Deciding to breastfeed is the one of the wisest choices a new mom can make. New research being released continues to show the benefits for both mom and baby and most doctors recommend it. So you’ve done the research and decided that breastfeeding is the right choice for you. Now what?

First and foremost, take advantage of any breastfeeding classes your doctor’s office has to offer. Breastfeeding can be a difficult adjustment so take advantage of any opportunity to learn more about it. But even the best classes may sometimes miss explaining some of the essentials you should have waiting for you when you and your new baby come home from the hospital. So here is your complete checklist of breastfeeding essentials.

1.     Lanolin - Cracked and sore nipples happen when you’re breastfeeding — they just do. Lanolin  is a 100% effective, safe, and natural way to ease that pain and heal the nipples fast in the early weeks of breastfeeding. If you don’t have this waiting for you when you arrive home with the baby, trust me, you’ll be sending your husband out for it in about two days.

2.     Gerber Breast Therapy Warm or Cool Relief Packs. An absolute must. Engorgement that occurs once your milk comes in can be more than just uncomfortable. These reusable relief packs are a convenient and easy way to provide much needed relief. And in the event of a breast infection or any other aches & pains associated with breast-feeding, these will be a lifesaver.

3.   Breast Pads - Just like any other feminine product, everybody's got their own preference when it comes to the brand of breast pads. It doesn’t really matter as long as you have a box waiting for you when you get home. And if you plan on pumping, going back to work, or being separated from your newborn for even just a couple of hours, you will need them to protect you from leakage.

4.     Motrin or Tylenol - Safe for mom, safe for baby. The safest way to take off the edge from the pain of engorgement. Nuff said.

5.     Breastfeeding Clothes  - Nothing will make you happier when you come home from the hospital and have some nice cozy clothes to lounge around in that are MADE for breastfeeding. Also a nice comfy SLEEP bra will make life much in the early weeks much sweeter for you. It may seem like a luxury, but it truly is an essential.

6.     Snacks and Bottled Water - Fill the house with lots of granola bars, yogurt, and fruit cups, whatever is your pleasure. When you’re tired and breastfeeding, nothing makes you happier than having plenty of ready-made snacks at your disposal. And s stuff like yogurt is great for you and the baby while breastfeeding[1]. You CANNOT drink enough water while you’re breastfeeding. Always have a bottle within arms reach.

7.     A Co-Sleeper . OK, so maybe you can consider this a luxury. I breastfed with a bassinet by my side with one child, and a Co-Sleeper with the other. The convenience and comfort of having a Co- Sleeper is immeasurable. Late night feedings were never easier.

8.    A Good Breastfeeding Book – Words can’t express how important it can be to have a great guidebook by your side to help answer questions that come up. Though there a ton to choose form, my personal recommendations are:

·      The Breastfeeding Book: Everything You Need to Know About Nursing Your Child from Birth Through Weaning 

·      The Nursing Mother’s Companion