Wondering what you need to successfully breastfeed? Fret not, lady, because we’ve done our research and have compiled a list of our favorite products just for you. These breastfeeding basics are perfect for your Christmas list, and will make breastfeeding so much more comfortable and efficient. 

1. Breast Pump

If you’re planning on going back to work soon after birth or you travel a lot or you just need a break, then you’ll definitely want a breast pump! A breast pump allows you freedom to leave milk with your partner, family member, or sitter so baby can eat the delicious milk she’s accustomed to while you’re working, traveling, or simply taking a much-needed nap. 

2. Breast Pads

Leaking is real, we can’t deny it. That’s why you should deeeefinitly put breast pads on your list. Breast pads are pads worn inside the bra against the nipple to help absorb any breast milk that leaks from the breast and keep it from leaving marks on a garment. These puppies will save your puppies from a ton of embarrassment! 

 

 

3. Breast Comfort Pack

Engorgement, clogged ducts, and mastitis are common problems for breastfeeding mamas – that’s where warm and cold packs come in! Cold packs soothe the aching that comes with engorgement and assist with swelling in general. Conversely, warm packs encourage milk flow in mamas that have trouble making enough milk. Both will bring you sweet, sweet relief. 

4. Nursing Bras

You’ll want a nursing bra instead of a regular bra for several reasons, including convenient access for breastfeeding, adjustable support for your fluctuating breasts, concealment of leaks, and more comfortable and flexible material. The best nursing bras are soft, supportive and stretchy to allow room for your breasts as they fill with milk!

5. Nursing Cover

Nursing covers are another option for you to nurse discretely in public. This is completely optional (remember, you have a right to nurse in public), but many mamas prefer to cover their babies while breastfeeding in public. That said, a nursing cover is not only functional, it can also give moms peace of mind while nursing in public. Bonus: You can have fun choosing patterns and colors!

6. Nipple Care

During the first few weeks breastfeeding, it is common for nipples to become sore, chafed, and very tender. Using a soothing creme after nursing or pumping prevents these issues from becoming too uncomfortable and helps nipples heal. 

Always check the ingredients to see if there’s something you know you’ll react badly to. This is a breastfeeding essential that takes a bit of trial and error before you find a brand you love, but it’s worth it. Don’t feel silly adding this to your list; those little creams are lifesavers. 

7. Nursing Pillow

This is one of the most important necessities when it comes to breastfeeding because it will keep your arms from falling asleep and give you and baby the most comfortable position. Nursing pillows hug your abdomen and are firm enough to position baby comfortably at chest-level, bringing him closer than a normal pillow. Make sure that whichever one you choose is comfortable for you and provides the support your baby needs while you’re feeding!

8. Lactation Cookies

We’d be remiss if we didn’t add our cookies to the list. Power-packed with many types of galactagogues, our signature cookies have helped thousands of mama’s around the United States increase their milk production. And, they’re soooooo yummy. 

We hope this list has been helpful to you as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world and embark on your breastfeeding journey. Share it with your mom, partner, or best friend so they know what to get you for Christmas! No better way to celebrate the holiday than showering mama with gifts 😉