10 Products That Make Breastfeeding More Bearable, According To A Doula

"Wear these as you walk around and it collects leaking milk from your breast," Elizabeth suggests. "The haakaa is a little different from other milk collecting gadgets as it applies some suction to maximize the amount of leaking breast milk it collects." New moms often love how easy these are to apply, and they're a must for all moms who want to make breastfeeding a little easier.

If you're expecting, you probably have a Boppy on your registry — and Elizabeth thinks it's a great choice, especially if you plan on breastfeeding. "I LOVE Boppy pillows!" she said. "I kept one in the living room where I liked to nurse during the day and an extra next to my baby’s bassinet. Resting your baby on top of a pillow while nursing helps save your arms from getting tired of holding them up to your breast. Unlike regular pillows, Boppy pillow offers support at the sides of your body as well, and it holds its shape." They're also just good to have around since they can offer some additional support.

Even Elizabeth admits that she was hesitant to use a manual pump at first. But, it's very convenient. Unlike an electric pump, a manual doesn't take up space nor does it need power. It's especially good for breastfeeding moms who need relief in a pinch. "It doesn’t take up much room, so it's easy to just stick it in your diaper bag," she said. "I don’t even use my electric pump anymore. I always use my manual."

One of the benefits of breastfeeding is the fact that many stores sell treats that'll naturally help boost your milk supply. While it's important to chat with your doctor about breastfeeding supplements before you take them, many of them have offered incredible results for nursing moms. Elizabeth personally recommends the Motherlove line. "The supplement helped me get my milk supply up, and I haven't had any issues since," she said. "I only took it for two weeks. Taking that in addition to staying hydrated worked really well for me. Always talk to your provider before taking supplements, though."

It's always important to have some comfortable clothes while you're breastfeeding. "It makes nursing and pumping so much easier," says Elizabeth. "Not to mention, it is so uncomfortable to have tight clothing on while your breasts are super tender." This dress from Seraphine might be an excellent choice. It looks like a standard dress on the outside, but has lift up segments for nursing access.

You'll especially need some cozy nursing gear for the summer months. This striped tee is not only flattering, but a great way to nurse in a public place without having to remove too many clothes. This particular shirt comes in sizes small to XXL.

Of course a store like Motherhood Maternity would know the best way to make a new mom look fashionable. This cute dress provides plenty of comfort for before and after your baby's arrival. It has back and front snaps, which is convenient if you need to place monitors. For breastfeeding, all you need to do is unsnap the dress at the shoulders for easy access. It comes in three colors, and when people learn how versatile this dress is, they won't judge you for buying all of them.

Remember, when you're breastfeeding, the bare minimum of dress you should worry about is "covered." Babies require a lot of feedings. In fact, as Elizabeth reminded us, those first six weeks include feedings every two to three hours. That means this top will work beautifully. It's a quick way to access your breasts without being a hassle.

It's always good to have spare ice packs lying around. But, it'd do you good to have a few that can also be heated. This bundle contains two, which is good, since one can always be stuck in the freezer for quick access. "These are perfect for problems like engorgement (something most people experience after giving birth), plugged ducts, and mastitis," Elizabeth says. "Engorgement and plugged ducts can be treated by applying heat to your breasts before nursing or pumping so that the milk is let-down more easily, and then applying cold (for no more than 20 minutes at a time) to reduce swelling."

Elizabeth feels like there are a ton of great contenders when it comes to nursing bras — but, she's especially fond of the Kindred Bravely collection. "It felt like my life changed once I could pump hands-free," she said. "There are few things more stressful as a new mother than trying to maximize your time by pumping both breasts at the same time while being at home alone with a newborn who is crying." Most nursing moms would agree. Being able to work and pump at the same time will make you feel even more like a superhero.

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