Like most moms, those who anticipate breastfeeding as a choice for feeding their newborn; usually prepare for the coming of the baby during pregnancy. Moms prepare for the arrival of their newborn in...

Like most moms, those who anticipate breastfeeding as a choice for feeding their newborn; usually prepare for the coming of the baby during pregnancy. Moms prepare for the arrival of their newborn in many ways including where the baby will sleep, how to dress the baby, providing the essential care equipment like changing table, bathing equipment and accessories required to take baby out and about such as a stroller or buggy, and car seat. Feeding the baby is one of the more major decisions a mom-to-be makes regarding her soon to be born infant. Some moms agonize over the decision and others are definitely swayed one way or the other during pregnancy. When breastfeeding is the feeding choice of the mom, she has several things to do in order to be well prepared for breastfeeding her newborn, before the baby arrives.

Even though offering the breast to her baby is a completely nature feeding method there is a certain learning curve to the art of breastfeeding. It is also prudent for the mom to learn in advance, how to avoid possible breastfeeding complications. As is the case in most things in life knowing what complications may occur and how to prevent or cope with them should they arise is preferred over learning through experience. This is why many communities offer classes in infant care or labor and delivery and include information on bottle-feeding or breastfeeding as a part of these classes. There are also available in most communities La Leche League International (LLL) groups in which women can join and learn how to avoid these breastfeeding complications. Many communities and birthing hospitals and centers also offer the services of lactation consultants as well as the possibility of private lactation consultants for hire that may be available to moms-to-be and new moms who intend to or who are already nursing their newborns and older babies. All of these are excellent opportunities for the moms to learn about the breastfeeding complications that are possible, and how to avoid them and also what to do should any of them happen.

Typically, when ever we are learning a new art form or skill there are ups and down in the learning curve and it is usually the case, such as in learning how to breastfeed, that it takes both patience and practice to perfect the art. Breastfeeding will go smoother if you learn right from the beginning to relax, and enjoy this natural way of feeding your baby.

As the breastfeeding mom learns more about what to expect she will glean tips from classes or private instruction that will likely include the following:

Breastfeed as soon as possible after the baby is born.

Avoid nipple confusion by asking that no artificial nipples (pacifier or bottle) be given to your baby.

Understand the law of supply and demand when it comes to breast milk production. The more frequently you breastfeed your baby the more the breast is stimulated to make further milk supply. If your baby is given supplemental bottles of water or formula, your milk supply will decrease. Only use supplements if your pediatrician or doctor says it is a medical necessity. After the first three to four weeks of life, than supplementation of bottles can be done on occasion such as when the nursing mom is given respite. At these times breast milk can be pumped and placed into sterile bottles for others in the family or friends to give to the baby while the mom is taking a much needed break or enjoying an evening out.

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