10 tips to prepare for breastfeeding success during pregnancy
1. EDUCATE YOURSELF
If you have the opportunity to attend an antenatal class that focuses on breastfeeding this is a great way to build your confidence ahead of the birth of your baby and the start to breastfeeding.
A breastfeeding class will include
Benefits of breastfeeding for you and your baby
Understanding how breastfeeding works – empowering you with the fundamentals so you can make informed decisions.
Benefits of skin to skin contact
Recognising positioning, attachment and frequency of breastfeeding
Understanding normal weight gain in infants and how recognise your baby is being well fed
Recognising hunger cues
Recognising common concerns, how to prevent them and how to solve them
Where to seek help – how to seek support and professional support if required
Online Breastfeeding Preparation workshops we recommend
The Feeding Couch by Katie James – co-host on the fabulous podcast The Midwives Cauldron.
A qualified Midwife for more than 20 years and an IBCLC (International Board certified Lactation Consultant) for more than 16 years, her ‘Feeding Couch Pregnancy and Postpartum course is a fabulous resource.
The Thompson method provides evidence-based education, gentle guidance, and 24/7 support so women can breastfeed full of confidence and free from pain.
Facilitated by the founder, Dr Robyn Thompson, RM, RN, M&CH, BAppSc, PhD.
Her seven years of PhD research became the basis for The Thompson Method, and her online programs have helped tens of thousands of women prevent and overcome common breastfeeding challenges.
Breastfeeding Rescue
Includes a private 90 min consultation via Skype, 14 days access to the premium support group and 45 min follow-up consultation and access to the Breastfeeding online program.
Breastfeeding Program
Proactive education and support - access to The Thompson Method online breast-feeding course, 24/7 VIP support group, 3 golden hour video series, shortcut blueprint to pain free breastfeeding and the Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Q/A library.
2. KNOW WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE
Lactation Consultants
If you have any specific concerns, meet with a Lactation consultant in pregnancy to discuss any issues or questions you may have.
Lactation Consultants of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ) is the professional organisation for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant's (IBCLCs®), health professionals and members of the public who have an interest in lactation and breastfeeding in Australia and New Zealand.
Medical doctors who specialise in Breastfeeding Medicine
Sometimes issues faced by families are complex and you need specialist medical input from a Doctor to assist. We provide services to find a specialist in this area or breastfeeding friendly Doctor.
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), is a health professional extensively trained to support women and families with breastfeeding. Not all IBCLCs are Doctors.
https://www.breastfeedingmed.com.au/
Find a Doctor in your location here
https://www.breastfeedingmed.com.au/find-a-doctor
Find a Doctor in Victoria here
https://www.breastfeedingmed.com.au/vic
Australian Breastfeeding Association
The ABA has trained volunteers/ breastfeeding counsellors are trained to provide personalised information and counselling support and offer you a variety of suggestions to assist you in resolving your breastfeeding challenges.
ABA volunteers provide counselling within a scope of practice, which excludes providing medical advice or information about medications.
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/get-help
3. ESTABLISH A SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR BREASTFEEDING
One key factor that significantly contributes to the success of breastfeeding is the support system surrounding you in the early postnatal period.
Your partner and family - Start by sharing your intention to breastfeed with your partner, family, and friends so they can offer support and encouragement. It is crucial to be involved in the preparation, education and information ahead of birth.
Join a breastfeeding support groups or community that provides an avenue for mothers to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Connecting with others who are on a similar journey helps normalise the struggles and offers practical advice.
Returning to work can be a challenging transition for breastfeeding mothers. Employers who understand and support breastfeeding can contribute to a smooth return. Flexible schedules, designated pumping spaces, and supportive policies can make a significant impact.
Caring for your emotional wellbeing - The emotional toll of breastfeeding challenges should not be underestimated. Having a support network to lean on can significantly promote emotional wellbeing. Open communication about feelings and concerns is essential for maintaining a positive breastfeeding experience.
4. WRITE A BREASTFEEDING PLAN
A breastfeeding plan is a helpful document or guide that outlines your intentions and preferences regarding breastfeeding. While it may not be as formal as a birth plan, having a written document can be useful for communicating your wishes to healthcare providers, family members, and support people.
You may consider including
Your Intention:
Express your commitment to breastfeed your baby
Support System:
Highlight the importance of having a supportive network during the breastfeeding period.
Specify the role of your partner, family, and friends in supporting your breastfeeding goals.
Birth Preferences:
Immediate Skin-to-Skin - Request immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby after birth, if possible.
Indicate that you would like to begin breastfeeding within the first hour after delivery.
Delay Routine Procedures - Request that routine procedures, such as weighing and measuring, be delayed until after the initial breastfeeding session.
Feeding Preferences:
Exclusive Breastfeeding - clearly state your intention to exclusively breastfeed your baby, if that is your goal.
Avoidance of Pacifiers and Bottles - express your preference to avoid the use of pacifiers and bottles, especially in the early weeks, to support breastfeeding establishment.
Responsive Feeding-request that caregivers respond to your baby's hunger cues
Potential challenges and plan for support:
Specify that you would like early assistance from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support personnel in case of challenges.
Formula Supplementation:
Clearly state your preference to avoid unnecessary formula supplementation unless medically indicated.
Include an option for vaginal birth or after a Caesarean birth.
5. DISCUSS ANY HEALTH CONCERNS OR MEDICATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT BREATSFEEDING IN PREGNANCY
Talk to your healthcare provider, Midwife or doctor about any medications you're taking and their compatibility with breastfeeding.
6. SET UP A BREASTFEEDING SPACE AT HOME
Set a quiet comfortable space at home for the initial period when you are establishing breastfeeding
Consider a comfortable chair and consider what can you see, hear smell and feel. Consider a pillow, soft blanket, music, scent or oils
7. INVEST IN A COMFORTABLE AND WELL FITTING MATERNITY BRA
8. CONSIDER A BREASTPUMP
This may be for daily use, occasional use or simply when you return to work depending on your breastfeeding journey.
9. LEARN RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
Breastfeeding is governed by a cascade of hormones. Staying calm and comfortable and lowering stress is conducive to promoting the let down reflex and adequate milk supply.
Babies are sensitive to their mothers' stress levels. When a mother is relaxed, it positively influences the baby's behaviour during breastfeeding. Relaxed mothers are more likely to experience a more satisfying feeding experience
10. HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Know that breastfeeding may have challenges. Being informed and confident will make all the difference but and remember it is OK to ask for help.