Is a Supplemental Nursing System Right for You?

Starting a breastfeeding journey is a uniquely beautiful experience, but it doesn't always happen as expected. For moms facing unexpected bumps in the road, exploring alternatives like a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) can be the perfect solution. 

If you’re looking for ways to simplify the breastfeeding journey, fear not: we’ve got your back, as always. We’ll go over in more detail what an SNS is, the pros and cons, how it works, and whether breast milk can be used. Our goal is to give you all the info you need to make your decision, while also respecting the uniqueness of your feeding journey.

Picture this: a breastfeeding experience that combines the intimacy of nursing with the practicality of bottle feeding. That's what a Supplemental Nursing System, or SNS, brings to the table. It's a device designed to support breastfeeding by providing your baby with additional milk while they latch onto your breast. 

This unique solution allows moms to nurture the breastfeeding experience, even when facing challenges. The system typically includes a container for milk, a feeding tube, and a way to secure it to your body.

From increasing milk production to bonding more with baby, the advantages of using an SNS are both practical and heartwarming. Some of the many benefits include:

• Assists in increased milk production: By prompting your baby to nurse more frequently, this benefit is especially noteworthy for moms with low milk supply or for babies who require that extra supplementation.

• Keeps baby motivated to nurse: By ensuring a consistent milk supply during nursing, an SNS keeps your little one motivated to latch on and feed. 

• Encourages bonding: Bonding moments are precious, and a supplemental nursing system ensures you don't miss out, even when supplementation is necessary.

• Additional benefits: Some moms find that using an SNS helps ease the transition between breastfeeding and bottle feeding, making the overall experience more flexible and enjoyable.

As with any solution, the Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. In this section, we'll take an honest look at the drawbacks of using a SNS. It's important to approach this with transparency, realizing that, like anything, an SNS may pose some hurdles. 

• Learning curve: Let's be honest; introducing anything new has a learning curve, and an SNS is no exception. Learning how to use it might feel overwhelming initially, both for you and your baby. However, as with many things in parenting, patience, and practice often lead to a smoother journey. It may take several sessions for you and your baby to settle into a groove.

• Extra cleaning: Parenting is a messy business, and introducing a supplemental nursing system adds a few more components to clean and sterilize. It's an extra step in your hygiene routine, however, establishing a routine can help streamline the process, and the benefits may outweigh this minor inconvenience.

• Cost: Supplemental nursing system devices can widely range in cost depending on the specific system you’re looking at, but you can easily find one for under $100. It’s all about what works for your budget.

Now that we've explored the why, let's dive into the how. Picture the SNS as a breastfeeding sidekick, discreetly helping you provide supplemental nourishment to your baby. The system typically attaches to your body with straps, positioning the feeding tube near your nipple. As your baby latches on, they simultaneously receive milk through the tube, supplementing their intake. The system includes a container for milk, a feeding tube, and a secure attachment method.

[Insert image of supplemental nursing system / diagram]

It's important to note that some parents choose to make their own supplemental nursing system at home. While this option exists, it is very important to consult with a lactation consultant, pediatrician, or midwife before embarking on this path. Homemade solutions may not provide the same level of safety and effectiveness, so professional guidance is key.

Many moms have questions about what can go inside a Supplemental Nursing System. The great news about this flexible system is that you can decide. Whether it's breast milk or formula, the choice is yours. The milk is simply placed in the container, allowing for flexibility and accommodating different feeding preferences. This versatility is one of the SNS's strengths, adapting to your specific needs and preferences.

For a deeper dive into Supplemental Nursing Systems and their applications, check out this resource from La Leche League. They’re our go-to resource for professional feeding advice, and we hope they can be yours, too.

In the fascinating and occasionally tricky world of feeding little ones, the supplemental nursing system steps in like a reliable ally when new challenges arise. Remember, the decision to weave a supplemental nursing system into your story is deeply personal, and each twist and turn in your journey adds to its unique and beautiful narrative.

As you weigh the option of embracing a supplemental nursing system into your feeding routine, Willow is standing by, ready to be your steadfast companion. Think of us as the supportive friend who's there for the highs, lows, and all the in-betweens of your unique feeding journey. It's a journey with its own rhythm and melody, and while an SNS might be the perfect harmony, the choice is entirely yours. 

While Willow does not sell supplemental nursing system devices, our accessories can contribute to a smoother experience:

• Willow portable breast milk cooler: The Willow® Portable Breast Milk Cooler lets you safely store up to 16 oz of breast milk for 24 hours without the need for ice cubes. Its leak-proof design, TSA-compliant gel ice pack, and convenient carrying loop make it the perfect on-the-go solution for busy moms, which is perfect for anyone using an SNS.

• Wearable Breast Pumps: If you want to use breast milk for your SNS, you’ll need to use a breast pump, and the Willow breast pump is a revolutionary option that completely simplifies the process. Choose between the Willow Go or the Willow 3.0; if you need help deciding which pump is best for you, be sure to take our pump quiz.

• Leak-proof milk bags: With a Willow breast pump, you can pump directly into our leak-proof bags. When you’re done pumping, you can store the self-sealing bags in a cooler or freezer for a hassle-free experience, and easily use the milk at a later time for your supplemental nursing system.

Remember, Willow is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring that your feeding journey is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.