What I’ve learned
Growing up, my mom would tell me—almost regretfully—that she couldn’t breastfeed me or my sister. So, I always assumed breastfeeding might not work out for me either, especially when I ended up having a C-section like she did.
But here’s the thing: breastfeeding and pumping might not be for everyone, and that’s totally okay. Whether you choose not to, or can’t for any reason, there’s no shame in it. Do what keeps you and your baby happy and healthy—because your mental health matters just as much as your baby’s well-being.
If you have elderly Korean parents or relatives, you might get unsolicited advice about breastfeeding being the best for your baby. While breast milk is wonderful, times have changed, and there are so many amazing formula options available now. Personally, I supplemented with formula and added about an ounce of my breast milk to each feeding—it works for us, and that’s what matters!
Things I Wish I Knew Before Breastfeeding & Pumping
- Milk Doesn’t Always Come in Right Away
For some, it may come day 1, for others it may take 3-5 days or longer. You first produce colostrum (“liquid gold”) in the first few days – yellow, thick and almost syrup-like liquid. Read about colostrum here by Cleveland Clinic. It’s not a lot, but they say it’s enough for baby. We still gave him formula (Similac) right away because he was giving us hunger cues - Supplements Can Help Increase Production
I am producing the most now (11 weeks postpartum) thanks to supplements. Will share links below - Not All Pumps Are Created Equal
Different pumps may work better for you. There are so many different kinds people swear by, but you won’t know until you try it yourself. See below - Nipple Sizes Matter
Much like people, nipples comes in all sizes! I learned my nipple size from the lactation consultation at the hospital
My Go-To Pumps
- Medela (at the hospital)
- Spectra models
- Spectra S1 (blue)
- Spectra S2 (pink)
- Synergy gold portable
- Momcozy S9 Pro wearable – this one might be my favorite because of two less parts– makes a difference when you’re washing these little things in the middle of the night!
- This one seems to be no longer available so here’s an newer, best-selling option: Momcozy M5 Hands-Free Wearable Breast Pump, Double-Sealed Flange for Baby-Like Comfort, 3 Modes & 9 Suction Levels, Portable Electric Pump – 24mm, 2-Pack Quill Gray
- Lansinoh Discreet Duo Wearable Breast Pump – there are so many little parts! I thought I “lost” the valve at least twice. I still like to have on hand for when I travel since it is portable/wearable. Hands Free Breast Pump, 4 Pumping Modes, 9 Levels Hospital Strength Suction, LED Display, Leak-Resistant Design, 2 Breast Flange Sizes Included: 24mm & 21mm
Supplements That Helped Boost My Supply
- Lactation cookies: Munchkin Milkmakers Lactation Cookie Bites, Various Flavors, 10 Ct – I don’t know how helpful this was.
- Mother’s Milk Tea, 32 Count (Pack of 1) – I believe my milk increased a bit drinking this tea
- Legendary Milk’s Sunflower Lecithin 1200mg, Organic Supplement for Clogged Milk Ducts, 200 Softgels – I continued to take this 4 months postpartum
- Legendary Milk’s Liquid Gold– I had taken this most recently and am now producing the most. I’ve also heard that you produce more over time to keep up with baby’s feeding needs
Daily Pumping Essentials
- Hands-Free Pumping Bra – Adjustable, Customizable – Converts Nursing Bra or Maternity Bra to Breast Pump Bra
- Nuliie Flange Sizing Kit 13/15/17/19/21mm for 24mm Flange/Shield of Most Pumps, Silicone, 10pcs – includes tool for measureing nipple size
- Maymom Pump Parts Compatible with Spectra S2 Spectra S1 Replacement Kit for Spectra Pump Parts
- Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads, Soft & Super Absorbent Breast Pads, 100 Count – I used this daily especially overnight when I would wake up leaking milk
Breastfeeding Lifesavers (Nipplesavers?)
- Silverettes saved my poor nipples from chafing against my clothes, bra, etc.
Time Savers
- Pumping: Save time on handwashing bottles all day every day with the Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer, Sterilizer & Dryer. I didn’t end up buying this because of a lack of counter space and knowing I won’t be pumping for long, but my mommy friends raved about it! I had gone back and forth so many times on getting it!
- Formula dispensing: Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced Formula Dispenser – not all parents love it; some have issues with the descaling/cleaning method. We loved it and use it daily until Evan turned 1!
Hey, New Mom! 