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So, first of all, I would like to give myself a little pat on the back. This is something that I am really passionate about doing and to be able to actually reach my goal means A LOT to me! Knowing that you are able to equip your child with everything they need for the first couple of hours, days, months, years or where ever you are in your journey is such a blessing. I wanted to be able to share with you a couple of tips and tricks that got me through my journey thus far.
So, if you're reading this no matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey or if you are thinking about breastfeeding here are some helpful tips and breastfeeding items that helped me!
So, one of the reasons that most moms stop breastfeeding right from the jump is because of pain. Well, of course starting out there is going to be a little discomfort but there shouldn't actually be super painful. If it is...chances are that the babies latch is not right.
Did you know that you are more likely to continue breastfeeding if you have support?
Well here are a couple of ways that you can find support....
Usually, if you give birth in a hospital and let them know you are planning to breastfeed, they will have a lactation consultant come and meet with you to make sure everything is going okay and to answer any questions you may have. They will also give you their card (if not, don't be afraid to ask) to give them a call if you have any questions or concerns beyond your stay!
You could also join an experienced Facebook group that specializes in breastfeeding. This could be very beneficial. A lot times these groups are created by experienced mothers, lactation consultants, nurses, etc. These people are qualified to answer your questions and this can be useful if you have a question that you need to be answered quickly. However, it is still a good idea to double check with your healthcare professional.
Your OBGYN or Pediatrician may be able to answer some of your questions. Most doctors should be able to answer your general questions about breastfeeding. However, I have run into some that aren't quite sure and you can tell the uncertainty in their voice. Personally, what I have learned to do is to get more than 1 or 2 opinions.
La leche league (lllusa.org) a trusted breastfeeding website used to find local support in your area
Lactmed is an apple/android app that allows you to enter in different medication names and let's you know what is safe for baby and what is not.
There are a host of support aids out there and if you are in search of any more you can use any of these support aids listed above to find more.
Ever wonder what type of items you may need while breastfeeding?
Well, here are a few that have been helpful to me...
Electric and Manual Breast pump
This pump is awesome when you are on the go or need to do a quick pump.
This pump has been awesome for me and I have not had any problems. I was able to use get this pump for free (Covered 100% by insurance).
Check out aeroflowbreastpumps.com to see if/what pumps you qualify for.
This item isn't actually a pump at all. You wear this on the opposite pump that you are pumping/feeding on to catch the breast milk that naturally flows from the other breast. There is no need to hold the HaaKaa it actually suctions onto your breast!
Breastfeeding Accessories
- Boppy
This is one of the items that I used from the very beginning. I used my Boppy in the hospital and it gave me awesome support while feeding my baby.
This bra is one of my go to nursing bras. It is very comfortable and very durable when trying to nurse.
I love this bottle system. It is made especially for breastfeeding babies. The starter kit comes with adapters so that you can attach the storage bag directly to the pump. The bonus is that the storage bag snaps directly into the Kiinde bottle. This makes it so easy because there is no need to transfer the milk at all!
All of these items make great baby shower/baby registry items! Click here to start your Amazon baby registry today and receive a FREE welcome gift from Amazon!
Also, be sure to check out my Youtube Channel to learn even more! ♥