Preparing for Breastfeeding During Pregnancy

It is best to prepare for breastfeeding when you are still pregnant so you can have plenty of time to learn about its benefits, correct positioning, latching on and other breastfeeding tips. If possible, enroll in a breastfeeding class in your area. Sometimes the hospital you attend will have introductory breastfeeding classes available for soon-to-be moms. If you do not have this type of resource available to you, you can find out plenty of information on the web, especially through the La Leche League website.

There are misconceptions going around that you must prepare your nipples for breastfeeding. This statement is far from the truth and should not be followed. Some wives tales include rubbing your nipples with a dry washcloth to toughen them up or using a pump in pregnancy to try and get the feel of a rhythmic sucking motion. None of these practices need to be done and can actually be harmful for you and the baby. In fact, pumping while pregnant can actually cause premature labor. The exception to this would be if you are tandem nursing, in which you should get advice from a lactation consultant.

If you find yourself leaking during pregnancy, know that this is normal for many women. However, not every woman will leak during pregnancy and this is perfectly normal as well. Again, if you do leak, do not pump it out. It should be colostrum, which is the baby's first food, rich with fatty acids and antioxidants. Don't worry, your body will still produce colostrums when the baby is born and eventually switch to milk a few days after.

It is a good idea to pick up a book about breastfeeding to give you important information such as latching on properly, correct positions to hold your baby, nutrition information and other feeding information. It is important that you learn the correct positioning and latching to avoid painful feedings. If done correctly, breastfeeding will not hurt. You might want to stock up on disposable or re-washable breast pads to place in your bra between feedings to absorb any leakage. Lanolin is also a good product to buy in case your nipples may become dry and cracked. It is safe for baby and safe for you. Lastly, seek the support of others who have breastfed successfully and ask for tips so you can follow in their footsteps. The benefits of breastfeeding are enormous and you have taken a huge step in ensuring a greater bond and less chance of infection for your baby.