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You are here:
Getting
ready for breastfeeding
- You should:
- Pick a breastfeeding-friendly
hospital if possible (unless you've decided on home
birth)
- Interview obstetricians and pediatricians, and pick ones that
share your commitment to breastfeeding. Don't assume anything. Try
to interview other doctor's in your obstetrician's group--you
don't know which one will be attending your birth--make sure they
know your desires regarding breastfeeding.
- Talk to your partner, family members, and friends about your
desire to breastfeed and your reasons for it. It's better to deal
with any negative feelings now rather than later when you have the
baby.
- Get a few good books or videos on
breastfeeding. Share them with your partner.
- Learn about lactation
consultants in your area. You don't want to waste time looking
for one if you have problems. Also locate
breastpump rental stations in case you decide that you need
one.
- Find out about breastfeeding support
groups in your area. Consider attending a meeting before you
baby arrives.
- See if any of your friends, family members, or neighbors have
breastfed, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. It
helps to have company!
- Think about whether you want any nursing clothes, nursing
stools or pillows, or other tools. If so, look for sources.
- You don't need to:
- Prepare your nipples (by rolling, rubbing, etc.) unles they
are flat or inverted.
- Don't:
- wash your nipples with soap (soap removes protective oils
secreted by glands in your areola)
- use any creams or ointments other than (perhaps) pure
lanolin on your nipples
Back to:
How to breastfeed
The breastfeeding page
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