Prenatal Breastfeeding Preparation - How to Set Yourself Up for Success

Preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives can significantly ease your journey and give you confidence when the time comes. While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally—especially if you’re a first-time mom or haven’t seen breastfeeding up close.

That’s why prenatal preparation is so valuable. Whether it’s learning about breastfeeding techniques, gathering the right supplies, or knowing who to reach out to for support, setting yourself up for success before your baby arrives can make all the difference.
Here are the steps I recommend for preparing for breastfeeding in the months leading up to birth:

Step 1: Learn Before You Leap

While it’s common knowledge that breastfeeding is a natural process, it’s also something that can require practice and learning. Many of us didn’t grow up seeing breastfeeding as a daily occurrence, so having a solid knowledge foundation is crucial. To start, consider:

• Taking a Lactation Class: Attending a prenatal lactation class or watching an on-demand video class (like my Lactation Foundations Class) can be a great way to get prepared. These classes cover topics like latching, positioning, milk supply, and common challenges like sore nipples or clogged ducts.

• Reading Helpful Books: Titles such as Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher or The Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League can provide valuable insights. Reading ahead of time will equip you with knowledge that can help prevent
  issues and reduce frustration when you’re starting out.

• Joining a Support Group: Many local hospitals or parenting groups offer prenatal breastfeeding support groups. These sessions can be helpful for learning from experienced moms and receiving advice from lactation consultants.

Step 2: Gather Your Breastfeeding Essentials

When it comes to supplies, simplicity is key. Here’s what you really need to have on hand
before the baby arrives:

Must-Haves:

• Comfortable, well-fitting nursing bras: You’ll want bras that give you easy access to your breasts while providing support.

• Nursing pads: Whether you choose washable or disposable, nursing pads help manage leaks in those early weeks.

• Breastfeeding-friendly clothes: Look for tops or dresses with easy chest access to make breastfeeding in public or at home more convenient.

Optional (Depending on Your Plan):

• Breast pump: Depending on your feeding plan, you might opt for a breast pump. I suggest waiting until after birth to purchase a pump, as your needs may change. If you plan to pump early, a double electric pump is usually a good option, but a hand pump might also work for the first few weeks.

• Milk storage bags or bottles: If you plan to store milk for later use, you’ll want storage options ready.
  Avoid buying a ton of unnecessary items like lactation supplements, fancy gadgets, or nipple shields (unless recommended by a lactation consultant).

Step 3: Get Familiar with Flange Sizing

Understanding flange sizing is crucial to ensure that your pump is comfortable and efficient.
Many breast pumps come with flanges that may not fit well, so it’s important to have the right size for optimal comfort and milk output. You can schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant after birth to get fitted properly. Until then, learning about flange sizing through online guides will help you feel prepared.

Step 4: Consider a Prenatal Consultation

A prenatal consultation with a lactation professional can be a game-changer. During this session, you can discuss your breastfeeding goals, address any concerns, and develop a plan for how to handle potential challenges like nipple pain, latch issues, or milk supply concerns.
Prenatal consultations are particularly helpful if you have any risk factors such as a history of breastfeeding struggles or if you’re expecting multiples.

Conclusion: Preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By learning about breastfeeding, gathering the right supplies, and setting yourself up for success with support, you’ll be much more confident as you begin your journey. And remember, you’ve got this—and I’m here to support you every step of the way!

Feel free to download your free Prenatal Breastfeeding Checklist to help you get started today!