What breastfeeding basics do I need to know before my baby arrives?

This is a very common question. To ensure successful breastfeeding, here are some suggestions that may help.

• Make sure you are drinking enough liquids (at least one tall glass (8 oz) of water every time you sit down to nurse.)
• Have an electric pump available. (Manual pumps are not recommended for anything more than a once or twice weekly replacement feeding for the established breastfeeding mom.) Medela is a good brand for electric pumps. You can also visit Medela.com for information regarding how to choose the right pump and to find local distributors.
• Be prepared to give the baby an occasional bottle when or if necessary. If you are planning to work outside the home, I would encourage you to introduce the bottle to baby around 2 weeks of age. You can pump and offer the breast-milk for the feedings that baby will have while you are at work. If formula will be used while you are at work, that should be introduced about 2 weeks prior to your return to work. Being proactive in the transition from breast to bottle or breast-milk to formula will make things incredibly easier for the day-care provider and baby when you return to work.

For more help please read our other breastfeeding articles.

We hope that helps! If you have any further questions, feel free to continue the conversation below.