Breastfeeding Success

In addition to the recent video I posted on Youtube.. I wanted to take some time and go over in a blog for those of you who prefer reading over watching videos. Of course I go into more details on my video so if you want to check that out I will link it at the end. Yesterday's "Hot Topic Tuesday" was Breastfeeding! In this post I will be talking about breastfeeding must-haves and also so tips to surviving the newborn stage in breastfeeding AKA the Cluster Feeds.

Let me begin with a little overview about my breastfeeding experiences with my three children.
1st was Russell: he only breastfed for 3 weeks. I was frustrated and confused and didn't anticipate the difficulty of breastfeeding in the first month. I supplemented way more than I needed to and just wanted to not be frustrated and enjoy my baby so I switched to all formula.. I regretted it but we still have a very close bond but he did suffer from many ear infections when he got older and ended up getting tubes in his ears.

2nd was Vivianna: She was nursed until she was 5 months. I didn't understand that babies at that age start looking around and will pull off.. I thought she wasn't getting enough. On top of that I was embarrassed to breastfeed in public even with a cover and would give her formula (didn't pump because I only had a manual and hated using it) when we went out to friends houses. That led to very full breasts!  If only I wouldn't have been embarrassed we would've lasted a lot longer.

3rd is Sarah: I am currently nursing her! She is going to be 9 months in a week. She is exclusively breastfed and I introduced baby food at 6 months. I pump with an electric pump when I have any babysitters (that very rare because she is normally with me wherever I go).

I believe my success is due to feeding on demand (not just every 2-3 hours) especially in the first months. Anytime she rooted I gave her. Another reason is not being embarrassed to nurse publicly or in front of friends and family. I use my cover but if you don't need that then by all means do what you feel comfortable with. Next, I'm going to show you what products I used and what is so great about them!

1: Nursing pillows: Boppy Pillow or MyBrestFriend

This nursing pillow provides back support, gentle contouring for baby, nice arm rest, an adjustable strap to make it tighter or looser, and a nifty pocket!

The Boppy pillow is a great pillow the has multiple uses for baby. It is very cushioned and wraps around mommy. The only downside is that it is very big so women with short torsos beware! Leaves a gap for women with smaller bellies. However, it provides great support for baby when they begin sitting and if they are going to drink out of a bottle or sippy cup you can lay them on it.

 2. Storage bags:  a must have for pumping and storing in the freezer! These give you allow you to go on a date night for a little while and are great for the working mother going back to work to make a supply.

Lansinoh has double ziplock and a convenient pour spout.









Medela has made a NEW feature.. allow you to pump directly into the bag and not the bottle and then the bag!






3: Lanolin- This helps sooth cracked or sore nipples. (I recommend to use before there is any soreness after every feeding)

This stuff was amazing! A friend of mine (Sandra) brought up a great point! You can express breast milk and rub it on your nipple. Allow it to air dry. It really does help!






4. A bottle: Obviously you want to breastfeed as much as possible but for whenever baby is with a sitter you need a bottle!

Any bottle will due. My baby took this one (Nuk) and a medela bottle.








5. Nursing cover: For those of you who prefer to be covered up.

 I personally loved this one because of the neck.. it had a nice view of the baby so you don't have to struggle trying to look and cover at the same time..These are called UDDER COVERS - plus they have really cute newer prints!



6.  I don't have a picture of one but a nursing pad is a must to catch the leaking milk and prevent leaking through to your clothing.  I LOVE Johnson's brand they are IN MY OPINION the softest and work so well!

7. Last but not least WATER.

You've got to stay hydrated while nursing so always have some nearby!






If you are interested in watching my video with more details  I posted the link below
Hot Topic Tuesday: Breastfeeding VIDEO