You guys! I had no idea how many people would be interested in the Breastfeeding Q & A. Well actually, I should have known because we moms, we LEARN from EACH OTHER! So why wouldn’t we all want to read, talk and share about our experiences?

With that said, I’ve put together a list that I’m fancily naming the “Postpartum Party Pack for Breastfeeding Mamas” because there are a few KEY items that have made my breastfeeding + pumping journey a success the first two times and so far with our sweet baby number three. First things first: If you haven’t already, read these:

Breastfeeding Q & A with a Third Time Mom

10 Must Have Essentials for Breastfeeding Moms

I’m not a player, I just pump a lot.

Second, take notes on this Party Pack. It will help bring you comfort and prepare you for those early weeks of engorgement, cluster feeds, night wakes and new pumping schedule. And if not for you, any of these items would make an amazing gift for new mamas in your life.

This post does contain affiliate links.

THE LIST

Bra: Not just any bra. Get a good, soft, supportive, comfortable bra. I’m literally living in two bras that I got at Target. And they’re not technically nursing bras at all. Some people say they love sports bras for breastfeeding, but for me, they are just a little too restrictive. These options are SO comfortable (comfy enough to sleep in) and each under $15. (Option 1 & Option 2)

Nursing Pads: I experienced cracked nipples for the first time after having Rush and OH MY LAWD did it (does it) hurt! Nursing pads were one of the key components of giving me relief. Not to mention, helping prevent *major* milk leakage. The bamboo kind feel so dreamy on sore nipples, but the disposable soak up more milk without leaking *quite* as much on your shirt. I have both and use them at different times for different needs.

Nipple Butter: I have been ranting and raving about this all over my Instagram Stories, but seriously, Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter is soooo dreamy. The consistency is far different than a typical lanolin cream. It feels wonderful and I could feel the improvement in my nipples just after a day of use. (Bonus: You can put this on chapped lips or cheeks. So, Sylvie is currently using it too! ☺️ )

 

Pump: As I’m sure you’ve read already here, I have always begun pumping right after giving birth. I love my Medela pump + kit + bag and have it set up right next to my bed because it’s where it makes the most sense for my pumping sessions now. Pumping for me is crucial to get through the engorgement phase and to build up a freezer stash. All things a mama thinks about right away when her milk comes in!

Medela Bottles: These bottles are great with my Medela pump, plus I can see so clearly how many ounces I’m collecting. Having lots on hand allows me to pump several times throughout the day without having to wash, bag and store after each pumping session. Extra of these never hurt! (If you or your mama friend are an over producer, you may want the larger version!)

Steam Clean Bags: Lifesaver. I do use the dishwasher and used to refrigerate parts between sessions (though the CDC no longer recommends doing so) to save myself the hassle of ALL THE WASHING. These steam clean bags were even SO handy while I was working outside the home because I’d keep one at work with me to use, if needed, throughout the day.

Freezer storage bags: I use the Lansinoh freezer storage bags and lay them flat in my chest freezer. Storing in a deep chest freezer gives you additional freezer life to your milk! I did just recently see that Target has an Up&Up version of these that I will try, but I’ve always been a Lansinoh girl!

 

Heating pad: The heating pad is two fold – One, heat those engorged boobs before feeding. It feels wonderful, helps the pain and can help get the milk flowing rather than backing up and causing clogged ducts or worse. Two, the cramps. Oh the cramps! No one told me that the cramps while breastfeeding get worse after each baby. Like worse times a billion is more like it. It was labor all over again when I first started feeding Baby No. 3. So, a heating pad on my uterus was there for (some) comfort. A microwavable option is the most convenient!

Ice packs: Use ice packs on those engorged boobs after feeds! This totally helped with pain management.

Ibuprofen: Engorgement, cramping, postpartum healing… need I name more? Ibuprofen was critical in my recovery every time.

Nursing Cover: I’m all about the hang out, boobs out theory, but do take a nursing cover along while I’m out in public. I highly recommend the kind that has the bendable, rigid top so you can see what you’re doing, especially while your baby is so tiny and just figuring things out. I love to just throw it over my neck and I know it has enough fabric to cover me up.

Nursing Pillow: I actually don’t really use my Boppy Nursing Pillow exactly the way you’re supposed to (around your body), but I do use it for support as I am feeding, so I will still add this to the party pack. It’s important to have the right hold for feeds + this offers a good way to help hold the baby up to do so!

Fuel: For real, my appetite skyrockets while I’m breastfeeding. I never really experienced extreme pregnancy hunger or any crazy pregnancy cravings, but while I’m a breastfeeding mama I get SO hungry and am ALWAYS thirsty. Example: I was at Target and literally couldn’t fathom making it home in order to eat lunch so I had to get popcorn (well, duh) to eat in the car on the way.

My fuel recommendations specific for breastfeeding:

• • • Bundle Organics: These wholesome juices are delicious and provide so many needed nutrients to my body, especially important while I’m making milk to sustain a life! I bought a few from Target but I’m about to buy a bigger quantity from Amazon.

  

  • Boobie Bites: Okay, so they’re actually Energy Bites and a great snack for anyone, but in this case, I’m re-naming them J Oats are wonderful for milk supply and the other ingredients keep you full and satisfied. So easy to make and so great to have on hand.

Not-so-sinful desserts are kind of my thing. Actually, since marrying my husband I have more of a sweet tooth than I ever have. ?And since posting about my late night work essentials, I’ve had many ask about what tasty treat I was eating. They are SO simple to make ya’ll and SO tasty without all the guilt. Here’s the recipe: •ENERGY BITES• + 2 cups old fashioned oats + 3/4 cup peanut butter + 1/2 cup honey + 1/3 cup chopped dark chocolate + 1/4 cup chia seeds Mix all ingredients, chill slightly then roll into bite sized pieces. Makes approximately 12. Enjoy the healthy indulgence and the energy! ? ✨Fun fact: Chia seeds are a SUPER FOOD! They are packed with protein, fiber, omega 3 fatty acid, vitamins and minerals. They are nutrient dense and pack a punch of energy- a little goes a long way.

A post shared by l i s a • b o e t t c h e r (@lisa.boettcher) on Sep 15, 2016 at 5:47pm PDT

Water bottle: See above. I am constantly thirsty while breastfeeding and down water throughout the day. I make sure to have my water bottle with me at all times (even when I leave the house) but most importantly on the table next to me while I’m nursing.

Breastfeeding is a journey, that’s for sure. So if you’re preparing to begin, in the thick of those first few weeks or even just in your feeding rhythm, be sure to grab these Party Pack items to help take care of your needs. YOU deserve a little TLC, mama. And any of these things would most certainly do.

I hope you are all having a great week. I most certainly am – newborn snuggles for days! ??

 

XO