Amy from Redding CT, writes: "How necessary are nursing tops? I'm planning to breastfeed after my baby is born and I want to make it as easy to do as possible."

I think the need for nursing tops--which have strategically-placed slits and flaps that give you access to your nursing bra--are a matter of debate. Some moms, like a friend of mine who just had her fourth child, swear by them. In my own experience, I started out thinking nursing tops were necessary, but quickly ditched the duds because it was just as easy to nurse and wear regular clothes.

If you're not sure what to do, why don't you buy one nursing top and see for yourself. Like many things, you can always buy more once you know where you stand. A bonus: Nursing tops now come in trendy tank-top styles, which I think look less 'lactational' compared with more traditional nursing shirts. They're also great for staying cool in the summer.

See our reports on baby bottles and nipples and breast pumps for more information.