In honor of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, I'm excited to share a few must-have essentials for breastfeeding. I could write a book on my thoughts and very different experiences after breastfeeding both of my children. It's definitely a journey worth exploring and taking if it's the right choice for mom and baby. I'm going on 29 months of breastfeeding Baby S, and our breastfeeding story hasn't been without challenges. Having a supportive community, as well as helpful breastfeeding products really made a huge difference in the way I felt about breastfeeding the second time around.

This morning, I was honored to join a few of my favorite news anchors over at WBTV Charlotte to share about these amazing essentials for breastfeeding moms. If you missed the segment, or even if you caught it and just want to know more about the products, here are the products we chatted about:

Breastfeeding Essentials for Moms

UpSpring: Milkflow Fenugreek + Blessed Thistle Chai Tea Latte Powder Drink Mix ($17.99)

UpSpring: Milkscreen ($9.99/5-pack)

UpSpring: Charcoal Fusion Belly Slimming Nursing Tank ($39.99)

Lansinoh: HPA Lanolin ($9.99)

 Lansinoh: Soothies Gel Pads ($9.99)

Lansinoh: Nursie Breastfeeding Pillow (NEW!) ($24.99)

 Lansinoh: SmartPump Double Electric Breast Pump ($145)

I have used many of these brands/products myself, and only have good things to say about them. If I had to choose three products I couldn't live without, they would be a good breast pump, Lanolin, and a nursing pillow. These products will start you out on what I hope will be the road to success with your breastfeeding journey.

I've found that breastfeeding has its ups and downs, and mamas, it can take a while for you and baby to develop a good rhythm and get the hang of it. If you feel frustrated or discouraged, please don't give up. Connect with a support group in your area, or consult the lactation consultant at your local hospital for help/advice. It can make a huge difference in the way you start out with breastfeeding.

Know your rights!

Breastfeeding in public is now legal in 50 states, so don't feel confined to strictly feeding at home. Do whatever feels comfortable. I had no problem breastfeeding Baby S in public & even received encouragement and praise from other moms for doing so. 

If breastfeeding doesn't work out for you, there's no shame in your feeding game! FED is best- period. Only you know what's right for you & your baby. My first weaned himself at 9 months old, and it was sooner than I wanted, but that's just the way it happened. He's totally happy and healthy today & I have no regrets in supplementing with formula- my baby needed it at the time.

Want to chat about breastfeeding? Catch me over on the MBP Facebook page or over on Instagram! I'd love to hear from you.

Good luck with your breastfeeding journey!