If your new baby is scheduled for arrival in the next few weeks or months, you might have found yourself asking how to prepare for breastfeeding.
Maybe you’ve even found yourself worrying about it. Please don’t!
Breastfeeding is a learned process. It’s a little like learning to drive a car. There’s lots to think about at first and so much to master, but before you know it you’re doing it instinctively
Can it be a steep learning curve? Sure! But knowledge and preparation are key and you can do a lot before the birth to build your confidence.
I’ve seen it time and again in my work as a lactation consultant:
Understanding the key steps of how to prepare for breastfeeding can give you the confidence you need in those early days.
Here are some of my top breastfeeding preparation tips for expectant mums…
How to prepare for breastfeeding
1. Attend a group breastfeeding class
There’s something wonderful about being supported by people who are on the same journey as you are. And that’s what you get in a group breastfeeding class.
In these classes, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and explore options, like exclusive breastfeeding, combination feeding, or pumping breastmilk.
But what makes these classes really special is the chance to learn from others. Hearing the experiences of other parents will give you lots of tips and put your mind at ease.
How to find a group breastfeeding class
- Check with your hospital: There will be a basic group class offered around 30-34 weeks.
- Search online for local options: Look for parenting centres or community organisations that host in-person or virtual breastfeeding workshops.
- Consider private lactation consultants – like me! I offer a 2.5-hour online breastfeeding prep class where you’ll get tonnes of expert support and advice. (More on that below!)
The right support can make all the difference in how to prepare for breastfeeding.
2. Opt for private 1-1 breastfeeding prep
Feel like you need more personalised support?
You can book a private 1:1 clinic or online breastfeeding consult with me before your baby is born.
Got a specific concern about latching that your healthcare provider isn’t helping with? Want to ask me something about milk supply or pumping?
I’m here to provide the guidance and support that’s tailored just for you. It’s ultimate peace of mind.
1-1 sessions with a lactation consultant: What to expect
Ever wondered what actually happens during a 1-1 lactation session? Here’s what’s typically included…
- Personalised Assessment: We’ll discuss your breastfeeding goals, concerns, and any specific challenges you’re worried about.
- Detailed latching guidance: Learn the best techniques for latching to ensure comfort for both you and your baby.
- Milk supply support: Get advice on how to maintain a healthy milk supply
- Problem-solving: Address issues like sore nipples, engorgement, mastitis, or any other breastfeeding concerns
- Breastfeeding positions: Explore different positions and techniques to find what works best for you and your baby.
- Bag loads of emotional support: Expect encouragement galore!
92% of mums report a breastfeeding issue in the first two weeks.
3. Prepare for latching challenges
If there’s one concern I hear from expectant mothers again and again, it’s “But what if my baby just won’t latch?”
My advice? Do your homework. Knowing how to prepare for breastfeeding means understanding the common latching risk factors that some moms face
There are certain factors that can make latching a little more challenging for some mums, and being aware of them can help you feel more prepared.
Latching risk factors to be aware of:
- Nipple shape or size: Flat or inverted nipples can sometimes make latching a bit trickier. (But don’t panic: it’s not impossible to overcome this with the right techniques!)
- Previous breastfeeding challenges: If you had difficulty breastfeeding before, there may be factors that affect latching again.
- Baby factors that impact latching: Instrumental births can impact how well a baby is able to latch. Also preterm babies, tongue tie and swallowing problems can also be an issue.
4. Know the signs of milk supply issues
Wondering when your milk will come in? Worried that it won’t? If you’re worried about milk supply issues, the good news is there are ways to be aware of your risk before your baby arrives.
For example, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), previous breast surgeries, or a history of low supply with a prior baby may increase the risk of breastfeeding challenges.
Other risk factors for milk supply issues include:
- Hormonal imbalances: Issues with thyroid function, prolactin levels, or insulin resistance can affect milk supply.
- Insufficient glandular tissue: Some women may have less breast tissue, which can affect milk production.
- Diabetes: gestational diabetes can impact milk supply.
- Obesity: Higher body weight may influence hormone levels, which can affect milk production.
5. Consider colostrum harvesting
Should you do colostrum harvesting before the birth? If you’re feeling a little unsure or even grossed out by the idea, don’t worry – I felt the same way!
However, learning how to express colostrum by hand can be a helpful technique to have in your toolkit before your baby arrives.
Some mothers are able to express a lot of colostrum, while others might not get any. If you don’t manage to collect any colostrum, it’s not a sign of future milk supply issues, so there’s no need to stress.
What are the benefits of colostrum harvesting?
If you’re able to collect some colostrum, it can be incredibly valuable to have on hand for the first 48 hours after birth.
This small amount of colostrum can be used if your baby is unsettled or has low blood sugar in those early hours when your milk supply is still coming in.
Thinking about it? You can start colostrum harvesting from 37 weeks, once you’ve got the go-ahead from your midwife. You can get a kit from your midwife or buy one here.
6. Research breast pumps
Ah, the mighty breast bump! Deciding which one to choose is one of the most frequent “how to prepare for breastfeeding” concerns I hear.
I advise that you do your homework. Know which pump you think you’ll get but wait until after the birth to purchase.
(Try not to be influenced by sales and promotions either as most of the better breast pump sellers do not need to drop their prices to sell!)
The reason you should wait until after the birth is that sometimes mothers need to use a rental “hospital grade” pump as they are very powerful and get more breastmilk faster.
And if you’re one of the mums who needs a rental pump, you won’t get as good results if you use a less efficient breast pump.
How to use a breast pump
I know these little contraptions can seem intimidating if you’ve never used one before.
I have a section in my online breastfeeding class about pumps, when to start, how to store breastmilk and how much to give to your baby. (You can get more info here.)
Of course, many mothers never use a breast pump or bottles – and that’s totally fine! I dislike the way mothers are often judged about how they choose to feed their babies.
But remember it’s what works for you and your family that’s important!
7. Get your partner involved
You want to know how to prepare for breastfeeding? Well, there’s one piece of advice I always offer to expectant mums.
If you have a partner, get them involved!
Breastfeeding is a team effort, and having your partner’s support can make a world of difference.
- Start by talking to them about breastfeeding and what it will look like for you.
- Discuss your goals, challenges, and expectations so they understand what you’ll both be going through.
- Encourage them to learn about breastfeeding too, whether through classes, articles, or videos. Partners are very welcome at my online class and 1:1 consults.
The more they understand, the better equipped they’ll be to support you during those early, sometimes challenging, days. And isn’t that a relief!
8. Know where to get support after the birth
It’s my hope for you that your breastfeeding journey will be a smooth one. However, some mums need a little extra support – and that’s okay!
Your public health nurse or community lactation consultant will be available to help you after birth. Dont forget if you’ve taken my pre birth 1:1 I am available in the early days by phone to support you.
There are also lots of voluntary groups who offer coffee mornings and mums meet ups to get you used to breastfeeding out and about.
A final thought on preparing to breastfeed
I hope, with all these tips in mind, you’ll feel confident about how to prepare for breastfeeding.
I know there’s a lot to think about and I know it can be intimidating. But support is out there!
With my lactation support services, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge to tackle breastfeeding challenges head-on.
And that means a smoother, more enjoyable experience right from the start.
With my support, you can breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to meeting your baby.
Ready to feel empowered and confident about your breastfeeding journey? Click here for more info.
