HOW TO PREPARE FOR BREASTFEEDING A NEWBORN

Today we are looking at how to prepare for breastfeeding a newborn.

There’s something so beautiful about nursing your baby and being able to provide all the nutrients for the little one.

It is also a bonding experience for mom and baby. You'll be spending so much time, just the two of you and the feeling you get watching the baby nurse is truly special.

But breastfeeding also comes with certain challenges such as inverted nipples, painful latching, engorged breasts and so forth.

However, considering the fact that breastmilk provides such essential nutrients for the baby, whether you breastfeed for a few days, weeks or months, it's totally worth it.

There are a few things you can do before delivery to prepare you for breastfeeding your baby.

Keep in mind that when it comes to breastfeeding, it can be very natural and easy for some moms, but for other moms it can be a stuggle.

Personally, breastfeeding my firstborn was perhaps one of the hardest things ever I've had to do. But with the younger two, it was a totally different experience. 

Here are some ways you can prepare for breastfeeding a newborn so you are mentally and physically prepared.

OUR BEST TIPS TO PREPARE FOR BREASTFEEDING

1.HAVE A BIRTH PLAN

One of the best ways to prepare for breastfeeding is to have a birth plan ready when it's time for labor and delivery.

We get it. Things don't always go according to plan. You need to have flexibility to adjust, but having a birth plan together will help provide you with some direction.

Make sure you include in your birth plan specifics such as wanting the baby on your chest to root as soon as delivery. Otherwise in the moment, the nurses will have to make these decisions.

2.TAKE BREASTFEEDING CLASSES

There's lot to learn about breastfeeding a baby such as the correct positioning, the perfect latch and how to get more milk to come in.

If you take breastfeeding classes beforehand, it will be a huge help when it's time to breastfeed the baby.

There are classes online that makes learning about breastfeeding so much easier and will save you tears and time

3.ASSEMBLE A BREASTFEEDING BASKET

Once you are home with the baby, you'll be on your own trying to breastfeed the baby. So make sure you've assembled a breastfeeding kit or basket with all of the essentials required for breastfeeding such as a good nursing pillow, breast packs, etc.

4. SET UP A NURSING NOOK

When designing your baby's nursery, don't forget to set up a nursing nook. A well designed nursing nook will allow you to breastfeed the baby without distractions and in comfort.

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5. CONNECT WITH LOCAL SUPPORT GROUPS

6.LOOK FOR A LACTATION CONSULTANT

Many hospitals and practices have lactation consultants on staff to help new moms with correct positioning, latching and so forth.

Reach out to your doctor and see if they could connect you with a lactation consultant.

7. SET A BREASTFEEDING GOAL

Breastfeeding is a bumpy journey for many moms. So if you are going to breastfeed get in a good mindset. Determine how long you will want to breastfeed.

This is totally up to you and it's your decision alone. It's your body and baby and you should do whatever feels right for you!

8. GET A HAKAA

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