If you are a first time mother who has chosen to breastfeed, you may be lost in the woods when it comes to tips and tricks that other more seasoned mothers have come to learn that aids in the whole preparing to feed, feeding process. Whether learning by trial and error after the births of multiple children, or by garnering useful information shared by friends, we hope the following tips provided by some of our own nursing mothers may aid you in your quest to provide the best nutrition for your infants.
EQUIPMENT
A silicone pump (available from a variety of retailers) catches letdown milk on the side you are not currently nursing on, so no milk is wasted. If you’re a nursing mother, milk is something you don’t want to see wasted. Nursing pillow: Some prefer one brand over another, but whichever you choose, a nursing pillow helps you and your baby stay comfy, and can help you get your baby into a better position for nursing Get reusable breast pads for leaking. Leaking is a given. Breastmilk stains clothes and even if that doesn’t bother you the smell eventually will. When you start pumping, start with a pump with strong suction first, not a wearable one. Most insurance companies will provide a free pump for each pregnancy. Talk to your insurance company to see what they cover. Your insurance may also cover replacement pump parts. Take advantage so you can get two sets of parts — this will take the pressure off to constantly have to wash one. Get a pack of flange inserts for your pump ahead of time! Lanolin cream: This helps cracked nipples during the early days of nursing and is safe for baby. Nipple shields are magic for sore and/or flat nipples.
FOODSTUFFS/LACTATION AIDS
Eat healthy, stay hydrated, and active Staying hydrated is the key, whether that is water or an assortment of sports drinks. DRINK WATER. Drink more water than you ever have. Drink water til you can’t drink more. It helps milk production so much and just helps you feel better. Treat yourself to a nice huge insulated water bottle with handle and straw! Did you know that breastfeeding burns about 500 to 700 extra calories per day? You’re going to be hungry so make sure you have some yummy snacks on hand. Lactation cookies, which often include flax,
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