Rosie and I are 8 weeks into this breastfeeding journey! It’s had it’s ups and downs, and we’ve learned a lot along the way. I’m by no means an expert on the best products to use, but I’ll share what’s working for me!
Nursing Bras – This is the 3 pack of nursing bras that I have (and they’re Amazon prime!) You get three for under $30 which is a great value and I think they’re really good quality. I also bought this one from Target which has some padding and is more supportive. I like to wear this one when I am a bit dressed up and needs some more support!
Pumping Bras – I started pumping the minute Rosie was born basically and it didn’t take me long to realize that hands-free is necessary. The pumping bra allows you to use your phone, give the baby a bottle, etc. and still pump. It’s also super nice for pumping in the car! I have both this one (which I prefer) and also this racerback one which you can nurse and pump in (which is kind of nice too!)
Nursing Tanks – I got this 3 pack (also Amazon prime!) of nursing tanks and they’re probably my favorite purchase. I prefer to wear these instead of the nursing bras. When you nurse in public, the tanks are a lot more modest. When you lift up your shirt, the tank ensures that your stomach isn’t hanging out!
Nipple Butter – I used this product when I was pregnant as well. The first few weeks are little rough on the nipples and the nipple butter really helps! This particular one is natural so you do not have to wipe it off before you feed the babe.
Heating Pad – If you’re having any pain while nursing, a heating pad and some light massage really helped me in the beginning. I would put the pad on for 5 minutes or so before feeding or pumping just to loosen everything up.
Nightgowns – This is the same nightgown I mentioned in my hospital bag post. It buttons down the front and is easy-access for breastfeeding. I also have this striped one which buttons part way down the front. I wear this one out in public too!
Robe – This is the matching robe to the nightgown above. I’ve been wearing this over a nursing bra for when I am home alone with Rosie. It’s quick and easy but still pretty.
My Brest Friend – Do yourself a favor and order this right now if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your back and arms will thank you! I have tried the Boppy as well (my pediatrician’s office has one) and I much much prefer the My Brest Friend.
Nipple Shield – We’ve had some trouble getting a good latch, so we started using the nipple shield. It’s been a total game changer and has allowed Rosie to transfer so much more. I’ll go more into that in a future post, but if the latch is a struggle, I recommend trying this product.
Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is super important for breastfeeding, and it also makes you super thirsty! I bought this water bottle for my hospital bag and have been using it a lot while nursing as well. I find that a straw makes me drink more water.
Supplements – I’ve had trouble with my supply, and have been taking this Liquid Gold supplement and also this fenugreek one. They have made a huge difference!
I plan to share more about our breastfeeding journey in the future (I’ve already started the post!) Are there any products that have been a game-changer for you while breastfeeding?