i’ve already written about it here, but when i wrote that list- i was really wanting to put together something more like this. a quick guide for a mama-to-be (put them all on your registry!), or someone who is wanting to put together a little package for a mama that they love, who is intending on breastfeeding.
1. lansinoh lanolin (not just for cracked nipples. here’s some other uses)
2. NUK warm or cool breast relief packs
3. reusable breast pads (10 pair mama, at least. making them is cheaper… some of my friends use disposable ones, i’ve yet to try them. it’s just one less thing for me to have to continue buying when i can just throw these into the wash.)
4. avent nipple shield (use it for the initial latch on and let down. and then put baby back onto bare nipple when you feel ready)
5. avent VIA breast milk storage containers. (hand expressing into these are super easy. snap on, screw-top lid. plus, can be re-used as food storage when baby begins solids)
6. cloth diapers (12 at least. you’ll use them to soak up dripping milk and spit up)
7. avent isis comfort breast shell
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sleep bra. ones bra with a clip are difficult to deal with one handed.
journal and pen
reusable cup with lid and bendy straw for all the water you’ll be gulping
extra long tank tops. you’ll be able to just pull the neck down to nurse. can wear it under your other shirts- so nursing is more discreet and your side/belly are covered.
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words of encouragement.
all new mamas need some words of encouragement. what helped me the most was my mom reminding me how far i have already come. the progress, that i was getting better with every nursing session. one of my friends said that what helped her was knowing that one more day of breastfeeding meant that her baby got one more day of antibodies that she wouldn’t have had before or with formula. so one more day, i can do one more day.. until suddenly you find that you do it as second nature… that it’s enjoyable.
breastfeeding is such a wonderful gift, and i say that selfishly… because i forget how beneficial it is for her, i love it for me…for our time… it’s so deliciously sweet. (ha! so is the milk..) 