Laying the Foundation: How to Prepare for Breastfeeding During Pregnancy
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but that doesn’t mean it always comes naturally. For many parents-to-be, preparing during pregnancy can help set the stage for breastfeeding success. Whether you’re a first-time parent or simply looking for a better experience than before, a little preparation can go a long way.
Why Preparing for Breastfeeding Matters
You’ve probably spent plenty of time thinking about birth plans and nursery setups, but breastfeeding deserves some planning too. Starting your breastfeeding journey with confidence can:
Reduce stress in the early postpartum days
Help you establish a strong milk supply
Prevent common challenges, like latching difficulties or sore nipples
Build a support network for when you need help
Understanding Your Body’s Changes
Your body begins preparing for breastfeeding long before your baby arrives. During pregnancy, your breasts undergo changes like increased size and tenderness, and by the second trimester, they may even start producing colostrum (your baby’s first milk). Knowing these changes are normal can help you feel more prepared.
Simple Steps to Prepare for Breastfeeding
1. Learn the Basics
Take time to familiarize yourself with how breastfeeding works. Reading trusted resources, taking a breastfeeding class, or following lactation consultants like Lauren Cascone @strongasamotherct can give you a solid foundation. Key things to learn about include:
How to achieve a good latch
Different breastfeeding positions (like cradle hold, football hold, or laid-back nursing)
Normal feeding patterns in the first days and weeks
Learn about these topics and MORE in Strong as a Mother’s Breastfeeding Basics on demand class, offered on demand through Google Classrooms for $50 with lifetime access.
2. Practice Hand Expression
This might sound surprising, but learning to hand express colostrum during the later weeks of pregnancy can help you feel more confident. Some parents even collect small amounts to save for early feedings (check with your healthcare provider to ensure this is safe for you). A fantastic video on the technique can be found here: https://firstdroplets.com/abcs/
3. Create a Support System
Breastfeeding can be challenging without the right support. Before your baby arrives, consider:
Identifying a lactation consultant for guidance if needed. Finding someone in network with your insurance plan is often a huge game changer, and spoiler alert…many insurance plans will cover a prenatal lactation consultation with an IBCLC near you, either virtually or in person.
Talking to your partner or loved ones about how they can support your feeding goals
Joining local or online breastfeeding support groups. Of note, Strong as a Mother, LLC offers a FREE breastfeeding support group every other Tuesday from 10-11 am at The Trinity Episcopal Church of Newtown, right here in Newtown, CT.
4. Set Realistic Expectations
Every breastfeeding journey is unique. It can take time for both you and your baby to learn. Be gentle with yourself and remember: seeking help early is a sign of strength, not failure.
Common Concerns and How to Address Them
What if I can’t produce enough milk? Milk supply is usually driven by demand, meaning the more your baby nurses or you pump, the more milk your body will make. Early skin-to-skin contact and frequent nursing help get things started on the right foot. If you are separated from your infant for medical reasons, please initiate pumping within 2 hours of birth or as soon as you are able to.
What if it hurts? Some discomfort can be normal in the early days, but pain during breastfeeding often signals a problem with the latch or position. Don’t wait to get help from a lactation consultant if you experience persistent pain.
Ready to Get Started?
Preparing for breastfeeding during pregnancy can make a world of difference once your baby arrives. If you want personalized support tailored to your needs, scheduling a prenatal lactation consultation can help you feel confident and ready.
A prenatal or postpartum consultation gives you:
A personalized breastfeeding plan
Hands-on guidance for latch and positioning
Answers to all your questions in a supportive space
Book your consultation today to set the stage for a successful breastfeeding journey! Visit www.strongasamother.net/lactation or contact lauren@strongasamother.net to learn more.
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