Preparing for breast Feeding

Breast feeding is a subject very close to my heart. There is nothing like seeing your little one gaze up at you as you provide the best nutrition. It's a unique bonding experience that I wouldn't trade for the world.

Many first-time moms are unsure about breast feeding. Let's discuss some common questions:

 
How should I prepare for breastfeeding?

Read as much as you can. Talk to your care provider about your decision. Go to a La Leche League International chapter, and take a breastfeeding class (offered by most hospitals) or contact a local lactation consultant at an area hospital. The more you know about the benefits of nursing, the less apprehensive you will be.

As your pregnancy progresses, your body is already preparing for breast feeding. Remember, nursing is what "the ladies" were designed to do. Your bust increases as the milk ducts and milk-producing cells develop, and more blood goes to your breasts than before. However, breast size has nothing to do with your ability to nurse.

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Do I need to toughen my nipples?

All the old wives' tales about toughening your nipples are just that, old wives' tales. Wash your areola and nipples with plain warm water rinses to avoid drying out the skin. If you are plagued with dry skin, use a small amount of pure lanolin to moisturize them.

If you have flat nipples or inverted nipples, you should still be able to breastfeed successfully. In these cases, it is beneficial to gently roll each nipple between your thumb and forefinger to loosen the adhesions that are pulling the nipple inward. If your case is particularly severe, then you can use nipple shields in the beginning of nursing until the nipple protrudes outward. If you are truly concerned, ask your care provider or lactation consultant.

You may also use a manual or electric breast pump for a few minutes daily to pull out the nipple.   A breast pump is an essential item if you wish to have others feed the baby or will be returning to work.

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What do I need to buy?

Although you may want to purchase a couple of nursing bras before the baby comes, as your milk comes in you will most likely need a larger size. It is advisable to purchase at least one before the birth because you will be hard-pressed to go shopping soon after you bring your new child home.

You may want a few breast feeding clothes. Nursing tops have convenient snaps or flaps that allow easy, discrete access. At the very least, you will want a loose-fitting shirt.  Motherwear has a great collection of nursing wear.

You should also invest in a large supply of breast pads. These are a necessity in the early days. Don't worry, as the weeks progress, you will experience less and less leaking.

However, rest assured that you will wake at least once completely drenched, even with breast pads in place. It happens to the best of us. You can purchase either disposable pads  or washable pads.  I prefer disposable in the beginning-you don't have time to shower let alone do more laundry. Once the leakage slows, washable pads become a cost-saving option.

Giving Birth Naturally: Vaginal Birth: Breast Feeding