6 Essential Tips To Prepare For Breastfeeding
Prepare for breastfeeding during pregnancy
Prepare for breastfeeding is very important! breastfeeding is a wonderful experience for both you and your little one, but it may not come naturally to everyone. Many mothers face some difficulties while breastfeeding. However, by equipping yourself with the right knowledge and practical tips, you can confidently handle any challenges that may arise!
From my personal experience, I wish I had known more about the realities of breastfeeding. I encountered pain and discomfort in the beginning, but with more knowledge, I could have managed it better. Once I had a good understanding of it, I found breastfeeding to be the most beautiful experience!
When you’re well-prepared for breastfeeding, it not only benefits your baby but also has amazing advantages for you as a mom. From creating a strong bond with your little one to providing them with the best nutrition possible, the benefits are truly endless.
To prepare for breastfeeding, you can create a supportive environment, develop a birth plan, and learn about good latching techniques. Every step you take toward preparing for breastfeeding will help you along the way.
Remember, every step you take towards preparing for breastfeeding is a step in the right direction. So take it one day at a time, trust your instincts, and know that you’ve got this!
I have shared some valuable breastfeeding tips below, which I hope will ease your breastfeeding journey so you can fully enjoy it! 🙂
If you purchase a product with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you. View the disclosure for more information.
Have a birth plan
It is a good idea to have a birth plan that includes your breastfeeding preferences so that your healthcare team knows what is important to you. Here are some things you might want to think about:
Immediately Skin-to-Skin Contact
After birth, your baby will be very alert, and their searching and sucking reflexes will be strong. This is the best time to start breastfeeding and bond with your baby.
No formula or bottles without consultation
If you want to breastfeed your baby exclusively, let your healthcare team know that you wish to avoid unnecessary formula supplementation unless it is medically necessary.
Breastfeeding assistance
Ask your healthcare team for guidance and support to help you achieve your breastfeeding goals, including advice on proper latch and positioning.
Pain Management
Discuss your preferences for pain management during breastfeeding and options for managing any discomfort or nipple tenderness.
Invest in a good-quality nursing bra
Investing in a good quality nursing bra when you prepare for breastfeeding. Nursing bras are designed to provide comfort, support, and easy access for breastfeeding. With the right fit and features, nursing bras can significantly improve your breastfeeding experience!
When selecting a nursing bra, there are several factors to consider, including size, material, support, and ease of use. A well-fitting nursing bra can help prevent discomfort, clogged ducts, and mastitis. Therefore, it’s worth investing in a few quality nursing bras to be sure you have the support you need during this special time.
In my personal experience, I highly recommend the Caramel Cantina nursing bra for its comfort, especially during sleep. What I like about it is its soft fabric that feels gentle against the skin, making it so comfortable to wear, particularly during those little precious moments of rest (Yes, I’m sorry, they will be rare in the first weeks ;)) Unlike some other bras, it’s free from any rigid or harsh materials, ensuring a seamless and comfortable fit throughout the night.
I used the this nursing bra coupled with nursing pads during the night to address any leaks. (and trust me, I was leaking a lot of milk because of overproduction). The combination offers both support and protection, making you feel comfortable throughout the night!
Ask for genuine breastfeeding experiences from friends and family to prepare for breastfeeding
it’s a good idea to ask for genuine experiences and breastfeeding tips from friends and family. This can help you understand what to expect in the first few weeks of breastfeeding and relieve any worries or uncertainties you may have. It’s important to keep in mind that every breastfeeding journey is unique and what may be considered “normal” can vary from person to person.
There are some common experiences that many mothers and babies go through during the first few weeks of breastfeeding
Nipple Tenderness
it’s normal to experience nipple tenderness or soreness, especially during the first week as your baby learns to latch properly. This discomfort should improve as you and your baby get used to breastfeeding. If it persists or becomes severe, it may indicate an issue that requires attention. You can try ensuring a proper latch and using lanolin cream or nipple shields to relieve any discomfort.
Milk Supply Regulation
During the first few weeks, your milk supply will be regulated to meet your baby’s needs. This may cause periods of oversupply or undersupply, but it will stabilize over time.
Bigger breasts
your breasts will change in size, shape, and sensitivity as they adjust to breastfeeding. This is a normal response to lactation and shouldn’t cause any concern.
Weight Gain
In the first few days after birth, it is common for newborns to lose a small amount of weight. However, they should start gaining weight slowly after the first week. Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby’s weight gain to ensure that they are growing and thriving.
A lot of Feeding
Newborns typically breastfeed often, up to 8-12 times per day, as they have tiny stomachs and breast milk is easily digested. Frequent feeding helps establish your milk supply and ensures that your baby gets the nourishment they need.
Cluster Feeding
Cluster feeding is also common, particularly in the evenings when your baby feeds more frequently for a while. This behavior is normal and helps increase your milk supply.
During the first few weeks, my daughter would cluster feed every night from 8 to 11 pm. I would lie on the bed with her, watch TV, and continue to breastfeed her, knowing that I wouldn’t be going anywhere soon.
Engorgement
During breastfeeding, your body adjusts to your baby’s needs which can cause your breasts to become engorged. This may lead to a feeling of fullness and sensitivity in your breasts. The good news is that engorgement usually subsides within a few days. However, you can reduce discomfort by breastfeeding your baby frequently, using warm compresses, and gently massaging your breasts.
Related post: When Does Breastfeeding Get Easier?
Create a breastfeeding station
Creating a breastfeeding station can be very helpful since you’ll be spending a lot of time feeding your newborn. This will allow you to have all the essentials within easy reach!
These are the products that I recommend placing at the breastfeeding station:
Nursing pads
These help with milk-leaking breasts and keep clothing dry between feedings.
I always used the Medela nursing pads. They stick well to the bra! With other nursing pads, I sometimes had issues with that.
Nipple cream
For me, Purelan was a lifesaver! It helps soothe and moisturize sore or cracked nipples.
Snacks and a water bottle
A breastfeeding mother is always hungry, and it’s important to stay hydrated!
Click here for 21 delicious and healthy postpartum snacks!
Burp cloths
These are used to catch any spit-ups or dribbles during or after feeding sessions.
Love this one! The fabric is really soft and they have very cute colors.
A nursing pillow
A nursing pillow gives extra comfort and support by lifting the baby to breast level and reducing strain on your arms, shoulders, and neck.
This breastfeeding pillow is truly amazing! It looks a little funny but it’s firm and the baby doesn’t sink in and lies quite high so you don’t have to bend over as much, this helps prevent neck and back pain. There’s also a little pocket to put something in.
Prepare for a Healthy Diet and Hydration Routine
It’s important to have a healthy diet and stay hydrated while breastfeeding, for both you and your baby. To prepare for breastfeeding, make sure your home is stocked with nutritious foods before delivery. Additionally, invest in a high-quality water bottle that you can easily take with you wherever you go.
