What do I need?

[LittlemissMama67]

Okay I’m thinking about breastfeeding my baby due in September..

Im clueless what would I actually need?

I’d say the most important thing you need is the details of local breast feeding support groups and, if possible, a recommended private lactation consultation. Hopefully you won’t need either, but it is worth having their details at the ready.

in terms of ‘stuff’… lanisoh nipple cream is a must. Breast pads standard.

Haakaa solicone breast pump. The other breast can go wild while you feed on one side. This helps to draw out/ catch the milk uncontrollably dribbling.

I think that’s all I’d consider essential.

An electric breast pump may or may not be useful. I’d say buy it closer to the time but do not unpack until you want to use it. You may not need it and it could be refunded if you don’t need it.

Also do a blossom antenatal course
They are free online and live so you can ask your questions
They are brilliant

Very very little. I'd say:
Nipple cream
Breast pads
Haaka pump or similar
Clothing and bras which give you access. You might well not need any special nursing clothes, as most things can be pulled up or down.
Details of a BF support group, as PP says.

Good luck!

You don't really need anything. I've bf 3 dc and never ever used a pump. Breast pads are useful; I like the washable bamboo ones on Amazon. I guess nipple cream but I didn't really need it - breastfeeding didn't hurt me. As pp said, clothes to breastfeed in. I've found bralets or comfort bras that you can just pull down much easier and cheaper than proper nursing bras. That's it really. Read up as much as you can on what to expect- the kellymom website is helpful. Ignore all the weird sites that suggest you need to follow a very specific diet - you don't. Eat what you want and drink lots of water. Good luck!

Breasts (sorry, couldn't resist 😅)

In all seriousness, get reusable breast pads (Amazon sell them), a Hakka, tops for bedtime that will hold breast pads in the right position - tight vest tops, sleep bras, comfy crop tops, whatever you're comfortable in. Nursing bras. Don't bother with actual nursing tops, cost a fortune and not necessary - I lived in big T-shirts and high waisted leggings/jeggings. Nipple cream for early days but don't go mad as you won't need it for too long. Breast milk storage bags - build up a freezer stash with what you catch from the Hakka.

Don't do what I did and buy a £200 breast pump and never use it 🙈

And lastly - patience. It's a learning curve for you and for your baby. It probably will hurt to start with, but that only lasted about a week for me. If it's excruciating make sure they check for a tongue tie and don't let them fob you off. Good luck!

Boobs really are rhe only things everyone needs to breastfeed. Washable breast pads were so much softer than the disposable ones. A muslin is useful to stop spills on your clothes. Ds2 wouldn't go near a book with nipple cream on it or take a bottle, so didn't pump for him.

Watch all the videos on youtube about how to get a good latch.
Look up how to safely cosleep.

A long charging cable for your phone, in bed and on the sofa.
TV streaming service.
Snacks, water bottle contigo mug.

Kellymom have produced a useful list of what you need here

Yes to the long charging cable for your phone. And a bedside cabinet full of snacks. Plenty of water.

I bought lansinoh nipple cream and have never needed it but I'd rather have had it and not need it than suffer with sore nipples and have nothing to hand. It's come in handy as a barrier cream for dribble rash.

Lansinoh reusable breast pads were a must for me until about 4/5 months in. I bought a lot.

Haakaas are amazing. I bought 3.

I never bothered with special nursing bras or tops.

Forgot to add, I think some upthread mentioned putting the BFing Helpline numbers in your phone. That's a really good idea, and definitely don't be afraid to call them. The BFC's have taken the training because they want to support BFing Mums

I'd also suggest going to your local BFing Support Groups as soon as you are on Mat Leave as you'll meet lots of local Mums and Mums-to-Be.

It's also worth having a read up on the fourth trimester so you know what normal baby behaviour looks like and have a read of Breastfeeding Your Newborn- What to Expect in the Early Weeks.

This article on Tongue Tie should help you to spot the symptoms, just in case LO has it

What everyone else said plus Bluetooth headphones! Or any headphones really but after a while my daughter would tug on the cable. I listened to all 7 Harry Potters when my daughter was newborn 😊

That's a really good suggestion ohcrap!