Breastfeeding your baby is one of the best ways to nourish them and help their immune system develop properly. While breastfeeding has benefits, it also takes a lot of time and dedication, especially in the beginning when you’re getting used to it all. In order to make sure that you’re able to keep breastfeeding as long as possible, you should stock up on these five must-have items in 2022.
Today’s breast pumps are much more sophisticated than those of years past. Instead of using a manual pump or hand expression, women use a motorized pump that allows them to control suction and speed as well as program pumping cycles. If you’re breastfeeding your baby, getting a breast pump for home use is essential. Not only does it save time, but it also allows you to maintain your milk supply if you have to be away from your baby for extended periods of time. In addition, many new moms use electric pumps instead of manual ones while they’re at work so they can maintain their milk supply while still earning money at their job.
Even though your little one is nursing, it is suggested that you pump especially in those early months where the baby won’t be able to empty you out since he gets full quickly. Pumping after feeding will keep your supply in demand so the more you do a mixture of nursing and pumping the more your milk will flow. Be sure to get storage bags for your extra milk so you have a good supply in your freezer for future use should you need them.
Haakaa
A haakaa is made from silicone and is used to collect letdown milk without you having to do any extra work. If the baby is feeding on one breast, use your haakaa for the other while the baby is feeding so it collects the milk that comes down while the baby feeds. It’s designed with suction to automatically draw milk so you don’t have to connect it to any tubes or cords. Once the baby is done feeding you can store the milk in the fridge for the next feeding or until you collect enough for storage.
Therapy packs
These amazing breast therapy packs from Lansinoh contain everything you need to care for your sore nipples: a cooling gel pack, a soothing nipple cream, and an instant cold compress that’s perfect for quickly soothing tender breast tissue. All three of these items are reusable and can also be used long after breastfeeding has ended. Use cold relief when your breasts are feeling engorged to reduce pain and swelling. Use heat to relieve clogged ducts. It also helps in helping the milk flow before pumping or breastfeeding.
Nursing pillow
If you’re planning on breastfeeding for at least a year, you’ll want to consider investing in a nursing pillow. A nursing pillow helps position baby so that he or she is able to latch onto your breast comfortably and easily. When baby is laying down, pillows also provide back support for both mother and child during feeding. Look for a specially designed breastfeeding pillow with storage space for bottles and burp cloths as well as easy-to-adjust straps that fit snuggly around your waist. This style of pillow will support both you and your growing child comfortably throughout their first year of life.
Lactation cookies
If you’re breastfeeding, chances are you feel a bit fatigued. To help your tired body get some energy, look for lactation cookies that have added DHA and vitamin E. They also contain folic acid (another nutrient for nursing mothers) and can be purchased in most grocery stores. If your baby is sensitive to wheat or gluten, consider avoiding these cookies as they may cause allergic reactions. However, if you don’t mind wheat or gluten (or your baby doesn’t either), go ahead and indulge!
Besides all of the fancy gadgets and nicknacks, you’ll need to keep track of feeding and pumping times. Setting a timer every time you need to pump also helps to remind you so that you stay consistent. If you would like more information or help, contact a lactation specialist.
