Breastfeeding Prep 101
“If only I had known!” is the classic exclamation we hear often from clients regarding breastfeeding and how it through them for a loop. If we are honest, we have all had that moment! If only we had known!
Breastfeeding should be a beautiful, bonding and nourishing experience for both mama and baby. However, it doesn’t always come easy. We do our best to prepare our clients for what they could encounter when they dive into the beautiful world of breastfeeding their infant.
How about I just lay it out for you right here! Breastfeeding is often challenging and painful at first. That’s because it’s a team effort and either one or both teammates are new at breastfeeding and just don’t know what to do. That’s perfectly normal! I love me some lists and bullet point steps, so let me cut to the chaise. These steps will help you be supported and successful breastfeeding. You got this, mama!
Be a newbie: If it’s your first time breastfeeding, be new and ask lots of questions of your doula, a trusted experienced breastfeeding mama, and an IBCLC (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant). We have a list in our resource page for some great lactation consultants. I would also read one or more of these books.
Get in touch with an IBCLC BEFORE you have the baby! This is so important. These professionals get busy, so it’s helpful to establish a relationship with them before you have your baby. Not only to get on their patient list, but so they can introduce you to the basics of breastfeeding, so you are not going in blind. You can let them know A.S.A.P. when you have given birth and set up an appointment with them right away.
If you have had breastfeeding issues with prior infants, let your doula know. Our breasts are not all created equal (in size or nipple shape) and babies’ mouths are no exception. The more your doula knows about your prior breastfeeding experience, the better they can help you be successful and triumphant this time around.
Be aware of what a good breastfeeding latch looks like and feels like: If you currently have friends or family breastfeeding, ask if they feel comfortable letting you observe a positive breastfeeding session. If you don’t know anyone currently breastfeeding, there are always YouTube tutorials. Here are a few that I have linked below.
How to get a deep latch every time.
Ask for help! If you have any concerns or questions as a breastfeeding mom, please reach out to your doula or a lactation consultant. You can do this breastfeeding thing! We are here to help!