My Breastfeeding Essentials



I've now been breastfeeding for almost six months and I couldn't be happier with our journey so far. Back when I was pregnant with Ava I wondered how I'd fare when it came to trying to breastfeed again, as things didn't go to plan with Noah. I've previously wrote about my breastfeeding hopes and fears and all about the early days in my breastfeeding journey. Today I thought I'd write all about my breastfeeding essentials which have made our journey easier.


Nipple Cream
When Ava was a newborn she nursed continuously and we had cluster feeds every other day, which is totally the norm for such young babies. We were also still working on our latch which made my nipples sore and cracked. Nipple cream worked miracles and definitely is number one on my breastfeeding essentials list.

Nursing Bra's 
Okay so nursing bra's don't give your boobs a lot of support, they kinda hang loose and free! Although they don't look particularly attractive, they are so comfortable and making feeding so much easier. Ava has actually associated the noise of the click of my bra strap with milk, as soon as she hears that noise she stops what she's doing and stares at me in anticipation! It's even woken her up from sleep before!

Brita Water Bottle
I've always drank lots of water but I've found I drink double the amount now that I'm breastfeeding. I'm always thirsty! I cart my water bottle around with me wherever I go, especially when feeding because I'm always always parched when she's nursing.

Breast Pump 
Now this isn't an essential for everyone but I've started to express every now and again so that Nick can feed Ava on occasion. It's great to be able to do this when you know you have a busy evening ahead and need your partner to step in and help too. Being a Medela Mum I have a Medela Swing Maxi which is fantastic and so easy to use, I'll be reviewing it in the next couple of months.  

Bananas 
I wish I could dive into a pack of biscuits every time I get hungry which is quite often when breastfeeding but I'm trying to be good! I tend to turn to bananas when hunger strikes as they are so filling and give me an energy boost when I need it the most. I can eat two in a day and I swear it helps with my milk supply and my mood, who knows! I know they've become my go to when feeding.

Easy Access Clothing
Breastfeeding tops and dresses are great but aren't necessary if you don't want to spend a small fortune. My wardrobe is full of breastfeeding friendly garments such as kaftan tops, empire line dresses, layered t shirts and jumpers. I now base my outfits on how accessible my boobs will be and you'd be surprised to know that you can feed quickly and discreetly in so many different types of clothing.

Netflix 
Netflix and chill? More like Netflix and boob! Netflix has become my best friend on many occasions, especially when Ava has her cluster feeding sessions. Sometimes you just have to curl up in bed with your baby with plenty of skin to skin, with your drinks and snacks and a new box set to binge watch! It's the perfect excuse to enjoy milky cuddles with your baby and totally unwind.

What are your breastfeeding essentials? 

11 comments:

  1. A comfortable chair, and some nourishing refreshments.

    Rachel Craig

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  2. Her smile after her feed is beautiful, i love the Netflix essential at the bottom xXx

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  3. Loving the bananas
    Essential for us all

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  4. Seems to me that you should be Celebrating Your Breastfeeding :- Success/ es! Well Done in getting so far in your Breastfeeding Journey.

    Rachel Craig

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  5. Great tips. Especially water and Netflix 😀

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  6. Hopefully sharing your experience/s will help others with their Breastfeeding Journey.

    Rachel Craig

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  7. I think once Breastfeeding is established, it allows so much more freedom. Easier to get out and about to visit family and friends, etc.

    Rachel Craig

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  8. Breast pump can be useful in a variety of ways. As once Breastfeeding is established allows baby to be fed even if mum otherwise occupied e.g. Resting, at work i.e. paid employment, etc.

    Rachel Craig

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  9. When Ava was a newborn she nursed continuously and we had cluster feeds every other day, which is totally the norm for such young babies. We were also still working on our latch which made my nipples sore and cracked. Nipple cream worked miracles and definitely is number one on my breastfeeding essentials list. black salwar suit for girls , black suit salwar for girls ,

    ReplyDelete