Breastfeeding Tools You Won't Want to Be Without

Lactation consultants can be found in hospitals, doctors' offices, and in their own practices. These professionals provide nursing mothers with a support system and are there to answer questions and teach mothers and families about breastfeeding.

Common issues that lactation consultants tackle include latching on, pain with nursing, frustration, low milk production, setting feeding schedules, and switching from breast to bottle, among others.

Mom Lisa Russell-Pinson also suggests taking a breastfeeding class and bringing your partner along. "My husband and I took a breastfeeding class before Lily was born and it was very informative for us both—I learned a lot about the 'mechanics' and my husband got specific tips on how to support me," she says.

Perhaps the most important tool mothers need for breastfeeding is encouragement from friends and family. Whether it is professional advice from a lactation consultant, hearing stories from fellow moms in a support group, or help around the house from your own mom—being surrounding by loving, supportive people will make things easier for everyone involved.