I knew prior to having sweet Vivian Louise that I wanted to nurse her. I even knew it was challenging but knowing that God made us Mammas to feed our babies this way I was hopeful that it would all work out. I even took a class on it and surprisingly it was very helpful. If you've had a baby in past several years you know that the medical community as well as our society now is very forceful that women do it - basically calling formula the devil's milk. Listen gals, yes breast is best but how about fed is best?!!! Amen?!! I'm not happy about all the pressure out there. Being a mother is hard just do your very best and what's right for you.
So, if you are embarking on the nursing journey here's what helped me survive. And when I say survive I'm talking enduring hundreds of pumps, cracking, bleeding, mastitis and a preemie that bless her heart was just too tiny to help. And I'm still trying to figure it out.
Nursing Pads - These are great as a barrier in your bras so that the coconut oil does get on them and/or if you leak (thank goodness that hasn't happened yet)
Heating Pads - These feel soooo good! When I developed mastitis I would put these as warm as I could tolerate in my nursing bras for 15 minutes prior to pumping.
Shield - Baby girl was just too tiny to nurse for the first month but with the help of my angel of a lactation nurse helping me every week and this plastic she can do it. I was set free from the pump. It also protected my wounded skin that was cracking and bleeding so I could heal. I use it every time. It's a little annoying having to keep up with it but it's a minor inconvenience compared to the pumping tasks.
Strapless Bra - MUST have! I even sent Mr home from the hospital the day after she was born to get it. Thank goodness I had already ordered it. I'm actually wearing it now pumping and writing this post!!
Pillow - Amazing! I don't know how to feed her without it. Because it goes all the way around it supports my back so I'm not leaning over. It also holds her up so we are both comfortable.
Coconut Oil - Magic in a jar! I've never used it for anything before but have heard it has great properties. I can attest that it truly does! I apply it to my skin after every pump and it has made the most impact on my healing. I also use it on the flanges of my pump and on skin while pumping.
Lecithin - Magic in a pill! I take it several times a day. I would get lemon sized knots / clogged ducts daily and would have to work so hard to massage them. I haven't had any since taking this!
Storage bags - You work so hard to make this liquid gold you must preserve it - another thing I'm so grateful I had ordered before she was born. I'm on my second box and blessed to have so much supply for her.
Sanitizing Bags - I've had 3 gal pals recommend these. My hands were literally feeling like sand paper from all the washing of pump parts. Life saver.
Pump Wipes - these are amazing for pumping on the go. I've done it in the car several times now.
Bible - Life Essential!!! I keep it by my chair in her nursery.
Iphone / Ipad - I use it for the 20 min timer to pump and to entertain myself while either pumping or nursing.
I hope this was helpful to you or maybe can be for someone you know.
The biggest lesson I've learned is that it truly takes a village and us Mammas must stick together.
I welcome any wisdom you can share with me :)
Nurse Beautifully
XOXO Sarah Louise
1 comment:
It is good to read, that a passionate nursing mom doesn´t demonize formula feeding. I nursed for 6 month and than switched to formula, because it really hurt me that much. Even I tried my best and spent a lot of money in the best organic formula from europe like this, I had to defend myself so hard. So thanks for your open mind and helping young mothers on all sides!
Love,
Utha
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