Make Breastfeeding Easier with These Five Must-Haves
If you’re a mom-to-be and has decided to breastfeed your child, we
salute you. While there’s no denying the endless benefits of breastfeeding
to both mother and child, breastfeeding is not as easy as it looks. Every
day many moms face issues such as difficulty for babies to latch, sore
nipples, and more. However, not all breastfeeding journeys are the same.
The good news is, there is always a solution to these problems including
some tools and accessories that can help you have a more enhanced and
prolonged breastfeeding experience.
Functional Nursing Bra
Unlike the traditional bras, nursing bras are designed to provide comfort
and support for lactating mothers. The bras usually have flaps that open
to make it easier to expose the nipples. If you’re wondering when
to get your nursing bra, it is recommended that you buy at least a couple
around your seventh or eighth month as your breasts are pretty much the
same size they are going after the baby comes.
How to determine a good nursing bra?
- Find a nursing bra that can support your bust with reinforced lower cups
for added lift and support.
- The bra should have a good, strong straps with a wide back band support.
- It should also have extra hooks and eyes for easy adjustment.
As soon as you get a sense of your milk supply and how long you will continue
to breastfeed, you may want to purchase more.
Nipple Shield
A nipple shield is a thin, soft silicone that is placed on top of a mom’s
nipple to help babies latch easily. While there will be some who might
question the need for this tool, remember, every breastfeeding journey
is different and it’s important to take all the help that we can get.
Nipple shields are beneficial for:
- Mothers with flat or inverted nipples
- Premature babies who cannot sustain a latch
- Babies with a tongue and/or lip-tie
There are also moms who choose to use a nipple shield for a short period
only or until their babies have learned to properly latch onto their nipples.
Nursing Pillow
Breastfeeding your baby will have you sitting or slouching for long periods
of time. As you strive to keep your babies comfortable while they’re
eating, it is also essential for mommies to feel comfortable while feeding.
A good nursing pillow helps support the baby so that mom can easily use
her hands in guiding the baby to latch. It should also help mom to sit
up straight and reduce the strain on her neck and shoulders.
Things to consider in selecting a nursing pillow:
- Fit
- Shape
- Portability including fastening systems
- Material
- Nursing location
- Expected length of nursing period
Nipple Cream
Breastfeeding is a good time for moms and babies to connect. However, if
moms are experiencing pain due to sore or cracked nipples, breastfeeding
can become an uncomfortable and frustrating activity. That’s why
nipple creams are a must for every breastfeeding toolbox. Nipple creams
can help alleviate and heal the pain from your nipples. There are many
brands that you can choose from but it’s better to purchase one
that’s organic and safe for the baby. Rule of thumb is, if the suggested
use of the nipple cream says that it should be washed off before feeding
the baby, it’s best to just stay away from it as it most likely
contain harmful chemicals.
Nursing Pads
You won’t have an idea on how your milk supply will be until the
baby comes. While some moms may find nursing pads a necessity, others
won’t need them at all. But just to be sure, it is always helpful
to keep at least one pack handy. Nursing pads are helpful in protecting
your nipples from getting sore or growing yeast. It can also protect your
clothes from getting milk stains, especially when you’re out in public.
Nursing pads come in two varieties:
-
Reusable pads- These are washable pads that are usually made of cotton for adequate airflow.
-
Disposable pads- Comes in a variety of skin-toned colors as well as materials such as
cotton and paper. Others also have an adhesive backing to keep it in place.
In choosing a nursing pad, it is important that you find a material that
can provide good airflow to your nipples to prevent any rashes or infection.
If you want a less noticeable nursing pad, choose a pad with a larger diameter.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful thing and moms need all the help that they
can get. We’re hoping that these tools can help you have a healthy
and wonderful breastfeeding experience.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare providers.