These are the products I wish I had registered for as a breastfeeding mom

The idea of breastfeeding can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve probably read about the countless benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your baby. But it’s less common to hear about the not-so-glamorous side of breastfeeding or pumping. Because breastfeeding your newborn will basically be your full-time job, breastfeeding and pumping can take a toll on your physical and mental health in ways that are hard to prepare for. Thankfully, even as a second-time mom, there are so many new products that help make breastfeeding more flexible and more convenient. It wasn’t until after the birth of my second baby that I co-founded Leche to help moms do just that! Here’s what else I’d recommend as you embark on your breastfeeding journey—whether it’s your first foray or your fifth.  

What to register for as a breastfeeding mom

Here are a few things I wish I knew before I began my own breastfeeding and pumping journey.

Postpartum support

Hormone fluctuations, sleepless nights and the toll of the mental load in motherhood can make it hard to reach out for extra help like a doula or therapist, but it’s so vital to have an impartial person who can support you in those early days, weeks and months. 

There are so many amazing registry companies that actually allow you to register for a doula, mental health professional. PSA: Register for these support services before you actually need them! 

Lactation support 

It’s important to remember that every mom and baby are different, and it may take some time to get into a flow with breastfeeding. Because your milk supply changes with a variety of factors like nutrition and hydration, age of your baby, time of feedings and overall demand from your little ones, it may seem difficult to understand how to navigate, predict and measure your breast milk output and ensure your baby is getting enough. A lactation consultant can answer any questions you may have and help you troubleshoot any issues. Consider registering for their services (though your insurance may also cover a portion).

A good pump and accessories

Remember: Pumping is breastfeeding. Pumping breast milk can be a great option for moms who want to ensure their baby has access to breast milk even when breastfeeding isn’t possible. It allows you to have a supply of milk on hand, and can be used when you’re away, or when your baby is unable to breastfeed. 

Additionally, pumping can help to maintain milk supply and give you some flexibility in your busy life as a mom. Most insurance plans will cover one pump, but you might want to register for pumping accessories to help make the job easier. Remember to bring your pump to the hospital or birthing center with you so that you have some immediate support in working out any initial pumping kinks with a trusted healthcare circle.    

On-the-go pump

Compact and wearable breast pumps make on-the-go pumping easy and in some cases, undetectable. So whether you are traveling, heading back to the office or pumping in the pickup line, an on-the-go pump is your new best friend.   

Pumping and nursing bras

It’s smart to stock up. Invest in some functional yet beautiful pieces that will carry you through this very specific stage in your life. You’ll feel more at ease with the process with the right support products at hand. 

Nipple care essentials

Breast pads, nipple balm and Silverettes are helpful to keep your sensitive bits feeling 100% while you’re pumping or breastfeeding. 

Earth Mama Organics

Organic Nipple Butter

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$13.99

Soothing sore nipples has never been easier. Earth Mama’s Organic nipple butter is made of safe, healing ingredients that provide both instant relief and long-term healing. And because it’s free of petroleum, parabens and other chemicals, you don’t have to worry about your baby ingesting anything they shouldn’t be. It’s also melts right into the skin while maintaining enough of a coating to do the work.

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Bottles that fit your lifestyle

Technologically advanced and data-driven feeding is having a moment. Emulait and nfant are two brands that are taking the guesswork out of latching and keeping track of baby’s feedings. 

Collector cups

Want to build a fridge or freezer stash with virtually no effort? Enter collector cups! If you’re breastfeeding on one side, these devices collect excess breast milk from your opposite breast. Those “excess” sessions can add up over time, allowing you to stockpile more breast milk for future feedings or even freeze drying.  

haaka

Ladybug Breast Milk Collector

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$34.99

Tucked discreetly in your bra, the haaka Ladybug milk collector is designed to catch every precious drop of breast milk during let down, either when you’re feeding or throughout the day. The Ladybug’s innovative design securely attaches to your breast, ensuring no leaks or spills and when you’re done, just pop the top and pour the milk into a bottle.

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Breast milk storage solutions

While freezing or refrigerating breast milk is still the most common storage method, freeze drying is considered the best form of preservation for breast milk as it removes the water content from milk, leaving behind only the nutrients and enzymes. Freeze-dried breast milk can be stored for up to three years at room temperature, whereas fresh milk can only be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and frozen milk for up to 6 months. Interested to see if Leche is right for you? Check out these flexible travel and everyday options here. 

It's My Leche

Everyday Leche

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$299

Everyday Leche is a convenient and versatile product that allows you to store your breast milk on the shelf at home. This freeze-dried breast milk powder can be easily mixed into bottles or added to first foods, providing a convenient solution for busy parents. With a 3-year shelf life and maximum nutrient preservation, Everyday Leche ensures that your liquid gold remains fresh and nutritious. The purchase includes a custom shipping kit with all necessary materials, as well as a 100% money back guarantee.

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It's My Leche

Premier

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$349

Leche Premier is a convenient solution for modern, on-the-go parents who want to easily store and transport their breast milk. With Leche Premier, you can freeze dry up to 75 ounces of your breast milk, transforming it into a shelf-stable powder with a 3-year shelf life. This maximizes nutrient preservation and ensures that your liquid gold remains safe and usable whenever you need it. Each Leche Premier purchase includes a custom shipping kit with a pharmaceutical-grade cooler and ice bricks, as well as all other necessary shipping materials. With a prepaid overnight FedEx shipping label, there are no hidden fees or additional shipping costs. Leche Premier also provides 20 heat-sealed, individual sachets (10g) for travel or on-the-go feedings. These sachets are conveniently packed in a cylinder tin for easy shelf storage until ready for use. Plus, Leche Premier offers a 100% money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

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A note on what to register for if you plan to breastfeed 

Breastfeeding and pumping is not always easy, but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have as a new mom. And while we know that nutritionally your breast milk is perfect for your little one, maintaining an exclusive supply is real work. For your mental and physical health as a mom, caregiver and so much more, it’s so important that you focus on your needs, too. We can’t say this enough… reach out for help! Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for the other. Be kind and compassionate to yourself, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.