Breastfeeding and Pumping Supplies
Here are some recommendations for what you may want to buy if you are planning to breastfeed:
EZ-2-Nurse Twins Pillow
The EZ-2-Nurse Twins Pillow is a great pillow if you want to tandem feed your babies. It can also be used by someone who is trying to hold and bottle feed two babies at the same time. There are testimonials and pictures of moms breastfeeding their twins using the EZ-2 Nurse pillows on the Double Blessings website.
Nursing Pillow
Whether you want to tandem nurse or only plan to nurse one baby at a time, a regular nursing pillow is also good to have on hand. The two most common are the Boppy and My Breast Friend Pillows. The pillow is helpful when you are nursing just one baby and some mothers even figure out how to use it to tandem nurse. It can also be used to support your babies during tummy time or when they are learning how to sit up – so you might decide you need two. A removable, washable cover makes cleaning much easier.
Nursing Bras
It is very difficult to predict what size nursing bra you will need during your pregnancy. Many women find that their cup size increases when the milk comes in, but how much varies. One option is to buy a couple of sleeping bras which are made from soft stretchy material. This will be enough to provide minimal support and hold nursing pads in place. If you need more support, near the end of your pregnancy buy only a couple of bras in the size you think you will need, and plan on sending someone out to buy more when your milk comes in. Note that some maternity stores will not allow returns on nursing bras.
Nursing Bra Pads
Purchase some nursing pads to use in the hospital and when you get home. There are both disposable ones and washable ones. You will probably need to find what kind is more comfortable and convenient to you. If you want washable pads that are very absorbent, check out the cotton nursing pads from Motherhood Maternity.
Nursing Clothes
It is not necessary to buy nursing specific tops or pajamas. However, it is helpful to have some shirts and pajamas that are easy to use while nursing or pumping. Tops that button down the front and stretchy tops are nursing friendly. Some stretchy maternity tops and pajamas work well, especially those first months when you may not fit in your pre-maternity clothes.
Breast Pump
A good quality breast pump is important. You will want enough parts so you have the option of double pumping. There are three general types of breast pumps, which are described below. For more information about selecting, maintaining, and using a breast pump, go to Breastpump 101.
Hospital Pumps
There will be some hospital grade pumps to use at the hospital and the nurses or lactation consultants will be able help get supplies (breast shields and tubing) so you can use it while you are at the hospital. These pumps are different from other types of pumps because the equipment is sealed to prevent the transmission of fluids with multiple users. Some mothers find that the hospital grade pumps are the most effective for milk production. It is possible to rent hospital grade pumps. If there is a medical reasons for needing to pump (for example, having one or more babies in the NICU), your insurance company may cover the cost of the breast pump rental.
Electric Pumps
If you need to pump on a regular basis or you need a pump to help build or maintain your breast milk supply, you will need an electric breast pump with the ability to double pump. Some of the electric breast pumps that come highly recommended are the Medela Pump in Style Advanced, Ameda Purely Yours, and the Lansinoh Double Electric. According to the manufacturer, these pumps were designed to be used by a single individual.
Manual Pumps
Manual pumps are most useful for mothers that need a pump only for occasion use. This is a great option if you need a quiet and portable pump that you can use when you are out. If you need a manual pump, the Avent Isis or the Medela Harmony pumps are recommended. This type of pump is the least effective and efficient for extracting milk so it is not recommended for mothers who need to increase their supply or who are trying to pump to replace nursing sessions on a regular basis.
Sterilizer for Pumping Accessories
It is important to sterilize the breast pump equipment as well as bottles. Bottles can be sterilized in the dishwasher, but this might not be as convenient for the breast shields or tubing. One quick way to do this is by using the Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags in the microwave.
Hands Free Pumping Bra
If you need to pump on a regular basis, the hands free pumping bra allows you to do something else while you are pumping. Holding the breast pumps in place while pumping for long periods of time can become uncomfortable for your hands, arms and back.
Bottles
Purchase a few bottles that are compatible with your breast pump. If your babies are in the hospital, you may also get bottles from the nurses that work with your breast pump. For more information about bottles and bottle feeding, look in the bottle feeding section.
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies
Even though cookies may not be a necessity, this is a great and easy way to increase or keep up your breast milk supply. You may want to buy the unusual ingredients ahead of time so that a friend or family member can bake these cookies for you. Or bake some ahead of time and put them in your freezer to snack on when you are pumping and/or nursing.
Herbs to Increase Production
Certain herbs (called galactagogues) can safely increase breast milk supply. Two commonly recommended herbs are Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle. The recommended dose for these herbs is three capsules three times a day. Some women find that just taking Fenugreek increases their supply enough where as other women find that they have to take both herbs.
If you want to look at another list for breastfeeding supplies and alternatives to these supplies, visit this link at the Kellymom website. Keep in mind that this other list was designed for mothers who are breastfeeding singletons.