How to Start Breastfeeding? How You Can Actually Plan Breastfeeding?

When you're pregnant, you can't stop thinking about how you might do up the baby's nursery, or what you're going to name him or her. Shopping sprees for baby clothes, crib, and other essentials are part of your preparation to welcome the baby. Do you know that there's one very important aspect of childbirth that you can prepare for? Breastfeeding! Your body is already doing the main bit by preparing the milk ducts to do their job (wondered why your breasts were getting bigger, right?).

Although breastfeeding is a natural process for a new mother, it can at times be quite challenging. It is best for you to be prepared well in advance. Read on to know how to plan to breastfeed. I will help you understand the importance of preparing yourself for breastfeeding well before you deliver your bundle of joy. [Read More - Why Don’t Give-up Breastfeeding so soon!]

How Can I Prepare Myself For Breastfeeding?

Unlike a couple of decades ago, there is so much information out there about breastfeeding and its benefits. Doctors and lactation consultants help you overcome challenges, as well. Here are some tips on how you can prepare for breastfeeding.

Learn About Breastfeeding

Educating yourself on the process, its benefits and possible challenges is great for preparing, especially mentally to breastfeed.

1. Speak to friends and family, who have breastfed their babies and can share personal experiences. Seek out a network of people who are breastfeeding-friendly
2. Find out if there's a local support network that conducts training, and attend them
3. Your local hospital (where you've planned to deliver) might conduct Lamaze classes which educate about breastfeeding, too
4. Ask your gynecologist any question you might have to clear all doubts and concerns about breastfeeding

Must Buy Breastfeeding Products

Get your breastfeeding accessories sorted out before delivery. Here are some things that you might need...

1. Comfortable Nursing Bra: A nursing bra has flaps that you can open when you want to nurse your baby. Buy your nursing bra as close to your delivery as possible, so that your breasts get as close to your post-delivery size as possible
2. Breast Pump: If you plan to return to work while breastfeeding, a breast pump is great for stocking up milk for your baby when you're away. Even if you don't plan on being away, you can pump to relieve engorgement
3. Breast Pads: You might find your breasts leaking sometimes, and you can use breast pads to keep your clothes dry
4. Pillow: A nursing pillow is designed to provide comfort to you and your baby while breastfeeding
5. Ointment for Sore Nipples: Your gynecologist can recommend an ointment that you can use for cracked and sore nipples

How Do I Prepare Myself Before Breastfeeding?

It is important to believe in yourself when it comes to breastfeeding. Read here

1. Excluding circumstances of major health issues and surgery history, a mother will be able to breastfeed her baby. So don't feel disheartened if it takes a while to get the hang of it
2. Ask to feed your baby as soon as it is possible post-delivery. It is important that your baby gets the colostrum (the first liquid before the milk comes in)
3. Talk to a lactation consultant before your delivery to understand the challenges that might arise. Some babies latch on quickly while others take a while. Get help if you feel that you're unable to feed because of latching issues
4. Surround yourself with people who support your breastfeeding journey

Foods That Boost Breastmilk Supply

Find out about foods that boost lactation, before delivery and you can start taking them a few weeks before labor sets in. Do check with your gynecologist before eating any new foods, though. Some herbs and foods that are believed to boost breast-milk supply are. [Read More - What Foods to Eat While Breastfeeding?]

1. Methi (fenugreek)
2. Leafy greens like palak and sarson
3. Jeera
4. Tulsi (holy basil)
5. Oats and daliya
6. Nuts such as almonds and cashew
7. Gourds such as tinda and lauki
8. Lentils (especially masoor dal)

Suggested Reads:

Must-Know Breastfeeding Facts For New Moms
Nutrition Tips For Breastfeeding Moms
How to Breastfeed Longer With Ease

Plan Work Accordingly

If you plan on returning to work while breastfeeding, speak to your employer regarding flexibility in terms of commute, and space for pumping at work among other things. Having a plan in place will reduce a lot of stress post-delivery

In A Nutshell

Breastfeeding is not just a way to provide nutrition, but a way to bond with your baby, and give him/her that feeling of security. So, enjoy the sweet moments of togetherness with your baby. I wish you happy and healthy motherhood!

Have any tips to prepare for breastfeeding? Share them with us in the comments section!