For those moments where breastfeeding seems less desirable and more like a pain in the breast, we’ve got some key tools for your kit, and top tips on how to use them.
For many warrior mums, breastfeeding just doesn’t seem accessible. Lots of women struggle to produce milk, or have a lot of pain or discomfort. Add in a clogged duct and a baby with the suction of Naughty Noo-Noo and you’re in for a rough ride.
Well babes, we’re here to share the tricks we learned the hard way. Gone are the days when mothers were expected to be semi-angelic beings, with a sixth sense on all things baby-related. We’re proud to encourage a generation of mothers who admit when things just aren’t going to plan. Sometimes the most heroic thing you can do is ask, “sh*t, is my nipple supposed to look like this?”
With that cliffhanger, we bring you 6 hero items that every mother needs in her breastfeeding repertoire, our of Founder, Fiona’s own toolkit.
Fiona’s Breastfeeding Favourites
Nipple Shields
Time to fortify those nipples. Nipple shields are a life saver when you’re struggling with a a whole host of breastfeeding troubles. They do what they say, shielding sore nipples from further pain and damage when your baby latches on. If your baby is struggling to latch on, shields provide extra substance for them to connect with.
Medela Contact Nipple Shields come in a variety of sizes, so you can find a comfortable fit.
A good nursing bra
Your baby’s head should not have to negotiate with elastic trims or layers of fabric. A good nursing bra will have hassle-free folds to help you feed your baby with ease. Nursing bras are basically compensation for women who have always been envious of that little opening on men’s pants. Now’s our time to whip out a body part at ease.
I hate those new mum bras that look like sex-repellants. Just because we’re breastfeeding it doesn’t mean we don’t want to look and feel good. Hotmilk offers convenient and comfortable nursing bras that also look pretty.
Breast pumps
There’s a reason we see the likes of boss babes Rachel McAdams and Millie Macintosh posing proudly with their pumps on display. Pumping milk is such a handy way to afford yourself a bit of flexibility when breastfeeding. When breastfeeding, your breasts have to be at the beck and call of your baby’s appetite, unless you can prep some liquid gold ahead of time.
The new Elvie Cordless Breast Pump is an absolute life saver, you can go to the shops and be pumping at the same time! Great for busy pumping mums with other kids.
For a more affordable alternative, the HaaKaa Generation 1 Silicone Breast Pump is a great manual option. You can bring the pumps anywhere and collect milk while you feed. It’s a quick and easy way to express milk.
NAYDAYA’s Breast Saviour
A no-brainer. Breast Saviour is a dreamy little balm, that provides relief from sore cracked nipples and skin. It’s perfect for treating your nipples post-feed or as a breast pump lubricant, for those days when your supply is poppin’.
Like all NAYDAYA products, Breast Saviour is safe for both mums and babies, so you don’t have to worry about removing the balm before breastfeeding.
Lansinoh Therapearl 3-in-1 Breast Therapy
These babies provide relief from engorged breasts/swelling. They can also aid relief for plugged ducts and mastitis. They slot over your breast to provide comfort, and can be used hot or cold. Using them hot can also aid your milk production. All in all, that’s £10 well-spent.
Organic cotton washable breast pads
Avoid awkward leaking at the most inopportune moments (every breastfeeding mother has an awkward leaky tale). The Bamboo Pillow has organic reusable pads that you can pop in the wash and use again. Simple and fuss-free, they’re a winner.
What are your breastfeeding essentials?
Comment your holy grail of breastfeeding products below, so our community of warrior mums can make the best informed decisions about their own breastfeeding journeys. Have you tried any of Fiona’s faves? Let us know ❤