Breastfeeding Resources

Breastfeeding ain’t easy! And boy did I have a rough time figuring out how to successfully breastfeed both of my kids: bad latch, inefficient nurser, infant colitis via breastmilk, breast engorgement, mastitis (uh, like a total of 8 times I think?), breast thrush (worst. pain. ever.), plugged duct after plugged duct, breast pump sizing issues, the list goes on and on).

I’m sure the story of my breastfeeding journey is far from unique, but, for some reason, I felt very alone and unsupported when I started out…. And, I probably would have quit if I hadn’t found the following resources online.

Here’s a list of some of my favorite breastfeeding resources and support groups:

BRAS (Breastfeeding Resources and Support) Facebook Group: A group of women of every shape, size, color, age, and location who have come together to offer support and resources to other breastfeeding moms! I found this group to be especially helpful during those early newborn days and nights, when you had a question or needed help ASAP (even at 3:30am). There’d always be someone awake responding to you!

KellyMom: On their About Page, they say their goal is to provide evidence-based information on breastfeeding and parenting. I always found them to be an extremely reliable resource.

TED Mamas Facebook Group: TED Mamas is a peer to peer support group for mothers breastfeeding infants on a multiple elimination diet, such as top allergen free or a Total Elimination Diet.

La Leche League International: My favorite part about the La Leche League site? You can find a local support group. With my first born, I was about to give up when he was only 5 days old (that’s how rough our start was), but then I found a local support group of mommas, facilitated by an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), and I found the answers and encouragement I was looking for.

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding: I must admit, I’ve never read this book cover to cover, since I bought it after my first babe was born, and never had the time to sit down and really, really read it. But, it served as an invaluable resource to reference when issues would arise. This would make a great baby shower gift for an expectant mother who is planning to nurse.

Dr. Jack Newman’s APNO (All Purpose Nipple Ointment): Dr. Jack Newman is a Canadian physician specializing in breastfeeding support and advocacy. This ointment is his invention. It’s the good stuff. You need to get it from a compounding pharmacy, but it’s so worth it. It’s a MUST HAVE in your breastfeeding arsenal. Also, always have some coconut oil on hand (though, make sure your babe isn’t allergic to coconut!).

Do you have any other go-to resources, tools, ointments, advice? I’d love to hear from you!