My 10 Essential Breastfeeding Must-Haves (From a Mama Who’s Been There)

As a newborn photographer (and mama myself), I spend a lot of time in the studio chatting with new moms—usually while they’re nursing, burping, or gently rocking a baby who has finally fallen asleep. And one thing that always comes up? Breastfeeding.

Before I had kids, I figured breastfeeding would be natural. I mean, it’s biological, right? How hard could it be? HA! Cue the laugh-cry emoji.

No one tells you how challenging, painful, weirdly emotional, and just downright hard it can be. I felt totally unprepared the first time around. So, in the spirit of sisterhood, I wanted to share my personal list of breastfeeding must-haves—the things that got me through the trenches.

Whether you’re a first-time mama or you’ve done this dance before, I hope something here makes your journey a little smoother.

1. Lactation Consultant

One of the best decisions I made during my breastfeeding journey was reaching out to a lactation consultant. Sometimes you just need someone who really knows what they’re doing to walk you through the latch issues, milk supply worries, or those moments when you’re just not sure what’s normal.

If you’re in Northeast Ohio, I always recommend Betsy at The Breastfeeding Center. She’s incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and makes you feel so supported. Whether you’re just getting started or hitting a bump in the road, she’s a fantastic resource to have in your corner.

2. Realistic Expectations

Let’s talk about something not enough people say out loud—even with a “perfect” latch, breastfeeding in those early days can still hurt. I remember hearing over and over, “If the latch is right, it won’t be painful,” and thinking, great, then I must be doing it wrong… again. But the truth is, when a tiny, hungry mouth is nursing every two hours on a body part that’s never done this before, there’s going to be some soreness.

You’re not broken. You’re not failing. You’re adjusting. That early tenderness doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong—it just means your body is learning something new (and doing something amazing). Be gentle with yourself, give your body time to catch up, and know that it really does get easier.

3. Breast Shells

You know the deal—baby’s latched on one side, and the other side is suddenly Niagara Falls. Breast shells collect that precious milk so it doesn’t go to waste (liquid gold, am I right?). They also let your poor, sore nipples breathe and heal. Just make sure to clean them often! We love this one from Haakaa!

4. Nipple Butter

Get yourself the good stuff. I loved the organic kinds with shea butter—no rinsing required before baby feeds. Nipple butter soothes, protects, and makes you feel like you’re doing something nice for yourself while you’re in the thick of cluster feeds and cracked skin. We love this one from Earth Mama!

5. A REALLY Good Nursing Bra (or tank)

Comfort and access, yes—but also, can we normalize wanting to feel cute again after having a baby? I swear by getting fitted (Nordstrom is amazing for this), and if you’re blessed in the bust like I am, they can even turn regular bras into nursing bras—game changer.

6. Pumping Bra

Listen. If you’re going to pump, please do it hands-free. You deserve to drink your coffee, scroll Instagram, or breathe while pumping. I’ve pumped in some wild places (hello, wedding venue parking lot)—a good bra made all the difference.

7. Breast Pump

I tried a few before I found one that actually worked for me. If you’re going back to work, want your partner to help with feedings, or just need to relieve engorgement (the morning fullness is real), a good pump is a lifesaver. Also, your insurance might cover it—definitely worth a call!

8. Milk Storage Bags

If you’re pumping or collecting letdown, you’ll want a stash of these. Just make sure they’re specifically for breast milk—don’t grab sandwich bags in a pinch (guilty once). Label them with the date and amount, and give yourself a gold star for adulting so hard.

9. Lactation Cookies

A cookie that helps you make milk? YES PLEASE. I loved keeping a stash of homemade or store-bought ones around—loaded with oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast. Whether or not they boost your supply, they taste good and make you feel like you’re doing something helpful. Win-win.

10. Grace

Seriously. Give yourself so much grace. Breastfeeding is hard. There’s no “right” way to do it, and it doesn’t make you a better mom if it works—or a worse one if it doesn’t. You’re learning, baby’s learning, and sometimes it’s messy, painful, emotional, and confusing. Be gentle with yourself. You’re doing an amazing job.

Every journey is different. Trust yours.
These were my essentials, but your list might look totally different—and that’s okay. The biggest takeaway? You don’t have to do it alone. Lean on your village. Call the lactation consultant. Ask the questions. You’ve got this, mama.

And if you’re still pregnant or recently gave birth, have you booked your newborn session yet? Those first weeks are so fleeting (even if the nights feel endless). I’d love to help you preserve this season with timeless, emotive portraits that you’ll treasure forever.

Reach out here to get all the details or ask me anything—I’m here for you, both as a photographer and a fellow mama in the trenches. 💛