What Do I Really Need to Buy for Breastfeeding?

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By Jacque Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC, RLC 

It’s no secret that having a baby is expensive!  With all the buzz around certain products, we thought it would be helpful to break down what is a must-have and what might not be necessary (at least at first). 

 Must Haves: 

  1. A good quality, hospital strength, double electric breast pump- It’s true not every breastfeeding mom needs a pump, but it is estimated that 85% of breastfeeding mothers use a pump at some point in their breastfeeding journey. Even if you don’t plan to be separated from your baby for work, you may desire a night out or have to be separated due to other circumstances.  If your baby has trouble latching or you need to boost your supply, already having your pump will help prevent added stress. 
  2. An extra set of pump accessories- Duckbill valves, backflow protectors, flanges, tubes, and collection bottles are essential to your pump’s function. Having an extra set can save you or your partner from a midnight run to Target if one of your pieces gets lost or broken.
  3. Hands-free pumping bra – If you plan to pump, even just occasionally, a hands-free bra can be a game-changer!  Going hands-free gives you more freedom and allows for hands-on pumping to help increase pumping output.  
  4. Nursing bras – Many moms find the support of a nursing bra to be comfortable once their milk production ramps up.  The convenience of fold-down flaps can lead to reduced frustration when trying to get little one to latch.
  5. Hydrogel Pads – Your own breastmilk can be helpful for soothing and healing sore nipples, but hydrogel pads offer an added soothing coolness that many moms love.  Even if you don’t experience cracked nipples, hydrogel pads can be great to keep on hand for any nipple soreness that might occur. 
  6. A FEW milk storage containers/bags– While it’s tempting to stock up when those nesting urges hit, we recommend only purchasing a few milk storage containers or bags.  This gives you the opportunity to try different brands to find what you like before purchasing in bulk.  
  7. Bottles – Breastfed babies can be finicky when it comes to bottles.  For this reason, we recommend purchasing only a few to have on hand until you know what works best for your little one.  Registering for one of each of a few different brands is a great way to have a few to try when the time comes. 
  8. Water bottle – Staying hydrated is key when making milk!  Having a cute water bottle that you enjoy drinking from can be extra helpful when you’re stuck on the couch nursing or pumping. Have a water bottle that you like also encourages you to take it with you to get your water in on the go! 

While there are hundreds of products marketed to breastfeeding moms, the above list focuses on the basics to help get you started.  With this list, you can avoid expensive purchases that end up going unused.  If you find you desire extras like nursing tops, a pumping cart, breast massager, etc, there will be plenty of time to shop online while you’re nursing or pumping for your sweet bundle of joy!  
 
Have pumping or breastfeeding questions?  Schedule a free consultation with one of our 
Spectra Baby USA IBCLCs HERE.  

Have You Heard of Reverse Cycling?

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By Jacque Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC, RLC 

Reverse cycling is the term used when baby is nursing more at night and less during the day.  You may have heard someone refer to this as baby having their “days and nights mixed up”.  While many moms do their best to avoid Reverse Cycling, others choose to encourage it.  Reverse Cycling can be great for moms who wish to reduce the number of pumping sessions while they’re separated from baby during the day, for distracted babies who don’t seem to nurse well during waking hours, for busy toddlers who just don’t want to be still long enough to nurse, or for any reason that benefits mother and baby’s nursing relationship.  The goal is to keep baby’s intake the same despite feeding in an altered pattern. 

What you should know if you’re considering Reverse Cycling: 

-If your baby seems to be on a “nursing strike”, offering the breast during periods of sleepiness or through the night can often help preserve the nursing relationship until the strike is over.  

-Toddlers who are constantly on the move may not nurse well during the day.  Sometimes, this is perceived as an indication of weaning.  Offering the breast in the evening and overnight times can prevent weaning before mom and toddler are ready. 

-You can encourage Reverse Cycling by waking your little one to nurse.  It is important to keep baby’s intake the same, so be sure that he or she maintains the same number (or more) of nursing sessions despite changing to a reversed cycle. 

-Sharing a room with baby can make Reverse Cycling more convenient.  Nursing in a side-lying position can also help.  

-Studies show that moms and babies experience quality rest when breastfeeding overnight because their sleep cycle sync up. 

-Reverse Cycling can even be good for them milk supply!  Prolactin levels peak at night, which means night nursing sessions contribute to increased milk production. 

-If you choose to Reverse Cycle, consider adjusting your sleep schedule to allow for adequate rest.  If possible, go to be early, sleep late, and nap when baby naps.  

-If your child is with another care giver during the day, be sure to communicate that you are using a Reverse Cycle feeding pattern.  Informing your childcare provider about Reverse Cycling will help him/her feel more comfortable if baby takes less milk than expected throughout the day. 

Does Reverse Cycling sound like a good option for your family?  We can help make a plan to incorporate this feeding schedule into your routine.  Click HERE to schedule a free consultation with one of our Spectra Baby USA IBCLCs.