There are so many benefits to breastfeeding and this task comes with some apprehension as a first time mom. This is a skill I am not familiar with, and I have also had many friends who were unsuccessful with breastfeeding or didn't produce enough milk and had to supplement with formula. In the perfect world, I would like to say I will exclusively breastfeed for at least a year but mother nature (and a breast augmentation done in 2006) may not let that happen so I wanted to be proactive and be prepared for any type of scenario. I am taking a breastfeeding class with the UCSD Jacobs Center Hospital which was $35. My class isn't till August 3rd when I am 38 weeks pregnant (lets hope I don't go into an early labor). So I searched out for an online course so I can at least get the basics down. I found an online course through Medela that was $25 and found a promo code through an online forum that you can take the course for free:
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Medela Free Breast Feeding Class : Code BRUEgX74fR ($25 Value)

It takes a few weeks for breast milk to stabilize, after the placenta is detached from the uterus, your body sends a signal to your brain to start creating colostrum. Colostrum creates antibodies for your newborn to fight off diseases. But your body is still adjusting and will only create enough depending on the number of feedings, so it takes a few days for your body to start creating milk. So how do I know how much I should feed my baby? Newborns have very small digestive systems but it depends on a babies weight. 

Here is a calculation I found to help give an estimate:

Convert Baby's Weight into Ounces:                                           ____ (lb.) X 16 = _____ oz.
Configure Breast Milk Needed Per Day:                                       ____ (oz.) / 6 = _____ oz. per day                                       ____ oz. / ____ (Feedings Per Day) = Total oz per day

Average newborn weighs 7.5lbs. and needs to be fed every 1-3  hours (8-12 Feedings) based on the calculation that means a newborn can intake est. 1.6 oz per feeding. Your body might not produce that much colostrum right away. But babies are born with extra fluids which is why their birth weight drops 7-10% and thats is perfectly normal. Take this as an estimate, it is hard to know how much breast milk you are producing; the first few days your baby will only have 1 -2 wet diapers but expect up to 6 wet diapers on day 3- 5. Baby shouldn't be losing anymore weight after day 4. Every woman and baby is different, I truly believe its not only a physical task but mental as well. I suggest the Hatch Grow Smart Scale to be able to weigh the baby before and after feedings to determine growth. 
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I used my FSA account to purchase my Naya Smart Breast Pump. The cost was very high for the pump, I paid $750 for mine when they had a sale. This pump is supposed to be the Rolls Royce of all breast pumps, as technology with breastpumps hasn't really changed in a long time. I want to make breastfeeding and pumping easy and painless, so paying for the best pump is worth the extra cost to me. If you are wanting to purchase the Naya, ask if your insurance covers out of network breast pump costs. Out-of-network means that you could have at least a part of the Naya Smart Breast Pump covered. Some insurance companies such as Tricare will reimburse 100% of the cost of any pump regardless of make or manufacturer. Be sure to contact your provider for more information. Insurance Code (CPT Code) for Naya: E0603. I heard the Spectra S1 and Medela PISA are also great hospital grade options. In addition to the Naya I had also purchased a manual pump for when I am on the go and out and about and don't want to bring my breast pump with me. ​

Naya Smart Breast Pump ($939) : The Naya Smart Breast Pump is a closed breast pump system that uses water instead of air to gently massage your breasts to help you relax and release milk quickly (soft silicone flanges are easy on your nipples, too). The pump’s rechargeable battery lasts up to 180 minutes, which is about two days of pumping sessions for most women. Fewer parts make the pump easy to use and clean and keeps your pumping experience hygienic and simple. And at only three pounds, the pump is lightweight, convenient, and designed to travel with you. ​Here is a great review:  Naya Breast Pump Review by Teat & Cossett.

Spectra S1 ($200) : The S1 PLUS Hospital Strength Double Electric Breast Pump with inbuilt RECHARGEABLE BATTERY provides all the features of the S2, with the addition of an inbuilt rechargeable battery. This means that you are now able to benefit from the efficiency, power and performance of a hospital strength breast pump, without compromising on portability.  Like all Spectra pumps, the S1 is a closed system - a physical barrier between the milk and the pump ensures hygiene and motor performance. With a maximum suction strength of 250mmHg and the ability to be used as a single or double pump, plus a host of additional features, the S1 is set to become the ultimate breast pump to support U.S. moms. The S1's completely flexible, touch button, with the S1 pump's digital controls allow you to set the pumping program to the speed and rhythm most effective for your body. The suction is adjustable in both let-down and expression mode. This quiet pump also includes a timer and night light. ​

Medela Pump In Style Advanced ($215) : ​Pump in style advanced is a daily use breast pump designed for moms who pump several times a day. Includes tote bag with integrated motor unit, AC adaptor, battery pack, insulated cooler bag and ice pack, 5 ounce breast milk bottles, 24 mm breast shields, PersonalFit connectors, valves, tubing and instructions.

Phillips Advent Manual Breast Pump ($38) : ​Philips Avent SCF330/30 Comfort Manual Breast Pump is uniquely designed for a more relaxing and comfortable expressing position to promote milk flow. Unlike breast pumps that only operate properly when you lean forward, the Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump allows you to sit comfortably upright as you pump, while the pump's angled neck lets milk flow naturally from breast to bottle. When you are able to relax, you can produce more milk. This manual pump is great for moms who want to pump either at home or on the go. It features a soft massage cushion with 5 textured petals intended to help gently stimulate milk flow by mimicking your baby's natural suckling patterns. An ergonomic handle and lightweight, compact design makes it easy to operate with one hand. The collection container that connects to the pump also works as a bottle with the included natural, breast-shaped nipple. The nipple makes transitioning between breast and bottle easier for your baby by encouraging comfortable latch on. The breast pump also features an uncomplicated design with only a few parts that can all be washed in the dishwasher.
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Breastfeeding & Pumping Supplies

No Bake Lactation Bites Recipe from the BakerMama.com
Total time 10 mins
Serves: 2 dozen
 
These yummy no-bake lactation bites are perfect for a nursing mom or anyone who needs a healthy, hearty, handy boost of energy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup ground flaxseed
• 3 tablespoons brewer’s yeast
• 1 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• ½ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ½ cup chocolate chips or ½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add all ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Mix on low speed until mixture is well combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
2. Roll mixture into 2-tablespoon sized smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or enjoy right away. Once the bites have set, transfer them to an air-tight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes
Mixture can be pressed into an 8x8-inch baking dish and cut into bars, if desired. Other optional add-ins: ½ chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) 

Lactation Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Shake from WereParents.com
Total Time: 5 Min 
Servings: 1 Shake

Ingredients

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/4 cup quick oats
• 2 Tbsp. of Peanut Butter or 1 packet of Justin Peanut Butter
• 2 tbsp flaxseed
• 2 tablespoon cacao nibs
• 1 tablespoon brewers yeast
• 3/4 cup milk/almond milk/coconut milk
• 1 stevia packet (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
• 2 cups of ice

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Instructions

1. In a blender, add the oats and cacao nibs and give it a quick pulse or two. Add remaining ingredients, except ice, and blend until well combined. Add 2 cups of ice until well blended. Enjoy with a thick straw or a spoon!

Breast Feeding References:

https://fedisbest.org

​https://kellymom.com

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/index.htm

https://www.llli.org/

http://www.ilca.org/home

https://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding/

Udder Covers - Free Nursing Cover ($35 Value) Only Pay for Shipping! CODE: JENRAEPOE1

NursingPillow.com : Free Nursing Pillow($40 Value) Only Pay for Shipping!  CODE: JENRAEPOE1

Read my blog posts to see the products I chose for my registry:

DIAPERING & BREASTFEEDING 

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