Must haves for moms who plan to breastfeed

Nursing Mothers-What You Need:
As an expectant mom, there are a number of things you should consider gathering prior to babies arrival. The list below is specific for baby and breastfeeding. There are a number of items you should consider to prepare properly for the arrival of baby. Speak with your Child Birth Educator for a complete list of items.

At Home - for breastfeeding
-Breastfeeding books and videos - a number of good quality books and videos are available to answer many of your questions right away.
-The contact number of a Lactation consultant or La Leche League Leader who can help during really difficult times. Look for a La Leche League support meeting near you from this link. Support is imperative for many new breastfeeding moms. http://www.llli.org/WebUS.html
-At least three nursing bras (one to wear, one in the wash, one in your drawer) You may need more if you are anything like me and don't like to do laundry every day!
-A pillow to support baby while breastfeeding. There are companies who make specific nursing pillows, which many moms like.
-A rocking chair or glider to make late nights a little easier
-A nursing foot stool
-burping cloths - these come in handy for many cleanups. This helps prevent you from changing 5 times a day or from simply having spit up become a fixture to your wardrobe!
-Lanolin cream for ongoing nipple therapy. If your nipples become cracked seek medical advise about Lanolin cream as this could cause a reaction in some woman and prevent continued nursing.
-At least four sets of washable bra pads, or disposable pads to keep lactating breasts dry to prevent thrush or infections
-You might want to consider a breast shell for flat or inverted nipples. This may also be helpful if your nipples crack to speed the healing process. Medela is one company who sells breast shells.

At Home or work- for breastpumping
-A quality breast pump
-Breastmilk collection and storage bags or containers. This is a must have for moms who plan to go back to work or who plan to escape for a night away at some point.
-A portable cooler carrier for transporting your breastmilk. This is included with some pumps
-Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags and Wipes, which come in handy when you don't have time or discretion to wash between uses. This was an inexpensive lifesaver for me when I went back to work or was to gosh darn tired to wash the tiny pieces of my pump between uses.

Thank you Medela for these great ideas!