Bump & Beyond | Beginning Your Breastfeeding Journey

One of the things I love talking about in childbirth class is my breastfeeding journey with my daughter. I am so happy that I chose to breastfeed my daughter, we were able to breastfeed for 15 months.

August is National Breastfeeding Month and I wanted to share some advice and resources available to you to help you begin your breastfeeding journey.

EDUCATION

One of my first recommendations is education! Prenatal childbirth classes provide parents with accurate information and guidance from trained professionals. Infirmary Health offers a variety of classes and services to our community including:

• Childbirth Class
• Newborn Care and Safety Class
• Super Sibling Class
• Prenatal Breastfeeding Class
• Baby Bistro | Breastfeeding Support Group

Take advantage of all of these resources! Knowledge is power and learning about breastfeeding before delivery can improve your experience in your breastfeeding journey. Click here to find a class near you.

LACTATION SUPPORT

Each of Infirmary Health's three hospitals are staffed with lactation consultants (Learn more about their certifications by clicking here). Lactation consultants provide education and support to moms at each step in their journey including pre and postpartum as well as at the bedside following delivery. They help moms with a wide variety of breastfeeding challenges such as latching, breastfeeding holds, tongue-tie, milk supply, and plugged ducts. In addition, they can help develop a plan for pumping and returning to work.

Breastfeeding can be challenging both mentally and physically. It’s a learning process for you and your baby, so take advantage of the resources available. You can even make an appointment to see them after discharge or attend our Baby Bistro | Breastfeeding Support Group.

FAMILY SUPPORT

In addition to taking advantage of the education and support resources available, it can be helpful to discuss your breastfeeding plans with your partner and family. From changing diapers, giving baths, or providing help around the house, their support can help you meet your breastfeeding goals. Support persons are welcome in all of our classes and can help guide conversations pre and postpartum.

PRIORITIZE

In the first few weeks following delivery, prioritizing breastfeeding can be incredibly helpful in making it a long-term success. This could include prioritizing feeding over visitations and adjusting your schedule until you establish a routine. It can be helpful to have conversations before delivery with your friends and family to discuss your goals for breastfeeding and how important this is to you and your baby.

Remember that you and your baby are BOTH learning something new. Be patient with the process, take advantage of available resources and enjoy the experience.

Bump & Beyond is a blog series from Infirmary Health to provide guidance and education to pre and post-partum moms. If you haven’t yet, check out our in-person childbirth classes and breastfeeding support group on our events page!

Learn more about the author of this blog, childbirth educator, Sarah Mallonee.