Your Nursing Area

Once you've reached the third trimester, you'll

probably start stocking up on nursing bras, breast

pads, and loose button down shirts for the coming

months ahead. While getting ready to breast feed,

you can also create your personal area, a custom

designed breast feeding area for yourself.



Your nursing area should reflect your personality.

If you like a loud, yet friendly surrounding, you

should consider setting in a corner of the living

room or family room. Keep an extra chair or two

near you so family members or even friends can keep

you company.



If you prefer peace and quiet, a cozy study or

empty guest room would be ideal. You can close

the door, dim the lights down, then take a few

deep, calming breaths while you breast feed.



Your own chair

No matter if it's a glider, overstuffed recliner,

or desk chair with wheels, you should make sure

your nursing chair is very comfortable. You'll

be sitting in the chair for hours each day, so

you'll want it to be very comfortable. You should

always look for one that offers back and shoulder

support, along with arm rests.



Support underfoot

You can use a footstool, low coffee table or a

stack of pillows to elevate your feet as you breast

feed. If you raise your legs and feet to bring

your baby to your breast, you'll avoid possible

backache.



Pillows and more pillows

Your neck, arms, feet, and back will need as

much support as you can give, so don't hesitate

to surround your body with pillows. If you lay

a pillow across your lap for your baby to lay on,

he'll be very comfortable and that much closer to

your nipple. For extra comfort, you can even

purchase a specially made nursing pillow that

will encircle your waist.



Table for one

You should always keep a small table or stand

within arm's length of your breast feeding chair.

What you use should be big enough to hold a

coaster and glass of liquid. Some women prefer

to drink through a straw, while others prefer to

drink from the glass.



You'll also want to keep healthy snacks on hand

as well, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or crackers

and peanut butter to help you replace the

energy you use while you breast feed.



Distractions

If your baby is a slow eater or has a really big

appetite, you may want to keep yourself busy

while he feeds. You can fill the shelves of a

nearby cupboard or bookcase with your favorite

books or crossword puzzles to occupy yourself

until your baby is full. You should also keep

a phone nearby as well so that you can talk to

family or friends to pass the time.