Great question! You are already a wonderful mom just for asking questions and wanting the best for your baby! First, I encourage you to learn all you can about breastfeeding before your baby arrives. You and your partner can take a prenatal breastfeeding class at your local hospital or here at Statera. Talk with friends and family to find helpful resources like breastfeeding support groups. It is also a good idea to consider scheduling a home visit or office visit with a lactation consultant sometime during the first or second week after birth. This person can answer questions, check baby’s latch, weigh the baby, and offer needed support.
After your baby arrives, spend lots of time skin to skin with your baby and breastfeed anytime baby cues that he or she is wanting to eat. Don’t be afraid to ask for help at home, especially with meals and snacks so that you can stay healthy, well-fed, and hydrated—your body is working hard! Although everyone wants to meet your new little one, don’t be afraid to limit visitors in these early days. Most importantly, rest when you can and enjoy this precious time with your baby!
~Becky Franzen, MA, CLC, IBCLC