(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best breastfeeding supplies

1. Start low and work up, if you want to use Domperidone. It's a galactologue for sure, and there's a variety of people out there who have different regimens. I would compare several examples of people using dom and see if you find a good baseline to start at, but maximum recommended dose by doctors per day is 30 mg (you may go higher, but risks increase).
   
2. There is limited research that it can negatively affect your heart, with the US FDA indicating that it has risks of cardiac arrythmia, cardiac arrest, and sudden death. Obviously if you experience any of these effects, stop taking dom and contact your doctor. That said, we've never had a bad experience with it.
   
3. This is massively dependent on dedication + technique. Some people see results quickly, others it takes a few months. If you're doing ten sessions of 20 minutes of pumping per day, for example, you'll likely see faster results than someone doing it only 4 times a day.
   
4. No, it's not always a sex thing. I mean, it really can't with the number of sessions you need to do. It's usually a very enjoyable closeness and can build relationships, though. I would recommend discussing with your SO if they can do the time commitment. It's important that you both be on the same page regarding this, because it can have long-term impacts on your life.
   As for sex itself, it just gets incorporated into sex pretty easily; playing with your breasts during sex will naturally elicit a reaction, and it can be lots of fun!
   
5. For a breastpump, look for hospital-grade + high suction. I've heard good things about the Bellababy pump, although we haven't used it ourselves. I've For TENS units, here's a URL: TENS Unit Directions
   
6. There's plenty of websites dedicated to ANR/ABF, I recommend browsing around! No better way to find new people and places
   
   ​
   
   Couple tips:
   
   

• Make sure you are hydrated. This is key to ensuring successful lactation
  
• Other supplements, such as oatmeal, fenugreek, blessed thistle, etc. all have different effects. Read up on those in addition to dom, perhaps.
  
• Supply = demand, so the more you demand, the more faster your supply will respond.
  
  ​
  
  Good luck! Feel free to post your progress here if you are interested, but please respect the rules! :)

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.

Breast milk (if expressed very cleanly) can be safely kept at room temperature for up to eight hours. Those are the guidelines from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, which the CDC draws on to formulate their own guidelines.

So your wife can pump, and just leave it out until the next time one of you goes to the kitchen. A system like Kiinde (which allows you to pump directly into a storage bag, which can be used to refrigerate or freeze, and then used as a bottle later) can help save time, because you don’t have to worry about cleaning bottles between feeds. You can also buy extra sets of pump flanges so she has enough to get through the night without needing to wash them (for example, if she pumps/feeds four times during the night, and you have four sets of flanges, then you won’t need to wash them all until the morning. Pump, feed, back to bed). You don’t have to pay full price for the pump manufacturer’s brand; you can search Amazon for “Spectra flanges” or “Medela flanges,” and you’ll find lots of inexpensive options. Some women really like the Pumping Pals flanges; other folks like the Maymom ones.

If you can afford it, one of the best new mom hacks is to put a mini fridge (not dorm fridge sized; I’m talking like a foot and a half cubed) on her nightstand. She can have cold water on hand every time she breastfeeds, and any snacks that require refrigeration, and when she pumps she can just toss the milk in the fridge until she’s ready to take it to a freezer (it’s safe to refrigerate for a few days before freezing). They’re about $70-something at Walmart if you’re in the US, or you can find them for a third of that on Fb marketplace or whatever your local equivalent is.

You/your wife may also want to talk to a Lactation Consultant or breastfeeding support group about pumping before feeding. Right now, at five days, you’re in the time frame where you’re establishing her supply. As a general rule, the more she empties her breasts, the more they’re going to produce. So pumping and then feeding is telling them to make more more more, leading to additional engorgement. Meeting with an LC (if possible) or attending a breastfeeding support group would be useful in helping her find the balance between relieving the engorgement and not causing an oversupply.

Having an oversupply sounds harmless, or even desirable, but is actually really frustrating because creating too much milk can cause the baby to get too much of the low-calorie portion that comes out early in a feed (called fore milk), and not get enough of the high-calorie portion that comes out later in a feed (hind milk), causing him/her to be gassy and fussy, and can even make it difficult to continue breastfeeding. Btdt, would not recommend. Balance is good! In the same vein, if she’s pumping before feeding, most of what’s coming out is probably fore milk. Which is great for baby’s growth right now, because he/she will mostly be getting the higher-calorie hind milk. But will mean that if you DO save this pumped milk, and later use it to bottle feed baby, you may want to mix it with some hind milk as well, so baby doesn’t get super gassy or even sick.

Also - congrats on your new little one! You’re in the thick of it right now. It will get easier. You may want to try dividing up labor if you haven’t already (baby gets hungry, your wife picks up baby for a feed, then you do the diaper change and soothe baby to put him/her back down again after the feed. That way each one of you can maximize the amount of sleep you’re getting between feeding cycles, instead of both of you just staying up all the time.

Good luck! It really does get easier. And you can definitely toss the milk if you want to, but you don’t actually need to.

First of all, bless you. Those first 6 weeks are rough, and I spent most of them online googling shit like "thrush symptoms" and "is nipple confusion real?" But you're on your second (I bow down) so you're probably not freaking out as much this time around (right? RIGHT??) For reference, my baby is about 4 month old right now.

I've found that button down shirts are best for pumping / going to work. I bought a few at Goodwill thinking that in 6 months time, I'd probably be a different size anyway. They are serving me well. Personally, I love this pumping "bra" which actually just attaches to your existing nursing bra. So at work, I close the door, unbutton my shirt, snap on the "bra" and hook up to the machine. Unbuttoning the shirt means I can easily put on the "bra" without getting fully naked.

For everyday/casual wear, there are 2 tops on amazon that I bought multiples of because they are easy to nurse in while staying pretty covered up. First, this V-neck tee also comes in round neck. I wore one while pregnant, and it got all stretched out, but I bought another since then, and both work very well. Easy access, and they're nice enough to wear to work under a cardigan. Second, this gathered neckline tank seems to be the same as this one. I have one from each brand. I LOVE this one. I removed the rushing elastic from the sides of one, but left them on the other. Either way, they look good. Really easy boob access, and so discrete that a friend of mine didn't realize my baby was eating. Also nice enough to wear to work.

Finally, these nursing tanks are my favorite. I wear them to sleep every night. I'm wearing one right now (whatever, I'll get dressed eventually). The built-in shelf bra holds my nursing pads securely, but isn't too tight or constricting at all. It's probably not what you'd wear to work (unless you wore it under something), but it's ideal for at home. Plus, they dry quickly, and wash well. Although these ones I hang to dry rather than toss in the dryer.

First of all, don't panic!! The Spectra is a great pump and you're going to do great.

If you're going to pump in an office, a minifridge is AWESOME. Stores my milk and pump parts during the day, plus during the early days when I was starving all the time I had it loaded with yogurts, string cheese, etc. I just keep my pump parts in a gallon bag in there during the day and wash them each night. I use a fresh gallon bag each day although that might be wasteful/OCD of me.

I use this bag to carry my milk home.

I used to use these wipes for my pump parts in between every session, but have gotten a little less anal about it over time and with fewer pump sessions at work. (Edit to add: I'd recommend getting some for road trips too because they can be used to wipe down high chairs, tables, etc.)

I use Nuk bags and like them better than Lansinoh because they're a little more square and thus easier to store in my deep freezer bins.

Medela lanolin is amazing. It has some additives that make it a little softer and thus easier to put on, which is key when your nipples hurt. At 9mo out I'm still using it on days when baby gets chompy, but YMMV on that front.

A spare set of parts is essential, or alternatively, a hand pump you can use as a backup. If you're not sure about flange size (and idk if you really can be until you're actually pumping), gift cards to a store that sells pumping supplies would be super helpful.

Good luck!!

I don’t have any advice for things for this specific pump, although I️ have the spectra and really like it, but I did get a few general items that have made pumping and storing milk easier:

Freemie cups (especially if hands free pumping is important to you. Just be aware the flanges only come in two sizes).

Medela breastmilk cooler . The bottles won’t work with the spectra flanges, but the cooler is a nice size and you can use the included bottles as extra storage.

Silicone food storage tray. I use this instead of bags because it lets me freeze milk in 1 oz amounts so that I can defrost exactly as much as my daughter needs. The tray has a lid that actually stays on and the cubes are really easy to pop out. Then I just put the cubes in a freezer bag.

Boon lawn and twig for drying all your breast pump parts.

Other stuff you might want to consider: a hands free pumping bra, an extra set of flanges in your size (especially if you pump a lot), a bag if you are going to carry the pump frequently, and a car adapter.

Edited to add: Enjoy the pump! It is great!!

I had a badass skincare routine going before pregnancy that is totally not pregnancy friendly; I’m talking BHA/AHAs, special face washes, and rags, everything...

I got some pretty bad acne when I had to stop my routine, probably just because my skin was oily and I hadn’t looked into how to handle it while gestating just yet. But I’m getting MUCH better in the 2nd trimester, and now it’s just healing the scars left from the hell trimester. Here we go:

Face:
• Garnier Clean+ Clarifying Cleansing Gel Sensitive Skin - Takes off my makeup easily. Mostly used in the shower because washing faces in sinks is brutal in the bad way.
• Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water for Oily Skin - Takes off eye makeup easily if your having trouble with your thick black eyeliner smearing down your face because you “insist on doing your makeup like a ‘vam-per’” according to your parents.
• MISSHA Time Revolution Clear Toner - Expensive as shit toner that I paid over $18 for and is now listed at $15, WTF Amazon. But it’s good stuff, pregnancy safe, toner is good stuff anyway, and it’s helping with evening my skin tone back out from the acne scars.
• Triple Vitamin C Serum L-Ascorbic Acid - Vit C oil to help you fake that “pregnant glow” that we were all promised...
• Bio-Oil Liquid Purcellin Oil - I use an off brand that I got on clearance but omg...like...I know this stuff is expensive but it’s a miracle. You just dab some on your scarred places, like the acne marks, or where your stupid fucking cat decided your hand was a snack and ripped a hole on your hand, or dark spots on your legs because you’re still bad at shaving leg hair and not leg skin, and I swear it fades SO FAST. Also rub it all over your boobs and belly. Like pretty much I would bathe in this from the neck down if it wouldn’t bankrupt my family.
• Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream for Dry/Sensitive Skin - Old faithful, the moisturizer. A tiny bit goes a long way. Also tends to make its way to my boobs when I’m tired and dont feel like using other lotions.

Body:
• NIVEA Q10 Skin Firming Hydration Body Lotion - Bought pre-pregnancy. I used to use it every single morning and night on my thighs and it totally does reduce the appearance of cellulite. Now I use it lazily but it’s there and smells ok so it’s my go-to body lotion.
• Lansinoh Hpa Lanolin Nipple Soothing Cream - my nipples are pierced and those things get dry in the winter. Baby may not be here yet but I went ahead and decided to try this stuff out. Seems legit. It’s super thick, moreso than Vaseline but I dig it.

I also use special toothpaste (not because pregnant, because shit teeth), a special washcloth (because I developed keratosis pilaris (sp?) and I wasn’t having it. The special rag put a stop to it FAST), lady-bits wash (because I get self conscious about sweating and smelling funky), special “sensitive skin” lube, and well I guess that’s about it. I sound like an amazon ad for many products. I’m not. Just a researcher/lover of my husband describing me as “so soft” when he touches me. 🤗

No, don't squeeze it out. Not that you'd do any harm if you did but you also wouldn't relieve anything by doing so. If you're leaking and it's getting your bra and shirt wet, then just stick a nursing pad into your bra. Here are some good disposable (which are nice when your milk is still getting regulated because I feel like they absorb more) and here are nice cloth resuable ones for later when there's not so much leaking. The cloth ones would be good for you now as you're likely not leaking a lot during pregnancy (if you're leaking or not).

(You'll likely want to wash those reusable ones in fragrance free detergent with the rest of the baby clothes. We just use fragrance free detergent for everything. Also, fragrance free =/= unscented. "Unscented" is apparently just another scent.)

And just in case you're worried, leaking during pregnancy is not an indicator of later breastfeeding success. If you don't leak, it doesn't mean that you aren't producing milk or anything. And if you do leak, you're not going to use up your supply before baby gets here.

Anything you leak now is just colostrum, a sort of pre-milk substance. It's very healthy for baby and is all they need until your real milk comes in a few days after giving birth. You won't use it all up if you leak now nor do you need to pump and save it in routine situations.

I remember how much of a total pain it was to find ANY nursing bra that fit (36k pre pregnancy here). I only ever found 1 that was semi comfortable, but it had very little support(keep in mind it's in European sizing, so my K becomes H):

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0045KJ6RE/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_-kZNDb0HAJYW6

That aside, what I would recommend is getting sized properly (the ladies over at r/abrathatfits have a great calculator for figuring this out on your own without having to find a store)

https://www.abrathatfits.org/calculator.php

and buying just 1 ahead of time, but wait until you're a bit closer. Then again, my kid came at 33 weeks, so who knows if it's too early. 🙄 About a month after birth I was fitting into a 38LL/M if I waited a while between nursing or pumping. From there, you can either find one that works for you (Cake, hot milk, and Freya make some decent ones in larger sizes, wasn't a fan of Royce) OR find a bra you like that fits and converting it to a nursing bra. You can either do this yourself (they sell the necessary pieces at Joann's) or places like Nordstrom can do it for a fee.

https://www.babycenter.com/609_diy-turn-your-favorite-bra-into-a-nursing-bra_20001258.bc

For pumping, I got a couple of these (so I could cycle them through the wash) and a bra extender to make it work. I never found a pumping bra that fit on its own:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ232Y7/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_pnZNDbHQMST58

Check out here for some good options, just remember to check what sizing they're using:
https://us.brastop.com/

Hope this helps! Sorry for any formatting issues, I'm on mobile. Good luck with your search!

1. Pump - like everyone else said, pump should be free.
   
2. Nursing bra - I bought these from amazon: 3 for $21.99!. I'm not sure if they're quality bras or not but I've been using them for 4 months and they're great so far! But I'm also not 36DD, so not sure if they'll work for you. Otherwise, I got some through local Trading up facebook pages.
   
   
3. Nipple creams - samples from hospital and still on my first tube outside samples. I'm still using them at 4 months, but not nearly as much as before. My tube's from a friend, but I don't think it was that much.
   
   
4. Nursing pads: I leaked so much! Started off with these Medela ones and will transition into these washable ones because nursing pads were getting expensive.
   
   
5. Never bought any nursing tops. I have cami that I've used, but I mostly just pull up my shirt. I nurse with the baby right in front of me so everything's pretty covered.
   
   
6. Pump bra - Never bought one. I cut slits in an old sports bra that's now a bit small for me. It works perfectly! I can pump hands free at work.
   
   
7. Food - I don't think the extra food costs more. If anything we've saved money on food now because we don't go out to eat anymore.
   
   I also went back to work at 6 weeks. It sucked. I'm usually away from baby about 10 hrs a day. I guess you just get used to it after a while... Hope this helps!

A lot of good info in this thread so far!

I use the Medela cooler bag mentioned below and carry everything in a backpack to and from work. I pump into the Medela bottles and then transfer to Dr. Brown's bottles for daycare. I do not like to send frozen milk for daycare so I only transfer milk to bags to freeze if I have an overflow at the end of a week.

I use this nursing bra accessory. Its easier than using the Medela bustier and I really like the Bravado body silk nursing bras. Win win.

I actually have seen an increase in production since I started pumping at work. Pumping has a definite learning curve, so that is part of it. But pumping/breastfeeding is also about supply and demand and the Spectra has been great for maintaining/increasing supply. I pump for a full 30 minutes three times a day - always at the same times - 9:30, 12:30, and 2:30. When I started I typically brought home 10 ounces - now I bring home anywhere from 12-15 ounces. My baby takes 15 ounces at daycare (sometimes more) so I also added a pump session after she goes to bed at night.

Drink a ton of water and make sure to eat enough. Pumping thirst/hunger is real.

ETA: Cycle the pump to get more than one letdown. Also, if you need to pump more milk, let the pump run for at least five minutes after the milk stops flowing. Overtime, your body will know to produce more milk at that time. Good luck!

I was/am in the exact same boat - first kid, limited funds, starting from scratch, going through reviews and prices drove me insane. It took me probably three months to get my registry together, and, even then, I am still switching things up, lol.

lucieslist.com was invaluable while picking everything out. I highly recommend you check it out.

What we have bought ourselves that fit our tight budget:

Graco Comfy Cruiser Travel System. We had already decided to go with that car seat, given that it seems to be the top-rated budget option, and the stroller ended up being a much-needed bonus. We go on walks a lot, so it works for us. If you don't need the stroller, the seat itself is, I think, only ~$100.

The Pack N Play, which I've heard from literally everyone and their mother is almost a necessity.

Because we don't have an IKEA near us to get our hands on a swanky $99 crib, we bought this DaVinci crib. We still only ended up paying $100 for it, as we found it on sale, however, we would have paid the $200 for it, given that the reviews are good, and, when compared to some other cribs that cost $400 and up, the price isn't bad at all.

As for the rest of the registry, we have on there a Moby wrap (affordable baby wearing, yay!), nail clippers, outlet plugs, nursing pads, a wipes case, a baby tub, baby wash, assorted crib sheets, waterproof crib sheets, Pack N Play mattress, and sheets to go with, crib mattress (we actually bought this one when we found it on sale for $20, and it's just fine), receiving blankets, dirty diaper bags (because we aren't getting a diaper pail, just a small can with a seal-able lid), changing pad, and a cover to go with, pacifiers, Dr. Brown's Gia Nursing Pillow, a bottle brush, bottle warmer, thermometer, booger sucker, camera to monitor the baby, and a few other assorted things that I couldn't really find a definitive "best in class" for, so pick at your own discretion: diaper bag, swaddles (although I've read good things about the Summer Infant brand), bottles (we're going with Phillips Avent), a bouncer (we got this one), and a swing.

I agonized over this stuff for what felt like forever, lol, so I hope it helps you and saves you some hair-pulling. It's all so overwhelming!

I started off transition with lactation as a goal. At that time, my partner and I were planning to have a baby; for a variety of reasons, that didn't work out. The first time I saw my GP about transitioning, I talked about my desire to at least try to achieve lactation. She was very supportive. So it's not something I've kept from my doctors, they know pretty much all my history.

I started transitioning January 2018. I went full-time in July, and ordered a pump in August of that year. So it was about eight months before I thought it was viable to try inducing. My experience has been .... interesting. I started developing the let-down reflex very quickly. I didn't make substantial progress in milk production, however, for quite some time after that. So, probably like 18 months before I started producing fluid more regularly.

The pump I bought is serviceable, but cheap-ish, and entry-level. I'm considering upgrading soon. However, as a first attempt, it is reliable, powerful, convenient, and discreet. I really like it, and would have no reticence to recommend it.

Pump: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CZZN1VX

I also bought a TENS unit from the drugstore. That made a huuuuuge difference in milk production; the difference I have noted when I use the TENS unit along with pumping, versus pumping only, is remarkable. The TENS unit I use when I'm at work, or when I cannot pump.

TENS unit, something like this, but not this one exactly: https://www.amazon.com/Progoo-Stimulator-Combination-Reusable-Electrodes/dp/B07SLYGYRS

My goal now is to solidify my gains, and basically hold the course. I need to focus on achieving a regular, reliable pumping schedule, which I have struggle with this year. That is currently inhibiting me somewhat. Personally, I aim for three times a day, 30 minutes per session. That's a lot. Some people recommend up to four or six times a day to induce, which is more than I can budget my time for. Twice a day seems optimal for me, where I am right now, with the goals that I've personally set for myself.

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!

My first piece of advice is to seek out help NOW before the baby comes, because it's much harder in the blurry newborn days to have the energy and strength to do so. Find your local La Leche League or other breastfeeding group, contact them, let them know your situation and see if you can get a phone number or two for the leaders so you can call. Also see if your hospital has IBCLCs (professional certified lactation experts) that will be available to you and let every member of the nursing staff know that you want to see them as soon as possible after your baby is born. You may have no problems at all. But if you do you'll be prepared to get help.

There's a little device you can buy that is like a little suction bulb, that you put on your flat nipple to draw it out right before you latch the baby on. Here it is: latch assist nipple everter. I used it, it helped. A pump would do the same thing, it's just much bigger and more cumbersome and expensive.

My first was in the special care nursery so like a low-level NICU. Did you know that the woman on the cover of that infamous Time magazine issue "Are you mom enough?" breastfeeding her 3-year-old was a NICU mom? It's definitely an additional hurdle like you say but you have got this and you're going to do great! Good luck!

Engorgement is rough! It’s amazing what you’re doing.

1. do you have a good (hospital-grade) pump? That’ll extract your milk much better at this early stage. Help you to get more empty between being full.
   
   
2. Switch between hot & cold. My OB recommended putting wet diapers in the freezer and using them as ice packs. I use these for a similar purpose—one set lives in the freezer and the other next to my microwave. Hot before pumping, cold after. Hot showers are also a lifesaver—I would literally hand express while in the shower to relieve some of the pressure.
   
   
3. also—if you feel like you have lumps that aren’t getting better—try dangle pumping. It’s super awkward—I set up on my bed with two large pillows stacked to hold up my arms and have my breasts hanging downwards in front of them while attached to the pump parts. But it helps extract better.
   
   Your milk will regulate soon and then engorgement won’t happen unless you miss a pumping session.

Congrats!

I use the Spectra and don't feel like you need many other accessories for it specifically. Rather, I found these things helpful to bring to work in my pumping bag:

• A bag for the pump (I bought this one on Amazon and it fits a lot of things!)
  
• A small cooler for milk pumped during the day
  
• Bottles or milk storage freezer bags to store milk in
  
• Hand sanitizer
  
• A little washcloth to wipe up any spills
  
  I did buy a replacement set of parts for the Spectra (flanges, bottles, duckbills) on Amazon from Maymom, and that was nice to have on hand when the suction wore down.
  
  Good luck!

I did the pump and pour for a couple of months. The bags I’ve used since the beginning are the Lansinoh. Okay this “hack” is annoying and I apologize in advance, but it’s what I made work for me. If you use different flanges (a whole other beast, and I don’t know those hacks), it might be easier, maybe not.

So with the Spectra flanges you need:

A wide mouth bottle adapter
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EUNA96W?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

A bag adapter
https://www.lansinoh.com/lansinohr-pump-adapter-2-ct

I LOVED being able to pump directly! Only gripe is that I’m not entirely sure about the ounces because I don’t read them off the bag accurately like I do a bottle.

Good luck!

BRAVADO! DESIGNS Women's... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ232Y7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Best thing for big boobs!! Love love love this!

So I had oversupply issues for a really long time and leaked like crazy all the time. My son just turned 17 months and it wasn't until the last couple weeks that I could get away without constantly using breast pads. Stuffing performs cloth diapers in my top was fine if I was at home but clearly I needed a better option when going somewhere. I tried all sorts of kinds, both reusable and disposable, trying to figure out what would hold up to my exceptionally leaky boobs. I never thought I would be so excited about breast pads but I LOVE the ones that ended up working for me. I never once had them leak and there were times they were so full they probably weighed more than my kid's wet diapers.

They are the Lansinoh Ultimate Protection Nursing Pads. Not the regular Lansinoh ones, the "ultimate protection" ones are a bit different and significantly better. This is the on Amazon for reference: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0179BQBP0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TzjDAb530D8BE

This pump bag has been super duper helpful for me. I keep my spectra pump and all parts (gallon sized ziplock for the pieces I have to wash) along with pump wipes for when I can’t keep my pump parts in a fridge, a mini cooler bag with ice packs, breast milk bags, a sharpie, a pumping bra, some hand sanitizer, a hand towel, and a phone charger. It also fits a laptop but I pump in my office unless Im working offsite. It looks enough like any other work bag and it contains everything I need! Good luck mama

No I mean if somebody else gave her a bottle I pumped at the same time (or soon after).

For building a stash, I would feed her (both sides) and double pump immediately after (while she napped usually). Every little bit helps when you're trying to get a day or two worth before going back to work. I think I had about a week's worth actually. The morning is the best time to pump after she eats because your milk supply is highest in the morning. I never had any luck pumping on one side while she ate on the other (not coordinated, plus she was and continues to be a huge baby so there wasn't room for it!)

Order a hands-free bra now. I know there are hacks involving sports bras, etc. but I didn't feel like it was such a huge investment considering I used it multiple times a day at work. That way you can do something relaxing while you pump (like browse reddit!)

Also since you asked earlier about storage, I used these:

http://www.amazon.com/Kiinde-TS-N-001-NA-Breastfeeding-Starter-Kit/dp/B00CXSPL24

I pumped into the same bag which I stored the milk (and would freeze it in as well) and then the same bag could be used with the bottle. Eventually those bottles stopped working for us (just how she was with bottles, every baby has their own preferences) but being able to pump directly into the bag I stored it in saved me some steps. I liked it.

Not the original commenter, but I bought these pads and they're awesome. They seem a tad big, in terms of the diameter, but I like them. Also weirdly, the ones I received are flat circles and don't have the pleat like in the photos. So. Idk. But I like them anyway haha

I pretty much wear nursing tank tops that have a built in bra then use the bravado clip on pumping bra.

https://www.amazon.com/SUIEK-Nursing-Maternity-Pregnancy-Charcoal/dp/B0786KRP3J/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=nursing+tank+tops+for+breastfeeding&qid=1558435726&s=gateway&sprefix=nursing+yank&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/BRAVADO-DESIGNS-Maternity-Hands-Free-Accessory/dp/B01N1UMY7E/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=bravado+pumping+bra&qid=1558435758&s=gateway&sprefix=bravado+&sr=8-3

Been wearing and using them for 11 months and they have held up great! I wear the nursing tank pretty much every day and as a sleep top (keeps boobs in place, not a lot of shifting while sleeping) and even under t shirts.

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.

What are you doing to take care of your nipples, if you don’t mind such a personal question 😂 ?


If you don’t have them, I HIGHLY recommend Soothies Gel Pads , and refrigerating them. They’re reusable for a couple of days. I also loved this Nursing Balm.


I distinctly remember the desperate loneliness of being literally attached to another human while stuck in one place for hours on end, often crying at the latch. Promise it gets better and for me, it was worth it, still BF’ing at 8 months old and it’s awesome.

I have a Spectra pump that I’ve been using since our girl was born in July. When I need to transfer milk to bags, I use the Target Up & Up brand. We’ve had zero issues freezing/thawing milk in these.

In terms of every day use, I originally got these Nene supply bottles from Amazon because they screw directly into the Spectra and fit the Phillips Avent bottle tops (Avent bottles were recommended by a friend). However, our girl does better with the Dr. Brown bottles so I got adapter pieces so I could pump directly into them (whatever I pump at work, she drinks the next day).

Happy to answer any questions! Thinking about pumping as a FTM is so daunting!

Products:

Spectra S1 pump (rechargeable version)(I actually had 2 pumps, one for home and one for work)

Bravado nursing bras

Papablic pump adapters for pumping into breastmilk bags

[Papablic adapters for pumping directly into Dr. Browns bottles](https://www.amazon.com/Papablic-Leak-proof-Adapter-Spectra-Flanges/dp/B077GRWGF9/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=papablic+spectra&qid=1573793877&sr=8-4]

NUK breastmilk bags

Dr. Browns pump bag (used for work)

I used 32mm flanges and an LC said they were probably on the larger side for my nipple size but that if it wasn't causing me any pain then it wasn't an issue.

Routine:

With the Spectra pump it starts at like cycle level 54- I never actually did the letdown mode (cycle level 70). I'm pretty sure I didn't follow the recommended user guide for the pump.

I would start out at 54/4 for five minutes, then gradually increase to 54/8 over the course of 20-25 minutes.

I did this in front of an LC once and she said that I ended up having like, 3-4 letdowns over the course of the 20-25 minutes.

*I pumped every 4 hours- 6am, 10am at work, 2pm at work, 6pm, 10pm, and 2am for 20-25 minutes at a time

As I see you are breastfeeding, you will definitely want some nipple cream.

You may also want to get some leak protection. I like these because they are reusable!

A boppy or something similar (breastfeeding pillow) won’t hurt either!

These crossover tops are actually really cute, and are perfect to double as breastfeeding-friendly tops.

I bought this bag: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BZSHWV8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have a shorter commute and use a little lunchbox with an ice pack to stop the parts and bottles in during the day. I still put the lunchbox in the fridge, but the icepack is more for peace of mind.
I don't know if other moms do this but I wear this pumping bra every day under my nursing bra. I think it makes things much easier if it's just always ready. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1UMY7E?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Even though everything I read said that my baby should only need 13 oz during daycare, she has always taken 16 (sometimes more, eek). 4x4oz. Try and send one more bottle than you think he'll need at least for the first day.

The number of times you pump should match the number of times he eats. I usually pump around 10, 1,3, and 830 pm. I had to add the evening one since she takes 4 bottles while I'm gone. I'm very diligent about the #pumps per day but the timing varies. The days where I'm very off schedule I do tend to pump a bit less but it returns the next day. What will hurt your supply long term is reducing the pumping/ feeding sessions per day. Otherwise I think you'll be fine!

Oh and since you have a long commute you might want to pack a spare shirt is cardigan in your desk in case of spitup or breast milk leaks or spills.

Go mama!

I'd recommend getting something like this to keep your milk cool during transport, with an ice pack: http://www.amazon.com/Playtex-Fridge-To-Go-Bottle-Holder-Double/dp/B000K53U7K/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1382731816&sr=8-14&keywords=medela+cooler

I also have really enjoyed having my storage kit http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Breastmilk-Storage-Solution-Set/dp/B006R3KBYO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382731895&sr=8-1&keywords=breastmilk+storage+kit

My pump came with a battery pack too... I've used it three times but I would have been in a huge bind without it http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Pump-Style-Original-Battery/dp/B000HL2JOC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382731932&sr=8-1&keywords=medela+breastpump+battery+pack

I also have different sized shields than the ones it came with. I also keep a pack of these with me just in case the pump doesn't seem to be working as well as normal http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Six-Membranes-Set-1/dp/B0001CTZ8K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382732151&sr=8-1&keywords=medela+membranes

I'm looking at introducing some pure lanolin into my routine, but I'm not 100% sure on the comedogenic/irritation ratings. I found this online:

ingredient : comedogenic factor : irritant factor

Lanolins

Acetylated lanolin : 4 : 0

Acetylated lanolin acohol : 4 : 2

Anhydrous lanolin : 0-1 : ?

Lanolin alcohol : 0-2 : 2

PEG 16 lanolin (Solulan 16) : 4 : 3

PEG 75 lanolin : 0 : 0

The lanolin I've been looking at is this one, the ingredients list says it's 100% Lansinoh HPA lanolin - Lansinoh is the brand so I think this is something they've named. I don't know what kind of lanolin this is in regards to the ratings above. Any help?

Additionally as lanolin is quite thick and hard to use, this liquid lanolin caught my eye but I'm wondering if anyone knows how effective this is compared to the 'normal' thick stuff? Is it to lanolin as mineral oil is to vaseline? Is it still just as effective? What kind of lanolin would it be in regards to the ratings I found?

Thanks!

I have no advice for the manual vs electric pump, but I didn't see anyone mention nursing pads. I like the Lansinoh ones, personally (they stick better than the Medela, IMO). This would help with the leaky boob issue!

The Spectra is great! I had both the Medela PISA and the Spectra at first, but I was never able to get a letdown with the PISA. So I broke down and bought a second Spectra S2 (same as S1, but without the battery) so I wouldn’t have to carry it to and from work every day.

My pumping day is: Pump before work around 6am, then at work at 11 and 3. I bring flanges and other pump parts, 4 bottles, a pumping bra, and this cooler with ice pack. The cooler fits the Spectra bottles perfectly. In between pumping sessions at work I store the flanges in a clean ziplock bag in the fridge and wash them when I get home.

ETA: In the beginning I was pumping every three hours at work, but I was in the lucky position of pumping more than I needed and was able to drop a pump.

Your supply should balance out soon, but so much you just bring too much to the party. These are the only thing I will use.

Bamboobies Super Soft Washable Nursing Pads - Multi-colored https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007D43X82/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_fyERub0MTSJ6B

If you are smaller boobed and past the point of spraying everywhere, I loooooved these easy hipster bra type things from UO:

Calvin Klein Triangle Bralet
Out From Under Deeply Devoted Bra
Tommy Hilfiger Plunging Bralet

Just pull a boob out and go! I’d usually bring along some Bamboobies to catch any leakage, but it was very freeing.

Probably just irritated from feeding a lot. I love this nipple balm ! I’m allergic to wool and can’t use the lanolin stuff, but IMO the balm is a miracle worker. It works in a matter of hours when I apply it at the first sign of pain. Maybe a little greasy, but feels good and you don’t have to clean it off before feeding baby. I also use it on my hands when they get dry and cracked from washing all the time.

I have a spectra too and yes they’re different, some other pumps there are 2 flange pieces instead of the one.
I have this nursing bra attachment for pumping that I really like, it hooks on to your nursing bra so you don’t have to change which is great for pumping at work.

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.

I have these Baby Zeli pads that I like. I wish they had contouring--you have to be careful when positioning them so they don't bunch up and show through your shirt--but they are very comfortable and absorbent.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017U98HYY/ref=sr_ph_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1491058057&sr=sr-1&keywords=bamboo+breastfeeding+pads

I am so so sorry this happened. Yeah it's spilled milk, but it was a lot of work just to get that milk to spill!

I had flat nipples and the LC at the hospital gave me a nipple everter. I would use it right before latching and LO could get on no problem. After a couple weeks, she fixed my nipples herself and I haven't used it since.

You're doing a great job, and it is so so hard, ESPECIALLY in the beginning. Lots of love to you. You can do it!

I would get one for a "just in case" situation. Is there a chance you could get stuck working late one night? Or can't get back home on your lunch break? I also work about 15 mins away from home, and there have been times where I've forgotten to get the milk in the fridge asap (thanks, Baby) and was thankful I had my cooler. I got a Medela cooler set and love it.

I get mine on amazon for what seems like ok pricing.

$25 for 240 pads:
Lansinoh 20265 Disposable Nursing Pads, 60-Count Boxes (Pack of 4)
http://amzn.com/B002TLU5JO

$17 for 100 bags:
Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags, 100 Count
http://amzn.com/B006XISCNA

I buy so much at amazon I admit I haven't looked too much but these seemed good enough to me.

I’ve heard some women with inverted nipples had successes using a nipple everter. Perhaps that can help pop out the nipple and you can measure it.

Lansinoh is less than £7 on Amazon, Boots can be quite pricey. If you go for Subscribe & Save (set to once every six months) you can get free delivery then cancel the subscription entirely or cancel the next delivery.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B007ZNGUZY/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1

A tube of Lansinoh will last you forever, it's not a cream as it claims it is an ointment. Don't put it on damp skin, it will be sticky (rare humectant as well as occlusive properties).

I got one of these and I’ve been really happy with it!

I bought this skip hop diaper bag and the medela bottle cooler bag . I found diaper bag at my local Home Goods for $20 and it fits the cooler and my Spectra S2 pump perfectly. I usually just leave the bag/pump at work and only bring home the washable parts and cooler daily.

Here is a link to the one I’ve seen:

Lansinoh LatchAssist Inverted Nipple Corrector Nipple Everter, 2 Sizes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112EIWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lBWZDbTWTQJSQ

You use it prior to the feeding. In theory it will draw out your nipple to allow for a better latch, then they can nurse normally.

Maybe nipple everter could help as well? Lansinoh LatchAssist Nipple Everter with 2 Flange Sizes, Nipple Extractor for Breastfeeding, Suction Latching Aid for Nursing Moms, Nursing Essentials. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112EIWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RyknDbZ74TZF5

I got a haakaa pump to catch the milk that leaks from the opposite breast while my baby feeds from the other one. (I don’t use the suction though to avoid creating more demand for milk.) I just prop it under my breast to catch what drips out and then I store it in the fridge. That helps because I’m not wasting the milk and it doesn’t go all over me or the baby.

I also bought the lansinoh ultimate protection nipple pads and they are AMAZING. They hold so much milk and you can avoid getting milk on your bra or clothes.

And I got the lansinoh nipple cream because it’s safe for baby, no need to wipe it off before she eats. And I haven’t had dry or cracked nipples yet!

My baby is only 11 days old but this combo has been working so far!

Lansinoh TheraPearl 3-in-1 Hot or Cold Breast Therapy Pack with Cover, 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J61VL9W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nD7YCbD006DC6


These saved me!!!

Also 24 weeks (hey due date buds!) and I am fairly sure leaking is coming up for me in the next week or so. Boobs are acting like they're about to do something weird.

Are you asking about something like this?

Edit: formatting

My LO had a terrible time with bottles - the only ones that worked were the slow flow kiinde. Worth a try, especially if you are considering pumping anyway.

Also, I second the nipple shield idea if you haven't already tried it. Mine was SO painful unless I was using a nipple shield...and the biggest size. The LCs were kind of dismissive of it, but it was a lifesaver for me.

I am a Labor & Delivery/Postpartum nurse so I deal with this a lot! Usually we can get them to pop out with a latch assist or a hand pump. If not, or it pops out and goes right back in, we try just pinching a chunk of areola around the nipple and putting it in the baby's mouth like a sandwich. If we can get them to latch onto that, the baby will usually pull the nipple out. If that doesn't work, we try a nipple shield, but it is a last resort because sometimes it will cause latch issues.

I use the Lansinoh packs below.. I've also heard of using a diaper?

Lansinoh TheraPearl 3-in-1 Hot or Cold Breast Therapy Pack with Covers, 1 Pair (2 Count), Heating Pad and Ice Pack for Breastfeeding Relief, Nursing Essentials https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J61VL9W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_GmruDbZ588PAQ

You’ll need to find a Spectra to medela adapter, something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EUNA96W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7btSCbCJJC34J

The S9 flanges are the same as a S1 or S2, so any pumping supplies you find that are for a S1 or S2 will work for a S9 as well. I have both a S9 and a S1 so I know the parts are the same, it’s just the S9 is not as popular so you don’t see it mentioned as much.

Alternatively, since the S9 will come with Spectra bottle, just pour from one to another. Up to you.

That sucks! Two things:

http://www.amazon.com/Drop-Stop-Original-Patented-Filler/dp/B00BYH6C1E

(There are cheaper versions, or just roll up a small towel and shove it in there)

And love this system

http://www.amazon.com/Kiinde-Breast-Storage-Twist-Starter/dp/B00CXSPL24/ref=sr_1_5?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1450393495&sr=1-5&keywords=kindee

I like these... Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads (10 Pack) With Laundry Bag by Baby Zeli - Ultra Soft, Reusable, Hypoallergenic, Washable Breastfeeding Pads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017U98HYY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_6wA-wbMF8MCE2

I like bamboobies. They’re soft and they cover what I need them to cover. Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads For Breastfeeding, Reusable Breast Pads, 4 Pairs - 3 Pair Regular, 1 Pair Overnight, Multi-Color, Variety Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007D43X82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y2wZDbD8G79PS

I got these washable ones off Amazon and I like them.

Lanisoh makes a little device called the Latch assist, which I found works amazingly on my invented nipple. You suction it on a few seconds before you want to feed, and it pulls out your nipple enough for baby to latch and start a good suck. Also, half the price of those medela ones.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00112EIWW

I use these and have no issues with them. They're so much cheaper than Bamboobies. 7 pairs for $14 vs. 8 pairs for $25. I haven't tried Bamboobies though so I don't know if they're sooooo much better or not.

>cute tops, with cute sexy bras or possibly even without a bra

Yeah lady, me too. Sadly I've resigned myself to the reality of being a nursing mom and the fact that my wardrobe is much more limited these days.

if your wife plans to breastfeed, spend $7 and bring a nipple everter. It will save you a lot of crying all around.

http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-LANSINOH294983-Latchassist-Nipple-Everter/dp/B00112EIWW

Lansinoh LatchAssist Nipple Everter with 2 Flange Sizes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112EIWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3uIgDb8MNCVA2


Try this! It helped a lot with me!

I'm getting this one from Medela https://www.amazon.com/Medela-67068-Breastmilk-Cooler-Set/dp/B00H5OI9XO

Seconding the clip-in pumping bra! I have this one.

Time for some nursing pads!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PWMTVEM/ref=s9_acsd_top_hd_bw_b164rj_c_x_1_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-4&pf_rd_r=QC9PVJ6ZFB56M950QWK7&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=81b8b267-64e1-52df-9d35-35885886f0b3&pf_rd_i=16225011

Buy some reusable nursing pads ASAP! They are lifesavers

Here’s a link to the ones I had https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JA8W6E0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UgB4DbV2DKS00

If you have a medela, it is this... http://www.amazon.com/Medela-87088-Spare-Membranes/dp/B0001CTZ8K

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00H5OI9XO/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520704181&sr=8-2&keywords=medela+cold+pack&dpPl=1&dpID=41060u4AsFL&ref=plSrch

I have this and it keeps it cold for 12 hours

I've been using these for a long time now. They've worked decently, although if my shirt is too thin or tight, sometimes you can see the outline?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JA8W6E0/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_t5xZDbPAR0EP3

Give this a try!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00112EIWW/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is my current pump. Initially thought I'd only use it on rare occasion. And that link was so helpful! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CZZN1VX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_93RMDbNRDJZ66

If you’re going to pump and breast feed in the same day, I cannot recommend the Bravado clip on pumping bra enough. It clips over any nursing bra (with shoulder clips) to turn it into a hands free pumping bra. For me, that means no bra changes throughout the day.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1UMY7E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6d8DDbAPXF3KB

(Sorry for any weird formatting, I’m on mobile)

Reasonably priced pump. It's really strong but I don't get as much out of it as my regular pump (Baby Buddha). It's just to tide me over if I forget my Baby Buddha.

Try this: https://youtu.be/-l5BpqllTLg deep latch technique

It’s the only thing that worked for me. Though sometimes my nipples still get sore, I slather them with lanolin cream and nursing ice packs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J61VL9W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TjWsDb2MKXJSA

Express milk can stay at room temp for 6-8 hours before going bad. For night time I set up two bottles of 2/2.5oz. One goes with me to the bedroom (we co sleep) and the other goes in the fridge. Some times she will eat half the room bottle as we transition her from sleeping in her swing to the room, so when she wakes up for her middle of the night feeding I feed her what's left of that bottle then bring her out to the husband (he sleeps on our couch cause he was really bad insomnia) to sleep in her rocker/ eat her second bottle while I pump. I then fill up two more bottles when I'm done pumping. Same thing one goes with me and the other ones in the fridge for her morning feeding.

For outings I have the Medela cooler ( http://www.amazon.com/Medela-67068-Breastmilk-Cooler-Set/dp/B00H5OI9XO ) I have a pre set bottle of 2/2.5 and then I take a couple bottles with me. My lo isn't picky about the temp of the milk, so she will drink it straight out of the cooler. If yours are picky then I recommend filling up a bottle after the finish the one they are on so it has time to get to room temp.

Nipple shields are kind of annoying after awhile though, and sometimes they keep the baby from getting as much milk out. Have you seen [these things?] (http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-LANSINOH294983-Latchassist-Nipple-Everter/dp/B00112EIWW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370628332&sr=8-1&keywords=flat+nipple)