You’ve done it! You had your beautiful little bub who is now looking up at you to be fed. The books have been read, the research done, but at the end, all you really need is your boobs and a hungry baby. Essentials that make breastfeeding an easier and more comfortable experience cannot be overlooked. As a first-time mama, I thought I could cut corners and still be able to have a good nursing experience – I was wrong! These are the top 5 must-haves that all new mama’s should have ready for their little bub.
My breastfriend nursing pillow
I was convinced that in order to nurse my baby, I would need to know a few of the baby holds and use any pillow near by to prop her up. At the first feed, it became obvious that something a little more sturdy than any ol’ pillow laying around was going to be needed. I absolutely love the My Breastfriend nursing pillow https://www.mybrestfriend.com. Its been around for 20+ years and for good reason! The pillow wraps around the mama, which allows a secure latch, helps maintain good posture, and has a flat surface that helps keep baby from rolling away. Bonus, it has a side pocket to store snacks and burp cloths!
A breastfeeding caddy
When nursing 6-8 times/day, it’s important that it isn’t a mad rush to gather supplies needed every time. Create yourself a breastfeeding caddy that has the things you will need at your fingertips. Include a sturdy water bottle (breastfeeding makes you super thirty) that is filled at all times. Burp cloths are a must for those spit ups and general baby messes. You’ll want some nipple balm and lip balm handy for applying after the feed and make sure to include some healthy, easy-to-munch with one hand snacks.
Safe way to entertain
When my little bub and I were just getting into the rhythm of nursing, I didn’t realize how much time I would actually be spending feeding her. I know the books talk about how long to nurse for but I guess I never added it up until after she was here. One thing that was a life-saver, especially in those early months, was a way to stay entertained so I didn’t dose off during the 3 am feeds. I started a light-hearted series on Netflix on an tablet and it was a great idea! Choose a show that has a half-hourish episode and there is no need to watch the clock. Switch boobs when the episode ends!
Comfortable seat
Again, harking back to not realizing how long I would be spending nursing, I didn’t initially want to spend the money on a glider. I thought I would sit in any seat in the house and be able to get the job done. If it is within your means, splurge on a glider with foot stool. My husband got one for us very soon after we got home from the hospital and it was a game changer! I felt it made nursing easier and allowed for a great way to rock baby to sleep, while being able to do some skin-to-skin contact.
Patience
The excitement of being a new mama can be overwhelming. The desire to do everything ‘right’ can be crippling. Be kind to yourself when it comes to nursing. It takes some time to get the hang of it and putting pressure on yourself to do it perfectly will make the experience not fun for you and frustrating for your little one. Take breaks when you need them and remember, a fed baby is a happy baby!