I have been very lucky to have two relatively easy nursing relationships, but I know there are a lot of struggles some moms go through. For something that is natural for us mammals, for some people it doesn't come naturally! If you are having trouble nursing, I urge you to reach out to a lactation consultant- if you are local to the Twin Cities, here are some good ones!
Aszani Stoddard
Enlightened Mama
The Boob Geek
That being said, once you have an established nursing relationship, there are a few things that are helpful to have- here are my favorites! You will note I did not include a breastfeeding pillow, like the Boppy or My Breast Friend. Personally, I think those are a waste of money- and some lactation consultants say that they can hinder a good latch because of how high they put the baby.
1, First of all, all you really need are your boobs. That's one of the best things about breastfeeding is that you really don't need anything but yourself. No bottles, bags, or accoutrement required.
2. These are my favorite nursing tanks- live in these in the beginning.
3. The very best pump- I had this one the first time around, but this one is seriously like light years better. I only pump once in awhile, to relieve pressure, or to try and create a little in case I get hit by a bus stash. Ophelia never took a bottle, not once, but maybe Ralphie will be different!
4. The best nipple balm- for the beginning.
5. I wrote about this here- but this thing is AMAZING for making every shirt nursing friendly.
6. Water. Lots and lots of water. A pretty water bottle doesn't hurt.
7. The best nursing bra. I've tried a lot.
A lot of people recommend nursing pads too- I never used them much since they seemed sort of cumbersome and in those early days with lots of leaking I didn't really... care if I soaked through a nursing tank. But these ones get great reviews!
Happy boobing!
PS- this is the story of my life:
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