Breastfeeding can be overwhelming at first. Give yourself the best chance possible with these 20 tips to help to prepare for breastfeeding like a pro.
One of the things many pregnant women look forward to is breastfeeding their baby. But what many of us don’t do is to prepare for breastfeeding beforehand (me included). We simply make the decision and then don’t give it much thought until the baby is born.
Take it from me, just after you have pushed a tiny human out of your body is not the best time to do something you are completely unprepared for.
Why You Should Prepare For Breastfeeding
When you have just given birth you will be exhausted and overwhelmed. The last thing you will want to do is to try something you aren’t prepared for.
To stand the best chance of successfully breastfeeding, you need to prepare during your pregnancy. Successful breastfeeding results from careful planning.
Being committed to breastfeeding, but not placing too much pressure on yourself, can work wonders! If you put too much pressure on yourself you are likely to end up feeling stressed and, as a result, will be more likely to give up breastfeeding early.
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Having a new baby is stressful enough! If you prepare for breastfeeding whilst you are still pregnant, you will feel much more relaxed about it when the baby is born.
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How To Prepare To Breastfeed Successfully
Information Gathering
- Take an online breastfeeding class, they are super affordable and a great resource to help you prepare for breastfeeding.
This class is super affordable and can be worked through at your own pace in the comfort of your own home. You can learn to breastfeed in your pyjamas!The lessons are easy to follow and as you have lifetime access to the class you can refer back to it as many times as you need to.I wish I had this resource when my kids were born. It was a lifesaver for a close friend of mine and having seen the results she got I can strongly recommend it.
- Join a Breastfeeding Support Group to chat to new and experienced breastfeeding moms. Ask questions about breastfeeding and enquire if you can watch some babies being offered the breast.
- Observe how each baby is put on the breast.
- Look at how different mums hold their babies. Getting the right position is essential to avoid early problems.
- Also ask for advice about breastfeeding friendly shops and changing facilities!
- Read books, magazines or online articles, to find out as much as you can about breastfeeding successfully.
Mental Preparation
- You need to completely believe that breastfeeding is the best thing for you and your baby.
- Have a strong belief in your ability to do this.
- Leave no room for self doubt and do not think about falling back on formula.
- Always think positive. This is going to work out.
What To Buy
- Get measured for a nursing bra when you are around 38 weeks pregnant. Many baby stores now offer this service. Try a few different styles to find one that is comfortable. Also purchase a couple of night time nursing bras.
- Nursing pads are essential for absorbing leaks and avoiding embarrassing stains!
- Nursing shells can be very useful on nights out, as they will catch leaks. Or you can use them during breastfeeding to collect milk from the breast not being used, storing the milk for later use.
- Nipple Creams can help soothe sore nipples.
- Front-opening or Nursing Nightdresses or Pyjamas can make it easier to breastfeed at night.
- Loose- fitting tops can be comfortable during the day. Try layering so that your back is not exposed when you are feeding. Or use a poncho or wrap if you feel anxious about breastfeeding in front of other people.
- A Breast-pump is a fantastic investment as it can be used to collect milk for bottle feeds, making up first solids or when you are away from the baby to prevent engorgement or ease mastitis. Ask other mums to recommend one they liked.
- A V-shaped Cushion can make breastfeeding more comfortable as it offers good support for mums back. Or a Nursing Pillow can be used to raise the baby up to a more comfortable height for mum.
- A Steriliser is a compact way to keep baby utensils and breast-pump attachments clean and sterile.
- Some mums find a Gliding chair very useful, particularly for night feeds.
What To Eat To Prepare For Breastfeeding
- Salmon
- Coconut oil
- Lean meat
- Low fat dairy products
- Blueberries
- Whole grain cereals
- Oranges
Of course everyone is different and no two experiences of breastfeeding are the same.
However, if you prepare for breastfeeding you will be giving yourself the best chance possible to be successful.
