When you’re pregnant, there’s so much to think about. Believe me, I know. I’ve been pregnant 5 times, and I know exactly what you’re probably going through right now. You’re focused on your health and worried that everything will turn out ok with your baby. To prepare for delivery, you’re probably taking childbirth classes, and getting info and tips from wherever you can. You’re preparing the baby’s nursery. Getting all the supplies you think you’ll need to make sure you and your baby are comfy. For me, I don’t think the worry, anxiety, and stress got any easier each time!
But, what about breastfeeding? Have you thought about it? Have you prepared for it?
So many moms I speak to (myself included!) don’t think about breastfeeding until after the baby is born. And It may sound silly, but that’s actually a little too late. Your body is getting ready for breastfeeding from the moment you get pregnant! And it’s important for you to play an active role in that preparation, to give yourself and your baby the best start possible with breastfeeding.
So, here are 3 simple ways you can be prepared for breastfeeding before your baby comes:
Start building your breastfeeding support system
Breastfeeding isn’t always “easy” – especially in the first few weeks. Studies have shown that moms with good breastfeeding support – especially from friends and family members – tend to do better and breastfeed longer than those without support. So, it’s important to reach out to those around you, who will be your cheerleaders while breastfeeding.
This includes your partner and other family members or friends who have breastfed before. Your OBGYN, baby’s Pediatrician, and a lactation consultant can be invaluable resources for guidance when it comes to breastfeeding. Many areas also have a La Leche League or similar breastfeeding peer support group. These groups are made up of moms who are actively breastfeeding, and can help to relate with what you’re going through! It’s better to have your support system in place now, so you aren’t running around looking for help once your baby arrives.
Get reliable information about breastfeeding
There are a ton of breastfeeding resources out there, and it can be hard to know which one to invest in. The American Academy of Pediatrics New Mother’s Guide to Breastfeeding is an awesome, reliable, and comprehensive book that’ll help you get started on the right foot.
Besides the evidence-based resources you can find here on my site, I also offer a Prenatal Breastfeeding Consultation. I typically recommend scheduling this consultation anytime during the 3rd trimester. This way, I can help you mentally and physically prepare for your breastfeeding experience before your baby’s born. You’ll receive advice to prepare for breastfeeding that’s tailored just for your specific situation. I’m also available to answer any questions about things you may have heard about breastfeeding that may or may not be true. If you’re ready to schedule your Prenatal Breastfeeding Consultation, you can do it here!
Your local hospital may also offer breastfeeding classes or peer support groups before and after your baby is born.
Plan for a good start
Check to see if the hospital you will be delivering at is a part of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. Find out their policies on breastfeeding, and what the staff will do to help you get started with breastfeeding. The first few hours and days after delivery are such a critical time, and your care during this time plays a huge role in your ultimate breastfeeding success! So, it’s helpful to do your research ahead of time.
A few practices that are encouraged in Baby Friendly Hospitals to promote breastfeeding:
- Hold your baby skin-to-skin right after birth until the first breastfeeding
- Delay non-urgent procedures until after the first breastfeeding (weight, eye ointment, vitamin K)
- Keep your baby in the room with you the entire time
- Feed your baby on demand, whenever there are feeding cues (at least 8 times in 24 hours)
- Plan for quiet time without visitors during your hospital stay
- Avoid pacifiers. If your baby’s fussy or hungry, offer your breast instead
- Avoid formula and bottles unless there’s a medical reason
(Source: Lactation Education Resources)
Looking for more help?
If you’re worried about getting started with breastfeeding or currently breastfeeding and having any issues – I’d be happy to help. Take a peek at the different types of breastfeeding consultations I offer, and request an appointment when you’re ready. I’m here for you and all your breastfeeding needs
Do you have any other ideas besides these 3 simple ways you can be prepared for breastfeeding before your baby comes? I’d love to hear them! Just leave them in the comments below.
If you love these tips, be sure to check out my 75+ page digital library, filled with step-by-step instructions and the tools you need to learn the basics and adapt to life while breastfeeding, troubleshoot breastfeeding problems, go back to work while breastfeeding, wean – and so much more!
