Diapers – check! Onesies – check! This is an exciting (and busy!) time as you prepare to welcome your new baby.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, here are some tools and resources to consider as you’re building your breastfeeding checklist:
#1: Preparation & Education
You may find it helpful to take some time during your pregnancy to do some research. Our video with Tania Joseph, a registered nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, walks you through what you can expect in those first few days and weeks of breastfeeding so you can feel confident and empowered for the journey ahead.
#2: Helpful Items to Have On Hand
We’re here to support your efforts to breastfeed, so we’ve put together a few suggested items to have on hand to help ensure breastfeeding success:
- Nursing bras. There are lots of tips for buying nursing bras on the Internet or at a maternity store! A general suggestion is buy one that is at least one cup and one inch larger around than your breasts pre-delivery. You may want to have several since many women wear a nursing bra at night, too.
- Nursing pillow. Comfort for you and the baby is essential. Many moms use a pillow for easier positioning, especially after a C-section or with multiples.
- Lanolin Cream. In the beginning as you and the baby adjust to breastfeeding, your nipples can become sore and cracked. To make breastfeeding as comfortable as possible, have Lansinoh® Lanolin on hand. It soothes and protects plus it’s especially made for nursing moms, which ensures it’s safe for baby too.
- Nursing Pads. While your body is figuring out how much milk to make to meet your baby’s needs, leaking might occur. Have some nursing pads around, such as Lansinoh® Disposable Nursing Pads, to prevent leaks and keep your skin and clothes dry. They can also be used during the final weeks of pregnancy or the first weeks of breastfeeding when your nipples may be especially tender. Lansinoh also has super-absorbent Washable Nursing Pads so you can find the right fit for you.
- A good breast pump. If you are planning on pumping, you will need a good reliable pump that will help maintain supply. It’s also a good idea to have the option to pump to provide milk for those times when you need to be away from the baby. A Double Electric Breast Pump or Manual Breast Pump is a good option that allow the baby to benefit from breastmilk, even if mom and baby are apart.
- Hot & Cold Breast Therapy Packs. As you and your little one are getting the hang of breastfeeding, it’s not uncommon to experience some challenges early on in your breastfeeding journey. Our therapy packs can help to encourage let-down and provide therapeutic relief for the most common breastfeeding challenges, including engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis. These reusable packs conform to the breast and can be used hot or cold, with or without a pump.
Lean on your support network
We know that simple doesn’t always mean easy, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. The key to successful breastfeeding is a great support network. You can find a local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in your area to support you in the first weeks with your new baby.
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