The nursing pillow, from the beginning of pregnancy
Despite its name, the nursing pillow can be used from the first months of pregnancy. It relieves back pain, heavy legs and helps support your belly when you are lying on your side.
When your baby is born, you can use the cushion to make him/her comfortable to share his/her meal. You can also lean on it to rest your arms while breastfeeding. Filled with micro-beads, it perfectly fits the shape of your body and that of your child.
It can also be used as a bassinet in which your baby will feel like in a cocoon. Choose a nursing pillow that can be removed and machine-washed for added peace of mind.
Bras and nursing clothes
During pregnancy, your body changes, especially your breasts. It is very important to choose suitable, stretchy and cosy maternity clothes, as well as several nursing bras. These are designed to allow you to unhook each cup individually, so that you can breastfeed easily at any time.
In addition, the wide straps of the nursing bras comfortably support your breasts, which have grown with pregnancy and breastfeeding. There are some very feminine nursing bras with lace or embroidery.
Finally, add a baby nappy or sling to your nursing accessories and you can breastfeed and cuddle your baby discreetly wherever you are.
A breast pump and baby bottles
Perhaps you have more milk than your baby needs? However, the more you pump, the more milk you produce. So if your milk supply is insufficient, stimulating your milk supply with a breast pump is also very effective. If you have a lot of milk, you can donate the surplus to your local lactation centre to help other mothers. You may also need to express your milk if your baby is not with you at the moment, for example if he or she is in the neonatal unit, or after you go into labour.
Electric breastpumps are covered by social security, but they are bulky and difficult to transport. We recommend that you choose a manual breast pump, which is lighter and more practical.
To use the milk you have pumped or to make the transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding, choose some birth bottles. Some are slow-flowing, with an ergonomic teat that mimics the shape of the nipple.
Nursing pads and shells
To prevent milk leaks from staining your clothes, pack a few breast pads to place in the cups of your bra. Washable models are more economical and environmentally friendly. They are made of a soft, highly absorbent material and can even be fitted with anti-slip adhesive so that they don't slip out of place.
In case the pads are not enough, add silicone shells to your breastfeeding accessories. They protect sensitive nipples from rubbing and collect milk spillage. But be careful: do not give your baby the milk from the shell. Breast milk is very sensitive to contamination and the shell does not allow it to be stored in suitable conditions. However, you can use it to massage your nipples if you have cracks or irritations.
