Reddit mentions: The best breastfeeding supplies

Sorry for any formatting issues, on my phone.
I was the same way. In fact, when I first found out I was pregnant I was certain I was going to just formula feed from the start. But the more reading I did about breastfeeding, breastmilk and the benefits for both my baby and myself I decided I was going to give it a go. I still stocked some bottles and formula in case things didn't work out for whatever reason. I think having that stuff actually helped me push through the hardest parts of early breastfeeding, because I knew I had backup and was determined to not have to use it unless it was due to a supply issue. I was determined to push through the discomfort! A lot of the stuff you'll read will say if it hurts, you're doing it wrong. That's not always the case! First of all, your nipples aren't used to this kind of work load! Babies nurse A LOT in the early days. It can feel like you don't do much except nurse! So it can take a little bit for them to get used to this. Also, your lo can be born with a pretty small mouth, making it hard to get a deep latch. Mine had a tiny mouth! Our latch and technique were perfect, but she had a shallow latch. By week 3 we were totally on track, it became second nature to nurse her. She had grown, my boobs were used to things and it became a really enjoyable experience. I was obsessed with whether her latch was right those first 3 wks and watched about a million videos on latching, had an appt with the LC I saw during recovery and the hospital and read more stuff. I was assured our latch was great and to try to stop being so worried about everything. It's really hard not to worry! Is this right? Is she getting enough milk? Is this cluster feeding? Whyyyy do my boobs hurt?! But seriously, at 3wks something magical just clicked into place. Cluster feeding is going to suck! But it is necessary to build up your supply! Comfort nursing is real too, and your baby will need lots of comfort in the early days. Things that got me through those first few weeks:
-my husband set up a snack station on my nightstand. He had fiber one bars (trust me, you'll need them lol), fiber one+protein bars, granola bars, nutrigrain bars, pb crackers etc and every time we woke to nurse he got me fresh water. You need to stay hydrated!! And it's easy to get weak, nursing can be really draining! Having a snack nearby that you can eat with one hand is super helpful
-Water. Lots and lots of water.
-When we'd wake up in the night for feedings I'd nurse on one side, then my husband would change her diaper and hand her back to me to finish the other side. The break up would help wake her up and helped make sure I was never TOO engorged. I never had to get out of bed unless absolutely necessary, which was also a huge help.
-Philips Avent thermal gel pads I kept these in the freezer, they are big and bulky but omg they felt wonderful!! You can also warm them.
-Lansinoh Gel Soothies i kept these in the fridge for adding cooling. They were great.
-Lansinoh! Lots of it! I used it at the start and end of every session in the beginning. Let your boobs air dry a little too from time to time. My boobs were constantly out those first few weeks. My husband called this phase "sun's out, guns out!"
It's really hard not to worry or be worried about it. It's hard work! It's a lot more than I ever thought it would be. But here we are at 1yr and almost 2wks still going strong! I wouldn't change a thing. I feel blessed to have had a pretty easy time with this, and to have had a great supply all this time. I am absolutely in awe at how all of this works, and so happy that I stuck with it. You'll need support, but with a good system this can be an amazing experience. I keep saying weaning is going to be harder on me than it will be on my daughter! And always remember, if breastfeeding doesn't work out - you aren't a failure. Formula is there for a reason, it feeds babies and helps them thrive! At the end of the day, a fed baby is the way to go. If breastfeeding is not working, then switch and don't let anyone try to make you feel guilty about it. It's none of their business anyways how you feed your baby. All that matters is your health and happiness and your baby's health and happiness. Best of luck!!!

Here are mine:

• Secure Beginnings Crib Mattress - a totally breathable crib mattress. You can take the "sleep surface" off and throw it in the washing machine when needed. I surprisingly don't do it that often. The mesh fabric and space under it helps in temperature regulation and air exchange. Basically, helped me as a new mom not worry about suffocation. I ended up going wild and getting two sleep surfaces per mattress. I got one set in the regular size and a mini crib for our room.
  
• LED Touch Light - these suckers are rechargeable and hold their charge a long time. They're super portable. What I like best is that you can turn them suuuuper dim, which is great for middle of the night wake ups and diaper changes. We have one hanging from our headboard and one hanging above the changing table. And then another around the house. There are tons of sellers of this type of product and they're quite inexpensive.
  
• Wet Bag - a reusable and washable bag to stash wet/dirty stuff. An essential for cloth diaperers, but also great for pooped on clothes, bathing suits, etc.
  
• Fischer-Price Ultra-Lite Day and Night Play Yard - this is a smaller and less expensive version of a traditional pack and play. We kept it in the living room and baby spent a lot of time there as a newborn.
  
• Gripe Water Lots of gripe water. Good for gas, sometimes hiccups, and gentle relief for stomach upset. Also helps some newborns poop.
  
• Grovia Magic Stick Diaper Balm - made for cloth diapers, but would work for sposies. A barrier "cream" on a stick, so you don't have to get your fingers gross. Smells amazing - I literally sniff the stick every time we use it.
  
• Freemies - great for hands-free pumping, especially in the car or at work. Fits inside the shirt. Can be hit or miss on if it works for individuals, but it works GREAT for my boobs. Regular flanges hurt me and didn't yield good output, but Freemies agreed with my body wonderfully.
  
• Spectra Pump I have nothing but good things to say about the Spectra pump. I have the S1 (battery operated), S2 (plugs in), and the S9 (battery operated, but not as fancy as S1). I haven't had any issues with my pumps, but others have had great customer service experiences. It's a "closed" system, which means it's impossible for milk to get into the pump on accident. This is a good thing.
  
• Kiinde Storage Bags - these breastmilk storage bags are more expensive, but highly durable. I love the twist top - much easier to use then a zipper top. We used the whole bottle system from 0-6 months. At six months, he realized he could take the nipple off the bottle and we switched to Como Tomo bottles. But for those months, it was SO NICE to just send the bags to daycare and wash only the nipples (the shells stayed at daycare).
  
• Lillebaby Complete Airflow Baby Carrier - while baby carrier preferences will vary widely by body type and personal preferences, I love my Lillebaby most. It doesn't require any special insert for newborns and the lumbar support was awesome. The airflow version was great, as I live in a very hot state.
  
• Lectrofan Sound Machine - you may be wondering why this is $45 and other sound machines are $20. Because it is amazing, that is why. Seriously 100% amazing.
  
  Hope this helps somebody!
  
  Edit: added a few more after the Spectra.

Warning - lots of text below! My baby is about 6 weeks now and I'm exclusively breastfeeding. My Medela Harmony manual pump has been fine for building a stash - I pump 1-2 times a day for the freezer and occasional bottle feedings from Dad. I think it's pretty convenient, but I'll be using a double electric pump when I go back to work (waiting to see what Tricare will cover in 2015!).

Whatever you decide to use for diapering, I'd strongly recommend getting some prefolds (I got Osocozy unbleached). They're great for burp cloths, catching milk from your other boob during letdown, etc and they're also way cheaper and more absorbent than fancy burp cloths. Personally I love prefolds and covers for diapering, but don't buy too much into any one system or brand until you know what works for you. My husband hates prefolds so now I'm having to add pockets and AIOs to appease him.

I'd get some swaddlers (at least 2; my favorite is from Nuroo but that was a gift and they're pricey, the summer infant SwaddleMe wraps are good now that she's bigger but didn't fit well until about 10 lbs). My girl lives in footed pajamas and I love the Gerber zipped ones, we found tons at goodwill for $1.50 each but if you can't find them used, they're on Amazon for $10 for a 2 pack. You're right that other people will buy clothes, but they'll pick cutesy stuff and you need some practical choices too.

Nursing pillow - I had an unexpected C section and this has been so necessary. I love the Luna Lullaby since it's big and I had a big baby.

Some kind of baby carrier, I got a Moby wrap while she's small and it's amazing for running errands (I put it on before getting in the car and pop her in before going in the store, WAY easier than a carseat and stroller).

We were gifted a used swing and it is a freaking godsend. It's the only way I get chores done since I can pop her in there and cook, do laundry, clean, etc without her crying. YMMV, some babies hate them, but buy used and you won't be out too much cash.

Wubbanub pacifier is easy to keep track of and super cute.

Pack n Play with a mattress for cosleeping (recommended to reduce SIDS risk for the first 6 months). At least 2 mini crib sheets.

Earth Mama Angel Baby nipple butter is amazing for the first couple weeks.

QuickZip crib sheets will be amazing once you use the crib.

Simba baby safety nail cutter - no bleeding!

Finally, the Itzbeen pocket nanny timer is so helpful for keeping track of feedings and diaper changes, especially in the first few weeks.

Hope this wasn't too overwhelming. Good luck!

*Edited to add links to products.

Here's a list of items I found so useful for myself that I use as my go-to gift options for anyone I know having a baby.

1. Rectal thermometer Not only is this the fastest and most accurate way to check an infant's temperature, but it really helps with constipation. Around 8 weeks, breastfed babies may start to poop only once a week. My kid would get so uncomfortable, but he was too young to have juice or pureed fruit. My doctor recommended a rectal thermometer with Vaseline to stimulate a BM. Works like a charm!
   
   
2. Lots Of Links These are great for attaching toys to the carseat, stroller, and highchair. They're also thin and light, so they're great for really small infants to practice grasping and passing objects from hand to hand.
   
   
3. Coat Hangers - Since everyone insists on loading up your baby with clothes, you need somewhere to put them all. I used all 80 hangers I had - and that's with a boy!
   
   
4. Breastfeeding supplies - No one likes to buy this stuff, but if it's for a close friend or you know they're going to breastfeed, definitely get her some nursing pads (helpful even if she doesn't breastfeed and sometimes even before the baby is born) and lanolin If she is going to use a Medela pump, these membranes will come in handy. I also liked these wipes for cleaning any breastpump where there may not be a sink and these bags for sanitizing pump parts, bottles, paci's, etc.
   
   
5. While this probably won't be used for a while, this play yard is one of my favorite baby purchases ever. It came in handy especially during those 7-12 months where my kid was crawling and learning to walk. It kept him contained and also gave him a safe place to practice walking. My son is 16 months old and we still use this all the time.
   
   
6. No one did this for me, but I wish people had bought me a small package of their favorite generic/store brand diapers. No one wants to look cheap by buying off brand diapers, but in reality, you'll probably end up using them. Huggies or Pampers can run about $0.35 per diaper. It's great when you're getting gifts, but I'd like a chance to experiment with something lower cost without having to buy 15 brands. Target's Up & Up brand work great for me, and they're only around $0.15 a diaper. But babies are all shaped different, so what works for one kid might not work so great for another. You just have to try them out. It'd be nice to get some different brands as gifts.

I had similar concerns before my son was born 3.5 months ago. It seemed like everyone had trouble, so I was fully prepared for a miserable experience and was mentally steeling myself to power through for the sake of my baby. And then... it was super easy. No real latch issues. Minimal pain. No supply issues. Used a bottle day 2 and pacifier at week 2 without any nipple confusion. When needed, we used formula here and there without any problems. It's pleasant and sweet for me to nurse him and it's been a wonderful bonding experience! I was lucky, but I also think people with good experiences don't tend to comment online about them as much, so maybe they're underrepresented.

I will say that if it's in the budget, stocking up on some supplies, including just-in-case supplies, was helpful. It's great to have them on hand the second you need them - I'm not sure I would have thought to go out and buy them in the moment otherwise - and also provides some peace of mind before the baby comes knowing that you're prepared.

For me these included:
Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter - use early and often!
Hydrogel pads - Ameda, Lanisoh and Medela all make them; they are reusable over a 72 hour period or so and they feel AMAZING, especially when refrigerated first (I used and liked the Lanisoh; I snagged a bunch when the price dipped to ~$3). Don't wait till it gets bad to use these!
Lanisoh heating/cooling pads - cooling is soothing and especially nice when you're milk comes in; heat is good for encouraging let down and helping with any clogged ducts
Medella SoftShells - The least essential of the bunch, but a nice-to-have if you want to slather on nipple butter but not stain your nursing bras/tanks or just want to allow some more airflow. Worked great for me but possibly not for everyone's anatomy?

As I'm writing this I remembered many of these recommendations came from this excellent (and now recently updated) Lucie's List article on breastfeeding prep.

You can't predict how this stuff will go but for as much as there is to worry about, there's also a lot to look forward to with nursing. Good luck!

I have a Spectra S1 and love it. Only difference between S2 and S1 is the S1 has a rechargeable battery- this was huge for me as I like that I don’t have to turn it off and unhook myself to just go grab water or something. Once you know what flange size you need, I’d recommend getting an extra set of parts as well. As an FYI the duckbill valves need to be replaced every couple months as they will eventually get little tears at the opening.

I have a couple Elvies as well which I mainly use to pump if I’m driving and need to pump at that time. I don’t get as much as I get with the spectra.

Boon grass also SO HELPFUL for drying all the little pieces. I thought it was just a frivolous registry item but it is CLUTCH.

I’d also recommend getting a haakaa (editing to add: this one specifically has worked best for me, the older styles have a weird neck that doesn’t suction as completely: https://www.amazon.com/Haakaa-Breast-Manual-Silicone-Breastfeeding/dp/B07CWK4S5W) to catch letdown - you put it on one breast while feeding from the other, and make sure to switch it to the other breast when you switch sides so it’s not ALL foremilk. It’s been huge for helping me build up a stash- I get 1-2 oz extra at each feeding without spending any extra time, because it just catches what would be dripping out anyway. Sometimes I’ll hand express a little extra into it at the end of a feed. You have to wait for the milk to all be at the same temperature before you can combine it, but every 1-2 days I have enough for a whole bottle and then I’ll give that to hubs to use and pump a full bottle’s worth to keep in the freezer or fridge depending on what needs we have coming up. I loved it so much that I just bought like 4 of them so that when I’m home all day on the weekend I have a clean one to grab for every feed.

If you are returning to work, find out if your lactation space has a pump there. Mine has a Medela symphony, so I got a set of parts for it so that I wouldn’t have to schlep the spectra around. It works great.

If you do need to carry your spectra around and want a professional looking bag, the Sarah Wells bags are great.

FWIW, a friend of mine got the Medela pump in style and HATES it. She says the Symphony works great for her, and she likes the baby Buddha as well. I find the Symphony to be comparable to the spectra, but wasn’t about to rent that giant hospital grade thing to keep at home.

I wanted to reply to your comment last week about breastfeeding stuff, but was too bogged down in our own stuff here. :-)

Tongue-tie, injured nipples, delayed + low supply, pumping 7-8x a day to increase/maintain supply...that was me for the first 8-ish weeks. Tongue-tie was revised at 4 weeks, and we finally got to (mostly) EBF at 8 weeks. (Which was great--so much easier, until reflux set in!)

A few thoughts:

• our LC told me that if your nipples are so injured you can't rub them with a towel and be okay, then you should EP for a couple days until they've healed.
  
• a "burning" sensation in the nipples is sometimes due to a yeast infection. Especially if it's persistent and not just during nursing. Sometimes the baby has symptoms too (thrush, diaper rash), sometimes not. You can contact your OB, or your LC about getting checked. They might tell you to try something OTC, or prescribe an antifungal.
  
• Soothies help some women get through the nipple pain of the early weeks. They're a little pricey for something that's essentially disposable. But I treated myself to a couple packs and saved them for when I really needed them. (There's also reusable versions you can put in the fridge, but those are harder to find.)
  
• after 3 weeks, I ended up renting a hospital grade pump for those 7-8x/day pumping sessions. More comfortable on the nipples and more efficient. Less expensive than formula (~$25/week + flange kit). But also not strictly necessary if money is tight.
  
• babies get better at latching as they get older--combination of bigger mouths and better coordination
  
• your area might have free breastfeeding support groups and/or group lactation consultations that might be helpful. In my area, they're affiliated with the hospitals with maternity wards, or with centers that do e.g. childbirth classes and related stuff.
  
  There were a lot of tears at the beginning of our breastfeeding journey, too. I had to set a lot of microgoals. Breastfeeding once a day without injury. Then twice a day. Making it to two weeks, then one month, then another month. If I thought about trying to go six months or a year, it felt impossible, so I just kept my goals short-term and told myself that at each step, I was free to re-evaluate.
  
  Now we're at 6 months! And honestly, because my daughter developed reflux after all the other stuff, most of those months have been hard won. My goal now is to keep going until her reflux improves. (Formula can make reflux worse.) If improvements in breastfeeding follow, we might continue longer. If not, then that might be the time to transition to formula, 'cause I can't imagine triple-feeding for another 6 months!
  
  Congratulations on the new job! Hope your (soon to be former) boss isn't an ass to your husband when he finds out you're leaving. On the subject of glassblowing, I saw this post about a memorial marble for someone who died and it reminded me of you--the glassblower among us, and all the conversations at /r/ttcafterloss about how we remember our little ones. <3

I love this list, I kept thinking "ditto!" with almost everything you wrote! Because I can't help myself, here is some of my feedback on some of those products:

For boob cream- I loooove the Motherlove Nipple Cream. The Earth Mama Angel Baby one was really grainy to me, and I'm not a big fan of the cocoa butter smell (to each their own!). The Motherlove cream saved my nipples those first few weeks and I still use it after a long pumping session.

Leak management- gurl I feel you on being leaky! I am SO leaky. I love the nighttime Bamboobies, they're the only ones that work for me (and I have to switch them out three times a day). The downside is they're pretty obvious through clothing, so when I have to go out of the house I'll pop a disposable lansinoh one in there instead. But Bamboobies all the way!

Leak Collection!- Yes! The Milkies Milksaver I have has been great at catching the ~1oz I leak from the non-nursing side. Now that Miss V and I have more of a breastfeeding pattern that involves her only eating from one side per session I'm going to try out a Haakaa Silicone Pump to see if the suction will draw out even more ounces from the neglected boob.

Extra Pump Parts- NeneSupply on Amazon is a Spectra pumping girl's best friend, especially for hard-ish to find and expensive spare Spectra parts.

Nursing Bras- They're expensive but I'm a total Bravado fanatic. I'm a big girl and they carry a wide variety of sizes, even for the much bigger bust sizes. And they recently released this hands free pumping attachment that, the few times I've experimented with it, was freaking awesome. I hope it continues to be awesome when I go back to work!

Edit:
Oh! I forgot one of my favorite pumping accessories! The Pumpin' Pals Super Shields have made a difference in my output but are also a thousand times more comfortable that regular flanges. Plus you can recline while pumping without spilling breastmilk everywhere! I was gifted these by a friend at my shower and I was skeptical about them living up to the Amazon reviews hype but I am definitely happy to have them.

• The NICU should provide a pump and bottles if you're not able to breastfeed in the NICU. It depends on your circumstances whether you'll be able to breastfeed immediately. Hopefully someone who's been through a NICU experience can tell you more about that.
  
  
• They sell breastmilk storage bags specifically designed to store milk. I use the Lansinoh ones because I have never had one leak on me. To thaw it, run it under warm water. NEVER MICROWAVE. Some babies are picky about the temperature of the milk, some aren't. You'll have to learn what your baby will drink. Always be sure to test the milk on your inner arm or upper lip to be sure it won't burn baby. There are also bottle warmers out there, but I've never used one.
  
  
• Assuming you're able to stay with baby after the birth, you should be able to start breastfeeding pretty much immediately. In the early months, you'll want to pump every time she takes a bottle to help keep your supply up. Kellymom.com has a good page on how much milk baby will need.
  
  
• The best bottles for breastfeeding varies from baby to baby. If you can, try to avoid bottles until baby has the hang of breastfeeding. If you can't, look for bottles that have nipples with wide bases and slow flow. I ended up using Playtex Drop-Ins because Dad and I both work full time, my daughter hated EVERY kind of bottle anyway, and they were easy to clean. If you can't get baby to take a bottle, consider training him/her to drink from a cup or straw. My daughter started drinking from a straw when she was about 7 months old. As soon as she figured out straws she refused bottles.
  
  Poke around on the site kellymom.com. It's one of the best breastfeeding sites out there, very down to earth, with lots of good advice. Also see if you can watch some videos of how to latch and what a good feeding looks like. I love the videos at this site.
  
  Breastfeeding is hard at first, and it often hurts, but the rewards are wonderful. And always remember that the most important rule of breastfeeding is feed your baby however you need to. If it means formula, so be it.
  
  edit: clarity, also I can't get that one link working.

Oh, where to start.

I guess, first of all, equipment will probably be pretty low on you concerns. Any thing you end up lacking can usually be remedied with a couple quick emergency shopping trips by dad. That said, I can recommend some stuff.

• burp cloths..
  
• a yoga ball for bouncing.
  
• breast pump and bags..
  
• new born pacifiers.
  
  And there are other things you might like such as small blankets, blackout curtains for the windows.
  
  However, what I think is the most important is to setup your support network. A lot of people don't get this established in time, and it can make a lot of difference in your quality of life. You may get a really easy baby, but even in the best of times, you'll benefit from help.
  
  My wife signed up for a new parents meet up this one won't work for you, but if you can find something similar, it can be a huge help to have other moms going through the same thing you are, and she made some really good friends. Also, establish, if you can, some people to help out. Do you live near any of the grandparents? Can they come over once a week to help with laundry and dishes for the first few weeks? Can you make some frozen dinners to ear when you're to exhausted to cook? Is there going to be anyone who might be able to give you a couple hours off to sleep or recharge if you're running on empty? These sorts of things are hugely helpful.
  
  I'm sure you'll get lots of help finding out what products you'll want in you life, but my 2c is to spend some time arranging the people you'll want in your life as well.

Its definitely tough and a lot of work. I will say based on your summary, it seems like you are doing everything to the best of your ability, which is the most important thing. I just passed the two month mark, so I will tell you now, it only gets slightly better. Supposedly at 3 months, it can start to get a lot better in regards to having a pattern and more control over the schedule. But, as a 2 month vet, here is how I'm managing this to the best of my ability:

You wife definitely does need support. Depending on how well you can sleep, instead of STAYING awake with her, get up, get the baby, help her set up for a feed, then go back to sleep.

I don't know about yours, but my baby needs to feed for anywhere from 30 minutes to a full hour. an hour of sleep 3-5 times a night can make a big difference with your ability to handle it long term.

Also, buy your wife this pump. Its WAY better than the free one we got with insurance, it pulls out way more milk, and it's easier on her breasts. As an exclusively breastfed baby, this will allow her to pump, make a bottle, then SHE can go back to sleep and you can take 1 or 2 feedings every once in a while.

You love your child. you are trying, and you are asking for advice. You are already doing EVERYTHING right. Hang in there, it'll get better.

P.S. Once you get your first regular baby smile, it'll allllllllll be worth it

8 months pp here! FTM.

Our journey was not easy. Wasn't as hard as some others but not as easy either.

We had blisters, cracked nipples and serious pain in the beginning. LO took about 2 weeks to figure out how to latch properly and in the meantime, we had to supplement with formula because my milk took over 5 days to come in. I ran out of colostrum very quickly because I had a big ass baby who apparently decided he was quite hungry.

We didn't use a bottle to supplement, we used the supplemental nursing system. I am convinced it's why we're EBF (no bottles) now. But it's a pain in the ass to use and clean but worth it.

He never took to a pacifier. He will drink from a bottle if he had to (comotomo) or even a sippy cup. We got lucky though. He doesn't reject anything that breastmilk comes out of lol. Loves him a breastmilk popsicle.

I would say, if you can get an electric pump for free, get it. Don't bank on things working out from the get go. I had to pump after every feed for weeks because baby wasn't an efficient nurser. If I didn't have my pump, I probably wouldn't have a supply now. Having to pump after every feed really sucks. It's demoralizing as fuck watching nothing but air come out but that's okay. You need that to tell your body to ramp shit up.

If you do pump, make sure you get the right size flanges.

Your nipples will toughen up, but don't listen to anyone telling you to "pre" toughen them. I got that advice from family...I'm really glad I didn't listen. Instead, have plenty of nipple butter ready and slather that shit on like your nips are thanksgiving turkey. gel pads are a must buy as well.

https://smile.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Soothies-Breastfeeding-Soothing-Cracked/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1539231011&sr=8-3&keywords=lansinoh+gel+pads

Try several nipple butters out. Not all work the same for everyone. Earth Mama nipple butter is my jam. But a lot of moms like Lanolin. Lanolin was meh for us.

Also keep high quality raw, unrefined extra virgin coconut oil handy. It's a natural antifungal/antibacterial and in the beginning weeks, thrush is a real concern. Make sure you have probiotics in your system as well.

You could definitely try! Breastmilk is good topically too for eczema. And no, I don't think it's too late necessarily though the causes for eczema are still not 100% clear

My guy has it too and he's breastfed....though it's far less now that I have cut eggs/dairy from my diet. We see a pediatric allergist for it and he's one of the best in his fields and he says that eczema is one of those funny things that we're not 100% clear on what truly causes it. And that one thing can be the cause today....and not be the cause tomorrow.

Don't be nervous!!! See if you have any nursing mama cafe groups, or a La Leche League meeting and go to those. Also see if your hospital has lactation workshops! I went to one every week for the first 3 months. They're a sanity saver bc there's a board certified lactation consultant on hand AND they do weighted feeds.

Clusterfeeding is normal. You can never bring your baby to breast too often. You can bring too little.

Don't ever ever listen to anyone telling you to space baby's feedings out. That comes from formula feeding and NOT breastfeeding. If baby just ate and seems hungry again 30 minutes later? Let em eat.

Don't let baby go more than 2 hrs during the day between feeds. 3 hrs MAX until he's back up to birth weight. Once he's back up to birth weight, you can let baby do the 1 long stretch but you'll want to stack day feeds in your favor then (aim for every 2-3 hrs) Again. You can never offer too much. A baby will stop drinking if they're not thirsty/hungry. The more you bring baby to breast, the better your supply will be. Breastmilk digests in under an hour so keep that in mind when people are trying to tell you baby isn't hungry. Chances are, he probably very much is!

Don't go crazy with nursing bras/tanks just yet. Wait until you've given birth as our bodies will fluctuate like crazy. Then buy ONE you might like and trial it first.

If you have the choice between boppy or my brest friend...the my brest friend is the better pillow for JUST breastfeeding. It's not as versatile as the boppy which I still use now for other things but oh boy is it great for helping you latch a baby.

Use a nipple shield with caution. Weaning off it can be a bitch. If you can power through without it, try. Because then what happens is, you don't get your nipples acclimated and you have to start all over again. Obviously, if the pain is so bad you're going to stop breastfeeding altogether, then yes, of course, do what's necessary but just some things to keep in mind.

If you have the money....I'd think about getting a LaVie massager...that thing has saved me from 3 clogged ducts. Clogs are no joke. The moment you feel one, you work that bad boy out asap. Listen to your body.

Have plenty of drinks/snacks lying around. Look into no bake lactation bites

https://thebakermama.com/recipes/no-bake-lactation-bites/

Be prepared to spend a lot of time with a baby stuck to you. Baby jail is real.

Wow. Thanks for the advice. I really appreciate your input. Thanks for sharing the pics too :)

I'm planning on taking the first two weeks off to help my wife. My wife is taking a full 12 weeks, and I've made it clear to my retired mother-in-law that she's welcome to move in for that first month. She's wonderful and should be a great help.

We're getting there. Picked up a Sony Nex-5N over Christmas to capture all the memories. Also definitely planning to get this Medela and the Miracle blankets.

As for my original question, we did find a recliner we like. It's the Havana recliner from Macy's. It's a bit pricey but we called and it's supposed to go on a one-day sale tomorrow, so we'll see. We're planning to pull the trigger tomorrow. I must say, it's not easy finding a modern recliner with nice, clean lines. They all look like teddy bears.

In our search, we did come across this awesome glider recliner loveseat (8908 style). Both sides independently recline and glide. Amazing if you're prepared to drop $1300.

So, I totally breastfed one kid and then pumped exclusively for the next, and for the third breastfed a little but mostly pumped and then when I was sick of pumping, I switched to formula.

A couple of things to know about breastmilk production. First is that the initial wave of hormones that triggers the production of breastmilk comes from the delivery of the baby and the placenta. Your milk will come in whether you do anything or not. But, to maintain your supply, you need to empty your breasts and stimulate your nipples about 8 times a day. It doesn't have to be in 2 hour intervals around the clock. A baby doesn't cue to eat at exactly 2 hours around the clock. When you breastfeed you follow the baby's cues. If you are exclusively pumping, then you can pump more frequently in the day and then at night give yourself no more than one 4-6 hour stretch for uninterrupted sleep. Don't go more than six hours without pumping or feeding a baby unless you are trying to decrease your supply, because that is what will happen. If you do go more than six hours, beware that you can get plugged ducts or mastitis. Your supply regulates at 12 weeks, so the first 12 weeks if you want to develop your full supply, it's important to keep up the frequent breast emptying and nipple stimulation. After that, you can go further apart and some people are able to pump as few as 4 times a day with a couple "power pumps" throughout the week (pumping on an off for 10 minutes over a 1 hour period to simulate cluster feeding). But some people need to keep up the eight pumps for the duration of pumping, so you will figure out what works for you. If your goal is not to provide breastmilk only, you can pump less and give some formula, but your supply will tend to gradually dwindle. That might be what works for your family.

Some people do use formula during the very early days of breastfeeding and there is actually evidence that this can increase rates of success because it decreases frustration and allows the baby to have more energy for effective breastfeeding. So you don't have to be afraid of formula. But you do have to stimulate the nipples and empty the breasts. :)

If you are doing a combination of pumping and breastfeeding, the easiest way is to just breastfeed when you are home and then pump when you are away from the baby. In your situation (going back to work), if I liked breastfeeding, I would probably start out breastfeeding and maybe add in 1 extra pump a day if it's not too onerous. Then once your are working, you pump throughout the day while you are away from your baby. Some people breastfeed overnight (this is good for your supply and bad for your level of fatigue), some people use pumped milk or formula. Personally I found this all to onerous with my third, so I mainly pumped because I preferred it to breastfeeding, and my husband and I took turns giving the bottle at night. When I switched to powder formula I would keep bottles prefilled with water and a premeasured formula container at the bedside. Add formula, shake, feed baby. When I went back to school he was 8 weeks, and I rapidly dropped pumps, used up the rest of my freezer milk and guilt free switched to formula. My plan for all future babies is to provide breastmilk for approximately six weeks and then to give formula after that. This is based on my own personal experiences with breastfeeding and my current lifestyle (work full time). You will find what works best for your situation and your family. Some people are able to pump and breastfeed and provide milk for over a year, and they are happy with being able to do so.

Other little tips:

Get a pumping bra or make one by cutting holes in a sports bra.

A lot of moms store their pump parts in the fridge in between pumps and wash and sterilize once a day. This might be an acceptable practice with full term kids (I felt fine doing it with mine after the first six weeks) but for newborns, for milk donation, and especially for any preterm babies it is very important to thoroughly clean the pump parts with soap and water and air dry every single time. Which sucks because preemie moms have enough on their plate, but the evidence suggests that cleaning is an important part of safe milk handling for preemies.

Lastly, I haven't had a chance to try one of these personally (they came on the market after I weaned the last baby) but a lot of my friends have raved about this for use during a feed: https://www.amazon.com/Haakaa-Silicone-Breastfeeding-Manual-Phthalate/dp/B01F8W7CF0

Hi! I’m back!!
Although I thoroughly intend to write my birth story when I’m ready, I just finished my first piece since the baby arrived so in celebration, I’ll pair it with something useful.

I really appreciated posts like this while I was pregnant so here goes:

Things I didn’t know I needed:
(AKA things I have frantically ordered on amazon at or around 2am)

•Bottle Drying Rack This probably seems obvious, but when we didn’t get this from our showers we were like... idk why we can’t just use a towel??

•Safe way to cosleep My husband built a BEAUTIFUL Sidecar Crib, but it was attached on my side of the bed and it took 2.5 weeks for me to have healed enough to climb in bed around it safely with the baby. This way, I didn’t have to bend over to pick up baby or even spit up to check on/soothe him.

•Lactation Suppliment My lactation consultant approved. This one worked well in my breakfast tea.

•Better flanges My poor nipples were so sore and the flames that come with the Medela... well I’m not sure who they’re supposed to fit but not me. My doula practically ordered these for me. GAME CHANGER.

•Pumping bra I was cutting holes in sports bras. This is better.

•Nipple Shells Another kind reddittor sent me in the direction of this AMAZING INVENTION after I posted a photo of ice packs tied to my nipples with a burp cloth because I refused to wear a shirt my nipples hurt so bad. I will be purchasing these for EVERY PREGNANT WOMAN FOREVER. They keep your nipples dry, collect drips, apply counter pressure to keep your nipples shaped correctly for latching, and most importantly omg nothing touches the precious nips and you can wear a shirt!!

•Car mirror

Me: that seems extra, he’s in a car seat and safe why would I need a mirror??

Hormones; HAHAHAAHAHAHAHAH YOU FOOL

•Car adapter for my breast pump Cheaper than batteries

•Shade for his side of the car because anything that wakes up my sleeping baby is the devil. This one has a bonus that allowed me to roll the window down and it was HOT in the south

•Better suction for the breast pump Again- just better than whatever they send you

•My Breast Friend we got the boppy but this one saved my back

•Heating pad Turns out I’ll do ANYTHING to keep the baby asleep when I transfer him to his crib including preheat the darn thing (on low!) before I lay home down

•Stroller Caddy You’ll want somewhere to put your keys, phone, and coffee

•Baby K’tan An easier way for my husband to wear the baby.

•Leggings I had a pair of these before, and they are SO COMFORTABLE on my postpartum body that I bought 5 more in different colors!

•Extra pump parts for whichever pump you have

•A hands-up swaddle I found at Target

•Wine.

Anyway, hope this helps! Best of luck to all of you!

i never used one of those baby baths, i always brought her in with me and sat her in my lap.

if youre breastfeeding and want to stick with it, i recommend finding a bottle and nipple you like, (this one is "slow flow" and is the one she liked back when she would take one. slow flow is where its at for breastfeeding, as its closest to the amount of sucking shed do when breastfeeding) and giving her one few days at least til shes closer to a year old. i hardly ever gave mine a bottle and she flat out refused to take one or take a binky til she was 18 ish months old and weaned herself. almost two years and she could never go to a sitter or grandmas house for more than a couple hours max. i liked bottles that took these since you dont have to worry about washing / sterilizing everything.

i never used a crib, she co slept til right around when she weaned herself. one day she just... dragged her blankets to her toddler bed (where she always took naps) and decided she was done co sleeping. was awesome. co sleeping is the best when youre breastfeeding, no getting up and down in the middle of the night, can just roll over, pop a boob in her mouth and doze.

get nipple cream! NIPPLE CREAM! and those handy little nipple shields to go in your bra for when you leak. at about 2 weeks - one month your nipples will be on FIRE. it will suck, but only lasts for about a week after that. its WORTH IT when you dont have to lug around formula and bottles everywhere you go.

get or make a baby wrap / carrier. youll look like a new age hippie, but its more comfortable than any traditional baby carrier, and feels more secure than any of the slings. i made two out of about 10 yards of gauzy cotton fabric, cut longways its about the right width. you can wrap her in front when shes little and breastfeed her without anyone being the wiser, later, you can carry her on your back like a champ without her little legs getting sore from hanging out of one of those "typical" carrier types.

heres a wonderful site that lists all the different wraps by age, this one is my fave. http://www.wrapyourbaby.com/frontwrapcrosscarry.htm

instead of a mobile, get one of those rotating star projectors. theyre move expensive, but will last well into preschool, and double as a nightlight.

> I was never actually fit for the mask. The tech just gave me a large.

This sucks and it happens far too often. Mask fit is critical but these DMEs just toss you whatever they happen to stock and expect it to be perfect. Ideally, the tech would have let you try on a bunch of different masks to see which one actually fits your face. Most likely, you can still contact the DME and have them do an actual fitting.

>the bridge of my nose hurts

This could be the wrong mask for you or possibly over tightening the straps. It seems illogical, but most masks fit better with looser straps. All of us overtighten the straps when first starting out on CPAP.

>Everything seems to be ok when I go to sleep but during the night it seems like the mask fit changes.

Rolling over could cause this and a CPAP pillow might help. With a normal pillow, when we roll over, the mask hits the pillow and can be jarred loose. A CPAP pillow has a cutout to prevent this. Here's the one I like:

https://www.amazon.com/Contour-Products-CPAPMax-Pillow-CPAP/dp/B01LYNBWXG

Also, some machines have a leak alarm (usually in the hidden "clinician's menu").

>I get leaks, mask 'farts'

Getting the mask to fit better should be the first priority, but there's also a way to make the mask more sticky and help prevent leaks. Just a tiny dab of this will do, not even a pea size.
It's found with diapers or:

https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Breastfeeding-Moisturizer-Preservative-Hypoallergenic/dp/B005MI648C?th=1

>Is it just a matter of getting used to the mask?

This is part of it, but if the mask isn't comfortable enough, then you're not going to stick with it for the long haul.

>I have a lot of congestion and I am afraid that won't work.

Yeah, this probably means that a full face mask is going to be more useful. The one I like is the ResMed AirFit F20. It fits a wide range of faces because it's a lot more springy and flexible. Also, most masks also have a "sizing guide" available online that you can print out to get a better idea.

This list is awesome! I was not nearly that organized for my registry! Just a few comments from the other side (my baby is 3 months currently).


Baby nails are sharp and scary, some friends bought us this Electric Nail File and it is absolutely amazing, not painful for baby at all and much more efficient than the little files.

This butt spatula thing has been great for when we apply diaper cream! Saves us from getting it on our hands.

For me personally, I found the Boppy rather ineffective for nursing at first while we were trying to figure out nursing. Baby would kind of slide down between the Boppy and my stomach. Now at 3 months old, the Boppy is super useful for propping baby and sometimes as a nursing pillow if I decide to use one. My first few weeks of nursing I'd use the Brest Friend Nursing Pillow it was great when Baby really needed a little extra support for getting into the best position for nursing.

Breastfeeding was very painful for me the first few weeks. Our LO ended up having a bad latch due to tongue and lip ties we had to get lasered (anterior tongue tie had been clipped by Pediatrician in the hospital, she still had a posterior tie that was diagnosed later by a lactation consultant - just something to keep in mind), by the time we had the procedure done the damage was done to my nipples. These nipple shields are one of the things that really helped my nipples heal in between feedings to keep my bra/clothes off of them. I hope you don't have to use them, but something you may want to make a note of in case you have a similar experience. If you do end up having nipple pain, ask your OB (or Google how to make it yourself) for a script for "Newman's Nipple Cream", that stuff helped save our breastfeeding relationship!


Good luck, looks like you're off to a great start!

I'm only 21 and not breastfeeding or even pregnant, and I was going to suggest a daily dose or two of straight vitamin E oil massage for your breasts, because this is what I do and my boobs are very soft. However, something made me double check before I blurted my uneducated answer onto the internet, and I found out that while pure vitamin E oil is good for nipples, it's not good for baby consumption! So load up on the vitamin E oil titty massages before the baby comes!

That being said, I was curious and did some more research and I found a bunch of natural alternatives to lanolin creams, but most contain beeswax. I found one brand, Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter which has some great reviews on Amazon! The main ingredients are mango butter and avocado oil, which are both incredibly nourishing to the skin.

I hope this helps and congratulations on brining a beautiful baby into this world!

YAYS:

Chux pads, hands down, were the best purchase we made. Those saved us so much laundry and so many diapers. The link is hit or miss - one box we got was great and quilted, the second box was not quilted and they fall apart more easily. Which really sucks because we're not going through several a day anymore, so it has time to really fall apart before it gets soiled. Even the shitty ones are incredibly helpful.

A Haakaa breast milk catcher. Best money I've ever spent. I stopped using it every day at 11 months PP. 11 months of daily use.

An electronic nail file. I cut too close once, and decided I don't ever want to do that again. It's quiet, it has a little light on it, two speeds, and a bunch of different nail heads.

Stacking cups. Don't know why we even have other toys. Did you know you can throw them and chase after them and then throw them again, mom? You can put them inside each other! You can put them in the toy basket and then take them out and then put them back in again! You can knock them down when mom & dad foolishly stack them up! You can clack them together! You can bang them against EVERYTHING!!

This inflatable tub. It has a little shoehorn for the crotch so you can use it before baby can totally sit up by themselves. We're still using it because my child is dead set on committing suicide in the bathtub.

Sleeved bibs. Or as we like to call them, eatin' ponchos. We got some "art smock" cheaper ones to alternate with, but the Bumkins one is 👌👌👌 so much better. The art smocks are fabric-y on the body, so they stain.

A ring sling. No link because I actually borrowed from my local babywearing community. But I checked out a ring sling back to back to back. My chonker outgrew the Moby wrap I had (which was super hot and a PITA to get on and off) by 3 months when I finally discovered ring slings. Ring slings are like the cool, breezy older sister.

A yoga ball. We spent hours bouncing our child.

NAYS:

This Graco Swing. Well, any swing, but this is the one we had. Of the several swings at daycare, my baby tolerated one kind...for a few minutes. Obviously this is a my baby thing.

A walker. We got one used from a garage sale before we realized they're not really recommended for babies anymore.

Any chew-toy specific type teether.

I use the spectra s2 and like it so far. Granted, I am also a new first time mom and my baby is only 9.5 weeks old and I haven't gone back to work yet, so I am by no means an expert. What I have been doing so far is working for me at home though so I'll tell you my routine. I pump into the spectra bottles that came with the pump and then immediately transfer that milk into either bottles that go in the refrigerator for my husband or mom or feed her, or into freezer bags for my freezer stash. I have been pumping about once a day since my baby was 2 weeks old. At first I would only get an ounce or two at a time so that was only enough for one bottle or just a supplemental bottle or I could combine the milk from 2 pumping sessions into one bottle. (My baby now typically eats 3-4 ounces at a time from a bottle). Eventually (and pretty quickly) I was able to pump more volume. I typically pump in the morning after her first feed because my supply is highest then. I now get anywhere from 4-8 ounces at this pump session. I typically put 3-4 ounces into a bottle in the fridge and the freeze the rest. I think it's good to have someone give your baby a bottle of expressed milk one every day or two so that they won't have a problem refusing a bottle when you go beck to work. To answer your specific questions above:

1. I don't pump directly into the bottles I feed her with so I can't answer about adaptors. I think either way is fine, but I find it just as easy to pump into the spectra bottles then transfer the milk because you may not pump the exact quantities you would want in the bottles for feeding anyway.
   
   
2. I use the Lansinoh freezer bags. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006XISCNA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1501005092&sr=8-1&keywords=pump+freezer+bags. They come in boxes of 100 and are pretty cheap. I haven't thawed any yet, but so far they are working well and many people recommended that brand to me. I never pumped directly into the bag, just poured in what I wanted to freeze from the spectra bottle.
   
   
3. I use Tomme Tippee bottles and nipples and they seem to work well. They are simple and don't have many parts to wash. I think the most important thing for breastfed babies is that you get the slowest flow nipple size possible to avoid babies developing a preference for a fast flow bottle over the breast. I know Dr. Browns is a popular bottle, but it has a million pieces to wash and put together, so I'd recommend trying something more simple first to see if you baby likes it before going to something complicated with too many pieces. Apparently all those pieces in the Dr. Brown bottles prevent air from getting in and cause less gas, but Ifindnif we burp her well after a bottle she's fine.

The spectra is awesome for travel, however that is the one that needs adapter pieces to use the Medela parts. The bottle the spectra is set to pump into is a wide mouth. The Avent, and Dr Browns bottles will fit straight onto the Medela as it uses standard mouth sizes.

The pumping cones for the medela are the ones that fit most handsfree bra's, and quite frankly most common items will fit the medela. However you can order adapter kits off Amazon for the Spectra to use the Medela phlanges easily.

Flanges should be the size of your areola, and this is something they can help go over with you in the hospital.

I am using The Frremie collection cups with the Spectra. I love them as they go under my clothes, and really easy to clean.

If you want I can take photos of the different set ups that I use if you think that would help.

Totally normal. Some things that could help are nipple gel pads like these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WCirDbMXEKJMF

Just slather on a healthy layer of lanolin and pop them inside your bra. It feels great and some people like to refrigerate these for extra soothing right after a feed. I didn't love that, but they're amazing regardless.

And I haven't tried nipple shells yet, but you could pick up something like these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B8DTGCX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MEirDbTFGVS39

Again, just slip inside your bra and they keep your nipples from touching anything. As a bonus, they'll catch your let-down (which your can save) and also allow for breastmilk to dry on your nipples, which is naturally soothing and hydrating.

With both of these options, your nipples should be able to heal quicker and feel better overall!

Cloth diapers - flour sack towelsfrom amazon as the stuffers - cheap and clean easily. Bamboo liners for the poop. Rubber gloves for swishing it in the toilet for the parts that don't come off with the liners. Lot's of covers that can be used from newborn to 35 lbs. You can use any bum cream if you use the flour sack towels as well FYI because it doesn't ruin them. Also pick up a couple of these laundry bags. Wipes.

Cleaning is easy - "quick wash" with a bit of soap, then a hot long wash for extra soiled diapers.

Baby nest was nice to have but not a necessity. Blankets/towels can help. Also a wrap is nice for the first 6 months but not necessary.

Gripe water for gassy baby, Punkin Butt teething oil

A pump, even hand pump will be handy. Especially in the first few weeks she's regulating her supply.

Zip up sleepers (snaps suck)

Baby Bag (backpack style)

Don't worry about a baby changing table, you can change anywhere. Don't worry about a diaper genie since you're cloth diapering.

Breastfeeding scarf/carseat cover

Older baby (6-12 months will come fast)

- snack containers

- Food holder thing(frozen bananas are awesome for teething)

I like the Spectra S2. It's gentle but efficient. I've also tried a Madela PISA, and it definitely has stronger suction, but it hurt like hell and didn't seem to get as much milk as my spectra did. I feel like the Spectra better imitates the suckling motion of a mouth. Bonus, it's also pretty quiet, it's easy to control suction strength and speed, and it has a night light (for those 2am sessions). I bought mine used, but it's also one of the cheaper options if you buy new.

I’m no lactation consultant but it looks like he just has a little mouth. My son had a great latch, no tongue or lip ties and my nipples cracked just because he was little. Keep doing what you’re doing; although coconut oil may not be enough of a barrier to help your nipple heal. Lanolin is really great or if you’re opposed get some lansinoh soothies or Medela soothing gel pads. The soothing pads after the saline soaks were really effective for me. I also used a nipple shield to give the nipple a break- just make sure to use the right size.

My first recommendation is to check to see if she has a baby registry. New parents need/want LOTS of stuff, and while all gifts are appreciated, having someone help cover the essentials always made us really happy! Some of my favorite gifts were for things we needed like extra bottles, bassinet sheets, and giftcards to Amazon.

Now, to your question - here are some top items we've used with our new baby:

• If she's breastfeeding then nipple balm, nursing pads (I like the Lansinoh disposable ones), cooling pads for your bra for when you're engorged, a Haaka breastmilk pump/saver, and nursing tank tops.
  
• An activity mat
  
• High contrast books and toys to look at
  
• Extra changing pad liners
  
• Dreft stain remover (GREAT for poop stains!)
  
• Burp cloths (you can literally never have too many. We love these from aden + anais.)
  
  
  With the exception of the activity mat, you can really never have too many of the above items!

Even if your wife is planning to breastfeed, have formula on hand just in case. I'd recommend the ready-to-feed (RTF) stuff that comes in the little bottles (like this). That way you don't have to worry about your water source, or washing/sterilizing bottles. You can get individually wrapped nipples for them, too (Amazon link). One of the other commenters said you have to refrigerate the RTF formula, but that's only true once it's been opened.

If your wife *is* planning to breastfeed, i'd recommend a manual breast pump and/or a haaka in case baby has trouble latching and she wants to express milk. They have electric pumps with battery powered options, too, if you want to look into that. (in this case you'd obviously also need bottles and a way to wash/sterilize them).

Obviously diapers and wipes too. Another thing is we do so much freakin laundry, which, in the event of an extended outage, wouldn't really be possible. So more onesies and swaddles than you think you need and burp cloths/rags in case you have a spitty baby.

Some items we Amazon Primed in the first week or two that we didn't know we needed: simethicone gas drops, probiotics, vitamin d drops, velcro swaddle, different size pump flanges, slow flow nipples, saline spray/drops, miracle blanket swaddle, and a partridge in a pear tree.

Newborn babies are hard, and I hope you don't have to deal with a hurricane at the same time! Praying for calm weather in your area!

So far, looking good. My tips or advice:

• Use Sleepyhead, as others mentioned here. Much better data.
  
• Your pressure will likely be adjusted upwards. For reference, my AHI (apnea/hypopnea incidents per hour) is less than 1.0 99% of the time. The goal is generally less than 5.
  
• The mask may occasionally cause skin irritation and/or redness at contact points—perhaps due to friction or skin dryness. With a nasal mask (the Wisp), it was bridge of my nose. With the Airfit P10, it tends to be the inside edges of my nares, and with the Phillips Dreamwear (my favorite mask yet) it is occasionally the outside corners of the nose. When this happens, I have found great success using a small amount of Lanolin ointment before going to bed. You can usually find it in the nursing section of a supermarket, packaged like this. Vaseline may work as well.
  
• Clean your mask, hose, and tank weekly. I use vinegar (to dissolve any hard water deposits), then use a gentle all-natural dish detergent that smells okay.
  
• Use distilled water for your humidifier, and it will substantially extend the life of your tank, hose, and mask.
  
• Don't be afraid to try other masks. I tried several before ending up with the Dreamwear, which has worked wonderfully for me.

Not exactly a traditional manual pump, but I love the Haakaa pump. Might be what you’re already referring to though.

It’s a small suction hand pump. Great for catching letdown on your opposite side, or in the shower/bath when you randomly let down. If I use it twice a day, I extract enough for a bottle feeding. Super easy and has no parts, so cleaning is a breeze!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F8W7CF0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_f5BVAbE103QS0

Congrats on the baby! I’m 3 months out. Here’s what worked for me. Please know that every woman and baby is different though!

For the first 3-4 weeks my baby ate only from the breast. This was to ensure that my body knew to make enough milk. Yes, it meant me waking up sometimes every 30 min - 1 hour for cluster feeds. Yes, it was so fucking tough on my nipples. (If her nipples hurt, I highly recommend these gel pads.). I almost quit multiple times. But as some others have posted, it’s really important in those early weeks to have baby on breast each time baby wants to eat so that your wife’s body knows to make enough milk. My husband helped by bringing the baby to me, handling diaper changes, and making sure that I was eating and drinking enough (this is important!! Her body needs the proper fuel to make milk.). We also had support from his mom who would hold the baby while we got in a nap for an hour or two. Once baby got back up to his birth weight and I felt like we were doing well with breastfeeding (around 3-4 weeks), I pumped about an hour after a feed in the early morning, which is when milk production is at the highest. Just make sure to leave around an hour between pump session and next feed. Then, the next night my husband fed the baby with this milk and I got up and pumped. It sucks, but it’s important for supply issues. Not pumping when baby is fed can lead to decreased supply and also potentially clogged ducts and mastitis from being too full of milk.

With regards to introducing a bottle, we started at 3-4 weeks. Not too early so as to avoid nipple confusion and bottle preference and not too late to avoid bottle refusal. We started with Dr. Brown’s level 1 nipple, but he was leaking milk out of his mouth and got a bit fussy at the breast, so we switched to preemie nipples to reduce the milk flow rate. Here’s a helpful chart on nipple flow rate.. It all depends on the flow rate from your wife too - if she has a strong letdown, slow letdown, etc. Hope the best for you guys!

Oh man, this post is like my jam. I'm currently tandem feeding twins and supplemented at the start. I did not have PCOS, so I did not have that barrier to overcome. Here's what I did:

Bring to hospital: hands free pumping bra, angled flanges, hot packs, lanolin(at first, I liked the medela lanolin better since it spread a lot easier, but now I like the lasinoh lanolin ointment more. I'd buy both, and apply after every feed/pump)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004S8MGGQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085CBA90/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Day 1 - breastfeed baby as often as they want, but at least every 3 hours. This is your time to be working on latching and such. After each feed, you need to hook yourself up to the pump using your fancy new angled flanges(more comfortable, and allow you to recline while pumping - your back will KILL if you are trying to slightly lean forward all the time while pumping) and pumping bra(you do not want to sit int he hospital and be pumping for 10-15 minutes and have to hold the stupid flanges up yourself). As someone who worked NICU, has used both the spectra and the medela symphony, you'll want to go for the symphony at this point. Colostrum is thicker than normal milk - the spectra I don't think would draw the colostrum down as well as it does regular milk, so that is why I'd use the medela until your milk has come in, and for about a week or two after. When you are pumping, you should throw the hot packs towards your boobs and be massaging down towards the nipple.

The reason you are pumping at least every 3 is chances are your kid either has a crappy latch or not a strong suck, and both of those things are not going to stimulate your supply to come in the way you want it to. Not a lot of kids come out into the world and both latch strongly and suck and swallow to adequately and easily drain the boob, and that needs to happen.

For bottle feeding - the hospital we were at gave Similac Supplementation, and we used that until we were off formula. We used it with the hospital Similac slow flow nipple that screwed onto the ready feed bottle, and then used Dr Brown premie nipples at home. So, the shape of the nipple you use for bottle feeding isn't actually that important in my opinion. I'd say the bigger thing would be flow - definitely want slow flow/premie nipple in whatever brand you pick, and then technique. For technique, do not put the baby in your arms cradling them and then point the nipple at the back of their mouth like you are the virgin mary feeding the baby jesus. Instead, put them in an elevated sidelying position, and then angle the nipple sort of towards the top of their head. Basically, you're trying to mimic the boob nipple position with the bottle nipple position, and by having them sidelying you're also mimicking how they breastfeed.

We did 15 mls of formula starting around 24 hours of life after each breastfeeding attempt. This gradually did increase to an ounce. I had enough supply in by day 6 or 7 to stop supplementing with formula after each feed(I still pumped after each feed for breastmilk). I stopped supplementing altogether around a week and a half, but continued pumping so my husband could give a bottle a night while I slept for a couple hours.

Which actually, that's another part of this everyone overlooks. There is this oh poo poo new mothers shouldn't be sleeping and need to be awake every hour to feed/pump/whatever. You should do this for the first couple of days, but honestly, for your sanity, you need to pick a 3-4 hour block of your life to be uninterrupted and unconscious and have someone else feed and care for the baby. If you are in the throws of breastfeed/supplement/pump, you're not getting a lot of sleep, and are going to need a window somewhere to actually sleep. 3-4 hours sounds like nothing now, but when you are consistently getting 20-30 minutes, it's life changing.

On a random note, I saw from comments you want to use the Spectra S2 - I strongly believe in angled flanges, so here's the adapter to go from medela to Spectra so you can continue to use angled flanges.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DGEDVUM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When it comes to formula, I'd keep a couple things in mind. Your baby literally has NO taste experiences in their life(other than amniotic fluid). Therefore, breastmilk and formula will be all they know. Think of it like the kid with food allergies - you taste their allergen free brownie and think it's disgusting but they love it because they don't know any better. We switched formula on kids fairly often in the NICU for various reasons, and typically we had babies be fussy for a feed or two and then settle into the new stuff if they were going to fuss at all over the change. Therefore, I'd use whatever they give you, but have a box of formula at home that is unopened and returnable.

Hubs and I finally had a night out sin baby #2 arrived. After her 4 week growth spurt and a wonder week she has been cluster feeding nonstop.

This is what I pumped in about 10 min after being gone for 5 hours! I was still going strong but didn't feel like changing out bottles for more. (Side note: I am MUCH more comfortable now!)

Shoutout to the [Haakaa manual pump](Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump Milk Pump 100% Food Grade Silicone BPA PVC and Phthalate Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F8W7CF0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rxotybBR6HFTM) (or the boob grenade as I lovingly call it) for making my supply amazing!

• I bring all the items I need to actually pump (tubes, flanges, etc.) of course, then I used to bring the attachable bottles but I found these bags save a lot of time, and now I don't need to bring the bottles. I pump straight in the bag and give it to daycare at the end of the day. I also bring the little bag that came with the Medela Pump In Style. It's black and small and can conceal the milk and pump parts as I walk around the office putting them away, etc.
  
  
• I have the PIS so the bag is built in. I super super love it.
  
  
• The first couple weeks I would wash everything in between and it was a pain in the ass. I then just did the zip loc bag trick. Cut down on a lot of time. I found a little plastic zip-able folder here at work (the kind you can snap into a binder and keep pencils in). I used two of those, one for each boob accessory. I didn't really wash them in between, which might be gross but oh well.
  
  
• At first I pumped three times a day, then when I got busier at work, twice a day around 10:00 and 2:00. I stopped nursing (just pumped) for a week while on antibiotics, then got my period, then kid got sick and now is highly distractable and more interested in food...so my supply has taken a big hit. The past couple of days I have been able to make it BFing her in the a.m. and then after I pick her up from daycare and she gets formula and solids the rest of the time. I believe if I were more diligent and kept pumping, it would be fine, but she is happy, I am happy and we made it six months EBF so I'm pretty proud of that.

My Lansinoh pump has the option to use batteries but I never have. And honestly, I like using a hand pump way more. A friend gave me this one because I was getting engorged a lot and it felt way more efficient and handy to me. I can get 4oz in like 5 minutes when an electric pump would take like 20 minutes.

Lanolin! It's an occlusive like petrolatum, but it also absorbs through the skin. It's chemically very similar to the moisturizing layer our skin naturally produces. It's AMAZING. It gets me through my crazy-dry winter lips every year and got me through a course of accutane this summer.

One caution!: Lanolin comes from sheep (it's a waxy layer on sheep wool that's removed as a part of the woolmaking process) and if you buy unrefined lanolin, it'll kinda smell like farm animals. I think it's subtle enough, but if you're sensitive to smells you can buy refined lanolin, which is marketed to breastfeeding mothers, so you're going to have to deal with a tube that says "chapped nipples" on it.

Amazon links: Unrefined lanolin, refined lanolin


edit-- I just use lanolin at night. It keeps my lips nice and moisturized that they can take a long day of lipstick. When I was on Accutane, or occasionally in the depths of winter, I do lanolin all day and it has a nice gloss.

I was just researching this last night on Reddit (here and SCA) to see if I could find other options before buying the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask that I'd been eyeing a while. The thing is, my lips aren't really chapped or super dry, but I find that they tighten up pretty quickly and I needed something that wasn't just an occlusive moisturizer (which is what my Aquaphor basically amounts to, with SPF 30).

One thing I realized is I've been exfoliating the lips too much. I tend to scrape off the top layer (it comes off easily, it's not dry either but moist) every morning and I think that's caused a vicious cycle of it peeling easily. So this morning I used my thumb to go over my lips and remove leftover balm without scraping the lip itself. This may not be helpful to you in particular but I figured I'd mention it in case anyone with an issue similar to mine checks out this thread too.

More to the point: I decided on trying Lansinoh, which is lanolin (it's actually marketed to breastfeeding mothers for their chapped nipples, but who cares). I got it this morning and it's definitely unlike anything else I've put on my lips and they haven't felt dried out all day. I went for this option because people said lanolin can penetrate deeper for more lasting moisture, rather than just sitting on top like petroleum jelly. It's $7 on Amazon for 3 little tubes (https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Lanolin-Minis-Breastfeeding-Mothers/dp/B00FNZQHJA/) so I think that's worth a shot for anyone who'd want to avoid spending more right away. The Laneige pack is so much more pretty-looking though that I might want to try it anyway…

Kellymom.com is my go-to resource for everything breastfeeding and pumping related. You could try pumping after your baby feeds. My daughter used to eat on one side only and I would pump the other side when she was done. You might not get much, but it would encourage your supply. I also have a Spectra pump and use Medela parts. Just get these adapters from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DGEDVUM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_vBt.zb62EH61A
Just Google search how to determine best flange size. The standard 24mm works for most women I'm pretty sure.

This stuff is amazing - expensive as HELL but really amazing: CV Labs Skin Balm I've also had great luck with the Bite Agave Lip mask, although that is just as expensive and is less versatile in terms of using it on other dry patches. I'm also ordering some of the Lansinoh balm, which I've heard good things about and which is much much cheaper.

I EP'd for two months after trying to EBF for 10 days too! First, EPing isn't the absolute end to your dreams of breastfeeding. You can always go back if you want to try again. I did, it was hard at first. We had to overcome nipple confusion. But to my delight, using Dr Browns wide nipples actually taught my son how to latch properly.

Second, if you don't want to try again, many people have done really well with EPing. My friend successfully EPed twins 100% for a full year. That's truly amazing because I had to supplement with formula one bottle a day and that was with just one kid :)

A couple of resources I found really helpful:

1. Invest in a simple wishes pumping bra
   
2. Get some Pumpin' Pal Super Shields. Amazing.
   
3. I normally loathe this website, but this link was helpful for me

Congrats and good luck! I trained for a half while breastfeeding so AMA. I have three kids who each nursed for 2+ years.

The good news is that neither exercise nor nutrition are likely to affect your supply. (Here's the science behind that.)

Finding time to nurse or pump is more likely to be an issue, if your long runs conflict with feeding times. My kids were always fine for about 3 hours between feedings, once they were a few months old, so timing wasn't an issue even for long-ish runs. When your runs get really long or if there's a lot of travel time before/after your races or long runs, consider bringing a hand pump. I have this $30 one and it was SO nice to know I'd always have a quick and easy way to relieve pressure if I was away from my baby too long.

Sports bras become extra annoying to fit while you're lactating, just because your boobs can be so big and/or change sizes. Get a good sports bra! I normally go with whatever bra is on sale, but in those early post-baby days I spent $50 on a Moving Comfort and it was SO worth it.

If you plan on putting your baby in daycare, you definitely need a double electric. As another mentioned, check your insurance!! But if not, I'd still urge you to buy one like the Spectra s2 which is $159 on Amazon right now. Even though it's a large upfront cost....don't forget that formula will cost you so much more in the long run. So you'd be making an initial large investment to then save way more later. Keep in mind that formula can cost anywhere from $70-$150 a month....depending on what you buy.

Don't listen to your bf. You have plenty of milk! Supplementing with formula is only necessary if you weren't making enough or you don't want to breastfeed.

I agree with getting a haakaa to catch the drips. Make sure to buy from haakaa USA. There are fakes that aren't guaranteed that pass themselves off as haakaa.

Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump Milk Pump 100% Food Grade Silicone BPA PVC and Phthalate Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F8W7CF0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3NaOBbW4JV9T5

One of the knockoffs which was actually a good and trustworthy one was the naturebond but I believe it's been moved likely for copyright.

For a haakaa, you use it either to catch drips after a feed and you're still feeling engorged or during a feed on the non nursing side.

But want to add that it is not a replacement for a double electric. Use a double electric for when your kid is in daycare and gets a bottle. The safe rule of thumb to maintain milk supply is nurse/pump as often as baby eats. For most babies....that's probably 8-12 times in a 24 hr period. you've got a big one so I'd expect your number closer to 10.

To build a stash, you can pump directly after you feed or do 1 additional pump in the morning about an hour after his morning nurse.

Does your bf explain at all why he suddenly wants to formula feed? I bet it's bc it bothers him to see something he sexualizes leaking...but boobs were made to feed babies first before they were ever meant to amuse men....just saying.

SPECTRA SPECTRA SPECTRA! :)

I had the Medela PISA and while it was okay, I bought the Spectra because it comes so highly recommended. I could NOT be happier with my choice. I have better output, it's quieter and I think it hurts less as the Medela sort of has a "tugging" sensation, the Spectra feels more like vibrating. It also has a timer and a nightlight on it. I've been telling anyone who will listen because I love it so much!

Also, if you have a Medela and the accessories already, you can easily use all the Medela parts with the Spectra. Here's the link (http://www.amazon.com/Maymom-Breastshield-Connects-Backflow-Protector/dp/B01DGEDVUM/ref=sr_tnr_p_1_2492161011_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1465222552&sr=8-1&keywords=maymom+spectra+medela+adapter)

The Spectra is also a closed system like the Ameda, so you don't have to worry about any backflow problems! I purchased the Spectra with my own money and it only runs about $130 on amazon. Totally worth the money, in my opinion!! :)

Edit: I should also mention that I tried the Ameda, it's the one I chose from my insurance and I was not a big fan. the suction was too low and I thought the speed was slow as well.

It might be a good idea to make sure your shields are sized correctly. My LC recommended Pumpin Pals ([Amazon link](Pumpin' Pal Breast Pump Flanges for Medela, Hygeia, Lansinoh. Sizes M, L, XL, 25mm to 40mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0085CBA90/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Ca7pybJGYC82N) ), which come in a set of different sizes with the idea that you use the biggest when you're most engorged and the smaller sizes when you're less so. Good luck! And congrats on the great long sleep stretches!

My LC diagnosed a tongue and lip tie which we got taken care of on day 3 of her little life - there was an immediate difference. Up to about 10 seconds of pain while initially latching is considered normal (I would usually cry), but it should not persist beyond the initial latch on. (That eventually stopped though!)


If you don't have them, these were everything in the first two weeks - get two sets and keep them in the fridge!

Gel Pads


I had the LC teach my husband how to help me get baby latched properly because I didn't seem to have enough hands until baby got a hang of nursing and that was super useful. I would usually hold baby in one hand and my boob in the other while husband maneuvered baby's head jnto position and jammed it into my boob as soon as she opened her mouth wide enough. If you can, have LC come to you!

This sounds weird, but the cheapest easiest way to get this stuff is nipple cream for women who are breastfeeding. They use it because it’s awesome for moisturizing but it’s safe if baby accidentally gets some. Lip moisturizer with lanolin will be like three times the cost of nipple cream and it’s the exact same stuff. I recommend this one.

https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Lanolin-Breastfeeding-Soothing-Essentials/dp/B005MI648C/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=nipple+cream&qid=1564173135&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Swaddle Blankets

Burp Cloths


Bottles. I've had a lot of friends that love the playtex drop-ins

If you're going to breastfeed pick some pads for yourself along with some nipple cream. I liked motherlove.

Swing, rock n play or bouncer so that you have a place to set baby down to accomplish dishes/shower.

activity gym/play mat


That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

Lanolish. It's actually marketed as a nipple cream for breastfeeding moms, but it makes a fabulous lip balm. Head over to /r/skincareaddiction to see many raves about it. It's the only thing that can help my lips in dry winter months. They'd be cracking and damn near bleeding before I found this stuff. After a day or so, they were back to soft and feeling great. Make sure you aren't allergic to wool/sheep products, but otherwise try it out.

You can find it in the baby section at most pharmacies, though I personally just order it off amazon. It’s marketed as nipple cream (not sexy but it works like a charm).

I also use it on my lips and it’s wonderful! I layer it over Aquaphor or use it by itself under lipstick.

I ALSO use it on dry spots when needed! Lanolin is my favorite multi purpose product. As with anything, do patch test it since some people do have a Lanolin allergy.

I use these to freeze milk. I've heard of people reusing them, but I don't since I only use about 4-5 a week.

We typically send 10ozs/day to daycare for my 10 month old, which usually gets eaten if we are lucky. 5 of it is stuff from the day before that I pump and 5 is from my freezer stash. When I pump each day, 5 goes to the fridge and 5 goes to the freezer. This way, my baby gets some fresh and some frozen while at daycare.

Good luck!

Unless you're very dehydrated (and hardly anybody is), just drinking water probably won't do much. Try using a gentle lip scrub in the shower, and then a really thick layer of some kind of balm. I flip between Cerave's healing ointment in a big tube, and plain [lanolin nipple cream] (https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Breastfeeding-Salve-Lanolin-1-41/dp/B005MI648C/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1485505327&sr=8-3&keywords=nipple+cream), which has a cult following as a lip balm for a reason - it's cheap and very good for chronic chapped lips. And changing your toothpaste to a super gentle one might help too - the sodium lauryl sulfate in some toothpastes could be irritating your lips.

One thing though: no matter what you do, the problem isn't going to go away immediately. When my lips would get like this, it takes at least a week or two of constantly applying lanolin (and a thick layer at night) and a gentle scrub to make them feeling good again. The skin needs time to heal. And if you're ever outside, I'd recommend Aquaphor's lip treatment with SPF - even minor sun damage can make it harder for the skin to heal itself.

I assembled this cart for our living room, and I thought y'all would appreciate it. We also considered naming it the T&A cart, but "boob & butt" won out.

• Cart: 3-tier rolling cart from Target. I went with this instead of the ever-popular Raskog from IKEA because our local IKEA didn't have the colors we wanted in stock.
  
• Butt: diapers, wipes, IKEA hedgehog toy for diaper time entertainment, Pueen pump dispenser (yasss, Pueen) and CVS premium cotton squares for water-only cleanups, dog poop bags and dispenser for poopy diapers, tube of Vaseline as meconium shield and Boudreaux's butt paste
  
• Boobs: rolled receiving blankets to use as burp cloths, Bebe Au Lait nursing cover for when we got company, Lanisoh lanolin for da nips, Lanisoh disposable nursing pads, Bamboobies washable nursing pads, Lanisoh soothies gel pads, Avent comfort breast shells, bottled water, and Graze snacks in the back. When baby arrives I'll store my Kindle here, too.
  
  The bottom shelf just has extra diapers, wipes, and nursing pads.

So, what I have done is pump one side and nurse the other. That way I'm not stuck in the chair all day long. I usually do it once or twice in the early morning (thats when your milk is usually most plentiful, from 4am on) and it is enough for one solid feed at night.

I also have a fast let down and pumping for just one or two moments on that side can help with the squirt to the back of the throat. A haaka is a nice affordable option for this as it doesn't require lot of cords and tubes.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CWK4S5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_wJlPDbQZ0BJNJ

I know it's exhausting. I also know you are a great mom for giving it your best.

She must pump, its' no more complex than that. It's a must.

So my wife had one of these. http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Pump-Style-Advanced-Breast/dp/B004HWXCJS/?tag=15615-20 Yes . . . it's expensive, but truly worth it. With a cigarette lighter attachment, it's a beautiful thing.

Along with it she had nursing bra's that zipped.

She'd latch on the pump then zip the bra to hold the pump in place, then would be completely hands-free for :20

And if by "busy" you mean "has a job", then I would hope that she would be able to sit in a bathroom or unused office somewhere for :20 and pump while reading things relevant to work on her phone or tablet.

Pumping 4x a day will absolutely keep here supply and size up. But it will only last a few months before supply starts to fall off and no amount of pumping will bring it back. within a year/year and a half, she'll be all deflated and empty anyway.

I've heard BITE's Agave lip mask is amazing. If you have money to drop for it (they also have a mini gift set with their lip exfoliator), then I would try it out. I don't have money to shell out for it, so keep this in mind:

Lanolin is the mask's active ingredient (it's listed first). It's the same thing used in nipple creams for breastfeeding mothers. I'd suggest purchasing Lansinoh and see where it goes from there. Plus, you can use it on cracked knees and elbows!

If you want to splurge on a yummy lip mask that you can't resist licking off your lips, then buy the BITE product. :)

If you're looking for a cheaper Lanolin alternative someone mentioned to me Nipple cream. Its super cheap and you can get A LOT of it. I personally love any products that have lanolin in it. Bite's lip balm and lip mask are my favs.

I ended up buying these for when I want something simple and effective. Would highly recommend.

Hooray, congrats!

It can be super painful at first! 4-6 weeks was about when I finally experienced that breakthrough moment with my oldest, and I'm so not looking forward to doing it all over again!

A nurse in my Mother's Group suggested hyrdogel pads to help your nips feel better in between feedings- they really, really helped me:

https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Soothies-Breastfeeding-Mothers-Count/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=pd_lpo_75_lp_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=859ZFQ7CNM1V4WRRYJR8

Everything I'm recommending can be bought on Amazon fairly cheaply:

1st Cleanser (PM only to get rid of sunscreen or makeup): The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Rich Oil Dry Skin

2nd Cleanser: Cerave hydrating Cleanser

Hydrating Toner: [Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner] (https://www.amazon.com/Preparation-Alcohol-Paraben-Cruelty-Eco-friendly/dp/B00PGOFYG0) or
Hada Labo Rohto Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist

Medium Moisturizer: Cerve PM Moisturizing Lotion

Heavy Moisturizer: Benton Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream

Sleeping Pack: Cosrx Ultimate Rice Overnight Mask

Sheet Mask: Benton Snail Bee High Content Sheet Mask, illi masks, MBD masks (these might be out of your price range as they are between $1-3 per use).

Sunscreen: [Biore Kids Sunscreen] (https://www.amazon.com/Japan-Health-Personal-Care-carefree/dp/B019IDQ57G)

Lips: Lanolin

Makeup
BB: Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream #13 (RP), Mizon Snail Repair Blemish Balm
Cushion: Innisfree
Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

Nursing pillow (I use the boppy), milk storage solutions... Look into Kiinde Twist. You can pump from the Medela pump directly into the twist bags. My coworker gifted me the nice gift set and I'm pretty stoked to use it. Also these flanges, everyone tells me I have to get them, so I resisted for them. I also registered for the $30 medela hand pump because it saved my sanity with engorgement with my first one (hand pump + hot shower = relief).

This one. i like that it's a closed double pump and actually it's one of the highest rated on Amazon. It doesnt come with a carrying bag but that doesn't matter to me. If Tricare will only cover a few select ones though, like other insurers, I'd pick whichever one is free. :)

The Spectra is better imo. The good news is that you can buy an adapter from Amazon that will allow you to use Medela parts with your Spectra. I didn't do this last time, but have purchased them for use with these babies.

Regarding the bottles - I was super concerned before baby about pumping into the bottles that baby used, but it ended up being easier for me to pump into the bottles that came with my pump and then transfer the milk into bags/bottles baby used. At least for me, I didn't ever pump the exact same amount, so there was always lots of adding/subtracting milk from each bottle before I could feed baby with it. I DID use the Medela bottles at first with Dr. Brown's preemie nipples, and using the adapters I linked to above, I can pump directly into these with my Spectra this time around.

It is so hard at the beginning! My first never latched well and we ended up exclusively pumping and eventually switching to formula at 10 weeks. We had to do what we could to save our sanity.

My second ended up having a tongue and lip tie. It was so painful that first week before they were discovered! As soon as we got them both revised, things got easier. She was still constantly eating the first month, but I was able to keep my soreness to a minimum with lanolin and Medela soft shells for sore nipples. I highly recommend those soft shells! Also Ameda hydrogels provided great relief the first week when we were battling the tongue and lip tie. They last for several days.

Here's links to both but they also sell them at like Babies R Us type stores if you want to run out and get some immediately:

Ameda ComfortGel Hydrogel Pads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IP2L38/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Am1LybZ3NTJGR

Medela SoftShells for Sore Nipples https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LSP1PE6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Gn1Lyb42HY72B

Thanks for the advice!! And for the Silicone Breast Pump!! link for the u.s.

I actually had no idea that this was even a thing until my mom had mentioned something to me the other day. She told me I would have to put a towel or something over my other breast while the baby was eating. I had NO IDEA!! So, this thing is going on my registry.

Also, she's SUPER ADORABLE!! I love those eyes!!

The pains definitely ease up. Use all the lanolin you can get for those cracked nipples! (Or, I really like earth mama natural nipple butter) And it will take a few weeks for your supply to figure itself out, but eventually you will start to worry why your boobs aren't hard any more and if it means your supply is dipping (it's normal and no, your boobs are just figuring out how much to produce and at what time). Warm compresses on your boobs help.

I recommend getting a haakaa milk catcher or similar type of non-pump device to catch those flood gates of milk and save it! You don't really want to pump a lot right now because that will just increase your supply more and more.

This stuff is the shit. It doesn't smell and isn't sticky like regular lanolin, and it's definitely safe for lips. I use this when nothing else is working or to help heal up the end of a cold sore. It's the best.

I recommend [Dr. Dan's Cortibalm] (https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Dans-Cortibalm-Balm-Count/dp/B00DME6W76/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520993027&sr=8-4&keywords=dr+dans+cortibalm), it should help with the swelling. On top of that put lanolin - I use this [one]
(https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Breastfeeding-Moisturizer-Preservative-Hypoallergenic/dp/B005MI648C/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520992749&sr=8-6&keywords=lanolin). The [Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask] (https://www.amazon.com/LANEIGE-SLEEPING-Berry-Sleeping-Treatment/dp/B018AYHZX2/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_194_bs_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=6CE1FFJBSM6B0QN5JPNK) is also great. I've been using all of those products and my lips are looking better than they did before accutane. Also, I get buying three things isn't realistic for some folks, so I would suggest getting the Dr. Dan's and putting vaseline over it.

Good idea, definitely look into getting a pump. Personally, I just fed on demand and only pumped maybe a 2 dozen or so times in the 2 years that I nursed my son but this [Madela Hand Pump] (https://www.amazon.com/Medela-Harmony-Manual-Breast-Pump/dp/B0006HBS1M/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1487015148&sr=1-1&keywords=medela+hand+pump) is awesome. I also had an electric pump but just found the hand pump to be way more convenient.

Is it really that good? I've heard good things about it, but have been hesitant to actually trying it :s My lips are definitely dry, but they aren't red and inflamed like some of the extreme cases I've seen people on Accutane go through. I'm a mess without Aquaphor on me all the time, but it always feels good when I re-apply it about every hour and a half. However, I feel like it's just sitting on my lips, as oppose to actually doing something. Also, is this the lanolin you're talking about?

Try to keep your nipples clean and dry, and use a really good lotion like Earth Mama Angel Baby nipple butter. That stuff is awesome.

Don't worry about the pooing. Her system is just getting revved up. Having foremilk/hindmilk imbalance is relatively unusual. Just keep offering each breast for as long as she wants it; she's communicating to your body what she needs, and your body will likely respond.

Those early days of breastfeeding, I was convinced I had every problem ever, all usually within the same feeding - she's overeating, she's not getting enough, it's a foremilk imbalance, etc.

If your wife is planning to nurse, she needs lanolin cream for her nipples, and also either nipple shells like [these] (http://www.amazon.com/Medela-SoftShells-Breast-Inverted-Nipples/dp/B001XDKTXQ/ref=br_it_dp_o_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2ASXZDZYVCW83&coliid=IQ61JE9TGHYQY) to help protect her chapped nipples from her clothing, or gel pads like [these] (http://www.amazon.com/Soothies-Gel-Pads-2-Count/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=sr_1_2?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1371531566&sr=1-2&keywords=nipple+soothers) or, preferably, both. Those poor boobies get really, really sore in the first few days.

Plus, as someone else said, either nursing tank tops or simple nursing bras. Don't get specific size nursing bras (like 36C) yet because you have no idea what size they will be once her milk comes in, just just find one or two that are "medium" or "large." She'll have to go out and get the right size in a week or two when everything is established.

A nursing pillow, like a boppy, is also handy, but definitely not required. It helps with positioning and arm support during marathon nursing sessions.

Not nursing related, but one of those inflatable butt donuts can feel pretty good on tattered and torn lady bits. So can pain relief spray and witch hazel. And a squirt bottle to use instead of wiping - my hospital provided that. And colace (stool softener).

Second lansinoh soothies that your store in the fridge, and taking any postpartum medicine you might have been prescribed!

You can also pump just a TINY bit to relieve some pressure (if you pump too much, your boobs will be like “OH HEY YOU WANT ME TO KEEP PRODUCING THIS MUCH, YEAH?”

AND ALSO: demand of your support network time and space to take relieving showers. You are 100% not required to fully care for a toddler and a newborn at 3 days postpartum!!!!!!

The Spectra is so much better. Spectra Baby USA Double/Single Breast Pump with Rechargeable Battery, 3.3 Pound

The S2 is cheaper because it doesn't have the built in battery, but it's great to be able to brush your hair and then go pack lunches all while pumping. You can also easily rig Medela parts to it if you want. They do make nice flanges and are more readily available.

If you want to save the milk a Hakaa pump is well worth the $20 investment. It's how I built up a pretty decent freezer stash with almost zero effort.

Edit to add that I also have a manual pump I occasionally use, but all the parts are annoying to clean so the Hakaa is something I'm still using almost daily three months out.

Also, my LO did the same thing and my midwife assured me not to worry, and it is getting better as she gets older. I definitely notice if I have more engorgement than normal and I don't pre-drain a bit, she becomes the exorcist with all the puking she does everywhere.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B01F8W7CF0/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1521749696&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=hakaa+breast+pump&dpPl=1&dpID=41G9iDjQW6L&ref=plSrch

http://www.amazon.com/Pumpin-Pal-Super-Shields-Complete/dp/B0085CBA90 <--- you may find those are more comfortable. They are tilted flanges that allow you to sit in a more comfortable position and still get great milk flow.

I was a 32 G pre-pregnancy and gargantuan by the end. I used a boppy nursing pillow and loved it, but I am sure other brands are great, too, just something! It does feel like you have about 12 less hands than you need in the beginning, but you will figure it out. Babies make a lot of noise while they breastfeed. You will be able to hear her breathing and swallowing so it would be obvious if she could not breathe. I don't recall ever have any smothering problems. Really early on, since she was so tiny I had to tuck her body under the boob that she was not feeding on so that she could get close enough to eat. We breastfed for 16 months. The first month was hard. We had latching issues and I had bloody nipples, but we eventually got there. I don't think the latching had anything to do with my breast size. I would also recommend lanolin cream and these soothie gels. Put them in the fridge they are amazing.

Get yourself some hydrogel breast discs. Continue to apply lanolin like there is no tomorrow but also the breast discs on top. They really speed up healing and feel AMAZING (particularly if you put them in the fridge first). Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Ameda-17261M-ComfortGel-Hydrogel-Pads/dp/B003IP2L38/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511837404&sr=8-5&keywords=hydrogel

My lips are my biggest issue—they're in a neverending peeling cycle. I have really dry skin in general and I can't really breathe through my nose, and I think all the mouthbreathing exacerbates things. I don't get cracking or the red circle around the lips that kids get, but just constant peeling peeling peeling.

I use lanolin. It's the sheep equivalent of sebum, which doesn't sound great, but it's similar to the oils produced by human skin. I use Lansinoh, which is intended for nipples that are chapped from breastfeeding. (Don't buy pure raw lanolin, it will smell like sheep.) I recently found it in these minis, which I really like since they're a normal chapstick size. They helpfully say "SOOTHES & PROTECTS SORE, CHAPPED NIPPLES"... I try not to leave them out when my students are around.

It works best when I use it as a routine several times a day instead of as needed. I always fall back into trying to apply lip products only as needed, which completely does not work for me. I would never wait until I had a problem to apply any other moisturizer, so why do I do it with lip moisturizers? Who knows.

I do the wash cloth exfoliation thing, which maybe helps, but is not nearly enough for me. Does anyone do any intentional chemical exfoliation on their lips? Are there products for that?

I've never really found a solution for my peeling lips and have mostly just learned to live with it. :\

I'm going to try switching to an SLS free toothpaste. I've used them before and didn't notice it helping my lips, but I wasn't looking out for it so who knows.

For SPF I've been using Banana Boat SPF 45 Lip Balm. It's fine.

For cold sores I take 2g of Valtrex (an antiviral used for herpes) when I feel a tingle, and then 2g 12 hours later. If I take it in time it can normally completely prevent an outbreak. I also use Abreva, but only on the sore itself at the very early stages since it works by protecting cells from becoming infected. I don't think there's any point in using it once it erupts, though I'll keep using it on my other lip if it's touching.

Good! You should be able to pump less and less as the weeks go by. As someone pointed out, now's a great time to introduce a bottle anyway.

Another thing to look into is a haakaa. I have not personally used it, but it is popular and might save you a little time or effort.

Check if you or your SO gets a discount through work. I was surprised to find both my work and my husbands had signed up for parent hood support groups. I got my Medela Pump in style at half price and I like it. Medela Pump in Style Advanced Breast Pump with On the Go Tote However, you should not lend or sell your pump. It would be like sharing used underwear and it is advised against for health reasons.

Hydration is key- but you may also need an occlusive/moisturizer to help get them better. I use a lanolin based lip balm but anything with lanolin (try a nipple balm for breastfeeding moms ) or petroleum jelly will help.

I bought the Freemie's (Freemie Collection Cups The Only Hands Free and Concealable Breast Pump Milk Collection System, Clear, 25/28 mm Funnels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UV6JDN8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1E-Eyb8Z7YA2B) when I went back to work (and a 9 volt car adapter for my pump) and they work sooo much better than my pumping bra. They don't stick out so I don't knock them while driving. I like to put it all together once I'm in the car and have my seat belt in, so I can get into a comfortable position. I don't see it being a problem with shifting, as long as you have the tubing out of the way before driving. I also got extra long tubing so I could maneuver it behind my shoulder to keep it in place.

Thats fantastic! And definitely check out what your insurance says about lactation support - I picked up my 100% insurance-covered Medela PIS (double electric pump) the day after getting discharged from the hospital. No reason for you to have to suffer through pumping sessions.

Also, if you're going to be pumping a lot, look into Pumpin Pals. They are amazing and saved me a ton of nipple pain from pumping back at work.

Keep at it, you're gonna do great!

wow those clip right to the pumping funnel? Thats awesome. Once I run out of my lanisho bags I'm going to switch. Thats two less bottles I have to wash/steam after every use! Thanks *edit: after reading reviews I'll just stick with the lansinoh ones and keeping washing bottles.

I have one, but as a FTM without my kid here yet, I pretty much know jack shit. However, after searching for the S2 on Amazon, I found that customers also bought this and other various things to make life easier or that can work with Medela bottles/parts/etc like these flange adapters. The top customer review had some info about how they used medela bottles with pumpin pal flanges and didn't have to "hack" anything or cut tubing. Have a look around. I am getting a better grasp on everything by doing this.

First make sure you look into your insurance. Many insurance companies now are required to supply you with a breast pump. I used the Ameda Purley Yours with both my kids and I loved it. It worked very well, and I have nothing bad to say about it. I didn't use the pump regularly though, so sometimes it depends on how much you are expecting to pump. Generally the two popular pumps are the Ameda Purely Yours and the Medela Pump in Style.

They're on Groupon often, believe it or not! Also I heard a lot about this single suction manual pump after it was too late to use with my son. I definitely plan to check it out with the next baby. And finally, it's nice to have a single manual pump too (not electric) - good for car rides, when you need to pump only one side a little, etc. Oh and one more thing - hands-free pumping bra. I liked the simple wishes one.

Not going to lie, it can hurt! I ended up using nipple shields for the entire time I breastfed (22 months) and I super recommend having some in the house - they make it so much more bearable! Getting your supply started with just the pump will take a lot of effort so if you can manage to feed direct it is honestly easier.
These are the nipple shields I used and I also used these gel pads for the first week, so soothing! Do what you’re comfortable with though, don’t feel pressured, just do what works.

I was unable to breastfeed my first, but when she was going through some medical issues we had a friend volunteer to pump for us. The milk were in these bags, and we either put them in a bowl in the fridge to thaw, or ran them under warm water for a minute or so. it was really quick and easy

Buy a haaka silicone pump. It quickly solved my engorgement/oversupply issue. My friend basically demanded that I buy one when I told her of my engorgement and I'm so glad.

The electric pump (while offering sweet relief) simulates a baby suckling, which causes your body to produce milk for that "baby." The haaka takes extra milk without stimulating extra supply. It's more like one giant prolonged slurp with a straw.

Check it out! Please don't keep suffering
https://www.amazon.com/Haakaa-Silicone-Breastfeeding-Manual-Phthalate/dp/B01F8W7CF0

I really hope it helps. I used [these] (http://www.amazon.com/Philips-AVENT-Thermal-Pads-2-Pack/dp/B00643FRUA) too. Not this specific brand but the same kind of thing. It helped a lot. The pain did get better around month 3. Hope it helps and doesn't get too bad.

First of all, it's not too late. Basically, you need to remove milk from your breasts either by pumping or nursing at least 8 times or more in a 24 hour period to maintain full milk supply. If your health insurance doesn't cover a pump (almost all do - you can check by calling the customer service line on your insurance card) then you can at least get a cheap manual pump like the Medela Harmony and still maintain milk supply. The only downside to a manual pump is that you can only pump one side at a time. I personally never responded to an electric pump, and exclusively used a manual pump at work through the first year. You can even use hand expression to maintain milk supply without a pump - and for many women it's can be even more effective than a pump! When you do get your hands on a manual or electric pump, try using the hands on pumping technique to help your output. If you're on Facebook, as to join this group BRAS Brestfeeding Support Group

You can find the Aritaum lip mask on Amazon.

If you want something cheaper, I really like pure lanolin - it's really sticky and thick, but it works wonders. Something like this is super affordable.

Wow. That is awful!

Did you get a hand pump as a back up after that? It’s a good back up for folks that can’t afford a full second pump.

I’ve heard good things about the Haakaa and put it on my registry.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01F8W7CF0/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1527714056&sr=8-2&keywords=haakaa+breastpump&dpPl=1&dpID=51y0lBYeyEL&ref=plSrch

Eco Friendly, Baby Edition! More suggestions are welcome!

I'm due this winter (being induced in December), and these cloth diapers would be really green and really helpful! My mom used cloth diapers with us, and though they're a little more work, they don't put THAT much extra laundry into the wash cycle, and they save on ALL that waste that's created by baby diapers! Crazy! We do not intend to do cloth 100% of the time, but they'll be nice when baby has already had a poo that day, and we expect no more poo, so they'll be there for pee only. (How predictable is a poo cycle on a baby? We'll figure it out!)

We also want to make most of our own baby food, from local produce from a farmer's market, which cuts down on gas used to bring us our food and all the glass bottles used to store food. Here is a plastic set of little food containers.

I'm also breast feeding, so here are some breast milk storage bags. THAT'S SUPER GREEN, and cheap, because I'm not using all that awful formula.

I have a Spectra S1 and love it. It's very quiet, fast, and the parts are very easy to clean.

FWIW, I ordered the Spectra S2 from this amazon listing and they accidentally(?) sent me a S1. Just saying...

Also maybe look into trying the Haakaa. It’s a pump you use on the opposite breast while the baby is nursing. It just suctions on and does the work for you. It’s very easy to use and only costs about $15. Just another tool to help keep your breasts as empty as possible. Good luck!

Edit: here’s the link

Haakaa Manual Breast Pump 4oz/100ml,2019 New Style https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CWK4S5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CEIrDbDCREG7N

My friend and I found these to be the bags we liked the best. Double zipper, so they don't leak. BPA free.
http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Breastmilk-Storage-Bags-Count/dp/B006XISCNA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409958104&sr=8-1&keywords=breast+milk+storage+bags

I would pump into the bottle provided with the breast pump (Medela), and then pour the milk into one of these bags. I'd then freeze it flat. To thaw, I'd heat up a bowl of water for a minute or so on high, then defrost the bag in that.

If you are on the go. This is what I recommend!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004HWXCJS/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_1?qid=1370534482&sr=8-1-spell&pi=SL75

It is what I have. Everything is conveniently in a bag.
Clean up is easy.

Cooler bag to store milk so it doesn't spoil. Etc.

I use this when I'm at school.


Though I wish I heard about this one.

http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/products/463/freestyle-breastpump

It doesn't need an outlet

I got a Medela In Style from insurance (Thanks, Obama) and ended up buying a Spectra S2 from Amazon (hospital grade and insurance wouldn't cover).

I like both, but the s2 is lighter, quieter and more comfortable to use. Glad I have both (Medela can be portable for work) but if I had to have one - would buy the Spectra, it's not as much money as I had expected.

I know it sounds crazy, but nipple cream. Yes- cream for chafed nipples which happens when breastfeeding (apparently?! And sounds no bueno). It’s lanolin has a vaseline consistency, and comes in a purple tube. Holy grail for super dry and chapped lips:
Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream, 100% Natural Lanolin Cream for Breastfeeding, 1.41 oz Tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005MI648C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sxLvCbVHBEY2Z

If you want to try pumping more, I would highly recommend this silicone pump thingy. You can put it on your other boob while baby is nursing and get a couple ounces. I had the same problem with trying to pump while taking care of a clingy baby. It's impossible!

My husband and I had a similar problem where he always felt like he wasn't doing enough and it was honestly exhausting feeling like I had constantly reassure him

https://www.amazon.com/Haakaa-Silicone-Breastfeeding-Manual-Phthalate/dp/B01F8W7CF0

I use the Lansinoh, or Target version of the Lansinoh, because they freeze flat for storage. I dont have a chest freezer, but what I use in my regular freezer is throwaway aluminum food trays, They work well to keep the bags organized. I recommend using the shelf in the freezer to lay the bags to freeze, if the shelf is wire like, you may want to put something smooth and flat down to lay the bags on. When I froze the bags right on the wire shelf, it was hard to stack the bags side by side because the bags became wavy from the shelf.

I got the Medela pump through my insurance and it works (it is pretty loud) but it is nice being able to get parts if needed at almost any store! I wanted the Spectra but my insurance didn't provide that option.

Many people use a haakaa on the side they are not feeding on to catch the letdown! I prefer the milkies milk saver since it goes right in your bra/tank top and you don't have to worry about baby kicking it off!

Get a nipple cream. I use the Lansinoh brand and have found it to help with the itchiness perfectly. It's thicker than lotion and stays on much longer. It's more like Aquaphor.

I had a C-section. Here's my list of musts:

Nipple Cream: https://www.amazon.com/Motherlove-Certified-Organic-Cracked-Nursing/dp/B0007CQ726/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1524170982&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=nipplecreams+for+breastfeeding&psc=1

Nursing Pads: https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Ultimate-Protection-Nighttime-Discretion/dp/B0179BQBP0/ref=sr_1_8_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1524171034&sr=8-8&keywords=nursing+pads

Huge drinking cup so you don't have to get up so often: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DGMBG5Q/ref=dp_prsubs_3

Nursing Bras: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075DBJ53P/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Extra Long phone charging cords: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074296YH3/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Burp Cloths (which are useful for a million things, I bought 3 of the 10-packs and am so glad I did):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VBYVVA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And my MIL got me this housecoat type thing made of sweatshirt material that was longer than knee length, zipped up, and had 2 massive pockets. I lived in the thing for like a month because I couldn't stand pants after my C-section. Plus it was warm and the pockets were really handy for carrying things (phone, water bottle, burp cloths, etc) while I was holding the baby.

Breast milk and letting them get lots of air! When you can't just hang out topless, just a tiny bit of coconut oil feels really great. Also these things. You can put them in the fridge and they feel SO good. But don't use them with milk or oil, just a little bit of water if you don't want to use them dry since they can be kind of sticky.

If you're using Amazon don't forget to use http://uk.camelcamelcamel.com to check the price increase/decrease history. For example I decided to pull the trigger and buy my Spectra S2 in November when the price dropped, as the history showed it probably wouldn't get any lower - http://uk.camelcamelcamel.com/Spectra-Hospital-Double-Electric-Breast/product/B00BLBLR1I?context=browse

Edited to add: we hit Ikea today and their baby stuff is surprisingly good. Their muslin cloths are better than the ones from Mamas and Papas and their baby towels are also really thick and soft. I'll probably pick up a few of their sleeping bags instead of GroBags too.

I have to call my insurance to see what the free option is. (I'm definitely going with the free option.) I think it's a Medela. And then I was planning on ordering the Freemie collection cups https://www.amazon.com/Freemie-Collection-Cups-Concealable-Funnels/dp/B00UV6JDN8.

Not AB, but I swear by nipple cream.

Yes nipple cream. It's mostly lanolin and it is very moisturizing. I use it as a lip mask and my lips are chap free for the rest of the day.

Regarding breastfeeding... I never had any problem with my incision while feeding them - it's really low (close to your bikini line), so it's hard to irritate it while feeding them.

My nipples are definitely sore at times, particularly during the first two weeks or if the girls want to eat more frequently (i.e. cluster feeding). I find that using Lanolin after each feeding helps a lot. After the first few weeks, my nipples definitely started to get used to the feedings, so, most of the time, I’m not that sore.

The first two weeks were the most difficult for me. My hormones were raging, I was still recovering from the surgery, and the girls and I were still learning how to breastfeed. There were times when I felt like all I was doing was feeding them... After two weeks, I decided to start using the pump a little, so that we could give them bottles if my breasts were really sore or if I just wanted a break from breastfeeding. At first I felt guilty about it, but I am so happy I made that decision. For me, the breaks were definitely needed… plus, my husband gets to bond with the girls while he feeds them.

Tandem feeding has also helped A LOT! I use the My Brest Friend Twins Plus Deluxe Nursing Pillow and I would highly recommend it! It takes a little while to figure out how to use it when you’re by yourself, but it cuts feeding time in half!!

A few suggestions.

1. Cold gel pads like these inside a sports bra to limit movement/stimulation.
   
   
2. Ibuprofen for pain.
   
   
3. Peppermint! Really. Strong real peppermint. My doctor recommended buying a few tins of Altoid curiously strong peppermints and just keep sucking on one throughout the day. Peppermint is known to dry up milk, tea isn’t really strong enough.
   
   ETA:
   
   
4. Vitamin B6 at 200mg for 5 days only then back to daily recommended dose of 100mg if needed.
   
   I’ve heard Sudafed and Benadryl help but I didn’t use them myself.

I survive breastfeeding the first couple months with the help of this.

Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter, 2-Ounce Jar https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JVCBBG/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_chHPub0ASWG0M

Without it, I think I would have quit trying from first couple of days.

This too shall pass! Be strong mama.

I got one of these and am super excited to use it. Like OP, I'm also 5 days PP and am starting to have some serious spray issues. Going to try this guy out tonight and see how it goes!

I also recommend trying to bring baby and husband with you to the wedding for reasons mentioned by other posters.


If you would feel more comfortable with baby at home, I’d recommend getting the haakaa to build up a little supply for when you are gone. You suction it to the opposing breast when breastfeeding and it collects leakage/let down. I wish I had it in the beginning days when I was leaking everywhere. This way you don’t have to worry about pumping!

I don't use Aquaphor, but I do use Vaseline (from what I understand, they are pretty much the same) and at night I'll put Lanolin on my lips, as per a recommendation from this sub. I just use Lansinoh Lanolin (it's a nipple cream for breastfeeding mothers). You can find it here -> http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Lanolin-Breastfeeding-Mothers-Grams/dp/B005MI648C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404659636&sr=8-1&keywords=Lansinoh


As a recovering lip balm addict, it seems to really help. I don't find it necessary to be constantly applying lip balm.

I find the same thing with coconut oil. It makes everything seem dryer, and it doesn't absorb very well.

There are these, although the reviews don't seem that stellar.

I have a Hygeia, not a Medela. But my process is, pump into bottles, transfer to bag and send bags to daycare with one bottle. Our daycare provider then pours the milk into the bottle herself, so there's less dishes for us that way. I believe some daycares require you to send individual bottles though, so that may not work for you. Either way, I only use the one set of bottles to pump into, refrigerate them with the bags of milk in between pumpings and then just wash them once at night at home (usually in the dishwasher, less hand washing that way).

You could just pump into bottles and cap them to send to daycare, you don't necessarily need a huge stash. My IBCLC actually recommended that I not start pumping until a week before I went back to work. It depends on your supply and how you react to the pump, but the average woman pumps a perfect amount in one day to send to daycare the next day. Then you only really need a stash for emergencies.

Just some options to think about!

My son thought it was hilarious to bite me and get a reaction. I️ would gently press his face into my breast like I️ read about, but that did not help. I️ then just took him off the breast and stopped the session for a few minutes, that seemed to make a better point. I️ used Motherlove nipple salve and it helped but I️ remember one time I️ actually had to avoid nursing on one side for a day (hand pumped when needed, pink milk was interesting). Good luck!

Motherlove Nipple Cream Certified Organic Salve for Sore Cracked Nursing Nipples, 1 Oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007CQ726/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_PFhbAbPJS8TFP

I'm pre-op, but lanolin cream/ointment and nipple gels are great for chafing and stinging pain (not at the same time). I plan on getting several pairs of gels; they're amazing right out of the refrigerator.

Few things I brought second trip that I didn’t think of first time (I’ve had two NICU babies):

Comfortable clothing. Post delivery the pre pregnancy stuff won’t be comfortable nor will the maternity stuff. For summer, I’d do soft cotton dresses, maxi skirt etc for the weeks after delivery. I couldn’t stand stuff touching my incision.
For immediate post op, comfy pajamas. Something you won’t be embarrassed to wear from your room to NICU (I didn’t want to wear hospital gown).

I’d get some soothie pads for your nipples. Your breasts will be super sore and the NICU will want you to pump every 3 hours. Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads for Breastfeeding, 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LSpWCbF9CESBE

Breast feeding bra or tanks of your choice. You probably won’t want anything with an underwire.

Long phone charger (10 feet) bc plug locations aren’t convenient.

Insulated water bottle. You’ll need to drink massive amounts of water post delivery while pumping / breast feeding.

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding, 1.41 Ounce Full Size Tube, Soothing Lanolin Balm, Safe for Nursing Moms, Nursing Essentials https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005MI648C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bnkQDb5DRVTXK

Made for breastfeeding folks! Works better than lip balm, Vaseline, and aquaphor

Have you tried using a haakaa? It suctions onto your breast and gathers milk from your let down. So when you breastfeed, you put it on the side the baby isn’t currently using. It’s a really good way to stockpile some bottle feeds, without risking creating and oversupply.

I could usually get an ounce or so per feed. You can combine several sessions to get enough for a bottle, then freeze. Just make sure that the milk is the same temp when combining. So if you already have a container of milk in the fridge, let the new milk cool before adding it to the container. You can leave in the fridge for several days before you need to freeze.

https://www.amazon.com/Haakaa-Breast-Manual-Silicone-Breastfeeding/dp/B07CWK4S5W/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=breast+pump&qid=1569093074&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyT01OQTkzREZXUTgwJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzk4MjAyM1RFNFMyMzlEOE9IRyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTYwMjE2NTRUM0s0WElFTTAyJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfcGhvbmVfc2VhcmNoX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

I like the duckbill ones a lot better because they are easier to get off. These are the ones I have.

Just thought of one other thing... have you heard of the Haakaa?


https://www.amazon.ca/Haakaa-Silicone-Breast-Grade-Phthalate/dp/B01F8W7CF0

If you used that just before your feed it might help with the heavy let down and then the flow wouldn’t be as strong. It doesn’t pump it just suctions on and collects what comes out so you don’t have to waste.

So sorry to hear this is difficult for you. I hope you can find a solution!

Right! Let me explain, Tucks are medicated pads that will help with healing and discomfort around your lady bits. A Haakaa is kinda like a manual breast pump but uses suction to stick to your boob so it’s hands free!

Haakaa- Haakaa Manual Breast Pump 4oz/100ml,2019 New Style https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CWK4S5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dAcHDbX7JDE5N

Tucks - Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads 100 Pads Per Pack (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VPTHP8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NBcHDbBAZKMT6

Also, add slippers or nonslip socks to your list and an extra long phone charging cord.

I hate lanolin/the idea of wool grease, but MotherLove makes a really nice organic and (minus the beeswax) plant-based one of you ever decide you want to try something else. I like it!

Here's the link if you're interested: Motherlove Nipple Cream Certified Organic Salve for Sore Cracked Nursing Nipples, 1 Oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007CQ726/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VKOFxbT6WEZ29

If you aren't going back to work a manual pump will be fine. If you are going back to work you really need an electric. I am really in love with the Spectra 2 and at $129 it isn't a bad deal.

Get on amazon and buy these. Pay for the fast shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003IP2L38/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1348250700&sr=8-2

These saved me with both of my babies!

Also, start nursing twice in a row per side for a few feedings - so left left right right - get it?
This will give each nipple more time to heal after a feeding. Apply something cold- like an ice pack or ice wrapped in a soft baby washcloth before AND after nursing. The cold can give you a little numbness before nursing and be really soothing after.

Lanolin is the best ingredient for chapped lips. You don’t need fancy expensive lip products to make them smoother.

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream is very popular for lips. It is originally used for chafed nipples but who cares? The tube is convenient for on the go and it’s less than $9.

I opted for a jar of pure Lanolin since you get 7oz for the same price. I just transfer it in little mini jars for convenience.

At night, put a warm wash cloth over the lips for a minute or so to loosen the skin, rub it gently with the cloth. If it hurts STOP! Then slather on Lanolin before bed, it is very sticky so you need to get used to the feeling.

For maintenance, I mixed some Lanolin with Vaseline and use it as an everyday balm.

I'm not sure about the insurance, but if you can't get them to pay for it the Spectra 2 is a great pump for only $120 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BLBLR1I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_PSFozb0K7NDNQ

These have been an absolute lifesaver for me Lansinoh Soothies Breast Gel Pads for Breastfeeding and Nipple Relief, 2 Pads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7BkZDb3DCNC16

It won't negatively impact her in any way, but you might feel engorged and uncomfortable, even leaking. Ensure you have pads in your bra or you might be in for some embarrassment.

My daughter was extremely difficult to get to accept formula, but I started trying pretty late, about 6 months old. A 2 month old would probably be fine.

Here's a $30 pump if you decide to leave some breastmilk in the fridge instead of buying formula. It's also useful for relieving pressure on trips away from the baby.

http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Harmony-Manual-Breast-Pump/dp/B0006HBS1M/

I don’t know if it’s available in the UK but I used mother’s love nipplecream.

link

This might sound weird but I just started accutane so before I started I wanted to see everyone’s recommendations, and one of them was nipple cream for your dry lips and so far my lips haven’t cracked using aquaphor first and then applying nipple cream! This is the one I use Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding, 1.41 Ounce Full Size Tube, Soothing Lanolin Balm, Safe for Nursing Moms, Nursing Essentials https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005MI648C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_e62oDbVK5ANYQ

Buy a tube of this and give it to your wife/partner on like feeding #6 and she will love you forever. Lansinoh Lanolin Cream

Also - breast milk storage bags are excellent for yeast storage. They are sterile and cheap, much better for yeast storage than glass jars.

And you don't even need to be a parent to have them: https://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Breastmilk-Storage-Bags-100/dp/B006XISCNA

Yeah, I get that, and I definitely get not wanting to make major waves! I work for a really small company and I'm just going to be taking over our conference room (which does at least have a lock). But it's good to at least be aware. If I were in your shoes I think I'd be more about holding them to the break time requirements than the space ones, but that's me.

Also, you might want to check out Fremies, which allow you to pump with your shirt on. I'm still pregnant so I'm not to this point yet, but when I get there these are what I think I will use.

http://www.amazon.com/Freemie-Collection-Cups-Concealable-Funnels/dp/B00UV6JDN8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451311076&sr=8-1&keywords=freemie

Try soothies! if you haven't already. They saved my breastfeeding relationship. I had them on 24/7 the first few weeks. Also lots of lanolin. My favorite was the Medela brand, it was the most comfortable. Try expressing some milk and rubbing it on your nipples and then let them air dry.

You can buy these and use with your current pump.

Freemie Collection Cups The Only Hands Free and Concealable Breast Pump Milk Collection System, Clear, 25/28 mm Funnels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UV6JDN8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_jUHoDbKZWJ5NT

When I got the chance I did some searching and found some experts showing how it's done. Same technique applies for adults (of course your mouth is a bit larger so you'll probably end up taking more in, but it all works out).

Aim the boobie for the roof of the mouth, when your mouth takes in the boobie it'll slide down to where it's almost gagging you.

You'll make like a seal and it'll just stay where it's supposed to be. You use your tongue to massage the teat (Don't know how else to describe it, but once you play around you'll figure it out, and breathe through your nose.

As the suckler it was a bit weird and until I learned to relax my jaw got a little tired trying to do more work than necessary.

Your nipples being a little sensitive afterwards sounds normal. I know nursing mothers sometimes get cracking, but there are fixes for that

There's a couple options.

Pump one boob while baby is nursing the other.

Slap a haakaa on the non-nursing boob while nursing the baby

Have the pump ready to go before feeding, pump right after the morning feed. The milk can sit out for a couple of hours just fine.

Pump while someone else holds the baby.

Pump after a night feeding. I always used a manual pump for night after-feedings. I just didn't like to deal with all the set up and noise. I only did 10 minutes a boob.

Don't worry yourself too much about a stash. Generally you just need enough to get through the first day because you'll usually pump enough at work for the next day. Its nice to have extra. But really, it's not worth stressing about..with my youngest here I was stressing and when I finally stopped, it seemed like the milk just came a flowing.

We are a 20 minute drive from the hospital and husband will not leave my side, so I'd like to get everything in. I'm a notorious overpacker, too, but I'd rather have something I don't need than have not have something that I do need.
Mom Stuff:

• A nicer hospital gown to make me feel human
  
• Mesh panties
  
• A few non-slip socks
  
• Travel sized makeup & general toilettries
  
• Nursing shirt
  
• Super comfy yoga pants that I can leave with
  
• Heavy flow pads
  
• A few different stool softners
  
• A few different nursing bras
  
• Something to lay down in the car for leaks
  
• Disposable nursing pads
  
• Tucks cooling pads
  
• Spray
  
• Nipple butter
  
• Preperation H wipes
  
• Gel nipple soothing pads
  
• Nursing pillow
  Baby Stuff:
  
• Onesies in different sizes (nb, 0-3)
  
• Hat, socks, mittens
  
• Car seat
  Dad stuff:
  
• He's kindof on his own. I've been telling him for a month that I need his overnight stuff. He finally got some travel toiletries, so I guess we're getting somewhere
  Both
  
• 10ft charging cable
  
• iPads
  
• Kindles
  
• AppleTV (we're still not decided on this though)
  
• Snacks
  
  I think that covers just about everything. I used travel packing cubes to keep all of the clothing items organized, and I already had several different other travel bags that I generally use when actually leaving town, for all of the "other" items. [edited formatting]

I've had good luck with these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XVASFGC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1505233867&sr=8-2&keywords=duckbill+valve

I have a Spectra S2 and a Medela manual pump and can confirm they work with both.

I highly recommend using a lanolin-based nipple cream ( I use Lansinoh) at night - it is unparalleled in terms of adding moisture to your lips, moisture retention throughout the night and healing sores and cracked bits, etc. I also use the Jack Black lip balms with SPF during the day mostly because I don't want to carry around a tube of nipple cream to reapply after eating, lol. Any lanolin-based lipbalm would do, tho!

Looks like these flanges here. I was about to buy them. OP are they better than the plain plastic ones?

Sounds like you may need something like this. I haven't personally used them but i have seen a lot of moms on here recommend them.

I've heard the milk catchers are good for sexy times when we can leak.

I'm going to be using an affordable passive collection silicone pump ( this model ) to collect the milk from my other breast during nursing.

haha bad timing :)

good thing it's super cheap though!

My favorite lip products keeping my lips moisturized and not crusty are the unscented O'Keeffe's Original Lip Repair during the day and Lansinoh Lanolin at night before I go to sleep.

Ok, I will try to format this nicely, but for some reason it always comes out TERRIBLY, so if you see it's been edited, it's just for formatting. Also, I didn't do any sort of price search, so these links aren't the best price guaranteed.

Dream Team Pumping Purchases

• Spectra Pump S1/S2 - one has a battery, that's the only difference. You can vary both the suction strength and the suction frequency on both the milking and letdown settings. There is a timer (yay!), and it remembers your settings. The only drawbacks is the tubing has a strange surface finish that picks up everything, so that kind of sucks, and the default is it's not on the letdown setting when you power on.
  
  
• Pumpin Pal Flanges - Unfortunately these aren't compatible with the Spectra style pump parts, so you need some other pieces to use them. They draw the whole breast in, not just the part around the areola.
  
  
• Maymom Adapters - These allow you to use the Medela style connectors and flanges with the Spectra.
  
  
• Medela Connectors - These don't have to be Medela, they can be Maymom or Nenesupply, but I couldn't find ONLY the connectors from either companies in my quick search.
  
  
• Duckbill Valves - These are way better than the little yellow piece valve with a rubber flap (if the flap moves, it doesn't always work). These are one piece, way awesome.
  
  As for bottles to attach...you can use Ameda or Medela bottles, or any bottle that fits the Medela connectors (I use the Medela bottles and sometimes Dr. Brown's bottles since they fit (depends on what's clean).
  

I just bought this: https://www.amazon.ca/Haakaa-Silicone-Breast-Phthalate-Release/dp/B01F8W7CF0

Works great, very easy.

I pump 3 extra ounces a day, so basically I use the pump until I get 3 ounces. If babe gets a bottle I pump to replace what he eats. Don't worry about not having enough because you can always give LO what you pumped if you're desperate, although you might want to wait until 5-6 weeks to start pumping if you don't want to introduce a bottle this early and are worried about that issue.

In the US it is required that insurance provide a breast pump (thanks, Obama!!!).

Unfortunately this doesn't always mean an electric pump - some insurances have managed to loophole their way into satisfying this requirement while only providing a simple hand pump, but it's better than nothing.

Be sure to check with your insurance provider. Some require you to obtain prescriptions from your doctor that you can take to a Durable Medical Equipment Supplier. Some just ask for your OB's name and contact info and will do the legwork for you.