There are several items to keep in mind when breastfeeding to make the process as smooth and helpful as possible for mother and child. First, one should research as to what normal behavior looks like. Second, your partner should be an active player in their support role. Third, one should come prepared understanding the basics of breastfeeding before attempting. Fourth, the first few hours after birth are critical to developing breastfeeding ability. Fifth, outside of your partner you should have a support system to help you. Sixth, it helps to watch someone breastfeed to get a better idea of process.

Key Takeaways:

• If you’ve never breastfed before, prepare yourself by spending time with a friend who is currently nursing.
• Discuss breastfeeding with your partner so that they will know how to be supportive during the process.
• Dedicate the immediate hours after your baby is born solely to the breastfeeding process.

“Healthy newborn babies nurse a lot, and unpredictably. It is important to know what to expect. “Focus on learning about what normal newborn breastfeeding behaviors are!” says Lynette Beard, IBCLC. “They are very different from that beautiful five-month-old you may have seen breastfeeding.””

Read more: https://lactationmatters.org/2020/02/04/six-tips-for-preparing-to-breastfeed/