Supplies I actually need to breastfeed.

Checking the internet you will find a long lists of supplies to buy when you are planning to breastfeed. Well lets pull that list apart. the first question I have is do you plan to exclusivley breastfeed? If so your list of necessities just decreased.

Essentials

Nipple cream or lanolin- at some point you are likely to need something for nipples, your nipples will most likely initially be tender and this will be one of your best allies

Boppy/My Brest Friend/pillows- support for your arms and the baby makes the process much easier on both of you. You can buy a specialized pillow or you can use one you already have.

Nursing cover - can bee super useful if you need to feed in public but this one is personal preference.

Nursing bras- good support for you create less stress on you back muscles from milk heavy breast. Allows for a layer between breast and clothing to hold nursing pads in place.

Nursing pads -great to have on hand for the leaking. Just remember to keep them somewhat dry, wetness and the warm dark bra will make for nipple damage in the form of maceration

Disposable water bottle you will need to continue excellent hydration dehydrated moms loose ,milk supply

SNACKS- high energy high protein snacks, nuts, cheese, peanut butter. Appropriate snacks help keep up your caloric intake while you are doing the work of nursing and milk production.

Nice to have supplies

Haakaa - this little gem used correctly will help you catch the leaking from one breast while feeding at the other. There is more than one way to apply, See instructions.

Milk collectors these handy little gadgets sit inside a bra and just passively collect dripping milk. Some do not like the suction caused by the haakaa this is a viable alternative

Breast pump manual or battery / electric (with correectly sized flanges) - handy if you deliver early and have to pump. If you are pumping due to latch issues. and later if you need to return to work and still want to breastfeed. Note unless you are asked to put milk in the first few weeks try to latch as often as possible. Hand expression is useful to "empty" off extra milk for comfort. Nurse your baby frequently and let the nursing sessions set you milk supply. for the first 3-4 weeks.

Breast pump steam cleaning bags and quick clean wipes- Steam cleaning bags are really handy when you return to work, so are cleaning wipes. Neither replaces actually cleaning aand sterilizing your pump parts.

Breast milk storage bags. _ this method is a space saver for freezer stash.

Possible additional supplies- I would say use these on the advice of aa lactation consultant or physician

Niple shield these should be used in consultation with a lactation consultant, Incorrectly sized shields can cause nipple damage and will actually hinder mild transfer

Nipple shells Should also be sized to not cause damage if too small. Often have holes perforated to allow airflow for healing.

I am seeing a trend of wanting to pumpfrom the beginning to create a stash. The risk is the potential for creating an oversupply, which potentially can increase thee risk for clogs and mastitis. I do understand wanting to have milk set aside so spouses, family or caregivers have breastmilk to feed when mom is not with baby. it is great to have some milk set aside. Often that can be accomplished with minimal pumping'. The best times to pump are when you need pressure relief, or are power pumping under advice to increase milk supply. Musch of your short term stash can be obtained by using collection devices during feeds it is truly amazing how much milk actually leaks while feeding.