Nursing Essentials + World Breastfeeding Week

Happy World Breastfeeding Week!

Nursing is a CRAZY experience. It is a big commitment and not for the fainthearted! Just like any of my boys’ stories, their breastfeeding experiences are all different – with multiple challenges and joys.

With Little Ox #1, I nursed him for a year and it was SO stressful. I had almost no challenges (after the horror of the first two weeks when it is extremely difficult) but I honestly didn’t enjoy it. At times, I would get anxiety and be depressed any time he would have to eat. It became more about my stubbornness to do it for a year than about enjoying the bond and nourishing my baby.

With Little Ox #2, I loved every minute of it. It was a little shaky at the beginning, but after that, it was wonderful. I felt so strong. I could feed him walking around Target, with no shame, and with so much confidence. It was a whole new experience! Because of that, when I HAD to stop. I was heartbroken. I cried for a week because it was so hard. I had to mourn that breastfeeding relationship that I would never have again, even though I cherished it SO SO SO much.

Now, with #3, it seems to be going the same way. I am enjoying it so much, but it can be stressful at times. Plus, it is a lot harder to enjoy when I have to chase around two others at the same time! However, I hope we can continue for as long as he needs!

Regardless, my babies are fed. Some with formula, some not. Either way, I love them and they will never go hungry!

With all of this, there are some things that are ESSENTIAL to nursing. Here is my list of favorites now that I am on baby #3!

1. A wrap or nursing cover
   1. A wrap like, Solly Baby/Ergo or a cover like this are essentials for on-the-go nursing!
2. Milkies Milk Saver
   1. This. Is. Amazing. Forget breast pads – this thing saves your milk AND saves you from getting milk everywhere when it leaks!
3. WATER!
   1. Oh man. You are SO thirsy when you breastfeed! And it is so important to fill yourself back up when your body is giving so much! Here is my favorite water bottle!
4. Nipple Balm
   1. The best one that I have used is from Honest! Plus it’s great for baby so NO wiping off!
5. A good nursing bra
   1. These are SO comfy!
6. Soy Lecithin and Milk Makin Tea!
   1. Both of these are essential to me because of the clogging problems I had with Little Ox #2!
7. Stretchy tanks
8. Absorbent spit up rags
   1. I had mine custom made from this shop!
9. Healthy Snacks/Smoothies!

I’m sure that there are so many things I can put on this list but these are my favorites and they are NECESSITIES!

Happy World Breastfeeding Week and Keep Calm and Latch On!

* This post contains affiliate links but these opinions are my own*