Many first-time moms feel that breastfeeding comes naturally when their baby is born, and not worry too much about it while pregnant. I admit that I was one of those moms. Sure, I read a few online articles and a chapter about it on the “What To Expect When You’re Expecting” book and I thought to myself “I got this!” Then when my son was born, I was like “AAAHH how do I do this, what do I do he’s not latching on properly!?!”. It was a little nerve wrecking, very painful, and I forgot all about those articles I read! I struggled with latching issues when Nathan was a baby which led me to exclusively pump for 12 months! I plan on pumping when I return from maternity leave this time around, but this time I am going to commit to breastfeed even if there are going to be some bumps along the way.

Here are some ways I am preparing for breastfeeding for Baby #2!

 

1. Take a breastfeeding class: I can’t stress this enough! Don’t solely rely on the articles you’ve read or the YouTube videos you’ve watched. Check if your local hospital or medical center offers these classes. If not, many maternity and baby boutiques (like A Mother’s Haven or the Pump Station) offer breastfeeding and lactation classes. Save your receipt so it can be a tax write-off! Taking a class is a great way to familiarize yourself with techniques, and get to know a Lactation Consultant or other breastfeeding professionals before your baby arrives. It’s also the perfect place to have all your breastfeeding questions and concerns answered. Bring your partner along too! Also, check out La Leche League International’s website to find local breastfeeding support groups and meetings!

2. Educate your partner: It’s not only important for you to learn about breastfeeding, but it’s also important for your partner, as well. This way, he/she will understand the benefits and demands of breastfeeding, and can learn ways to provide plenty of support and assistance. Parenting is a team effort!

3. Speak to your hospital or healthcare professional about our desires to breastfeed: Many hospitals promote breastfeeding, however addressing your desire to your healthcare professional will make a huge difference in your breastfeeding success. Ask whomever will be delivering your baby if there is a Lactation Consultant or staff you can work with before and after delivery to achieve breastfeeding success. You may also ask what can be done to support breastfeeding if in any case you need to be separated immediately from your baby after delivery.

4. Research breastpumps: In any case that you may need to pump, learn about the different types of breastpumps, and the type of pump that will best fit your needs. Also, this is the best time to ask your insurance if they can provide a pump for you, or if your hospital rents out pumps. If you have WIC, check out your local WIC office if they offer rentals or free pumps.

5. Stock up in advance: Let’s face it. As desirable as it sounds, making trips to Buy Buy Baby or Target will be very unlikely once the baby is born. You will be tired, but thank goodness for Amazon Prime! With that being said, stock up on:

Here are a few recommended books to read:

The American Academy of Pediatrics New Mother’s Guide to Breastfeeding

Working and Breastfeeding Made Simple

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding

Sweet Sleep: Nighttime and Naptime Strategies for the Breastfeeding Family

Please let me know if you are expecting and if you find this post helpful! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out! If you are expecting a newborn, please don’t hesitate to contact your physician or a Lactation Consultant if you have any questions regarding breastfeeding. Especially, if you feel you have any medical concerns that might conflict with breastfeeding.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post, and please do share it with any of your friends and family who may think this post is helpful! I truly appreciate it!

*This post may contain affiliate links. Should you make a purchase after clicking on the link, The Memoirs of a Mommy will earn a very small commission. This does not affect any product pricing for you.