The best accessories for successful breastfeeding!

Breastfeeding is a bit like embarking on an adventure where every day is a new step. Between the magical moments and the little challenges, every mother deserves to be well equipped so that everything runs smoothly. Whether you are deep in thought or already in the bath (or milk), here is a guide to accompany you in this precious experience.

The benefits of breastfeeding: nourishing, protecting and creating a unique bond

In this article, I will also offer you concrete brands and simple solutions to improve your breastfeeding experience. Whether you are looking for practical accessories or small adjustments to make each feeding more enjoyable, you will find easy-to-apply recommendations here. The Limky brand offers maternity clothes and also a whole wardrobe to dress mom and baby.

10 things to know about breastfeeding

1. Breast milk is always suitable: It changes composition over the days and months to meet your baby's specific needs.

2. The first days are the densest: Colostrum, rich in antibodies and nutrients, is produced before mature milk. It is a real "superfood" for babies.

3. Milk production can take a few days: Some mothers have it from the first day, others take a little longer. Be patient!

4. Growth spurts are normal: Baby will ask for the breast more often to stimulate your milk production and adapt to his needs.

5. Breastfeeding can be tiring at first: Between frequent feedings and postpartum fatigue, it's important to get plenty of rest and seek help.

6. Breastfeeding protects your baby from infections: Breast milk contains antibodies that strengthen your baby's immune system.

7. There is no “ideal” length of breastfeeding: The WHO recommends six months of exclusive breastfeeding, but every mother and baby have their own rhythm.

8. Hydration and balanced diet are essential: Drink plenty of water and eat varied meals to support your milk production.

9. The breast pump is your ally: It allows you to store milk or let someone else feed your baby if you have to go away.

10. Breastfeeding in public is protected by law: You can breastfeed your baby anywhere, without restriction, as long as you and your baby are comfortable.

Why Breastfeed? Advantages and Disadvantages

The Benefits of Breastfeeding: A Mom's Superpower

Breastfeeding has many benefits, not only for the baby, but also for the mother. Here are some of them:

- Breast milk : a 5-star meal. Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby. Rich in nutrients, it adapts to the child's needs, like a starred chef who changes his menu with each season.

- A unique bond with your baby. Each feeding is a moment of complicity. This bond is a bit like a liquid hug. Your baby feels reassured, soothed, and you? You enjoy this moment just the two of you.

- Protection against infections. Breast milk contains natural antibodies that help strengthen your baby's immune system. It's like giving your baby a little armor against everyday germs.

- Economy and practicality. Let's not lie to ourselves, breastfeeding is also a good idea for the wallet! No need to buy powdered milk, and what's more, it's always ready, at the right temperature, and without sterilization to plan.

If you choose to breastfeed, it is better to invest in a nice co-sleeping bed so that your baby is as close as possible to you while sleeping. For this, I advise you to read "top 5 co-sleeping beds"

Illustration of BeaMullerPrints

The Disadvantages of Breastfeeding

Because as with everything, not everything is rosy (or rather white milk) in the world of breastfeeding. Here are some challenges you might face:

- Fatigue. The first few weeks, especially, can be exhausting. Between nighttime feedings and growth spurts, it can sometimes feel like you're running a marathon... without an end.

- Pain. Breastfeeding can sometimes cause nipple pain or engorgement. Fortunately, there are solutions (we'll talk about them right after).

- Organization. You also have to juggle breastfeeding and the rest of your daily life. Good organization (or a few practical accessories) can save the day.

illustration by JuneJewell

How long does breastfeeding last on average?

If you're wondering how long to breastfeed, there's no one-size-fits-all answer . According to the WHO, it's recommended to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of your baby's life.

But every mom and baby is different. Some women breastfeed for a few weeks, others for years. It's a bit like choosing the length of a movie: the important thing is that everyone enjoys the experience. Keep in mind that breastfeeding should be a time of pleasure and sharing .

The essential accessory for peaceful breastfeeding

Wondering what is the one accessory that every breastfeeding mom should have on hand? Without a doubt: the nursing pillow ! It's like a faithful steed that you can always count on. But I would say that soon after comes the nursing bra and a diaper.

Why is the nursing pillow your best friend?

- Absolute comfort : It supports baby and mother during feedings, thus avoiding back and arm pain.

- Versatile : Before breastfeeding, it can be used to relieve your belly during pregnancy. Afterwards, it can also be used to keep baby seated safely.

- Easy to carry : Some models are compact and can accompany you everywhere, even when traveling.

Other practical accessories for breastfeeding with complete peace of mind

Of course, the nursing pillow is not the only accessory that can make life easier for a breastfeeding mother. Here is a short list of essentials:

- Breastfeeding shells : Goodbye cracked nipples and hello soft nipples, like a shell on the beach.

- Nursing bras : Because it is important to have quick and convenient access, without feeling compressed. Kallisto maman offers nursing kits with compresses and lace nursing bras .

- The breast pump : For those who want to stock up or give dad the opportunity to give a bottle.

- Soothing compresses : Instant relief in case of irritation or pain.

- Breastfeeding clothes : No more juggling with clothes! They allow you to breastfeed discreetly, like a breast ninja. The Limky brand offers beautiful collections adapted to breastfeeding women.

- An XXL diaper : The accessory that you find in all diaper bags! This large piece of fabric is used for everything, wiping a drop of milk, hiding mom's chest when she's breastfeeding, wrapping baby... In short, you absolutely need one. The diapers from the April Eleven brand are super large, it's very practical! Find the 3 models of baby diapers available on the online store.

How to manage baby's growth spurts while breastfeeding?

Ah, breastfeeding binges … Those moments when your baby seems insatiable, demanding your breast every hour or even every 30 minutes, as if he were at an all-you-can-eat buffet. These periods are normal and usually occur at certain key points in your child’s development (around 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, etc.).

During these peaks, baby stimulates milk production to adapt to his new needs. It can be a little exhausting for mom, but rest assured, it is temporary . In general, it lasts a few days. It is a bit like a storm: intense, but it eventually passes.

Well equipped, well surrounded, happy with breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is an adventure with its ups and downs , but with the right equipment, everything becomes easier. In addition to a nursing pillow worthy of the name, surround yourself with caring people and a bit of patience. Because after all, breastfeeding is like becoming an everyday superhero, with the added bonus of the power to nourish and comfort in an instant!