Before Baby Arrives - Preparing to Breastfeed

Before Baby Arrives - Preparing to Breastfeed

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Breastfeeding is a learned skill. Often it takes some time and practice for both mother and baby to be completely at ease breastfeeding. Find sources of good breastfeeding assistance and use them if you need to. Learn as much as you can about breastfeeding before your baby comes, and ask for help at the first sign of a problem. If you have questions, ask your local hospital for names of breastfeeding specialists in your area. It is normal to need some help from a knowledgeable professional in the first few weeks. Seek accurate and reliable help from your health care provider, IBCLC, local La Leche League Leader or Nursing Mothers Counsel volunteer. Attend a series of LLL meetings in your area, and meet other breastfeeding mothers.

During Pregnancy:

While you are pregnant, the skin around your nipple becomes darker and your breasts increase in size. No special nipple or breast preparation is necessary before breastfeeding. You can check your nipple shape to rule out flat or inverted nipples. If you have flat or inverted nipples or if you have questions about previous breast surgery discuss them with your health care provider, IBCLC, or breastfeeding specialist.

Sore and cracked nipples are usually avoided by using a good positioning, by latching baby on to the breast correctly, and by learning as much as possible about breastfeeding and proper latch-on technique. Do not use soap or other preparations on your breasts or nipples. It is not recommended to pump before your baby's birth. It is a myth that breasts and nipples need "toughening" in order to prevent painful breastfeeding. Good positioning and latch-on are the keys to comfortable and effective breastfeeding. Seek help from your breastfeeding specialist and health care provider if breastfeeding is painful. You may also ask a question of Medela's nurse/lactation consultant at www.medela.com .