How to Prepare for Breastfeeding

How to Prepare for Breastfeeding

To prepare for lactation, educate yourself by attending breastfeeding classes and reading reliable resources, and discuss your plans with your healthcare provider. Gather essential supplies like nursing-friendly clothing, comfortable pillows, nursing bras, nipple cream, and nursing pads. Also, set up a "nursing nook" at home with essentials for comfort and easy access, and plan to spend time with your baby for skin-to-skin contact and your first feeding in the "Golden Hour" after birth to help stimulate milk production

Before your baby arrives

  • Educate yourself:

    Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, how to help your baby latch, how to increase milk supply, and how to manage common problems. Look for reputable online resources, books, or classes, and avoid those from formula companies that might have a hidden agenda. 

  • Consult your healthcare provider:

    Discuss your breastfeeding goals with your doctor or midwife and any concerns you may have, such as previous breast surgery or medications you are taking. 

  • Plan for support:

    Talk with your partner, family, and friends about your decision to breastfeed to ensure they can provide encouragement and assistance. Consider joining a breastfeeding support group before or after your baby is born. 

  • Get the right equipment:

    Purchase necessary items such as nursing-friendly clothing and bras, nursing pads to manage leakage, nipple cream for sore nipples, and pillows for comfortable positioning. 

  • Obtain a breast pump:

    Find out which breast pumps are available and how to use them. You can often get a prescription for a pump through your insurance provider. 

After your baby is born

  • Prioritize skin-to-skin contact:

    Hold your baby directly against your bare skin, especially during the first hour after birth, known as the "Golden Hour". This helps your baby regulate their temperature and breathing, calms them, and encourages their natural feeding instincts. 

  • Initiate the first feeding:

    During the Golden Hour, your baby may instinctively try to latch on and feed. Your healthcare team can help facilitate this first experience. 

  • Set up a nursing station:

    Create a comfortable and calm space where you and your baby can bond. Keep a table nearby with essentials like water, snacks, a phone, pillows, washcloths, and breast pads for easy access during feedings. 

  • Ask for help:

    Don't hesitate to ask your hospital staff, midwife, or a lactation consultant for help with latch and positioning to ensure successful feeding.