Getting the basics for breast feeding ready...

[mama2moo]

And could do with some help.

I am really hoping it works out for dc2 (dd I bottle fed from day one as I never wanted to bf)

I want to put together all the essentials before dc2 arrives as I wont have time aferwards.

Breast shields - Which ones are best? I have read in several places that these are handy for when you have really sore days.

Breast pads - Any recommendations on the best ones?

Support pillows - Are the specific breast feeding ones really that good or do normal pillows/cushions do?

Is there anything I will need? I have a sterilizer and bottles and will buy a breast pump soon.

Thanks

I wouldn't get breast shields, they can cause probs, best to try without them unless desperate I reckon.

Lansinoh before every feed is a much better bet.

Some people swear by silverettes too.

Breast pads - I found the disposable ones with the little adhesive bits so they didn't slip out where the best - a bit more expenive than washables, but worth it. You will need a few feeding bras, as they can ofetn get a bit wet (lovely!!) overnight. I was lucky enough to have a good sleeper (6 hours at a time at night from return from hospital - see it can happen with a breasyfed baby) - and I would often wake up with a major leak!

Have water bottles dotted around the house at the places you intend to feed, so you will never be short of a drink.

I had a v shaped cushion that I had bought in pregnancy to support my legs/hips when lying on my side, and this was handy when feeding - but wouldn't say essential. I used ordinary pillows and cushions as well just as easily.

LANSINOH

And be liberal with it

I found "proper" BF pillows etc very uncomfortable and was happiest with a cushion from the sofa. Don't be afraid to experiement with different combos - trying to make it work with the one you spent £££ on because it is the "proper" one is a mistake.

I like the Lansinoh breast pads as well.

Feeding bras - only buy one or 2 to start with to check you get the right size.

Be ready to spend a lot of time on the sofa - think about what you are going to get DC1 to do while you are feeding.

PS: Second the lanisoh recommendation. My nipples were a bit sore at firsy, but used this rtegualrly and it went away.