PREGNANT AND CONSIDERING BREASTFEEDING?
First of all, congratulations--and it's wonderful that your're planning to nurse your baby! If you're thinking about breastfeeding, you already know that breastmilk is best, and who doesn't want the best for their baby?!
You've probably heard that breastfeeding is easy and convenient, and it is....just not at first. The first few weeks can be VERY trying, but it really does get easier once you and your baby get the hang if things. And, trust me, you will be SO glad you stuck with it! Being prepared (like you can ever be fully prepared for a new baby) will help you tremendously after your bundle of joy arrives.
One of the best things to do before your baby arrives is to read up on the subject--one of my all time favorite books is "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding". My daughter is almost 2, and I still keep a copy nearby. This book is great to read cover to cover first and then go back to different sections as you need them after the baby is born.
If there is a local La Leche League group in your area, make a point to attend a few meetings. The meetings are free, and you can really learn a lot from these breastfeeding experts.
Choose a pediatrician (and OB) who is pro-breastfeeding. Don't be afraid to sit down and talk with your ped about his/her feelings about breastfeeding BEFORE your baby is born. You're really going to need your pediatrician's support, and it's best to find out now if your ideas and your physician's ideas are compatible. (so you have plenty of time to find a new pediatrician if necessary!)
When you pack your hospital bag, be sure to include 2 or 3 nursing nightgowns. These make it much easier to nurse, so try and find a couple you like. There are lots of pretty, lacey numbers out there--but I've always opted for comfort over beauty :)
Find out what your hospital's post-partum policies are. Nursing immediately after delivery is wonderful-the sooner you can breastfeed, the better off you and your baby will be! If rooming in is available, I strongly urge you to take advantage of this. Also, it's a good idea to talk with your physician about writing a "breastfeeding only" order on your baby's chart. Newborns can be easily confused by switching back and forth from the bottle to the breast, so giving your breastfed baby a bottle early on can only complicate matters.
If your hospital gives you free formula.....DON'T take it!! The first few days can be difficult, and if you have that formula to fall back on you may do so without thinking it through. The formula companies know this...that's why they give those samples out.
If you'd like more information on La Leche League, just click on the icon of the breastfeeding mother and child above (the LLL logo) It will take you directly to LLL International's web site.
With all that said, good luck, and get your rest now....you're going to need it :)
