Breastfeeding was a lot more challenging than I was prepared
for but I would do it all over again, and next time I’ll be even more prepared!
If you too like to be prepared or are looking for a great gift idea for a new
mom planning on nursing here are some great items for a nursing supply basket.
A nursing pillow- I use a pillow called My Breast Friend, I
use it all the time still and wish I used it every time those first few months
because it really helps raise your baby up and straighten out your posture so
you avoid getting back pain.
Coconut oil- you know in my Big Fat Greek Wedding how the dad
sprays everything with Windex? Well coconut oil will be like that only better
because you can cook with it! I used coconut oil for chapped/dry nipples,
diaper rash, dry skin, heartburn, on insect bites, sunburn, and more! For a
nursing mom, coconut oil is a more affordable option than lanoline and feels
softer too!
Disposable nursing pads- wow o wow I had no idea how many of
these I’d go through before my leaking subsided...they also have cute cloth
ones you can re-wash (although I found the lines to be very noticeable through
my bra and shirt).
The number to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding group-
find a group to attend or someone you can talk to during your pregnancy if you
can. I was so happy to have attended a couple La Leche League (LLLI) meetings
beforehand because I learned things I would have otherwise been clueless about such
as signs of mastitis, latching techniques, supply issues, the list goes on. Here is a link to find group times in your
area http://www.llli.org/.
A manual breast pump- even though I rented an electric
hospital grade breast pump as well, my
manual breast pump was carried with me in case I got too full while out running
errands or while traveling.
Breast milk storage bags- makes storing your milk super
easy.
A nursing cover- in the beginning months this was great
because I was covered but still able to look at my baby while he was nursing.
A teething necklace- I wore a cloth necklace with a baby
friendly big ring on it and found this to be great to distract him and keep his
other hand busy while out in public or just needing him to focus on nursing.
A giant water bottle- did I mention GIANT? Every time I sat
down to nurse my son a sudden wave of thirst would hit me and it still does 9
months later! Carry a water bottle with you, you will thank yourself.
A recipe for lactation cookies or Mother’s Milk Tea- a yummy
way to boost milk supply.
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by LLLI- this book has a
lot of helpful information to help support nursing and expectant mothers.
What helped you in those first months nursing?
