Not often a pretty sight but always useful, breastfeeding accessories are usually little-known to the general public.
Nursing bras
Admittedly, they are big, sometimes ugly and usually have no underwires (which is not very pleasant for mothers with larger breasts), but there you have it, they do their job well and allow you to effortlessly uncover your breasts when necessary.
You can wear them to bed, this isn’t really necessary, but some find it more comfortable. Nowadays, cute lingerie exists for breastfeeding mothers. Opt for a fabric that will let your skin breath, such as cotton.
Nursing bras are also available in a more comfortable « sports bra » style.
With or without underwires?
The reason future mums are told to wear nursing bras during pregnancy isn’t just to annoy them, it is because they help breasts develop properly. Bursting with hormones and throbbing veins, as well as accommodating the early stages of milk production, your breasts need room to grow. They will continue to change after birth, some days you will see your breasts grow from a B cup to an F cup in just a few hours. So, don’t skimp on the bras designed to help with this! To avoid « overflowing »: bye bye underwires and tight lingerie. You’ll gain in comfort and, more importantly, avoid a clogged duct, which is very painful.
If you really can’t live without underwired bras, wait a few months before using one (occasionally). Your breast size, having got used to feeding, should be stable by then.
You can’t stand wearing a bra?
It really is up to you.
Some people have never worn a bra and the idea of wearing one for breastfeeding is inconceivable. Remember: it is only a question of comfort and it is likely that your lovely breasts will be able to do without.
But when you grow to a gigantic E-cup in a heartbeat, remember that your breasts may need a little help!
Nursing pads
For leak protection
Most nursing mums find these really helpful. Especially when you start breastfeeding and your breasts often leak. Sometimes your milk comes in and you just don’t know why, resulting in a drenched t-shirt at your mother-in-law’s tea party, an awkward stain during a work meeting, or waking up to a soaking mattress.
You have 2 options: reusable or disposable. Choose a fabric that suits your skin: cotton, bamboo fibres, etc. There’s something for everyone. Once you’ve chosen a pad, slip it into your bra and get on with your day. The pad will dry up any excess milk.
For relief
Some pads warm up or cool down to relieve engorgement and pain when your milk comes in. The major disadvantage: they make your breasts look even bigger!
Breast shells
In general, and mainly to avoid mini-engorgements, make sure they fit loosely and do not dig into your skin.
For milk collection
To be used with caution. Despite looking like something that could avoid you an unsightly leak, they can actually boost lactation and cause engorgement if worn all day.
A plastic breast shell should be placed on the breast that isn’t being suckled during feeds. You can keep the milk and use it later
For protection and healing
Their purpose is simple: to prevent/heal cracked nipples, or to protect your nipple if it has become so sensitive it can no longer withstand any contact (even fabric). Sounds great, right?
Let’s start with the most common type: seashell breast shells. Just like for breast pumps, there are several sizes. Once you’ve chosen a model, simply pour a few drops of your milk onto it and place it directly on your nipple, where it will stay comfortably nestled in your bra. As mentioned previously, breast milk is both healing and antiseptic and, therefore, ideal for repairing damaged nipples. This is called wet-wound healing. Unlike milk collecting shells, natural breast shells do not stimulate lactation. That doesn’t mean you should wear them 24/7, even if they do make you feel like a little burlesque dancer.
If you are put off by objects that come from the sea, or allergic to shellfish, there is a multitude of formats available. Silicone, silver, natural beeswax: a wide variety exists! The last two also have healing and antiseptic properties.
Nipple shields
This accessory should be considered as a temporary way to maintain lactation, not a solution. Sometimes mums are offered a nipple shield at the maternity ward to relieve cracked nipples, and they also help Baby latch on if you have flat or inverted nipples. Be careful when using one, because:
-when constantly used, Baby may start to prefer it to your « bare » breast and refuse to feed without it,
-it interferes with nipple stimulation and, therefore, reduces milk production,
-if your nipple is moist for too long, there is a risk of thrush.
It should only be used if you have absolutely no other choice, or if you are waiting to see a lactation consultant.
Applying
Once you have found the right size (your nipple and areola should not be compressed), here is one method for putting on the shield (you can moisten your breast to help it stick):
Lift up
Lift up the sides
Press down
Holding the shield with your fingers, push it down over your nipple. Delicately widen your fingers to create a suction effect.
Getting rid of nipple shields
Now the problem is resolved, it’s time to part ways. The best way to do so is by taking it off mid-feed when Baby is relaxed. Baby may not even realise or may need time to get used to the change. Be patient, things should gradually improve.
If using a shield is reassuring, carry on using it. Just make sure that Baby is getting enough milk, is growing properly and your milk supply is optimal. If you have the slightest doubt, boost your production using the BN position or a milk pump.
These excerpts are from My completely illustrated Breastfeeding Book.
