Breastfeeding Basics: Preparing For Your Breastfeeding Journey
This week, we've reached out to Alaina, our office administrator, a mom of four, and a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), to get her thoughts on preparing for breastfeeding. Whether you’re a first time mom, a mom that wants to try breastfeeding for the first time, or a mom who has tried before and didn't have the best first experience with breastfeeding, you've come to the right place to get some simple, but helpful tips for what you can do to be ready to breastfeed your new baby.
You’ve made the choice to breastfeed, and now you may be wondering “where do I even start?” Preparing for this journey isn’t something that should be stressful. Preparing your body and nipples is an old school of thought- your body knows what to do. So rather than toughen up your nipples, it’s time to toughen up your confidence and make sure you are mentally prepared for the hard work ahead.
Find Your Support System
This, in my opinion, is going to be one of the most important things. Look for local lactation support resources- IBCLC (in hospital and out of hospital) or CLC and your local La Leche League. These resources will be helpful once baby arrives if you have questions or need additional information. Also, talk with your friends and other mamas about their experiences. Sometimes the most helpful information can come from someone who has been through it all and will tell you all the things a doctor may not. You will need that real life support to navigate the physical and emotional ups and downs. More importantly, talk with your partner. You will need help to fulfill other responsibilities and you also need to make sure your own needs are being met. You may face opposition along the way from friends/family/society, so have your support system READY.
Talk to Your OBGYN/Midwife
It is important to talk to your provider regarding any concerns about medical history, medications, nipple shape/size, or any other questions you may have. There are health conditions that can affect milk supply, as well as medications and medical concerns that may contraindicate breastfeeding. It’s important to have this knowledge and discuss options if these concerns pertain to you.
Create a Breastfeeding Plan and Goal
After birth, it is important to encourage skin to skin contact. This will help stimulate all the hormones that make milk, as well as strengthen the bond between you and baby. Make sure this is something clearly laid out with your provider and in your birth plan. Just as you would create a birth plan, think of how you want your breastfeeding journey to look. Set a goal but start small so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Remember that you may face obstacles and you don’t want to feel defeated, but you also want to be encouraged to reach a goal. As you reach these small milestones along your journey, celebrate and extend it as you go! Then, share your story with us and celebrate with some beautiful jewelry!!
Gather Your Supplies
The wonderful thing about breastfeeding is that you’re basically always prepared to feed your baby and there aren’t a lot of supplies needed. But, there are definitely some things that may make your life a little easier, although they may not be immediate necessities.
Breast pump- Most nursing mamas will pump occasionally. Talk with your insurance provider. Most insurance companies will cover this cost. With this breast pump it’s important to measure and obtain the correct flange size for your nipples. Most pumps come with 2 standard sizes which may not be an ideal fit for you. Find more info about flange sizing here: https://bemybreastfriend.com/blogs/flange-sizing
Manual pump- Absolutely not a necessity but can be helpful if you’re on the go and need some emergency relief. Or, it can be used to collect any milk that leaks from the opposite side you’re nursing from.
Others- breast pads for leaking, nipple cream, Silverette nursing cups (to soothe sore nipples), nursing bras/tanks (something with supportive with no underwire to create pressure points, easy access to open and close), nursing pillow, and milk storage bags (Check out our blog for the best and worst rated bags HERE)
Prepare Your Space
Find the comfiest place in the house and make it even comfier. Have some pillows or nursing pillow nearby, burp cloths, and a place to set some water and snacks. Prepare and freeze meals before baby arrives. Trust me, you don’t want to plan and cook dinners after being attached to a nursing newborn all day. Buy. All. The. Snacks. Okay, get healthy and nutritious ones, but seriously get lots of snacks. Put together a “busy bag” if you have toddlers at home when new baby arrives. Trying to manage a toddler while nursing can be tough. Find some cool toys or books that are special to “nursing time” to keep them distracted so you can relax.
Follow Your Intuition
You know your body best and you will know your baby best. Don’t overthink everything. You can research ALL the things, but you may find it overwhelming and intimidating. Focus on the basics: newborn feeding cues, a few basic breastfeeding positions, and proper latching technique. Abandon the clock and follow your baby’s on-demand cues. Understand that breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally to everyone. It may take time to find your groove. Follow your intuition and seek help and support when you need it.
Alaina Leimbach, CLC
Office Administrator at Milk + Honey
Check out some other blogs Alaina wrote in our “Breastfeeding Basics” series along with some other great information on breastfeeding!
Breastfeeding Basics: Milk Storage Guidelines
Breastfeeding Basics: Hand Expression
Legend of the Boob: Common Myths and Truths About Breastfeeding