ML Interest Tag: breast

The Best Hands-Free Breast Pump, Based on Your Exact Needs

by Kate Cartia

Breastfeeding is no small task and pumping shouldn’t add more to your already-full plate. It’s a necessity for lots of moms, whether they exclusively pump, work outside the home, or just want the peace of mind of backup milk. And we know that pumps have come a long way since the days of lugging around a huge machine that sounded like construction equipment. Now, moms can pump while still tackling our day, thanks to the advent of the hands-free breast pump.

With that kind of convenience, it’s tempting to just grab the first one you see, but comfort is major here, and each pump offers something different. So take a look at some of our favorite hands-free breast pumps below to find one that almost does all the work for you! We’ve also included links to insurance coverage information, and really encourage you to check with your health insurance provider for your personal plan’s coverage specifics. 

Jump to:
WillowGo
Medela Freestyle
Momcozy V2
Elvie Stride Plus
Spectra 9 Plus
TSRETE S12
BabyBuddha Portable

Editor’s Note: Some of the brand Instagrams linked below include nursing moms experiencing breast milk overproduction. If this is a trigger for you, feel free to jump right to the product links. Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is different, and absolutely all of it is worthy of celebration.

WillowGo Pump

It’s 2024 and we refuse to be tied to our breast pumps. The WillowGo makes that so, so easy. It’s the wearable, fully in-bra pump (no bulky cords for us, thanks) with 15 levels of customizable, hospital-grade suction that can be adjusted per side.

hands holding wearable breast pumps
Willow

With a tug-and-release latch that makes it super comfortable (rated 100% comfortable by real moms, according to Willow) 45° leak-proof mobility, and an app-connected control, you can pump and live your life at the same time. Dreams do come true! For information about WillowGo Pump insurance coverage, see here.

WillowGo Pump ($349.99)—Buy Here!

Medela Freestyle Pump

Medela is synonymous with quality breast pumps, so you’re probably not surprised to see them pop up on our list. There’s a good chance you’re familiar with their MaxFlow Breast Pump, which we’re big fans of (along with 3,800 Amazon reviewers!), but we’re loving the Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump.

a brown purse with a Medela Freestyle pump inside next to glasses and lipstick
Medela

Along with being incredibly lightweight, the discreet pump fits right in your pocket while the anatomically designed cups stay comfortable and avoid localized compression. Connect with the Medela Family App for easy tracking and you have another breast pump win from the Medela geniuses. To check on insurance eligibility through Medela, grab more information here. 

Medela Freestyle Pump ($249.99)—Buy Here!

Momcozy V2 Breast Pump

Nine adjustable suction levels and a fully hands-free design put the Momcozy V2 Pump high on the list of best breast pumps. It’s oh-so-quiet and the double-sealed flange keeps the cups secure.

woman pushing a stroller outside while wearing a wearable breast pump under her white tank top
Momcozy

The pump itself is so small and easy to tuck onto your pocket or waistband. It comes with 4 flange sizes and only 4 parts to clean, too. We’ll take that any day. Check out how Momcozy has collaborated with DME (Durable Medical Equipment). suppliers to get your pump covered by your insurance here.

Momcozy V2 Pump ($199.99)—Buy Here!

Elvie Stride Plus Pump

Hospital-grade performance (a whopping -300 mmHg!) with a hands-free, in-bra design that lets you go anywhere while pumping makes the Elvie Stride a super popular choice among pumping moms.

a product image of an elvie stride hands free breast pump and phone app
Elvie

It’s available in the original Stride and the Stride Plus, which includes a 3-in-1 carrying case for moms on the go (aren’t we all?). Your pick. You can’t lose either way. To see your eligibility to save on Elvie breast pumps with insurance, more info is available here.

Elvie Stride & Stride Plus Pump ($269.99+)—Buy Here!

Spectra 9 Plus Portable Pump

Spectra has climbed to the gold standard of breast pumps in recent years between their S1 Plus Rechargeable Electric Breast Pump, the S2 Electric Pump, and the Spectra Synergy Gold Double Adjustable Pump. One of the newer additions to the Spectra fam is the portable S9 and it’s definitely taken off.

Spectra

Like all Spectra pumps, the 9 Plus is hospital strength with a true ‘closed’ system, creating a barrier between outside contaminants and breastmilk. There are even several massage settings to make pumping as comfortable as possible. To explore insurance coverage on Spectra pumps, use their lookup tool here.

Spectra 9 Plus Portable Pump ($145.85)—Buy Here!

TSRETE S12 Pump

The TSRETE S12 Pump is one of the most affordable quality hands-free pumps available. It’s excellent even as a backup to keep at work or for traveling.

pink wearable TSRETE breast pumps
TSRETE

With an LCD display (all you have to do is look down to see what’s going on!), a memory function, and USB charging, this pump easily stands with its higher-end counterparts. Connect with your health insurance carrier about coverage for TSRETE pumps.

TSRETE S12 Pump ($89.99)—Buy Here!

BabyBuddha Portable Pump

Although the original model of the BabyBuddha Portable Pump isn’t a traditional and discreet wearable, the Hands-Free Pump Collection Cups are available on their site for in-bra wear! You can also bundle the pump and the cups and save an extra $10.

a product image of the BabyBuddha breast pump
BabyBuddha

This is definitely one small-but-mighty pump, thanks to the 15 different settings and unique suction patterns. It’s also extremely quiet, so you won’t miss a beat. For insurance coverage information, check out the BabyBuddha information page here.

BabyBuddha Portable Pump ($169.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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5 of the Best Nipple Creams for Breastfeeding That Offer Fast Relief

by Kate Cartia

Relief is in reach with our best nipple cream for breastfeeding roundup

If you’re starting to feel like nursing isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be, this one is for you. Yeah, we know it was a terrible pun, but we really do understand that sometimes breastfeeding isn’t the blissful experience you expected. That doesn’t mean it’s all bad, or that you’re not enjoying feeding your babe. It’s all just to say that there are some less-than-glamorous aspects, too. One of the absolute most common? Cracked, sore, raw nipples. Yikes. It just sounds painful, right? We get it, though, and we’ve been there. And if you’ve shmeared all the breast milk on your nips and it hasn’t done the trick, one of the easiest remedies is—you guessed it—nipple cream.

What is nipple cream?

So what is nipple cream, though, exactly? Well, consider what your nips are being put through when you breastfeed or chestfeed. It’s easy to end up with dry, cracked, sore, itchy, bleeding (omg) nipples if your baby doesn’t latch properly, they have a tongue-tie, or you’re still adjusting to nursing in general, according to La Leche League International. Nipple cream is formulated to treat and relieve all that so you can carry on and enjoy the awesome parts of nursing (the bonding, the quiet, the taking breaks from loud gatherings when your inner introvert needs it…).

How does nipple cream work?

Nipple cream works by soothing and moisturizing the skin, plus protecting that sensitive tissue from future discomfort. As far as ingredients go, medical-grade purified lanolin, a wax secreted by sheep and other wool-bearing animals, is often the most popular. Definitely avoid it if you have a wool sensitivity, and turn to other products with olive oil, aloe, or shea butter. Coconut oil is another option (and smells delish!) but can be an allergen for baby, so test it first.

Are nipple creams safe for babies?

A big bonus of these formulas is that they’re often made from natural and/or safe ingredients which means you can use them at the same time as breastfeeding. You don’t have to stop to wipe many nipple creams off when your little one is ready to eat. Notice we said many nipple creams are baby-friendly, but not all, so be sure to read the packaging and follow the directions. Also, if your baby seems to dislike the taste or smell of the formula you’re using you can swap to a different cream.

Another bonus? You can use nipple cream for your lips, on dry elbows, cracked hands; there’s a good chance it’ll become a must-have even after your babe has weaned. Check out a few of our picks for the best nipple cream for breastfeeding below.

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream

Lansinoh/Amazon

A tried-and-true product, Lansinoh Nipple Cream is in new mom arsenals everywhere. It's lanolin is 100% natural and made without fragrance, taste, petroleum, or preservatives. You don't have to wipe it off before nursing and is also available in an organic option if that's your preference. 

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream ($17.01/2pack)—Buy Here!

Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream

Motherlove/Amazon

Looking to skip the lanolin? Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream is a great option. With an almost 5-star Amazon rating, Motherlove's potent combo of calendula flower and marshmallow root soothes sore nipples and also works great on lips and hands. It doesn't need to be removed before nursing, either.

Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream ($12.99)—Buy Here!

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream

Madela

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream is made with ultra-pure, medical-grade lanolin that's super smooth and works fast. No need to wipe it off before nursing, either. As a bonus, it's ethically sourced from mulesing-free farms. 

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream ($7.98)—Buy Here!

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter

Earth Mama/Amazon

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter is Non-GMO Project Verified and organic, so you don't need to wash it off before nursing. It's lanolin-free and not at all sticky (hence the "butter" part), plus it's also available in a vegan formula. 

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter ($13.50)—Buy Here!

Newman's Nipple Cream (APNO)

Shutterstock

APNO stands for All-Purpose Nipple Ointment and is only available by prescription. This is the next step in keeping your nipples happy and healthy if over-the-counter creams aren't working for you. It's created with an antibiotic, an anti-inflamatory, and an anti-fungal medication to really help when nothing else is doing the job. You'll need to talk to your doctor to get a prescription. Although considered "safe" to leave on while nursing, you'll want to avoid using it for more than 7-10 days. Definitely sit down with your healthcare provider to find out if APNO is right for you and how to use it properly (for both you and baby).

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers unless otherwise indicated.

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What If Breastfeeding Gear Was Actually Cool?

by Kate Cartia

It’s about time someone came up with better nursing supplies

If you’ve made the choice to breastfeed, you’ve probably experienced a moment or two (or three. or ten.) of overwhelm. For something hailed as “the most natural thing in the world” <cringe>, it’s easy to assume that nursing is, well…easy. Baby, breast, boom. Right? There’s a good chance it’s actually not that easy for you, and if it’s not, you absolutely aren’t alone. Even if you wouldn’t consider your breastfeeding experience “difficult”, it’s still a lot. And a bunch of the tools out there, while definitely not bad, are outdated, bulky, and just extremely confusing (uh, just look at this spread of supplies). Millennial moms are due for a nursing gear glow-up and Swehl, a modern breastfeeding supplies and support platform, is seriously ticking all the boxes for us (without insisting on 50 different tools).

Typical nursing supplies—Courtesy of Swehl

 

Our Bump & Baby Editor dubbed Swehl “the Glossier of breastfeeding supplies”. Why? Because this is the breastfeeding line that actually makes sense for modern motherhood. Everything they offer is multifunctional, low-impact (just reusable, BPA-free, food-grade silicone!), and just terribly cute, too, so it all fits into your day-to-day.

Swehl

 

Swehl breastfeeding supplies are made for this century. No more alienation, chaos, or confusion. Just streamlined products you’ll actually use.

The Latch Kit

Swehl

You grab-and-go breastfeeding essentials. Everything you need from Day 1, minus the hours (and hours) of research. Made from sustainable materials, aesthetically pleasing (she's cute!), and with tools that last well beyond the newborn phase. No reading required—the Latch Kit includes QR codes that drive to bite-sized video tutorials. 

What's inside:

  • Gold Rush Colostrum Bottle
  • Secret Sauce Syringe 
  • Total Catch Milk Collection Cups
  • Balm de Nips Nipple Balm
  • No Stress SNS Kit
  • Nip Slips Nipple Shield 
  • Calm de Nips Saline Spray
  • The Carry-All

The Latch Kit ($99.99)—Buy Here!

The Nips Duo

Swehl

Calm de Nips and Balm de Nips are a dynamic duo that helps alleviate common nipple pain from cracked and sore nipples. Even on your best breastfeeding day, you'll need these.

What's inside:

  • Calm de Nips
  • Balm de Nips

The Nips Duo ($22.00)—Buy Here!

Cloud 9 Nursing Sling

Swehl

Breastfeeding on the go should be easy, convenient and comfortable. Our sling is inspired by luxury sportswear, so you can nurse out in the world—and feel like you doing so. Includes storage for diapers, your cell phone and more. Bonus: remove the pillow lining and use as a sling bag long after the feeding journey.

Cloud 9 Nursing Sling ($65.00)—Buy Here!

Swehl School

Swehl

It's about time we admitted that breastfeeding can be truly challenging, and it also doesn't work for everyone. And that's okay. No matter what you're experiencing during nursing, Swehl School offers over 2 years of content for mastering breastfeeding. Bite-sized videos and helpful articles for every step of the way. Pumping, latching, postpartum depression, and more. Oh, and you won't find any judgment here. No "breast is best" rhetoric. 

Swehl Circles

Swehl

Hi. It's us. And we're here to tell you that you do not have to do this—nursing, momming, parenting—alone. Swehl Circles is a new way to baby group. They're expert-led, small group Zoom sessions with other cool people. Unrecorded, unfiltered and un-boring, every time.

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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Are You Having a Boy or a Girl? Try These Tests to Predict Baby’s Sex

by Sarah Blight

It’s no surprise you’ve been doing some serious daydreaming about who, exactly, is in there. Before you dive into full-on baby shower planning mode, have some fun trying these at-home baby prediction tests to find out how to tell the gender of your baby. Can a wacky at-home prediction test tell you if you are having a boy or a girl? Well, you’ll have to try these tests to find out. (Regardless of the outcome, these incredible gender-neutral nurseries should have you covered.)

Related: 10 Fun & Easy Baby Shower Games

A daughter touches her mother's pregnant belly as they discuss how to tell the gender of the baby
iStock

1.  Carrying high? That's supposed to mean you'll have a girl, while a low rider means boy.

2. If your skin has that pregnancy glow, chances are you're having a boy, according to one old wives' tale. If you're breaking out, get ready for a girl.

3. Look at your breasts in the mirror. If your right breast is larger than your left, you're having a girl. If your left breast looks larger, it's a boy.

4. Consult a Chinese gender chart, which uses your age and the month you conceived to determine how to tell the gender of your baby.

5. Energetic fetuses are thought to be boys, while chill babes in utero are predicted to be girls.

6. Pee in a cup (you should be a pro at this by now after all those doctor's visits), and then mix in 1 tablespoon of Drano drain cleaner. If the color turns green, you'll have a girl. Blue means it's a boy. (Be careful with this one. Drano can be toxic, so wear gloves and a mask or have someone else do this experiment for you.)

Related: Your Epic Baby Shower & Sprinkle Planning Guide

A mom to be in a green dress embraces her pregnant belly as she wonders how to tell the gender of her baby
Camylla Battani via Unsplash

7. At your next prenatal checkup, check out baby's head on the ultrasound. If it's square-shaped, then you're having a boy. If you see a rounder head, it's a girl.

8. Tie a ring on the end of a piece of string. Sit down and have someone hold the string over your belly. If the ring swings in a circle, you're having a girl. If it swings back and forth, it's a boy.

9. That dark line that runs from your pubic bone straight up the center of your belly (known as the linea nigra) is said to indicate baby's sex. If the line stops at your belly button, you're having a girl. If the line continues up to your ribs and chest, it's a boy.

10. The faster baby's heart rate is, the more likely you're having a girl. The slower the heart rate (below 140 beats per minute), the more likely you're having a boy.

11. If the skin on your hands is dry and chapped during pregnancy, you're more likely to be carrying a boy. Smooth skin means it'll be a girl.

12. If you're craving salty foods, then you're pregnant with a boy. Are you jonesin' for something sweet? Then it's a girl you're carrying.

iStock

13. Since you have to pee all the time anyway, pee in a cup one more time. Then drop in some baking soda. If it fizzes, then it's a boy; if it doesn't, it's a girl.

14. Here's another pee test: Boil a head of red cabbage in some water. Save the red cabbage water and mix it in a cup with your urine. If the water turns pink, it means a girl is on its way. If the water is purple, you're having a boy.

15. Next time you wake up in the morning (or from one of those much-needed pregnancy naps), check which side of your body you're sleeping on. Left side indicates boy, while right means girl.

16. This one is similar to the Chinese chart above. The Mayans take the mama's age at conception and add it to the year baby was conceived. If it's an odd number, the baby is a boy. Even means it's a girl.

17. If your morning sickness lasts beyond the first trimester, some people think you're carrying a girl. If your sickness subsides or you didn't have any to begin with (lucky you!), then it's a boy.

18. If your baby bump looks like a basketball, it could be you're having a boy. If your baby bump is more spread out across your waistline, then it's a girl.

While planning for your new arrival, there’s no better time to download the Tinybeans app. The secure platform allows you to share special moments with friends and family near and far and puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their littles.

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One Cool Thing: Bodily, for Birth & Pregnancy Recovery Help

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

You’ve spent months researching what products you’ll need for a new baby, but what about you, mama? Bodily takes the guesswork out of managing childbirth recovery and your postpartum needs with smart, well-made products for new moms. Read on for functional and stylish solutions for all your birth recovery and breastfeeding needs.

What It Is

From comfortable bras and underwear to breastfeeding essentials to well-curated kits of post-childbirth must-haves, Bodily has your new-mom body covered. Bodily works with medical professionals and lactation consultants to choose effective postpartum products that help women as they recover from childbirth and pregnancy. Their extensive research has led to design-led products that support women during this life-changing time. 

Bodily bras are made for changing postpartum bodies. The nursing and pumping bras, like the Do Anything Bra (above), were designed with lactation consultants and mindful of research for optimal breast health to be both supportive and comfortable. Bodily’s bra collection has bras to wear from maternity to all stages of breastfeeding. Some of them even make awesome sleep bras!

Now let's talk panties. The All-in Panty (above) has a high waist for C-section mamas and is super soft, stretchy and supportive enough to change with your fluctuating body postpartum. And yes, Bodily also sells mesh undies that are a big step above hospital mesh panties.

For childbirth and the days following, the company sells a peri wash bottle, belly band, cozy socks and more. And for breastfeeding, you can get non-slip breast pads (low profile or full coverage), nipple balm, cooling gel pads, nipple shields, cute nursing tops and even a shirtdress. There's even a spicy turmeric latte, caffeine-free and loaded with antioxidants, that's available on its own as well as in the kits for when you need a decadent treat.

What's in the Kits

Each of the kits support different post-birth needs, so it's easy to find exactly the care you want.

Scheduled C-Section Birth Box ($145) includes a belly band and high-waisted underwear to support abdominal recovery, guidebooks on postpartum recovery, and childbirth recovery essentials: maxi pads, mesh undies and stool softener. It also contains breastfeeding items (breast pads, nipple shield and nipple balm), cozy socks and a packet of oatmeal.

Care for Birth Box ($105) includes grippy socks for the hospital and items for vaginal recovery, such as maxi pads, mesh undies and stool softener, a peri wash bottle and inflatable cushion to sit on. 

B-Kit ($90) is the ultimate breastfeeding starter kit, with a nursing bra, breast pads and nipple balm.

V-Kit ($95), for vaginal birth recovery, contains a sitz tub with tote bag, peri spray and sitz salts, maxi pads, undies, stool softener, and guidebooks for you and your partner or other supporter on postpartum recovery.

C-Kit ($90) is for C-section recoveries. It includes a belly band and high-waisted underwear to support abdominal recovery, guidebooks on postpartum recovery, and childbirth recovery essentials: maxi pads, mesh undies and stool softener.

Care for Miscarriage Box ($90) supports women with tools to memorialize the loss, nurture themselves, and process the experience. The kit contains two books, a superfood-rich beverage and remembrance bracelets.

Care for Stillbirth Box ($115) contains books, remembrance bracelets, and practical products to aid in the body's physical recovery after stillbirth. 

Why We Love It

We all see the Instagram photos of new moms smiling with perfect hair and makeup, but what did it take to get there? If you deliver in a hospital, you may be given some mesh undies and a squeeze bottle to take home, but nobody really spells out what postpartum physical changes and health issues to expect or how to deal with them (hello, bleeding and hemorrhoids). Bodily delivers all that and more.

In addition to postpartum essentials, the website has tons of research-led, evidence-based articles and timelines on what to expect from your fluctuating body and with breastfeeding. You get clear answers and products that actually work, so you can get back to what you want to be doing: caring for your baby. And for those who were pregnant but suffered a loss, the website now has a Pregnancy Loss Resource Hub, with research-backed information to support families in need.

Visit itsbodily.com to shop and learn more.

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

photos: All images courtesy of Bodily.

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Nursing Bras 101: Everything You Need to Know

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

If you plan to breastfeed your babe, you definitely need the best nursing bra you can get your hands on. But you may be unsure about what to buy, when and how many. Read on to find answers to your burning bra questions, from the styles that will suit you, to the best pumping and nursing bras on the market of 2021.

best nursing bras 2021
Boob 24/7 Full Cup Bra

Why do I need a nursing bra?
Nursing bras make it easier to feed your child and are more comfortable for you, especially in the first few months of breastfeeding. Their soft fabric and wider straps accommodate engorged breasts, and they offer stretch and support without aggravating sore breasts or sensitive nipples. Plus, some women find underwires uncomfortable as they can press on milk ducts, so a wire-free nursing bra is a welcome option. If you're pumping, you definitely need a comfortable pumping bra so you can keep your hands free.

Davin & Adley Ella bra

How do I know which size bra to get?
Nursing bras are stretchy and accommodate size changes, so you can start purchasing bras at the end of your pregnancy. If there’s a department store or maternity/breastfeeding store in your area, get a professional fitting and advice on what's best for your specific breasts.

Otherwise, follow brands’ size charts. Many nursing bras come in letter sizes (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL), so they’re designed for a broader range of band and cup sizes than a typical non-nursing bra. Bras with multiple adjustment hooks in back give you flexibility as your body changes postpartum.

Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra

How many do I need?
Start with three or four bras. You’ll want at least two in case you leak breastmilk into one, and you may want a softer style for sleeping/nighttime feedings or a more supportive option when you’re outside the home. If you're pumping, you may want a dedicated bra for pumping or a combo nursing/pumping bra.

But don’t buy too many bras until you’re at least 3-4 months postpartum, as your body and breasts need time to regulate after baby is born. Your needs and breasts will change in the months after pregnancy, so you may want a different style or size of nursing bra as time goes on.

Belly Bandit Leakproof Nursing Bra

What kind of nursing bra should I choose?
The right bra depends on your breast shape and where baby will be nursing. If you breastfeed outside your home, you may want a different type of bra for convenience and privacy than you’d use if you mostly plan to be nesting at home.

Here are the most common nursing-bra styles:

Drop open/drop cup: These bras have a clip on each strap that you open and pull down the cup to nurse. Look for styles where you can unclip the bra with one hand, as you’ll likely be holding a hungry baby with the other. We like the Everything Bra from Bodily, the Signature Lace Cotton-Lined Nursing Bralette from Hanky Panky and the "nu nudes" line of seamless bras from Motherhood Maternity, a seamless clip-down bra that comes in a range of colors, including many skin tones, and sizes: original (for B-D cups), full-busted (D-G cups) and plus-size (1X-3X).

Crisscross/Crossover/pull-aside: Just pull the bra aside to expose the breast for nursing. Super easy and convenient, especially for home use and as sleep bras. We love the Foxy by AVYN for its stretchy, supportive fabric and stylish strappy back and the 24/7 Full Cup Bra by Boob, which has a roomier cup and supports women up to size XXL.

Lift-up/pull-down: These bralette-style bras can be lifted up or pulled down when nursing. They're convenient for nighttime feedings and are comfortable sleep bras.

Combination pumping & nursing bra: A hands-free pumping bra you can also nurse in is the ultimate sanity saver. We love the convenient comfort of the Do Anything Bra from Bodily, the Multitasking Maternity Bra from Motherfigure, Hands Free Pumping Seamless Nursing bra from Motherhood Maternity and the Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra from Kindred Bravely.

Nursing tank or cami: For added support on a postpartum belly, consider a nursing tank or cami, which comes in both crossover and drop-open styles. We like the Amelia Pumping & Nursing Crop Cami from Davin & Adley.

Nursing sports bra: Yes, you can get a sports bra that’s easy to nurse in! These bras, like the ActiveSupport Nursing Sports Bra from Belly Bandit and Cadenshae's Ultimate Nursing Sports Bra, balance comfort and support with easy-to-use clasps or zippers for nursing. The nursing and pumping bras from Sweat and Milk come in three levels of support (high impact, medium impact, light impact), so you can find the right kind of bra for your favorite workout, from running to Pilates.

Maternity-friendly nursing bras: The Ella Maternity, Nursing & Pumping Bralette from Davin & Adley keeps you comfortable during pregnancy and looks gorgeous, with its lace details and racerback styling. Then, when baby arrives, you can nurse in it by twisting the magnetic, locking nursing clasps. It's also compatible with wearable pumps, flanges and milk catchers.

What else should I look for?
Within the different styles of nursing bras, you’ll find a variety of models: seamless or shaped cups, wireless or underwire, front closure, back closure or slip-on, and lined or unlined. Choose the style that best suits your breasts and personal preferences.

Once you get into the swing of breastfeeding, your needs should become clearer and you can add more bras to your stash. You may also discover issues that warrant a new purchase. Like, if you're leaking breastmilk, try Belly Bandit's Leakproof Nursing Bra or Leakproof Nursing Pads.

best nursing bras 2021
Motherfigure The Multitasking Maternity Bra

The Best Nursing Bra Brands
We asked nursing moms for their favorite nursing bra brands, and these top the list. We’ve linked to their websites so you can find the right styles, sizes and price range for you.

Anita

AVYN

Behr

Bella Materna

Belly Bandit

Bodily

Boob

Bravado

Cadenshae

Cake

Cupcake Maternity

The Dairy Fairy

Davin & Adley

Freya

Hanky Panky

Hotmilk

Ingrid & Isabel

Kindred Bravely

Knix

Larken X

Lataly

Latched Mama

Motherfigure

Motherhood Maternity

NOONI'S

SHEFIT

Sweat and Milk

 

featured image: Motherhood Maternity

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

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best nursing bras 2021

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FAQs & Answers about Breastfeeding from a Doctor

By Dr. Alan Lindemann

In my career as an obstetrician, I’ve delivered more than 6,000 babies. Though new mothers are often eager to breastfeed their babies, many struggle with challenges. With mothers sometimes being sent home only 12 hours after giving birth, they often lack the professional guidance that new parents used to receive in hospitals. Here are my essential tips, addressing some of the most common questions about breastfeeding.

I’m struggling with latching. What should I do?

Latching on is important for both mom and baby. Years ago we could keep a mother and newborn in the hospital until any breastfeeding problems were addressed before sending the family home. Today, with shortened hospital stays, mothers and babies are often discharged before latching is established.

It is important to know what must happen in order for a baby to be nourished. Breastfeeding is not like sucking on a straw that barely extends beyond your lips. For breastfeeding to work, about 2.5 cm of nipple and areola must be in the baby’s mouth. That is so it reaches the baby’s soft palate, where normal suction occurs. This helps preserve Mom’s health; the ducts in the areolas get drained, making mastitis and plugged ducts less likely.

To make latching easier, put the baby’s bottom lip at the bottom of your areola and then put your nipple to the baby’s lips. For most mothers, the edge of your areola and the edge of the baby’s lip should be near.

It’s also important to recognize that if you are worried or distressed—if you think you won’t be able to nurse your baby—you will be less likely to be successful. If you have confidence that you can nurse your baby, you will have a better chance at success.

I use a breast pump. How long can I store the milk?

Fresh breast milk can be kept up to four hours at room temperature (77 degrees F), up to four days in the refrigerator (40 degrees F), and up to six to twelve months in the freezer (0 degrees F). Any leftover milk from feeding should be consumed by the baby within two hours or thrown away. Frozen breast milk thawed should be used within one to two hours and stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. Never refreeze pumped breast milk.

How long should I nurse the baby each time I feed them?

The most important thing about nursing is to be flexible. Once established, your options are endless. I had one patient who nursed her child once a day from one breast for three years.

The baby needs to eat enough to gain 5-7 ounces each week. The baby would double its birth weight by six months and triple its birth weight by one year. Contrary to some recommendations that nursed babies only be given the breast, you can breast and bottle feed. It’s important to get help from nurses or lactation consultants in the first three days. Studies show that women who have c-sections have less trouble with babies failing to thrive (not gaining weight), and subsequently being hospitalized. This isn’t much of a mystery if you consider that women who deliver vaginally are sometimes sent home within 12 hours of delivery — with very little time to receive instruction from professionals about getting started breastfeeding. C-section patients will likely be in the hospital longer.

How many times a day should I nurse my baby?

You need to feed your baby often enough so that it gains weight. Be aware that younger infants will eat more often, taking less milk at each feeding. Whenever your baby cries it is a good time to offer the breast. In my experience, 95 percent of crying babies are hungry.

Should I wake my baby up for feeding?

I would recommend against waking your baby for feeding. However, there is one very important exception. If your baby is small and nurses every two to three hours throughout the day and night, your baby is unlikely to go four or five hours without waking up to nurse. In this situation, I would try waking your baby after four or five hours to be sure that they are okay.

Is it safe to take medications while breastfeeding?

This depends upon what medications you are talking about. You may safely take prenatal iron and vitamins, most over-the-counter medications, Tylenol, antibiotics such as erythromycin or gentamicin, and thyroid replacement medications. If you have any questions or doubts about the safety of a medication while breastfeeding, please ask your doctor.

Remember, if you have any questions, there’s no need to feel alone. There are professionals available to help you, so don’t be afraid to reach out for advice.

Feature Image: Filip Mroz via Unsplash 

RELATED STORIES:
6 Things I Wish I Had Known about Breastfeeding before Giving Birth
The One Thing I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me about Breastfeeding
When Should You See a Breastfeeding Counselor?

 

 

Dr. Alan Lindemann
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

An obstetrician and maternal mortality expert, “Rural Doc” Alan Lindemann, M.D. teaches women and families how to create the outcomes they want for their own health and pregnancy. In nearly 40 years of practice, he has delivered around 6,000 babies and achieved a maternal mortality rate of zero! Visit LindemannMD.com

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You Need This New Hybrid Baby Bottle on Your Registry Now

by Jamie Aderski
Partner Content

There are so many new things to adapt to with a newborn, like a sleep schedule for one, but top of the list is getting their belly full of milk. Even if you’re breastfeeding, chances are you will need a bottle sometimes—so you can hand off a nighttime feeding and can get some much-needed rest. Figuring out how to feed your baby is not quite as simple as you may think, and questions start popping up: “What is the safest bottle, plastic or glass?”, “What if my baby won’t take a bottle?”, “What if I never sleep again!?” (you will!).

When it comes to bottles, plastic is lightweight, hard to break and less expensive. So what’s the catch? It’s more difficult to sanitize and can absorb odors and discolor. Even BPA free-plastics are coming under scrutiny since it’s not clear if they can leach estrogenic compounds or if microplastics can be ingested, which is stuff you don’t want in your baby’s system. Glass won’t absorb odors or leach chemicals, is easier to clean and long-lasting—but is heavy and breakable. If only there were a way to combine the superpowers of these materials and eliminate the negatives… The baby experts at Chicco figured it out, so you don’t have to stress!

ChiccoDUO™ is the first-of-its-kind hybrid baby bottle offering the wellness benefits of glass and the convenience of plastic in one incredible bottle. ChiccoDUO bottles are lightweight, unbreakable, and your baby’s milk only touches pure glass—it’s the best of both worlds! Read on to discover four reasons why this is the baby bottle of the future. (And it just may help you get a little more sleep, too.)

 

Check out Chicco’s full line of products including the ChiccoDUO hybrid baby bottle and buy now!

1. Safety

How did Chicco invent this all-mighty bottle? By utilizing an advanced, patented technology used in medical and pharmaceutical products that permanently bonds micro-thin layers of glass to the interior of a crystal-clear, premium plastic exterior. This Invinci-Glass™ inner layer shields milk from plastic. Every aspect of the bottle and nipple was developed and tested for their safety, function, ease of use, comfort, and baby and parent acceptance. During a multi-year process, an international interdisciplinary team of engineers, award-winning scientists, designers, researchers and neonatologists transformed a medical technology into a breakthrough baby bottle, meeting or surpassing all FDA and CPSIA standards.

2. Functionality

Chicco knows babies—they've been crafting innovative baby products and making life easier for parents since 1958. The invention of the ChiccoDUO bottle was born from years of experience and research in the infant feeding category, hearing and understanding parents' needs and the know-how to bring powerful patented technology to a beautifully designed baby bottle. Like glass, it harbors none of the unpleasant odors or aftertastes of typical plastic bottles—it stays clear, won't stain or discolor and lasts longer. But, unlike glass, it's breakproof and lightweight. We'll leave the specifics of how they came up with this to the scientists—we just know it's pure genius.

Check out Chicco's full line of products including the ChiccoDUO hybrid baby bottle and buy now!

3. Convenience

We love simplicity—with a baby, you have enough to do! Hand washing tons of parts (and trying to piece them together in the middle of the night) is a nightmare. ChiccoDUO saves the day again: It's dishwasher, sterilizer and bottle warmer safe with only four simple parts to handle. The logo, measurements and decorations are laser-etched, so there's no ink, fading, and no chipping. These innovative bottles stay crystal-clear, with quality that lasts so well, you can probably pass these down to your sibling who is not ready for the whole "baby thing" quite yet...

4. Ideal Latch

Is this the Ferarri of baby bottles? We think so! Its sleek, lightweight design is expertly crafted to be comfortable for you to hold and ideal for your baby to latch correctly (which is huge because if they're not happy, no one is, mama!). It features Chicco's Intui-latch™ anti-colic nipple with a textured skin-like feel that positions the baby's tongue and lips for a natural, intuitive latch. The breast-like flow is easy for your baby to control for seamless and stress-free breast-to-bottle transitions. Tested with proven results: The Intui-Latch™ Nipple is baby-approved with a 9 out of 10 infant acceptance rate in consumer usage testing—amazing!

Check out Chicco's full line of baby products including the ChiccoDUO hybrid baby bottle and buy now!

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When Should You See a Breastfeeding Counselor?

By Penny White

Editor’s Note: Here at Red Tricycle, we respect and celebrate every mom’s feeding journey. Bottle? Boob? It doesn’t matter—we believe fed is best. Our Spoke Contributor Network is inclusive and open to all parenting journeys—yours, too!

This really is quite a big question and one that does divide those that work with people who breastfeed. Should we do an assessment before or after the baby is born? Once they’ve got an issue or beforehand to prepare them? Personally, I think it’s best to be prepared as new motherhood can be such an overwhelming time so let’s minimize some of that worry but there are others who feel that breastfeeding support should be given as needed.

Before the Baby Is Here

If you wonder/worry about any of the following:

  • PCOS: Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome can result in lowered milk production so you can struggle to begin with.  The good news is that your milk supply will increase the more babies you have but it’s still worth getting information on how to manage.
  • Previous breast surgery: Whether it’s due to a medical issue or cosmetic surgery, medical interventions can result in damage to the delicate tissues contained within so again it’s good to get some resources ready so you can spot any potential issues.
  • IVF: Now it all depends on why you had it and to be honest there isn’t a whole heap of research on this but it is believed that it can cause issues with breastfeeding for some—so again be prepared!
  • If you’re worried you just can’t: Now a lot of babies (the vast majority in all honesty!) will latch with no issues and minimal intervention but again it’s worth having a chat with a professional who can give you lots of little tips to avoid you stressing when you don’t need to. C-section, induction, vaginal birth, medication in labor can all have an impact. Flat nipples, small nipples. inverted, big, uneven nipple size, big breasts, small breasts, one side bigger than the other—we’ve seen them all (it’s our job!) and we are trained to advise you on how to feed your baby.
  • Do you need all that stuff that comes with breastfeeding? Do you really need a pump? Manual, electric, silicone, one you wear, a double or single—which one will work best for you? A pillow? Shields or shells? Isn’t a Hakka something they do in New Zealand? Confused as you just thought you needed your boobs and a baby? Then ask a breastfeeding counselor!

After the Baby Is Here 

If you have any of the following:

  • Pain: Honestly I cannot stress enough—pain in breastfeeding indicates a problem and needs to be addressed. You should not suffer when you feed your child. It doesn’t matter where that pain is in your breast or nipple or stomach or neck and shoulders, having discomfort indicates an issue somewhere. If your emotions are being impacted by your feeding choices/routine that is considered pain as well—ask for help.
  • Questions: So you’ve had the baby and received brilliant help from the breastfeeding counselor in the hospital however you still have lots of questions and she has lots of other patients to see. A one-on-one session with a breastfeeding counselor will give you the time to fire away all those little ‘does this look right to you?’ worries.
  • If you are worried about supply: Not producing much when you pump? Does the baby seem to feed a lot? Breasts suddenly don’t seem as full? Will one bottle of formula a day make a difference? All of these are questions that breastfeeding counselors are trained to answer and can reassure you as we are trained to get to know you first before making any comments.
  • If you have concerns: How often should your baby poo? How will you know that they are full? How will you know that they are hungry? How will you know if they’re full? Feed on demand or to a schedule? Should their poo look like that? Why do they want to eat all the time? Your sister says that [….] shouldn’t happen—is she right? Are you going to spoil your baby by doing too much skin-to-skin? You know what I’m going to say about this don’t you?
  • If you want to stop: It is believed that our ancestors may have breastfed their young until the age of 7. The natural age of weaning is thought to be between 2 and 4 years of age. Now there are a whole host of reasons why we want to stop breastfeeding and seeing a breastfeeding counselor can make sure that you are doing it in a safe way as sudden cessation could result in mastitis, engorgement, and other complications for you.

But does seeing a breastfeeding counselor actually make any difference? In a study in 2019, participants in a breastfeeding support program were “on average 66% less risk of cessation of any breastfeeding and on average 54% less risk of cessation of exclusive breastfeeding at any point in time.” A significant decrease in women still breastfeeding after ten days postpartum was noticed if they did not receive support is shown in a study from 2015.

The facts are that getting breastfeeding support doesn’t mean you’ve failed or you’re not doing it right—it just means that you want to do it well or better. You shouldn’t be judged for asking a question (believe me I’ve been on the receiving end of judgmental breastfeeding support and that was one of the main reasons my oldest was formula fed!) Seeing someone trained in breastfeeding means you will get support and understanding, from a person who can acknowledge how important, frustrating and wonderful this journey is.

This post originally appeared on Bahbabelle.net.

I'm certified as a doula, breastfeeding counselor and Lamaze childbirth educator.  I'm British, living in Bahrain in the Middle East for the last 14 years. I have three daughters and I just want to show them that it doesn't matter your age, dreams can be followed. 

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