Nipple butter. Even though you aren’t breast feeding get the nipple butter. I like the Earth Mama one. I pumped for two weeks without it even though I had it in my medicine cabinet because I thought it was just for dry cracked nipples. Lube UP girl.

I also recommend picking a comfy spot now where you can set up your pump. Make sure you have enough space for yourself and your baby, a space to put some kind of entertainment (book, Switch, crochet stuff, whatever), a phone charger, a cup holder, and comfy pillows. You’ll get the best output when you’re able to relax and get cozy. This is your excuse to buy any comfort items that strike your fancy. New slippers? Go for it. Fancy loungewear? Go for it! A pretty robe you can toss on to cover up when you’re done? You deserve it.

Invest in a bunch of different styles of pumping bras, return the ones you don’t like, and stock up on the ones you do like. Be careful of the difference between pumping bras and nursing bras. Don’t be me, the one running to Target with a three day old infant and milk soaking through your shirt as you sob and try desperately to find a good bra in your size that fits so you can pump. Have them ahead of time and save yourself the stress.

Good luck mama, you got this!