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Breastfeeding is the first source of food for a newborn baby. Mother’s milk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is recommended to feed babies only mother’s milk and no other food in the first six months (1). In addition to meeting the feeding needs of the baby, breastfeeding also helps in the mother-child relationship. The initial breastfeeding months solidifies the bonding between mother and child for a lifetime. It’s a lovely experience that will stay with you forever.
But breastfeeding is not as easy as it looks. Lactating mothers have to bear the weight of heavier breasts. Regular breastfeeding also leaves their nipples feeding dry and sore which can result in pain. Add to this the constant leaking that stains the clothes. All these issues can add up and can take a toll on new mothers. Breastfeeding devices and accessories can provide some much-needed help in making it a tad bit more manageable. Let’s dive in and have a look at some really helpful breastfeeding accessories:
Breastfeeding Bras
Breastfeeding can make your breast feel heavy and full. This mainly happens in the first few weeks when you’ve started to breastfeed. What can help is a good, supportive nursing bra. Make sure you get one that fits right and is made of soft yet supportive fabric. These bras are usually made with materials that help in absorbing leaks and avoiding milk stains on your shirt. In addition to providing the much-needed support for your breasts, a nursing bra can also make feeding a lot easier than your regular bra. This is because it comes with a provision to open and pull down from the middle. Your baby can easily drink from you without the need to remove or unhook the entire bra.
Breastfeeding Pillows
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We’ve all heard of pregnancy pillows, but have you ever come across breastfeeding pillows? If you haven’t, then you’ll be glad we mentioned them because they might be one of the best things you’ll come across! Breastfeeding can be uncomfortable for the mother because she has to bend down in such a way that her baby gets milk and is comfortable while feeding. This can cause a lot of strain on the mother’s back, shoulders, and hips. With the help of breastfeeding pillows, you can position your baby in such a way that you won’t have to strain your back or neck. Look for one that is soft but firm at the same time. You can use these pillows even when you’re feeding your baby as you lie on your side.
Nursing Pads
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The one concern all moms have when they’re breastfeeding is the stain on their tops! No one likes to head out or even sit at home with their shirts or tops stained and wet from all that milk. Breastfeeding bras do help but at times even they might not be able to absorb it all. This is where nursing pads come in. Also known as breast-pads, these lovely wonders are made to absorb any milk that leaks out during or after breastfeeding. Most of them are made from silicone and can fit easily into your bra. You can also opt for the disposable kinds which are quite affordable. You can carry them in the bag and just throw them away after use.
Maternity Clothes
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People often assume that maternity clothes are for heavily pregnant mommas who can’t fit into their old jeans. That’s not entirely true — maternity clothes are handy for mothers after childbirth as well. In fact, some maternity clothes are designed specifically for postpartum use. They come with slits that can help you feed your baby with ease. This way, you won’t have to worry about removing your clothes while feeding your child!
Breast Pumps
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Picture this: You’ve reached the end of your maternity leave, and you’ve got to head back to work. You’re waiting to get back, and you probably miss your office days. But. there’s a huge concern — you need to feed your baby! How do you suppose you can pull that off? With the help of breast pumps! They’re lovely accessories that help you pump out or express your milk, which you can then refrigerate or freeze, so your baby can drink your milk at a later time from the feeding bottle! Breast pumps come in handy when you travel as well, so make sure you invest in these if you’ve got plans!
Nipple Creams
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Breastfeeding is beautiful. It helps keep you and your baby healthy, and it works as a catalyst for bonding. But it can also hurt! All that suckling and pumping can make your breasts and nipple sore, and you might not like it! Dryness can also make the nipple and surrounding skin crack causing much discomfort and pain. Applying breast cream and nipple butter can provide some much-needed relief in such situations. Nipple cream will moisturize the surface and make feeding comfortable and smooth. But be careful to only opt for creams that are medically approved. Organic products would be better against ones with strong chemicals. Also, make sure to apply them after you are done feeding the baby and wash them off before the next feeding session.
Nursing Apron Or Cover
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It’s common for many women to feel shy about breastfeeding in public. However, in situations like traveling or in some public places, you might not find a private room for breastfeeding. This is where a nursing apron or cover comes in great help. You can fold and carry an apron in your bag and when needed just take it out and put it on. However, make sure to keep the apron washed and clean at all times.
Breastfeeding doesn’t necessarily have to be stressful and painful for the mother. As seen above, the right devices and accessories will go a long way in making it smooth and comfortable. When used correctly, these accessories will let mothers enjoy the moments of motherhood instead of suffering through it. If you too have experienced breastfeeding issues and have found hacks that help through it, share with us in the comments below.
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