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Preparing To Breastfeed Part 1
Preparing To Breastfeed Part 2

If so, you’ll need a breast pump. Don’t skimp on this purchase, because you’ll regret it. Avoid any pump manufactured by a formula company. Manual pumps are inexpensive and work for occasional use, but they’re usually very difficult to operate. Electric pumps such as the Medela Minielectric are the next level, and are excellent for moderate use (such as the “insurance”, “babysitter” or “daddy’s turn” scenarios).

Mothers who choose to return to work will need a pump more suited for heavy usage. Choose a double breast pump so you can pump both breasts at the same time. Breast pumps can also be rented from hospitals or medical supply companies. If you express milk, you’ll also need storage containers. Most quality breast pumps allow direct deposit into standard baby bottles, or into soft storage bags.

Except for very short-term use, avoid using soft “bottle insert” bags. Use glass baby bottles or storage bags specifically made for storing expressed breast milk. These can even be safely frozen for several weeks.One important way you can prepare for breastfeeding your baby is to keep formula out of your house. Formula companies often provide samples, through direct mail, distributed during a prenatal exam, or at the hospital or birth center.

Throw them away, donate them to a charity, or give them to someone who is formula feeding a baby. Unless you live very far away from a grocery or convenience store, it won’t be that hard to buy formula at any hour if a serious need does occur. Mothers who have formula readily available are much more likely to give up nursing during a rough period. At 3:00 a.m., if you’re exhausted and the baby’s crying, you may be tempted to mix up a bottle.

But if the nearest baby formula is two miles away at the grocery store, you’ll probably stick it out. In the morning, you’ll be glad you did. Don’t let the “supply list” discourage you. Many nursing mothers get by with far less. Formula expenses can quickly add up during baby’s first year, and will probably equal or surpass your expenditures on breastfeeding accessories. Your baby will also be healthier and need fewer visits to the doctor and fewer prescriptions filled. And in time, breastfeeding is not only economical and healthier, but you will realize it is exceptionally convenient.

Continue to Preparing To Breastfeed Part 4

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Preparing To Breastfeed Part 1

During one of your prenatal exams, your obstetrician or midwife may check your breasts to see if you have inverted nipples or any other abnormalities. If she doesn’t bring it up, ask her. You can also do this test yourself. Place your thumb above and your index finger below your nipple and gently squeeze. If your nipple retracts, it may be inverted. (Breast size has little to do with the results, or with your ability to nurse.) Women with inverted nipples can have more difficulty in getting the baby to latch on correctly. If you have this problem, you can wear breast shells during the last few weeks of pregnancy to draw the nipples out.

Breast Shells are hard plastic “domes” (also available in soft silicone) with an insert that fits against the outside of the nipple. They’re also used while nursing to protect sore nipples from further irritation. Breast shells are often available in stores that sell baby supplies (I found mine in a discount department store). Be sure to ask your caregiver before using breast shells, especially if there is a risk of pre-term labor.

There are some supplies you might want to have on hand to make breastfeeding easier. A nursing pillow will often help tremendously in the first several weeks of nursing. You’ll want some support under the baby in your lap, and ordinary bed pillows tend to slip out of place. Be sure to have a pure lanolin cream or ointment available to soothe sore nipples (Lansinoh or Pure Lan) Breast pads, either washable or disposable, are quite helpful for absorbing leakage that may occur during the first few months. Avoid pads that have a plastic backing, as they inhibit air circulation.

Also, invest in a few good nursing bras (three should be enough). Experiment with the style that feels most comfortable for you, as they come in different varieties. Nursing bras may be a bit more expensive than conventional styles, but they’re well worth it considering the heavy use and convenience! Many nursing mothers need to, or simply want to, express milk for bottle feeding. You may be returning to work, want a supply for a babysitter, want an “insurance” supply, or would like to let daddy take a turn with those 2 a.m. feedings now and then.

Continue to Preparing To Breastfeed Part 3

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Your due date is approaching; the wait is finally almost over. There’s just one more thing to do – get ready to feed the baby! Preparation plays an important part in determining how successful you will be at breastfeeding your baby.

Your due date is approaching; the wait is finally almost over. The nursery has been lovingly decorated, and baby’s dresser is stocked with tiny pajamas and onesies. A birth plan has been completed and discussed with your caregiver. You’ve chosen birth announcements, toured the birth center, and almost decided on a name. There’s just one more thing to do – get ready to feed the baby! Preparation plays an important part in determining how successful you will be at breastfeeding your baby.

First, collect information about breastfeeding. Browsing this site is a good way to start. More articles will be added in the future, so be sure to check back often. Read books about breastfeeding for more ideas. Discuss your plans to breastfeed with your obstetrician or midwife, so she can help you get off to the best start after delivery. Attend a class on breastfeeding.

Classes are often available from hospitals, birth centers, or clinics for no charge or a minimal fee. Be sure to enroll well in advance of baby’s due date to make sure the class isn’t filled, and it’s a good idea to bring the baby’s father along. Also, when you tour the birth center, find out if there is a lactation consultant available if problems should occur during or after your stay. Often you can visit a lactation consultant free of charge – it’s included with your hospital stay. Can you prepare your breasts for the job they must do? Maybe.

Continue to PREPARING BREASTFEED PART II

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