Nursing bras. Look for one with
snaps, not hooks (they're easier), and
for a fabric with give to it to accommodate
fluctuation in breast size.
Breast shells slip inside a bra to alleviate
friction between a sore nipple
and fabric. They can also help with
inverted or fl at nipples, although
some specialists say they're more
hype than help. The Hobbit Shell by
Medela (
medela.com), suggested
retail $14.50, has the most air holes
for ventilation, particularly helpful in
the summer.
Nipple shields. A thin silicone nipple
that fits over your own to give a better
grasp to preemies or babies who
have trouble latching on, shields are
increasingly popular but, if not used
correctly, can lead to decreased milk
supply over time. Best used with
professional supervision.
For occasional pumping, the Avent
Isis hand pump, (
aventamerica.com)
$45 to $65, mimics the baby's suckling
and can be used with only one
hand.
Electric pumps are what most
women want once they go back to
work. A good pump cycles 50 to 70 times a minute. Pump In Style Advanced
and Pump In Style Advanced
Backpack ($349 suggested retail
for both) by Medela closely mimic a
baby's rhythmic nursing pattern. So
does Ameda Purely Yours by Hollister
(
ameda.com), suggested retail $209,
or with backpack, $306. To rent an
electric pump, expect to pay $50 to
$75 per month.
Nipple cream and gel pads are the
newest items for sore or cracked
nipples, although specialists say the
best remedy is often the old-fashioned
one of expressing milk, rubbing
it into the sore spot, and then air
drying. If you're buying a commercial
product, look for purified lanolin,
such as Lanolin Cream (about $10)
by Lansinoh (
lansinoh.com). Avoid
products with vitamin E and potential
allergens.
Breast pillows. Necessity or luxury?
Firm or flexible? It depends on who
you talk to. A pillow can help to take
the strain off your arms and back by
raising the baby to the level of your
breast, but many mothers say a bed
pillow works just fine. Of the many
commercial varieties now available,
the Boppy Pillow ($20 and up) is
probably the best seller.
