Preparing for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding information for new parents, and how to prepare for breastfeeding a newborn. If in doubt, please speak to your LMC, midwife, doctor, or Lactation Consultant.

Before Baby Prep
Read one or two good breastfeeding books, a great one is published by La Leche League.
Attend a seminar on breastfeeding, or antental classes which give advice on breastfeeding.

You will need to buy: plenty of quality breast pads, hand towels or flannels for spills and squirts, a good breastfeeding bra fitted late in pregnancy, and a breastfeeding pillow. Nipple cream is also suggested in case of cracked or grazed nipples which can occur in the early days. Breastfeeding singlets or nursing tops are also a good way to maintain discretion and help to breastfeed discretely.

You will need to use a chair that supports you and the baby while you are feeding. The legs of the chair should not be too high off the ground, and the chair arms need to be quite low to allow you to hold the baby and be comfortable while feeding. Your feet should sit flat on the floor while feeding.

We have some more tips and advice for breastfeeding on our website. Continue to read our Prepare for Breastfeeding advice here.