Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Preparing for Breastfeeding

I was wondering if there is anything that I should do to prepare my nipples for breastfeeding... I've heard it can be painful and I plan on breastfeeding.

Answer:

In years past women were told to do many different things to "prepare their nipples" for breastfeeding (including things like rubbing towels over them!) However, scientific research has shown conclusively that those things do not help prepare the nipples for nursing.

In fact, your nipples are already preparing. Your body begins producing a light oil during pregnancy. This oil is secreted from tiny glands around the nipples and helps keep them supple and moisturized. It's your body's own natural preparation for breastfeeding.

Your breasts also go through other changes during pregnancy to prepare for milk production.

The best thing to do to prepare to breastfeed your baby is to read and learn what you can. I highly recommend two books:

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding

and

Breastfeeding Pure & Simple

Both of these books are excellent and will help you prepare for breastfeeding and will help you greatly after.

Slight soreness is normal in the first couple of weeks after your baby's birth - however, lots of pain or continuing pain is not normal.

Look for a La Leche League group in your area. You can attend meetings while pregnant and after your baby's birth to get support. You local leaders can also help you troubleshoot breastfeeding problems.

LLL is dedicated to helping women breastfeed and it's a great organization to get support as you mother your little one, as well.