No one in my family has ever breastfed and I’m flying blind. What do I actually need?
I’m 18 weeks today with my first (we just saw her sucking her thumb on the ultrasound today and I'm a puddle 😭).
While I’m so excited, I’m also spiraling about breastfeeding. Literally no one in my family or friend group has ever done it, and my 5-year-old step-daughter wasn’t breastfed either, so I have zero "real life" roadmap for this. I’m scared I won’t be able to do it or that I’ll be totally unprepared.
Since we are moving in a month, I’m trying not to buy physical "stuff" yet, but I want to start my mental list.
The Pump: How do I even start the process with insurance? Is there a specific brand I should look for? Do I even need to bring it to the hospital?
The Gear: What are the actual essentials (pads, creams, pillows) vs. the marketing fluff?
The Learning: Since I don't have a mom or sister to ask, are there any specific YouTubers or classes that actually helped you?
I feel like I’m starting from zero. Would love any "I figured it out on my own" success stories or tips for a first-generation breastfeeding mama!