How to Series Part 2

How to Prepare for Breastfeeding

Step 1 Order a pump through your insurance 

I ordered mine with Medela. Fill out a questionnaire and see if you are eligible. 

Step 2 Clean and sanitize your pump parts

Follow the directions that come with the pump. I boiled and then washed the parts the first time before using. Subsequently, I only washed. 

Step 3 Buy supplies

• Breast pillow or boppy

• Nursing bras/tanks/shirts

• Creams and gels

Click to buy

Shop Earth Mama

• Milk freezer bags

• Hands free pumping bra

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• A pumping bag

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• A  multi-purpose cover up 

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• Nursing pads

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Click to shop Project Nursery

• Handheld pump 

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• Breast bottle

We used a bottle shaped like a breast for when I went back to work. Our son had difficulty with regular bottles, but took to this one extremely well. 

Step 4 Take a class

Sign up for classes at your local hospital and research La Leche League near you to join support groups and classes for after Baby is born. 

Step 5 Practice relaxing techniques 

It's important to practice relaxing techniques now, so when your baby comes you can learn to relax your mind and body for your let down to happen. 

• Massage
• Meditation
• Aromatherapy
• Essential oils
• Soaks/salts/bubble baths
• Yoga
• Prayer

Step 6 Get excited for baby!