Tips for Your Nursing Journey: Babywearing, Fav Products, & More!
Here at hope&plum we are all about encouraging first time parents with a simple thing that's never that simple... nursing! We've got sore nipples, can't get the latch right, need pumping help, need to feed on-the-go...we've been there!
Here's a few tips that have helped us on our journey. We hope you can take something from this too!
1. BABYWEARING
Research shows that parents who practice babywearing are twice as likely to be still nursing when their baby is five months old. The closeness of a nursing parent and baby encourages greater milk production by stimulating the desire to nurse, which is terrific for weight gain and healthy growth. Babywearing also helps the nursing parent respond quicker to their baby’s hunger cues, which aids in long-term nursing success (Brennan, 2021).
Here are some helpful tips for nursing tips for success while babywearing:
- Choose the Right Carrier: Select a carrier that offers adjustable support and allows easy access for nursing. Wraps, slings, and soft-structured carriers (such as our lark carrier) are all great choices.
- Practice Positioning: Experiment with different nursing positions to find what works best for you and your baby. A common method is to loosen the carrier slightly, allowing your baby to latch comfortably.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for nursing-friendly clothing that provides easy access, such as tops with pull-down or lift-up panels.
- Ensure Baby's Safety: Always ensure your baby’s face is visible and their airway is clear. Regularly check that they are securely positioned.
- Stay Comfortable: Make sure you are comfortable and well-supported, especially when nursing for extended periods.
- Practice at Home First: Before nursing on the go, practice at home to gain confidence in adjusting and using the carrier easy nursing.
2. a good NURSING/PUMPING BRA
Founder and CEO, Amanda Hunt used her fashion design expertise, combined with seven years of breastfeeding experience to create something beautiful for modern moms. She wears her own products daily to make her own nursing and pumping journey easier. From nursing & pumping combo bras to postpartum underwear, Davin and Adley has a great selection!
3. easy to use PUMPING ACCESSORIES
Mimi and Pal is a company that specializes in creating stylish and functional pump bags and accessories designed for parents on the go. Their products combine fashion with practicality, featuring sleek designs and multiple compartments to hold everything from pumps to personal items. Mimi and Pal’s commitment to quality and thoughtful design aims to make the parent's lives of more organized, whether at work or traveling.
4. professional HELP
The Lactation Network (TLN) is dedicated to providing expert lactation support, believing that lactation care is a right for every family. They connect families with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) to offer expert care and work with insurance providers to make consultations accessible through home visits, office appointments, or telehealth. TLN also supports IBCLCs in growing their practices, ensuring families receive the care they need to meet their feeding goals and achieve the health benefits of nursing.
5. nipple relief/support
Silverette Nursing Cups are a staff fave around here at hope&plum! They are designed to provide comfort and healing for nursing by protecting sore nipples and promoting natural healing without the use of creams or lotions. Made from pure 925 silver, these cups are antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory, offering a safe and effective solution to common breastfeeding challenges. Silverette cups can be an essential postpartum tool, helping to support a more comfortable and successful nursing journey.
Tutorials for nursing in your carrier
We also have a tutorial on nursing in our lark carrier here!
Babywearing can transform your nursing experience into a more flexible and fulfilling journey. As we celebrate all forms of lactating this week, let’s acknowledge the dedication and resilience of caregivers.
Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one, feeding skin to skin, pumping love into a bottle, or anything in between, embracing the combination of nursing and babywearing can enhance the precious bond with your baby while making your day-to-day life a little easier!
For additional resources and support, consider reaching out to local lactation consultants or organizations dedicated to lactation advocacy and education. Happy Lactating!
