Some may argue that breastfeeding is free. Alas, it is not. Technically, all you need for breastfeeding is your boobs, and some vitamin supplements for the baby, but there are some items that will definitely make your life easier if you can afford to splash out, like a good fitting feeding bra.  There are other items that can be really helpful, like nipple shields, and then there are the things that are probably a waste of money…. *cough * lactation cookies *cough*  

Here’s a little #TeamFeed list of some of the things that may help:

Vitamin supplements

The NHS recommends breastfed babies are given a daily vitamin D supplement from birth, whether or not you're taking a supplement containing vitamin D yourself. From 6 months the recommendation is to supplement with A, C and D.

If your baby is drinking more than 500 mls formula a day there is no need to provide additional supplements as formula is already fortified with vitamins A, C and D.

Some breastfeeding mums will qualify for free vitamin supplements for their babies, plus they are provided for free to everyone in some areas of the UK. Otherwise your local chemist is the best bet.

Our best advice is to speak to your Health Visitor for guidance in choosing and giving a supplement.

Feeding Bra

A decent, properly fitted feeding bra will definitely come in handy. You might want to buy two or three so you have some in rotation. The costs are variable depending on where you buy; you can find wallet friendly options in your local supermarket or you can go for one of the budget busting luxury brands. The main thing is comfort so it’s a good idea to get fitted; we recommend waiting a week or so until the initial engorgement has settled.

Some Mums find that night time nursing bras give more comfort for sleeping so if the budget stretches to it this is also something to consider.

Breast Pads

Some women find they don’t need breast pads, while others need to change them every hour. Your options are to buy disposable or reusable pads, or, if you’re feeling crafty, make your own!

Disposable pads can be found in all good supermarkets and chemists and cost in the range of £3 - £4 for about 40 pads. How often you’ll need to replace them will depend on how much you leak.

Reuseable pads are made from absorbant material, such as bambo.o or microfibre and may have a waterproof layer and will cost around a tenner for ten. Simply chuck them in the wash and reuse.

Nipple Cream

Breastfeeding can be tough on the aul’ nips and relief can sometimes be found in a good nipple cream. Some Mums find they don’t need it but others swear by slathering it on to prevent dryness, itching, cracked nipples and pain. It is particularly useful at preventing scabbed nipples sticking to breast pads.

There are a number of options on the market; the most recommended by Mums are those made with lanolin, which is a waxy substance derived from sheep (don’t google ‘what is lanolin’ if you are a bit squeamish!). Animal-product free brands are available too. You can also use petroleum jelly or even dab on a bit of breast milk.

The cost will depend on your preferred product and how much you slap on.

Sheilds and Shells

Two additional bits of tit kit we love are nipple shields and nipple shells. Now, these items are not to be confused with each other because while similar, they do two separate, but equally important, jobs.

Nipple shields do exactly what it says on the tin. They’re designed to be worn when feeding and shield your delicate nips giving relief if sore or cracked. They can also help with latching problems and nipple positioning but there can be some downsides to using shields. They come in different sizes so you might wish to ask your midwife or health visitor for advice about sizing before purchasing.

Nipple shells on the other hand are for when feeding time is finished. They help protect your nipples from rubbing against your clothes and - bonus - they collect any breast milk that may leak between feeds.

Generally both shields and shells are a one-off purchase each, but may need to be replaced if they get torn or damaged.