5 Things Pregnant Moms Can Do Right Now to Prepare for Breastfeeding their Brand New Baby

As a Board Certified Lactation Consultant in private-practice, I frequently help parents overcome breastfeeding challenges. Some of these are clinical challenges, needing special care, planning and attention...but some of these challenges could have easily been prevented simply by intentional and pro-active prenatal preparation.

Because during this special World Breastfeeding Week 2017, Breastfeeding Housecalls has chosen to champion the Importance of Prenatal Breastfeeding Preparation, here is a quick list that everyone can share with new moms that will help moms-to-be in your life arrive at breastfeeding suck-cess:

1. Schedule to attend an in-person breastfeeding class with a reputable lactation resource who will teach you what to expect from normal breastfeeding, how to beat avoid complications, and how to navigate breastfeeding in all birth settings


2. Join a reputable online breastfeeding support group to learn about how other mothers overcome challenges, and what community resources are available


3. Talk to your partner, family and supporters about their infant feeding expectations well before baby arrives. This will help you determine how much breastfeeding enlightenment they may need, and who your immediate breastfeeding support will be after your baby arrives.


4. Scout out and reach out your local professional breastfeeding providers prenatally and have their contact information ready to use at the first sign of an issue.


5. Choose your baby's doctor wisely. Ask friends and families who have breastfed who supported them best through their breastfeeding. Many insurance companies will pay for prenatal visits with a pediatrician, and many doctors offer these free.

And if you're already a breastfeeding mama, take some time to learn more about what's normal, what's not normal, and when to seek help!