If this is your first baby you are no doubt a bit leery of venturing out the house for the first time. Even if you already have children, the first time out with new baby can still be a bit daunting. There are so many things that you and your baby might need, how do you prepare? Hopefully these suggestions will help you to plan your first outings with baby and boob.
The good thing about breastfeeding is that you don’t need to pack formula and bottles! You just need the essentials – you, your boob and baby!
In addition to the essentials, here are a few items that might make your time out a bit more manageable:
- Water for mom – Be sure to pack a bottle of water. Nursing moms need more water then the average women. You’ll often feel thirsty while breastfeeding, this is your body’s way of reminding you to drink more water.
- Receiving Blanket – As you already know, babies spit up, so don’t forget that receiving blanket!
- Nursing Bra – A nursing bra provides easy access to the breast without having to remove your entire bra. This is essential for nursing in public!Checkout BumbleWee Nursing Wear’s Nursing Bras
- Nursing Top – A nursing top is just a regular top with “secret” concealed openings in the shirt so that you can pop out a breast and feed you’re baby without having to expose your entire belly or breast. Nursing tops come in an assortment of styles and different openings for accessing the breast. Some tops pull up from underneath the breast, while others might have V-neck that pulls to the side of the breast.Checkout BumbleWee Nursing Wear’s Nursing Tops section for some stylish nursing and maternity clothing.
- Nursing Cover – A nursing cover covers you and your baby during nursing. It attaches around your neck so that baby can not pull the cover off during nursing. Paired with a nursing top, you can feel comfortable nursing your baby anywhere in public!Checkout BumbleWee Nursing Wear’s Nursing Covers section for some stylish nursing and maternity clothing.
- Breast Pads – During the first few weeks and months of breastfeeding your breasts will likely leak some milk at certain times. It is useful to have breast pads at all times to catch these leaks so that they do not show through your shirt. Also, keep a spare few in your diaper bag since you’ll want to freshen them up from time to time.
- Breast Cream – In the first few weeks you’re breast might be tender or dry. It is useful to take specialized breast cream designed to help keep the nipples healthy and moist. You’ll likely want to reapply after each time you feed your baby.
Once you’re packed you’re ready to go! If you’re nervous about breastfeeding in public try to go somewhere that will be supportive of your breastfeeding. Try a friend or family members house. Another good option is a mall, there are usually many moms and babies out and about. Malls usually have designated nursing rooms or family rooms that are there especially for you! Also, some cities are actively encouraging breastfeeding in public. For example, Toronto has a Breastfeeding Friendly campaign where restaurants can sign up as being “Breastfeeding Friendly” For a list of restaurants participating in this program see http://www.toronto.ca/health/breastfeeding/restaurants.htm See if there is a Breastfeeding Friendly program in your city.
And relax! The good news is that if baby does fuss, your boob is always ready to go, no need to scramble around preparing a bottle!
