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Someone recently asked me what my "essentials" were when it came to breastfeeding.   I've fed my children both ways - my oldest was formula fed and my almost-7 month old is still exclusively breastfed, so the breastfeeding thing was new to me this time around.  Lucky for me, I test products for a living so I was educated, and armed with products that helped me become a successful breastfeeder.

Here's what I'd say I couldn't live without this time around:

Hooter Hider (otherwise known as the Bebe Au Lait).  It was my first review here on Family.com, so you can follow the link to read all about it.  However, the short of it is that it's a simple product that serves to shade you and baby when in public.  It definitely gave me the privacy I craved and I've gotten to the point where I'll feed the baby anywhere without any qualms if I have the cover with me.

GlamourMom tank top.  I've also reviewed this here. (Can you tell I love these products?)  It's basically a tank with easy access - I've become so efficient that I can undo it in about two seconds one-handed. And I love that it prevents my extra baby belly from hanging out while I'm feeding.

A pump of some kind.  I love mine but I certainly wouldn't recommend it to the masses as everyone has a different need in a pump.  I have the Single Deluxe Breastpump from Medela.  It's electric (thank God, I really don't think I could handle a hand-pump) and it's okay for me and serves it's purpose.  I got it at Babies R Us and it's good for the occasional pumper.  I didn't pump at all the first few months - now I have a routine down, I pump once a day every morning because I wake up with extra milk and it's helped me to build up a stash in the freezer.  But for anyone who will pump more than once a day, you'd want a double pump.  I've had several friends rave about the Medela Pump in Style.  You can find this pump and others on the Nursing Mother Supplies store, use coupon MWS10 for 10% off on this (and in fact, any of the products mentioned here).

Breastpads.  Leakage happens.  And it's either a pad or a big wet circle on your shirt.  Take your pick.

Some kind of nipple cream.  I used Lansinoh, for me it was only necessary the first two weeks - ask for some in the hospital and they should be able to provide you some samples.  Because seven months in, I can say breastfeeding is as easy as drinking a glass of water to me - but it wasn't in the beginning and the lansinoh helps to toughen things up.

And that about sums up what's been important for me:  good products, and of course the help and advice of some experienced friends.