Happy World Breastfeeding Week! August 1-7
This is a week dedicated every year to raise awareness, educate, promote (“normalize”) breastfeeding and support breastfeeding parents.
WABA is a global network of individuals and organisations dedicated to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding worldwide. WABA first started World Breastfeeding Week in 2016.
In my experience, breastfeeding is one of the most challenging yet, one of the most rewarding acts a mother can do. Cumulatively, I have now breastfed my children for a total of 18 months. I’ve nursed two newborns, exclusively pumped, exclusively pumped to donate to another child and exclusively nursed for a year. It is and continues to be one my largest accomplishments as a parent and in my life.
And with this experience, I’ve come to know just a little bit about nursing and pumping
A little preparation can go a long way and having a few different items prior to the birth of your little one can make a big difference.
1. My absolute favorite pump – a must for exclusively pumping mamas
The Spectra S1 Plus
This Spectra is a hospital-grade rechargeable double breast pump. The main difference between this pump and the (slightly more affordable) Spectra S2 is the portability. It holds a charge for a few hours of pumping. I don’t even plug it in after every pump session.
And probably the most important feature, it’s a CLOSED system. What does that mean? No moisture or milk (or mold) can build up in the pump — this is a real issue with the Medela Pump. (Check your pumps mamas! And don’t buy used!)
If you need a more affordable option or one that is often 100% covered by insurance, I recommend the Spectra S2 as well.
Another MUST have – especially for mama’s withan oversupply or just in case for those painful “plugs.”
3. Earth Mama Booby Tubes
Whether you’re engorged while your body is regulating your supply or you need a little warmth to help with your let down – these are another must. Freezable and microwaveable, these fit comfortable in your nursing bra/tank. I’ve used these more times than I can count!
4. Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter
Lanolin-free and free of any “dirty” ingredients – this stuff is great! Expecting mom’s – put this in your hospital bags!
Importantly, I didn’t worry about my little guy getting this in his mouth.. which of course he inevitably did.
An added bonus, this did not stain my nursing tops like others did. I will say, however, if you do not like the scent of “cocoa” – this isn’t for you. A great alternative is Honest Organic Nipple Balm.
5. The Nursing Mother’s Companion
The ultimate nursing reference. Sometimes it’s really hard to navigate all of those Facebook nursing groups when you have been up all night (and day) — this book comes with an index and is totally exhausted mama friendly
Though these items are my top 5 nursing/pumping must-haves, there a few other things that may be useful as you progress in your nursing journey.
• Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
• Pumpin’ Pal Breast Pump Flanges
• Medela Breast Milk Cooler
• PumpMom Pump Bottle Adapter,Converter for Spectra to Use Medela Bottles
These things can help, but know that support of a loving partner, understanding of friends and family, a knowledgeable lactation consultant or a supportive local La Leche League chapter are what a mother truly needs to be successful in her breastfeeding journey.
Sarah 
This post contains Affiliate Links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases.
