There are a lot of options on the market when it comes to breastfeeding that you think you might need. When it comes to having a successful journey though, you really need a lot less than it might seem. Let me remove the stress a little and save your bank account from buying all the things advertised to you. Here are my top 5 Breastfeeding Must-Haves for First Time Moms! 

#1 Breast Pump

Even if you are planning to exclusively breastfeed, I recommend getting a pump! The ACA requires insurance companies to cover one pump per pregnancy for free! You submit the form online here and Aeroflow will take care of all the details for you. Make sure you do this a few months before your due date because it can take time to get it approved through your insurance and delivered to you. 

#2 Haakaa Silicone Breast pump

The Haakaa silicone breast pump is great to catch any letdown and to use to pump manually when necessary. While you're nursing on one side, the Haakaa suction cup collects milk on the other. It's easy to use, super affordable, and doesn't make you feel like you're hooked up to a milking machine. Plus, it's a great way to catch those letdowns and save some milk for later. 

#3 Breastfeeding App

As a new, sleep deprived mama, let an app do the tracking for you. A breastfeeding app is a blessing to use to track baby’s schedule; from feedings, diapers and even naps. This is a great tool to use so you don’t have to worry about trying to remember when baby did XYZ last on your own. There’s one called “Baby Tracker” that is free and very easy to use. (I’ll add pic if I can!)

#4 Breast Shells

 Breast shells or a milk collector are really nice to have on hand as well. I would recommend using this over a nursing pad because the shell is going to collect any letdown that you can save then! While nursing pads are nice, they’re just going to catch the milk rather than being able to actually use the milk from the collector. 

 #5 Lactaction Consultant

 Lastly, I may be biased with this recommendation, but having a lactation consultant can completely transform your breastfeeding experience. We’re able to help with everything from latching to milk supply and even sore nipples. Did you know that you can add a Lactation Consultant to your baby registry? Check out all the details here! 

When it comes to breastfeeding, these are my recommendations and products I feel can make the experience better and easier for you! Never forget to ask for help if you need it and to give yourself lots of grace; you and your baby are new at this!