard was involved with breastfeeding.
But after a failed epidural and seeing the pain I could withstand during delivery, I decided to try nursing. Why not?
However, I soon discovered I was completely unprepared. To save you from scrambling at the last minute trying to gather breastfeeding supplies, here is a list of 5 must-haves:
1. Nursing Bras
This is one of the most important things nursing moms need. A bra that’s easy to unclip for quick access while you’re out and about or even just sitting around the house is a must! You want to think about comfort and one-handed accessibility. This particular bra also allows enough room to fit a nursing pad (also a must-have).
2. Soothing Gel Pads
Soothing gel pads were like a best friend to me the first few months of nursing! My son had a strong latch, so my breasts were begging for relief. These pads provided an instant cooling sensation whenever I was in pain. In fact, if a mom-friend of mine decides to nurse her new baby, I always include these in my baby shower gift!
3. Reusable/Washable Nursing Pads
There are disposable nursing pads, but the reusable, washable kind are a great investment! You can use them for all of your babies and they are very absorbent. I know some women who don’t use any pad, but as someone who produced a lot of milk and often leaked, I don’t know what I would have done without these easy-to-use nursing pads! They helped me feel protected against leaks when I was out and about!
4. Nursing Pillow
Comfort is important for both baby and mama! If you are considering nursing, make sure a nursing pillow is added to your registry list! Especially the first few months, you will feel like you are constantly in “nursing position” and it can often be uncomfortable without the support of a nursing pillow. I love how the one pictured above even has a place to put a water bottle; nursing mamas know the importance of always having water within arms reach!
5. Nipple Shield
This is one nursing must-have that may not be for everyone, but as I mentioned before, my son had a strong latch. To avoid the constant pain and to ease the latch, I really enjoyed having a nipple shield on hand! This particular product comes with THREE shields so you can keep one in the car, at your home, and in your diaper bag for those unexpected nursing sessions.
Tell us in the comments your favorite product for nursing mamas!
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