1. Learn as much as you can about birth (with your partner); take a birth class when possible.
2. Take one or more breastfeeding classes; some may teach a lot, some may teach a little.
3. Prenatally, join an online breastfeeding support group run by reputable breastfeeding organizations.
4. Locate, then attend, in-person breastfeeding support groups regularly; the earlier in your pregnancy you begin attending the better.
5. Choose breastfeeding supportive healthcare providers before you deliver; interview several if needed.
6. Know your local breastfeeding resources; know where your lactation centers are before delivery, and know their hours of operation; know which lactation consultants do housecalls.
7. Create a breastfeeding plan for your early breastfeeding days. For example, do you want your baby to have a pacifier or a bottle? Will you pump if there is medical separation of you and your baby after birth?
8. When in breastfeeding pain or doubt, request that a lactation consultant spend time with you in your hospital room.
9. Know that nearly all breastfeeding issues have a solution.
10. Don't let breastfeeding expectations overwhelm or define you; reaching out for help as needed can empower you.
2. Take one or more breastfeeding classes; some may teach a lot, some may teach a little.
3. Prenatally, join an online breastfeeding support group run by reputable breastfeeding organizations.
4. Locate, then attend, in-person breastfeeding support groups regularly; the earlier in your pregnancy you begin attending the better.
5. Choose breastfeeding supportive healthcare providers before you deliver; interview several if needed.
6. Know your local breastfeeding resources; know where your lactation centers are before delivery, and know their hours of operation; know which lactation consultants do housecalls.
7. Create a breastfeeding plan for your early breastfeeding days. For example, do you want your baby to have a pacifier or a bottle? Will you pump if there is medical separation of you and your baby after birth?
8. When in breastfeeding pain or doubt, request that a lactation consultant spend time with you in your hospital room.
9. Know that nearly all breastfeeding issues have a solution.
10. Don't let breastfeeding expectations overwhelm or define you; reaching out for help as needed can empower you.
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