Image : http://www.flickr.com
We are all told that breast is best, that it triumphs formula milk by a million miles and that it is key to our baby's development. What we aren't told is that a little bit of help may be needed when it comes to successfully establishing breastfeeding and that it isn't as easy as bringing your little ones mouth to your breast. Here are 5 breastfeeding essentials that may be able to help you establish successful breastfeeding:
A well fitting bra:
Make sure you get your breasts correctly measured at a department store that offers such a service and buy not only a bra to fit your size, but one that is two sizes larger in preparation for engorgement. An ill fitting bra can disturb the flow of breastmilk by applying un-needed pressure to your milk ducts.
Breast Milk Shells:
Breast milk shells are designed to be worn whilst breastfeeding (or just after) to collect any excess breast milk that can be stored and later fed to your baby. Use one breast shell on the breast you aren't using whilst feeding your little one to collect any leakage or just after for the same purpose. It is recommended that you don't use breast shells for more than half an hour at a time, to ensure you don't interrupt your milk flow.
Sling:
Slings are great for feeding when out and about, they make feeding your baby whilst on the move easier and can make public breastfeeding more discrete.
Pump:
Some mums may not have the time to feed from the breast as and when their baby wants. Using a breast pump means you can share feeding time with other close family members and get yourself some well earned rest.
Nipple Cream:
During the early days you may experience sore and cracked nipples. Many of the nipple creams now available for breastfeeding mums on the market, such as Lasinoh, no longer need to be removed before feeding your baby.
Breastfeeding need not be hard and although there are many challenges that you may face when initially feeding there are items that can make the process easier. Support is also key to successful breastfeeding, so check out your local La Leche League services and NCT classes.
