What Do Parents Really Need to Buy to Prepare for Breastfeeding (and What Can They Skip)?
What Do Parents Really Need to Buy to Prepare for Breastfeeding (and What Can They Skip)?
When preparing for breastfeeding, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the endless list of products marketed as “must-haves.” From breast pumps to silverettes and special pillows, you may find yourself wondering, Do I really need all this stuff? The truth is, while some products can be helpful, many are optional. What matters most is the support and guidance you receive—and that’s where I come in as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Let’s take a look at what you really need, what you can skip, and how personalized support can make all the difference.
The Myth of Needing Everything
There’s a common misconception that you need to buy every product under the sun to ensure breastfeeding goes smoothly. But much of breastfeeding success isn’t about having the perfect gear—it’s about having the right support and knowledge. In fact, many challenges parents face can be overcome with proper guidance rather than products.
One of the best ways to prepare for breastfeeding is to schedule a prenatal consultation with an IBCLC. These visits can help you get ahead of potential challenges, set realistic expectations, and provide you with tailored strategies for success. A good foundation is often more helpful than a long list of products.
What Can You Skip, and What’s Helpful?
Let’s break down a few common breastfeeding products and whether they’re really necessary:
Breast Pumps: Many parents don’t need a pump right away. Unless you’re planning to be away from your baby for extended periods or face specific challenges like low milk supply, you can hold off on purchasing a pump until you can meet with an IBCLC to figure out the best pump for your specific situation, find the right size and create an individualized pumping plan. I also offer hospital-grade pump rentals if the need arises.
Breastfeeding Pillows: A breastfeeding pillow can be a nice-to-have item, but it’s not essential. Many parents find that regular pillows work just fine for positioning their baby during feeds. In fact, learning to breastfeed without a specialized pillow can often make feeding more flexible and comfortable in various settings. This is something I can help you with during our sessions—getting comfortable with different positions and setups so you can feed confidently, no matter where you are.
Silverettes: These silver nipple shields are marketed to help with nipple pain and healing, but they can actually cause more harm than good! Silverettes trap moisture (like sweat and milk) against the skin, which can worsen swelling and cause grooves in the areola. Instead of relieving pain, they may aggravate it. I recommend skipping silverettes and focusing on proper latch and positioning to prevent issues from developing in the first place.
Nipple Shields: Nipple shields should only be used in specific situations, such as when a baby is premature. They should always be used under under close supervision of a health care professional like an IBCLC. Using them without professional guidance can cause more problems, including affecting milk supply and your baby’s ability to transfer milk effectively. If you think you need a nipple shield, are using one and can’t figure out how to stop using one - reach out to an IBCLC first. Together, we can assess your situation and determine the best approach.
Bottles: If you plan to introduce bottle-feeding, having a few bottles on hand can be useful, but you don’t need to rush into it. The early days are often about establishing breastfeeding, and you can decide what works best for you and your baby later on. If you need help with bottle-feeding or transitioning between breast and bottle, I can guide you through that process so that your baby can transition from one to the other seamlessly!
Lanolin Cream: Lanolin is often recommended for nipple pain, but it can cause allergic reactions in some parents. I suggest avoiding lanolin-based creams and exploring other options for nipple care. If you’re dealing with nipple pain or wounds, check out my separate post on nipple care and wound healing for more detailed information.
What You Really Need for Breastfeeding Success
So, what’s truly essential when it comes to preparing for breastfeeding? Here’s a quick list:
A Comfortable Space: Find a cozy spot in your home where you feel relaxed and can settle in for feedings. Whether it’s your couch, bed, or a favorite chair, comfort is key.
Basic Nursing Bras or Tops: These make breastfeeding easier, especially when you’re out and about. But don’t overdo it—just a couple should be enough to get started.
Breast Pads: Some parents experience leaking, so having a few reusable or disposable breast pads on hand can help keep you comfortable.
Hydration and Snacks: Breastfeeding can make you thirsty and hungry! Keeping water and snacks nearby during feeds is a good idea.
Professional Support: This is the most important item on the list. A prenatal consultation with an IBCLC can set you up for success by addressing your concerns and giving you the tools you need to feel confident. I’ll work with you to troubleshoot any issues that arise and ensure you have the support you need from the very beginning.
Why Prenatal IBCLC Visits Are Essential
One of the most impactful steps you can take to prepare for breastfeeding is to book a prenatal visit with an IBCLC. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your unique situation, answer any questions you have, and provide personalized guidance on everything from feeding positions to milk supply. By addressing concerns early, you’ll enter your breastfeeding journey feeling empowered and well-prepared.
Prenatal visits are an excellent opportunity to get ahead of common breastfeeding challenges, and they can make all the difference when it comes to feeling confident and supported in those early days.
When to Seek Professional Support
Breastfeeding doesn’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. If you’re struggling with latch issues, milk production, or any other concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Professional support can turn those early struggles into manageable moments and prevent small issues from becoming overwhelming. I offer in-home, compassionate, evidence-based support to help you navigate every stage of your breastfeeding journey.
Ready for Help?
If you’re feeling uncertain or want to get ahead of potential challenges, I’m here for you. Whether you need a prenatal consultation, help with latch issues, or just someone to answer your questions, I provide personalized support to help you and your baby thrive. Breastfeeding is a journey, and you don’t have to navigate it alone—let’s work together to make sure you feel confident and supported every step of the way. Book your Visit today!