Getting Ready:
- If possible, begin your preparation during pregnancy. Though breastfeeding is natural, it is not instinctive. You may find it very helpful to attend breastfeeding classes taught by a certified lactation consultant.
- Get help. Find out if a board certified lactation consultant is on staff at the birth center or hospital where you will give birth.
- Room in. Keeping your baby with you in the hospital allows you to squeeze in a lot of practice breastfeeding in a short amount of time.
- Breast only. Remind the nursing staff that you want your baby to be given no supplementary feeds (formula or water) and offered no pacifiers.
- Nurse early and often. Initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible following your baby's birth and feed your baby on cue -- at least every two to three hours or at least eight to twelve times a day.
Get Started:
- Get comfortable. Find a comfortable, supportive chair and have some pillows handy.
- Lean back slightly and have feet resting on a low footstool, knees slightly raised.
- Unwrap your baby and place her against your bare skin. If the room is cool, cover up with a light blanket.
Positioning Pointers:
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