You know those articles that insist that babies aren?t actually expensive because they hardly need anything in the first year" There?s a similar line of thinking around breastfeeding.
Even before your baby arrives, the topic of feeding will come up and it?s likely someone will chime in with, ?Well, breastfeeding is free!?
It?s true that the act of putting baby to breast is free. And it?s also true that babies don?t need that much in the first year.
But raising a newborn and breastfeeding are both challenging, when you?re in the thick of those early days, you may end up turning to the many products and services that help make it easier.
To help moms budget accurately for the first year of parenthood, here are some of the not-always-talked-about costs that can be associated with breastfeeding. In-home lactation consultant visit: $150 and up
It may be ?natural,? but breastfeeding can be challenging?and so can getting out of the house.
That?s why in-home services provided by doulas and lactation consultants can be life-savers.
Expect to pay $150-$300 for a visit, and be aware that most provincial health insurance plans will not cover the cost. Private insurance coverage varies, but most will only cover the service if it is done by a midwife or physician.
Thankfully, there?s always the option of visiting a physician, midwife or breastfeeding clinic, which is often covered by provincial insurance. (Research this before baby arrives!)
Nipple cream: $10 and up
The pain of dry...