Breastfeeding is a rewarding yet challenging journey that many new mothers embark upon. It requires patience, perseverance, and often, a little bit of help from some innovative products designed to make the process smoother and more comfortable. Whether you are about to start breastfeeding or are looking for ways to improve your experience, here are some invaluable breastfeeding hacks and products that can assist you in this important phase of motherhood.

1. Feeding Pillow

Purpose: Improves Comfort and Posture

A feeding pillow is not merely a comfort accessory; it is an essential tool for maintaining proper posture while breastfeeding. These pillows elevate your baby to the right height and position for breastfeeding, alleviating the strain on your arms, shoulders, and back.

Recommendation: Boppy Nursing Pillow

The Boppy Nursing Pillow is a remarkable choice for its ergonomic design and soft, durable fabric. Its C-shape hugs your body, providing a snug and secure spot for your baby during feedings. It is easy to clean and multi-functional.

2. Manual Breast Pump:

Purpose: Milk Collection and Relief from Engorgement

A manual breast pump is a convenient way to express milk without the noise and hassle of electric pumps. It's perfect for relieving engorgement or saving milk while nursing on the other side.

Recommendation: Haakaa Breast Pump

The Haakaa breast pump is a revolutionary product for many nursing mothers. This manual pump is simple to use and effectively catches let-down from one breast while the baby nurses on the other. It’s made of silicone, making it easy to clean and portable. The Haakaa pump not only helps in collecting extra breast milk effortlessly but also aids in relieving engorgement.

3. Nipple Shield

Purpose: Facilitates Latching and Protects Sensitive Nipples

For mothers experiencing latch-on difficulties or sore nipples, a nipple shield can be a beneficial tool. Made from thin silicone, it serves as a protective barrier between the breast and the baby’s mouth, which can ease discomfort and help facilitate a better latch. This is particularly useful for mothers with flat or inverted nipples or in situations where the baby is having difficulty maintaining a good latch.

Recommendation: Medela Nipple Shield

I recommend the Medela Nipple Shield for its thin, soft silicone that feels natural to babies and helps ease the discomfort of nursing. It's designed to maximize skin-to-skin contact, which is crucial for stimulating milk flow and maintaining a bonding experience during feeding.

4. Nipple Cream

Purpose: Heals and Moisturizes Sensitive Skin

Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to dry and cracked nipples, which can be quite painful. A high-quality nipple cream, such as those containing lanolin, can provide necessary relief. These creams help moisturize and heal the skin, and safe formulations need not be removed before breastfeeding, offering convenience and comfort. It can be applied after each feeding to help heal and protect your skin.

Recommendation: Lansinoh Nipple Cream

My top choice is the Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream. Unlike the Medela nipple cream, which I find a bit too thick and not as easy to spread, Lansinoh's cream is smoother and easier to apply, providing immediate relief without the messiness. It's safe for both mom and baby, meaning there's no need to wash it off before nursing.

5. Nursing Cover

Purpose: Provides Privacy in Public

For mothers who prefer privacy while nursing in public, a nursing cover can be extremely useful. These covers provide a comfortable and discreet way to breastfeed, without the need to find a private location. Modern nursing covers are designed to be stylish and functional, often made from breathable materials to ensure comfort for both mother and baby.

Recommendation: Blissful Diary Nursing Cover

The Blissful Diary Muslin Nursing Cover is a wonderful choice for its lightweight and breathable muslin fabric, ensuring your baby stays cool and comfortable while feeding. The adjustable neck strap and the spacious coverage it provides make it a must-have for discreet nursing.

6. Nursing Bra

Purpose: Supports and Facilitates Easier Access

A well-designed nursing bra is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. Nursing bras provide necessary support to the breasts, which become heavier during lactation, and feature flaps or clasps that allow for easy access during feeding times. Opting for a bra made from soft, stretchable fabric can provide comfort and adapt to changing breast sizes throughout the day.

Recommendation: Medela Keep Cool Bra

The Medela Keep Cool Bra offers exceptional comfort and support for nursing mothers. Designed with breathable materials, it keeps you cool and comfortable during extended wear. Additionally, it pairs seamlessly with the Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump, allowing for efficient, hands-free pumping without the need to change bras.

7. Nursing Pad

Purpose: Prevent Leakage and Stains

Nursing pads absorb leaks, prevent stains on clothing, and help you feel dry and comfortable between feeds.

Recommendation: Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads

I recommend the Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads for their super-absorbent, quilted honeycomb lining. They're discreet under clothing and have an adhesive strip to keep them in place, making them a reliable choice for any nursing mom

Through my own journey of motherhood, these products have not only provided practical solutions but have also offered the emotional comfort needed during the demanding postpartum period. Each product, especially those specifically recommended, has been chosen for its ability to enhance the breastfeeding experience, offering both relief and support to nursing mothers. Whether you're setting up a registry or looking to make breastfeeding more manageable, these items are well worth considering.