Breastfeeding should be a pleasure, not a painful burden. It is also important to position the baby correctly from birth. Midwives will guide you, but the right accessories can also support you during breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is not only about feeding the baby; it also fulfils their need for warmth, closeness, and a sense of security. For many mothers, it is a time when they devote most of their attention to their baby and strengthen the mother–child bond.
Just like children, every breast — and therefore every breastfeeding experience — is unique. This means that there is no universal method that works for every woman. There are various products that can help make breastfeeding easier. Proper positioning and appropriate care help prevent engorgement or mastitis. With patience, you will find a breastfeeding rhythm that suits both you and your baby. Over time, a routine will develop, and breastfeeding at home and in public will become easier and less uncomfortable.
Make sure you’re comfortably positioned
A breastfeeding pillow or an armchair with armrests and a cushion helps relieve your arms and shoulder muscles, making breastfeeding easier. You feel more relaxed and can give your baby the time they need to feed. Even if your baby falls asleep in your arms, you won’t be on the verge of getting a cramp. Breastfeeding pillows also help you position your baby correctly at the nipple and make it easy to change breastfeeding positions. This helps prevent nipple irritation caused by a poor latch.
Take care of your breasts
Nipples are very sensitive, and proper care is essential. If they are not cared for correctly, your baby’s feeding can quickly lead to sore nipples. Gently massaging the nipple with a drop of breast milk, using lanolin‑based creams, and applying soothing pads, provides the necessary protection. This allows the nipples to recover, and these remedies help relieve the discomfort caused by dry and/or cracked skin. Soothing and stimulating pads can also be used as needed. When used warm, they stimulate milk flow, and when used cold, they soothe engorged or painful breasts.
An abundant milk supply
Breastfeed your baby before pumping. If your nipples are already sore, nipple shields can help ease the discomfort. If your baby does not finish the breast, if feeding is too painful, or if you have an abundant milk supply, pumping becomes necessary. Pumping also helps prevent engorgement and mastitis, which are very painful and can even lead to premature weaning.
There are two methods: manual pumps and electric pumps. If you plan to pump while on the go or at work, it’s best to choose a model that can also run on batteries.
Hygiene for breast milk
If you take the time to pump your precious breast milk, it should also be safe and suitable for your baby to drink. Make sure to sterilize the bottle and the breast pump accessories before using them. To store breast milk hygienically, various special bags and containers are available. Pay attention to the different storage times depending on the method used (room temperature, refrigerator, or freezer).
Travelling without unpleasant surprises
Breast pads ensure that your T‑shirt or blouse stays dry and doesn’t get soaked with milk. You can choose between reusable models made of silk and wool, or disposable ones that can be changed easily at any time. A nursing bra, in addition to the pads, provides the right support for your breasts.
