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5 Ways to Prepare for Breastfeeding

5 Ways to Prepare for Breastfeeding

5 Ways to Prepare for Breastfeeding (00:02:25)
Video Transcript

As your due date gets closer, you may find yourself thinking more about breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a skill that gets better with practice.

The good news is there are lots of resources out there to help you.

Here are five ways you can prepare for breastfeeding.

Number 1: Find local breastfeeding classes.

Look for breastfeeding classes and support groups at hospitals and birthing centers.

The classes and groups are often led by lactation consultants.

At these classes, you can expect to learn a lot about breastfeeding, like different breastfeeding positions, what a good latch looks like, how often to breastfeed your baby, and how to get past common challenges.

Number 2: It can also be helpful to learn from books and videos.

Ask your doctor, midwife, or other birth professional for books and videos that might be helpful.

And there are many videos online that can help you learn about breastfeeding holds, latching, caring for sore breasts, and more.

Number 3: Gather your supplies.

The world of breastfeeding is full of things you might need—and plenty that you don't.

Talk with friends and family about what they used and what was helpful to them.

Supportive pillows can help keep you and your baby comfortable while breastfeeding.

And nursing bras can help make breastfeeding easier, too.

After breastfeeding is comfortable and doable, many women use a breast pump and special bottles or bags to store milk.

This milk can be used by others to feed your baby while you're away or sleeping.

Number 4: Once you have some supplies, you may want to think about preparing your space.

It's important to set up a comfortable space to breastfeed.

Be sure to have a place close by where you can set a glass of water and other things you might need.

Make it a place you can relax and just be with your baby.

Number 5: Talk with your doctor or midwife about your plans to breastfeed.

As questions or concerns come up, write them down to ask at your next appointment.

And tell them about any concerns you have or problems you've had with breastfeeding in the past.

The more you learn and prepare for breastfeeding, the more comfortable you'll be when your baby arrives.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. Image is used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted is a model.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. Image is used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted is a model.

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