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I am writing this post because these are things that I had to find out about on my own, almost too late. These are breastfeeding must haves that will save your life!

Breastfeeding is not something I was prepared for. I really thought it would just be another part of having the baby, not much to think about. I was wrong! It has definitely been the most challenging part for me since Amelia was born. Surgery recovery was tough, but this has been harder.

I was completely in the dark and wished I’d had some of these products the moment she was born to make things easier.

Hopefully, this can help you be more prepared or help you if you are struggling.

Also,if you know anyone who is going to have a baby soon, these make GREAT baby shower gifts for the mom to be.

Breastfeeding Must Haves That Will SAVE Your Life!

Remember to always talk with your doctor or lactation nurse about breastfeeding issues too. I wish I had talked with my doctor sooner!

Nipple Shields

Many talk against these, but if you suffer from cracked and bleeding nipples like I did, this is something you can use before it gets too bad to breastfeed. Amelia didn’t like them after awhile, but it allowed me to heal a little bit to keep breastfeeding.

I bought these and liked them. They come in three different sizes. My lactation nurse also gave me some samples.

Nipple Butter

These are great for keeping everything soothed before it gets too dry. There are two different ones I have used and like. This one and this one. Both are safe for baby to nurse on too.

Gel Pads

I love these! Hands down, this was the best thing for pain. I lived with these for 4 weeks straight! Instant pain relief and easy to apply! My hospital gave me these, so I bought more on Amazon. I also tried out these reusable gel pads. They aren’t as good, but I like that I reused them.

Cotton Pads

Once my nipples finally healed more, I switched to cotton pads for leakage. I bought these and really like them. It keeps your bra dry and prevents leaking.

Heating/Cooling Pads

These are good for pumping, but also in general. The heat is so good for making your milk flow better, but it is also soothing for any lumps or clogged milk ducts. It just takes a few seconds in the microwave to heat up. Putting them in the freezer is really good for encouragement relief. I use these all the time.

Breast Pump

I got a Medela breast pump from the hospital, and it has been so helpful. When my breasts were in bad shape, I could still pump without severe pain. I try to pump often just to keep breast milk in the fridge when I can.

I have a few friends that use this breast pump and really like it.

Lanolin

This is another instant relief! One tiny drop will immediately soothe soreness! I keep this little bottle with me at all times.

Lactation Tea

Another thing I wish I would have been more educated on was things to help with milk supply. As a chemist, this is something I should have been more prepared on! There are so many herbs that can naturally facilitate milk production. They make great teas with all types of ingredients for this! I researched for awhile and found this one to be the best!

So far, these are all the items that have helped me continue to breastfeed even with things were rough! The first four weeks were very hard, but each week gets a little better!

**I am NOT a medical professional, but these are all things that have helped me tremendously! Please talk with your doctor about breastfeeding issues!

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