The month of August was declared National Breastfeeding Month by the United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) in 2011 to rally support across the nation for breastfeeding advocacy. For National Breastfeeding Month 2013, the USBC has launched an “Action Across America” campaign to support breastfeeding families.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that more hospitals around the nation actively support and encourage new mothers to breastfeed. Studies have shown that with the proper support and guidance before and after birth, more women are able to successfully breastfeed and do so for the recommend 6 months and longer.

USA Love List is joining the “Action Across America” campaign and dedicates today's post to  raising awareness of maternity care practices. All of the products listed today are ones that I, a former breastfeeder of 2, would suggest to any new mom who is getting ready to or is already breastfeeding.  With the right breastfeeding supplies on hand, and the knowledge of how and when to use them, breastfeeding is an attainable goal for more women.

Five Recommended Breastfeeding Supplies: All Made in the USA

 

pads1. Organic Wool or Cotton Nursing Pads by Organic Caboose
Save money and reduce trash by using washable nursing pads to keep clothing dry from leaks.

pillow2. Organic Nursing Pillow by Organic Caboose
A nursing pillow helps lift and position baby comfortably while breastfeeding. This pillow by Organic Caboose is covered and stuffed with American grown cotton.

 

cream

3. Dr Brown's Lanolin Free Nipple Cream
Nipple cream helps heal dry, cracked and sore nipples. Dr Brown's Lanolin Free Nipple Cream is safe for mom and baby, hypoallergenic and paraben free.

soothies4. Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads
Soothies Gel pads also soothe sore nipples, but unlike the cream, Soothies give an instant cooling sensation. I preferred the gel pads over the creams, but rotated with both. I would use the Soothies Gel Pads right after feeding for cooling relief, and then apply cream for its healing power later.

nusing tops5. Nursing Tops by Maternal America
It is helpful to make sure that tops are breastfeeding friendly and don't forget that if returning back to work, tops should be pump friendly too! I have learned from experience how uncomfortable it is to pump at work in the wrong style top!

You can get involved in the USBC's Actions Across America campaign right now by encouraging the US Senate and House to support the FY 2014 Labor/HHS/Education Appropriations bill that will continue to help the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue with “Breastfeeding Support and Promotion” activities.