Preparing for Breastfeeding: Why It’s Just as Important as Preparing for Birth

Did you know that most mums spend a lot of time preparing for birth but spend anywhere near as much time (or none at all!) preparing for breastfeeding? Birth is a big deal, but from my experience as a mum who breastfed two babies AND a Lactation Consultant, getting ready for breastfeeding can really help your breastfeeding journey go well. In this post, I’ll show you how a little planning for breastfeeding now can make things so much smoother later—just like getting ready for the big day of birth!

Breastfeeding Takes Practice Just Like Any New Skill

Breastfeeding is natural, but it’s also something you have to learn. So many of us think it will “just happen,” but both you and your baby need time to get the hang of it. Getting a good latch, feeling comfortable, and making sure baby is feeding properly can take some practice. The more prepared you are, the easier this can be.

Just like with birth, getting ready ahead of time can help you avoid a lot of worry and problems later. When you understand how breastfeeding works and what to expect, it helps you feel more confident. And let’s be honest, feeling confident is a big part of breastfeeding successfully!

Why Preparing for Breastfeeding Matters for You and Your Baby

So why should you spend time preparing for breastfeeding when birth is quickly getting closer? Well, birth is just one important day – and you absolutely should learn about and plan for it – but breastfeeding can last for months or even years. It makes sense to get ready for something you’re going to spend so much time doing! If you’re prepared, you’ll have a happier and more special experience. This can help you avoid that feeling of “I’m doing everything wrong, I can’t do this” that many new mums have in those first few weeks that leads to many mums stopping sooner than they wanted to.

And the stakes are high! Breastfeeding is so important for both you and your baby! Breastmilk is full of special antibodies that help protect your baby from getting sick, and it changes to be just right to meet their needs as they grow. Babies who are not breastfed are more likely to have gastro infections, chest infections, ear infections, SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), life threatening gut infections in premature babies (necrotising enterocolitis – NEC), blood infections in premature babies (sepsis), leukemia, misaligned teeth, be overweight and have lower IQ. Mums who don’t breastfeed are more likely to have some serious health issues, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and even breast and ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding also helps with recovery after birth and helps to builds a special bond between you and bub, giving both comfort and connection for you and your baby. With so much to gain, being ready can help you enjoy these rewards and feel more confident, even if things get tough.

Think about it: when you feel prepared, you’re more likely to keep going, even if you hit some bumps in the road. Understanding what’s normal, what’s not, and having some tricks up your sleeve can make the difference between wanting to give up and feeling motivated to keep going.

Simple Ways to Start Preparing for Breastfeeding Now

You might be wondering if there’s anything you can do during pregnancy to make breastfeeding easier. Luckily, there are a few steps that can help you feel more ready when the time comes! Here are four ways you can start preparing for breastfeeding before your little one arrives:

1. Take a Breastfeeding Class BEFORE Birth

A good breastfeeding class can teach you the basics, like how to hold your baby properly, how to make sure baby is feeding well, and signs that baby is getting enough milk. Having this knowledge can help you feel more comfortable when you first start. Some classes even give helpful tips on pumping and storing milk if you plan to use bottles along with breastfeeding later on. If you want to learn more about breastfeeding, come join my free masterclass, “Breastfeeding Basics for Pregnant Mums: Myths, Tips, and Must-Know Secrets!”. It’s a great way to get ready for your breastfeeding journey! Save your seat here.

2. Learn About Collecting Colostrum

Colostrum is the nutrient-rich milk you produce in the first few days, and some mums collect it during the last weeks of pregnancy to have on hand after birth in case bub needs some extra. This isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can be helpful if breastfeeding isn’t easy at first or you or bub is unwell. Check out more info on this here.

3. Get Your Support System Ready

Breastfeeding is so much easier when you have support! Make sure your partner and close family understand your goals and how they can help you, like bringing you water or holding the baby while you rest. You might also want to find a local breastfeeding group or online community where you can ask questions and share experiences so you don’t feel so alone and confused. 

4. Know Where to Get Help

Sometimes, breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Knowing how to reach out for help, whether it’s a Lactation Consultant (like me!) or a local breastfeeding group can give you peace of mind. Having someone to turn to and help you fix pain or low milk supply can make a huge difference in how breastfeeding goes for you and how you feel about continuing to breastfeed.

Start Your Breastfeeding Journey with Confidence

Preparing for breastfeeding can help you start your journey feeling ready and confident. Just like with birth, a little planning can go a long way in making your early breastfeeding days easier. To get even more tips and feel truly prepared, don’t forget to save your seat for my free masterclass, “Breastfeeding Basics for Pregnant Mums: Myths, Tips, and Must-Know Secrets”! In this LIVE Masterclass, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to feel confident and prepared for a successful breastfeeding journey so you can give your baby the best start to life! Sign up for free here. Can’t wait to see you there!