We are overjoyed when milk arrives, and the baby learns to latch. Yet this is only the beginning.
Then we'll have to figure out how to deal with leaky boobs, sore nipples, and nursing on the go. Here are some suggestions to help you when you encounter these issues.
Nursing bra
It is completely unpredictable how much your breast size will increase once you begin feeding! That is why nursing bras are designed to provide full support for engorged and changing breasts. They also have clasps or hooks that enable the flaps to be easily removed for feeding.
Nursing covers
If you are uncomfortable nursing in public, a nursing cover may be helpful. It's also beneficial if the baby becomes easily sidetracked during nursing. Different styles of nursing covers are available, such as ones that resemble shawls or aprons or ones that have ribs to keep the shape.
Lactation pads
When lactation is first starting to take hold in the first few months, leaks happen [1] and either stains clothes or floods the bed at night with milk. Hygienic lactation pads are the most basic solution. They serve the same purpose as menstrual pads in absorbing liquid and keeping it off your clothing.
Milk catcher
Many women nurse from one breast and leak from the other. A milk catcher is a little, wearable silicone cup designed especially to catch errant leaks of breast milk. So every priceless drop is used and not wasted.
Nipple shields
Nipple shields were designed to protect sore nipples and allow you to feed despite bleeding wounds. Nipple shields relieve pain and prevent nipple injury while allowing the baby to continue sucking milk. [2]
Nipple correctors
If the nipple is flat or retracted, the baby will have difficulty sucking. This problem affects between 10 and 20% of women [3]. Sometimes a corrector or shaper is helpful. This is a type of silicone lining that shapes the areola, allowing the baby to "pull out" the nipple.
Photo: shutterstock
