breast feeding

nursing bra

Designed to support breasts whilst breast feeding it is advisable to purchase a few weeks before your due date as your breasts will increase in size as your milk comes in.
It is advisable to get fitted properly so that you get the support and comfort you need.
Avoid underwired bras because they are thought to reduce the development of the milk ducts.
If you are choosing yourself, most baby books, catalogues and magazines will advise you how to measure yourself.
You may want to try wearing your bra through the night to make you more comfortable.
These bras are available in different styles such as a drop cup and zip that allows for easy access.
We would tell you how to work out your own bra size, but this would give you an excuse not to go for a fitting.
Don’t be embarrassed – get a professional fitting and you will be much more comfortable.
Stores like Mothercare, Debenhams and John Lewis all offer a bra fitting service.

Circular absorbent pads that fit inside your bra cup to catch any embarrassing leaks or spills.
Can be brought before the birth as you may leak colostrum during pregnancy and you will need them following the birth as your milk comes in.
You can buy disposable (come in packs of average 50) or washable (packs of average 5) and cotton and lacy ones are available if you are wearing something special on a night out!

Manual or battery operated device for expressing breast milk so that you can store milk or feed from a bottle.
Can also be used to help reduce breast engorgement orb if you have very sore nipple – a breast pump can be less painful than baby breast feeding as a temporary measure.
A breast pump should be purchased as soon as you have given birth if you intend to express milk either to let someone else feed your baby or if you intend to go back to work straight away.
It is probably best to buy one that matches your feeding bottles and milk storage equipment.
The pumps usually come apart into many pieces and care must be taken not to lose bits whilst cleaning and sterilising.
It is worth checking that the pump that you choose is appropriate for your method of sterilisation.
Breast pumps are quite expensive and you may want to borrow from a friend to try before you purchase, or buy second hand.
Of course you can always express milk by hand if you prefer.

When learning to breastfeed your baby mothers sometimes experience extremely painful, dried cracked nipples.
Nipple shields can give temporary relief to allow nipples to heal although midwifes tend to discourage regular use.
Brought in packs of two they can be sterilised and re-used.

All sorts of bags, bottles and other items for storing breast milk for feeding at a later time or date, either in the fridge or freezer.
Should be brought prior to the birth so you are able to express milk as soon as possible to relieve engorgement and keep a supply in freezer.
If you are only storing breast milk for emergencies then just using a normal feeding bottle with a sealing top is probably the best bet.
If you are intending to use a lot (e.g. for going back to work) then a large number of disposable, sealable storage bags would probably be a more economical.
Any sealable sterile container is suitable for temporary or occasional use.

A large V-shaped cushion that has many uses.
You will probably purchase a nursing cushion during your pregnancy to allow you to sit and sleep comfortably as you get bigger.
They can also be used to support your baby whilst breastfeeding and for propping your baby up whilst he is learning to sit.
Not usually expensive ensure you buy one with re-moveable cover that you can wash.
Spare covers can also be purchased.
You do not have to buy a baby cushion – any V-shaped cushion does the same job.