I have a pump ready, I also got breastmilk storage bags, a nipple shield, and nursing pads for in my bras.
I am not sure what else I need... I know I need bras, but how many sleep and how many regular?
Anything else I am missing that would be essential/helpful?
Thanks
Re: What do I need for "me" to breastfeed?
Lanolin to put on your nipples when they're sore (Lansinoh makes the one most people use). Just be careful -- it'll stain any fabric it touches.
For bras, don't buy any yet because your bra size will change. Buy 3 or 4 nursing tank tops from Target (Gilligan and O'Malley brand). Those will get you through the first couple weeks. Then go out and buy bras once your milk has come in and engorgement has gone down. I don't wear a sleep bra anymore -- I usually wear a nursing tank to bed, but sometimes I wear nothing.
These gel pads are handy to have around for the first couple weeks...will definitely help with the nipple tenderness. I'd recommend even taking them with you to the hospital.
Link: https://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2901998
I only used nursing pads (I am very lucky and don't have sensitive nipples so didn't get the shields or creams until I thought I needed them which I never did). I did get nursing bras beforehand and just bought them big - I have a weird size so I was stressing about having a hard time finding them after the baby was born (I just bought big). I have one sleep/comfort bra, 2 regular, 2 tanks (which I love and wear to sleep sometimes too) and my mom got me a nursing nightgown which I use a lot too.
The only other thing I really liked having (besides nursing pillows) was a water bottle my friend bought me with a built in straw. I also used bendy straws too - when I first began nursing, I was thirsty ALL THE TIME so this allowed my husband to help me drink while feeding.
lanisoh lanolin
tanks/bras
breast pads (ultrasoft lanisoh are really nice at first)
boppy
burp cloths
comfy rocker/glider w/ foot stool/rest
https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/products/breast-care/102/softshells-for-sore-nipples
A good friend (and an experienced bf'er) got these for me. I will forever be in her debt!! They saved my poor nips in the first few weeks.