Here are your best friends when you're breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be challenging. As a mother, I've been through it many times and have figured out what would be on my list if I had to do it all over again. Here are my tips for products that can make breastfeeding a little easier and more comfortable.

Furthermore, I have written need-to-have or nice-to-have for each item, but remember, this is only my personal recommendation and your list may be completely different.

1. A good nursing bra (from Carriwell of course) – Need-to-have!

Let's start with the most important thing - a good nursing bra. When you're breastfeeding, you need support and comfort. The bigger your breasts, the more support you need, and Carriwell really nailed it. Their nursing bras are soft, flexible, and provide the support you need without being too tight. Plus, they're super easy to open and close with one hand, which is a real bonus when you've got a hungry baby on your arm.

Don't do what I did and look at the price and think it could be even cheaper – it's just a nursing bra – only to find out that quality and price often go hand in hand. It scratched and pinched and was so uncomfortable when the milk came in that I ran to the nearest store and bought two Carriwells. Unfortunately, it ended up being an expensive lesson. (You can find all nursing bras from Carriwell right here.) here

2. Nursing pads – Need-to-have!

Nursing pads are a must! They protect your clothes from milk leaks and keep you dry and comfortable all day long. There are both disposable and reusable pads available, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Reusable pads are often both more environmentally friendly and economically advantageous, as they can be used over and over again. What I didn't know was that both reusable nursing pads and disposable nursing pads come in several different materials. Reusable nursing pads in particular can be purchased in cotton, silk and wool. If I were to recommend something to you, my recommendation would be silk nursing pads – they have a cooling and soothing effect on your sore nipples and are especially good for sore and cracked nipples. (This could possibly be Carriwell's silk nursing pads which can be found here )

3. Nursing pillow – Nice-to-have!

Many people really want to invest in a good and supportive nursing pillow, and for many it can be absolutely indispensable, especially in the first months. It helps support your baby in the right position and relieves your arms and back. I have tried several different ones, but found that a pillow with a filling that can be adjusted according to which breastfeeding position I am in, suited me best. It made breastfeeding much more comfortable for both me and baby.

My recommendation is therefore, try it out in stores and choose the one that can be adjusted to suit you and your baby, instead of pulling the nearest and nicest nursing pillow off the shelves. There is a huge difference in which nursing pillow you have in your hands. Some are hard, others are far too soft. The bottom line is, if it doesn't suit you, it will quickly gather dust somewhere else.

4. Breastfeeding – Nice-to-have !

Breastfeeding can be a lovely little luxury in everyday life. It helps stimulate milk production and is also a nice time for yourself. There are many different varieties, so try them out and find your favorite. It can also be a wonderful way to get some peace and relaxation in the middle of a busy day. (Our midwife has written an article about increasing milk production and Breastfeeding tea - read it now. here )

5. Breast pump – Nice-to-have !

This recommendation may be controversial, so I speak 100% from my own experience. A breast pump for me was simply fantastic to have in the house. It gave me peace of mind, because it gave my partner the opportunity to take over during the evening, so I could sleep for a little longer at night. There was also the option to pump, so I could exercise with peace of mind that for half an hour to a full hour, it would not be necessary for me to be available.

There are both electric and manual pumps, and both have their advantages. An electric pump can be faster and more efficient, while a manual pump can be more discreet and easy to take with you on the go.

When it comes to breast pumps, for most people it comes down to your situation and how you as a couple would like breastfeeding to be for you and your baby. For most breastfeeding moms, a breast pump probably won't be a necessary investment, so talk to your partner about how you would like breastfeeding to be.

6. Breast shells – Nice-to-have !

Breast shells can be a great help if you experience sore or flat nipples. They protect the nipples from friction and help collect excess milk. They are discreet and can be worn under your clothes without being visible.

7. Nipple cream – Need-to-have!

Sore nipples are unfortunately often a common part of breastfeeding, especially in the beginning. A good nipple cream can work wonders. Look for one with lanolin, which is known for its healing properties. Apply the cream after each feeding to keep the skin soft and protected.

8. A pacifier – Nice-to-have !

A pacifier can be a great help, but not all babies need one. My own children have been very different – ​​one used a pacifier a lot, while the other was not interested at all. If I were to buy a pacifier again, I would make sure it was designed for breastfeeding babies. This can help reduce the confusion around sucking technique, so breastfeeding remains as trouble-free as possible. It’s definitely a “nice to have”, but not necessarily a must for everyone.

Breastfeeding is a journey filled with ups and downs, but with the right tools, it can be an even more beautiful and rewarding experience. Remember that you are not alone and that it is okay to ask for help. We mothers need to stick together and support each other through this amazing time.

Good luck with breastfeeding!