Hello,
I am in the process of registering, and I was wondering what is necessary to get for breastfeeding. I don't plan on pumping too often, so I was thinking about getting a manual pump. I also registered for a wrap and a Bobby. What else would you recommend? How many bottles will I need for when I do pump? How about freezer bags or lotion or bra pads? I'm not sure what to register for and how much. TIA!
Re: BF essentials?
I think it depends on how often you are going to pump. If you aren't planning on pumping very often, I assume you are going to SAHM and not need more than a few bottles at one time? I pump at work and send 4 bottles a day to daycare everey day, and I just have 8 altogther. If I were you, I'd probably get 4 or so. (We use Born Free, and DS adjusted to them really well.)
I use Medela pump and save bags to freeze milk. For storage in the fridge, I just keep it in the collection bottles or go ahead and make the bottles ahead of time.
For BF generally, get some Lanisoh cream -- it's the best! Yes, you'll also need nursing pads. If you plan to be out and about, you may need a nursing cover. Even if you're modest, you can BF discreetly with it.
Will you be pumping at work, or just casually to have an emergency stash? I have to pump 15-16 oz per day for daycare, and a manual pump wouldn't be sufficient. I have 12 bottles: 3 to send to daycare, 3 for me to pump at work, 3 full in the fridge as back-up milk, and 3 cleaned and ready for use.
Definitely get pads. So far, I like Gerber reusables the best, but I haven't tried many brands.
I never use my lanolin. EBM works better for me.
My nascent blog
Haaaatttteeee the manual pump. My hand cramps.
You will need nursing pads. I leaked a lot so I had to use disposable for the first few months. I had the best luck with Lansioh and Medela. I leaked right through Gerber every single time.
I still use nipple cream here and there. I have a tube of Lansioh and some from motherlove (www.motherlove.com)
My Brest Friend (It's a nursing pillow and it's waaaay better than my boppy.) You must buy one.
Lansinoh ointment (olive oil works in a pinch).
Target nursing tanks.
I actually use cotton make-up removal pads for leaking. (But I don't wear tight clothes). Breast pads were too irritating.