Prepare for Breastfeeding

6 Steps you Can Take to Prepare for Breastfeeding

• Get good prenatal care, which can help you avoid early delivery. Babies born too early often need special care, which can make breastfeeding harder.
• Take a breastfeeding class.
• Ask your health care provider to recommend a lactation consultant. You can establish a relationship before the baby comes, or be ready if you need help after the baby is born.
• Talk to your health care provider about your health. Discuss any breast surgery or injury you may have had. If you have depression or are taking medications, discuss treatment options that can work with breastfeeding.
• Tell your health care provider that you would like to breastfeed your newborn baby as soon as possible after delivery. The sucking instinct is very strong within the first hour of life.
• Talk to friends who have breastfed or consider joining a breastfeeding support group.
  

Return from Prepare for Breastfeeding to Breastfeeding Principles