Many women hope to breastfeed their babies.
Breastfeeding provides the optimal nutrition for babies, is convenient, and helps mothers and babies bond.
However, in our society, many women have trouble breastfeeding and end up switching to formula.
Here are some tips to prepare moms for successful breastfeeding.
Learn about breastfeeding ahead of time: Many expectant moms assume that breastfeeding is instinctual and will come naturally.
At the same time, a large number of women have never even seen a baby nursing before.
Breastfeeding is natural, but there is a learning curve.
It's a good idea to get as much information as you can ahead of time.
You can read books and articles about breastfeeding (check to see if they are from a reputable source).
You could also seek out the support of other nursing mothers, for example, through La Leche League, an organization whose goal is to provide mother-to-mother breastfeeding support.
Make your plans clear to hospital staff: Before the baby is born, tell your birth attendants and their supporting staff that you plan to breastfeed.
Request that they not give your baby formula or pacifiers, both of which can interfere with initiating breastfeeding.
Get household help for the first few weeks of baby's life: Your new baby will want to feed around the clock, and you will be much more able to feed him or her if you don't have to worry about making dinner or cleaning the house.
Keep as much of your time free as possible in the early weeks - even consider restricting visitors.
This will make your transition to motherhood less stressful, and give you time to be with your baby.
Get a support network in place: This could include friends that have breastfed, a La Leche League group, or your birth attendant.
Find out if there are any local lactation consultants.
You want to have someone to call on if you have any breastfeeding difficulties - and you want it to be someone who can both be supportive as well as be able to at least point you in the right direction to solve whatever problems you may be having.
Be committed: Breastfeeding is challenging at first for many women.
New mothers often deal with sore nipples, latching problems or other difficulties.
Reassure yourself that with time and effort, things will become easier.
Believe in yourself and your baby! I would like mention some things you will not need to nurse your baby successfully.
You do not need to prepare your nipples for breastfeeding in any way.
You do not need to keep formula in the house 'just in case'; in fact, it is better if you don't.
You do not need a breast pump until you are planning to be away from your baby for a significant length of time - in fact, you may never need one.
These suggestions are just a few tips on how to prepare for nursing before your baby is born.
Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding experiences for mothers, and it is worth the effort to make it a success.