Now that Navy is 10 months old, I feel as though I finally have a hang of this mom thing. There are a few items that got me through and I wanted to share my must haves while breastfeeding.
First things first. From the very beginning I Was pretty bullheaded when it came to breastfeeding. I didn’t allow myself to even think I wasn’t going to breast-feed or that there was another option. This thought process worked for me. It’s not for everyone but it’s how I get through.
There have been times when I’ve seen my milk decrease some. Whether it was because my period starting, working out or change in my diet. I had a couple of things in my back pocket to help me increase it… Besides the obvious relax and eating a lot!
Breastfeeding Medicinal
Breast pump
While we are on the topic of breastfeeding, I can’t go on without sharing the breast pump I’ve used. Medela actually sent this to me when I was pregnant. When I first opened the box and saw all the parts, I was overwhelmed. But after using it about 5 times, I got the hang of it and now I can use it with my eyes shut.
A good carrying bag and cooler
Keeping it real and real simple when it comes the the bag and cooler I’ve chosen to use. These have worked for me and I don’t feel like they are screaming, “hey I’m about to pump!”
Lots of skirts and T’s
Since wearing a dress these days is rare it’s nice to get dressed up. Even if it is just to the grocery store. Which sometimes is the highlight of my week. By choice. I’ve become such a home body these day. It’s been quite enjoyable.
Microderm Wand
Since getting a good facial is out of the question if you’re breastfeeding, having a personal Microdermabrasion wand is a must. This is by far one of my favorite beauty products. My recommendation is to start off on level one. Even if you don’t feel like it’s doing anything. Do this for a few times (once a week) and then move to setting #2. Give your skin a chance to recover. If you are breastfeeding your skin will be slightly more fragile.
Water bottle that measures ounces
Everyone could use this great find! Sure there are a million water bottles out there that measure ounces. But are they pretty?
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Love these tips/item recommendations! Gotta get that water bottle and wand! 🙂
Love these!!!! I need to get the facial wand for sure! Thanks for sharing
Your baby is the cutest!
Can I triple enter you?! Haha thank you.
Thank you for this post Ashlee! I am 8 months pregnant and reading ALL the new baby info!
Congratulations. Should you ever need help with anything or looking for something let me know.
I agree with being stubborn about breast feeding and just being determine to DO IT! With child no 1 I delivered end of July and was miserable and we didn’t have much money. I bought a little cylinder manual pump at a garage sale from my OB-gyn and really liked it (convenient, simple to pack..no wires/batteries..easy to clean) I developed hot spots in my breast at first and almost quit but stuck to it and continued until I went on a trip with friends when my baby was 6 months old. I left lots of frozen milk for her but when I came back she wasn’t too interested and the milk had ceased. With the next 2 I stepped up to an elec Mag-Mag pump that was easier (even tho I still used my hand pump a lot too..because of the reasons I listed above) I breast Fed those 2 until 3 years old!!! Mainly at night for comfort (for both of us) and to wind down. It is the best! So I am so glad you hung in there..and I can relate! Keep it up!
Wow. Incredible. Thank you for sharing.
Love the cooler you shared, such a cute bag. My sis would probably love this bag, she is due with her 2nd soon. I love the bag for just my own personal use. Lol I have 4 babies and don’t plan on having anymore .
I actually ended up using my manual pump more often than my electric one. It just felt easier. 🤷♀️
Love using mine too. People think I’m craxy but I don’t mind it.
Thanks for all the tips! Currently breastfeeding my second ( 3mo)
Hi Ashlee! I’ve been following you for a little while and have enjoyed seeing your beautiful family 💕 The fenugreek was something I used when I was nursing my first babe and I will never forget the way it made me smell…like pancake syrup 😂 I remember thinking, “Well, it could be worse. Maybe people will think I work at IHOP or something.” Haha. Anyway, Navy is a doll and I’m so happy that your breastfeeding journey hasn’t ended in spite of some set backs ❤️ It’s the simplest (for most) thing we can do for our children that will ensure a healthy start at life!
That’s hilarious. Others have shared similar stories. Maybe it’s my PH, but I haven’t noticed any smells. I do drink a lot of water….
Thanks for the recommendations and sharing so much of your life. Love following you as a fellow mommy!
Love these tips! I finished a year with my son and it’s not easy. Kudos to you for making the best of and enjoying a hard journey!
I had the hardest time breastfeeding. My babies would never gain weight. I ended up exclusively pumping for my baby for 10.5 months. It was the hardest thing I have ever done. Great job sticking with it. It’s very rewarding but not as easy as it seems 😊
Just reading this now and like you I am 10 months in breastfeeding with my second and always learning something new. I bought the medela pump when I 1st started because of you. It’s awesome!! Thank you! I definitely need to try the wand though. Thanks for all the recommendations!