By Mary Kay Vogel, IBCLC
 Lactation Consultant
Iowa State University Extension
A NEW BABY IS COMING
You have so much to think about:
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- How will a new baby fit into your life?
- Will you know how to take care of your baby?
- What will your baby need?
- What will you need?
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Babies' Needs
Although we shower babies with gifts, they need only a few things: to be fed; to be kept clean, warm, and dry; and most of all, to feel loved. As babies adjust to this world, they need people to comfort and care for them.
There is one gift only you can give that satisfies many of your baby's needs: you can breastfeed. Breastfeeding gives your baby the very best start. Every time you breastfeed, you:
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- provide milk that is just right for your baby,
- protect your baby from sickness,
- feel close to your baby,
- save time and money, and
- help your body get back into shape.
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Not Sure About Breastfeeding?
You are not alone. Some mothers think that their breast milk may not be good or that breastfeeding may be painful or that breastfeeding just will not work for them. But women all over the world breastfeed their babies in a great variety of situations. Breastfeeding, even for a short time, benefits you and your baby.
What You Will Need
You will need a few things to breastfeed: information about how breastfeeding works, an opportunity to learn how to breastfeed, and a few people to help and support you.
HOW BREAST FEEDING WORKS
Your Body Prepares To Breastfeed
As your baby grows inside you, your body prepares to nourish your baby. Your breasts get larger and begin to make colostrum, the first milk. Colostrum will protect your baby from germs and sickness.
You only need to wash your breasts with water. Special glands on the areola, the darker skin around the nipple, keep the nipple clean.
Flat or Inverted Nipples
During pregnancy, check for flat or inverted nipples. Apply a cold, wet cloth to your nipple. The nipple will protrude, stay flat, or sink in. If the nipple stays flat or sinks in, it may be difficult for your baby to breastfeed. Some mothers wear breast shells during the last few months of pregnancy to help bring out the nipple. (For information about breast shells, contact the professionals in the "People Who Can Help You" section.)
Making Milk
 Your body will make just the right milk for your baby in just the right amount. How much milk you make depends on how well and how often your baby breastfeeds.
Most babies breastfeed well when held correctly at the breast and helped to latch on. Then the mother is comfortable too. Mothers and babies need time to learn. Ask for help if you need to.
Babies are hungry often because their stomachs hold only about 1/4 cup milk. Your baby will need to breastfeed every two or three hours during the day and at least two times at night. Breastfeed often to ensure a good milk supply, a good weight gain for your baby, and many chances for you to relax with your baby.
LEARNING HOW TO BREASTFEED
In the Hospital
Talk with your health care provider before the birth and with nurses who are helping you at the birth. Tell them what you would like to do:
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Breastfeed as soon as possible. In the first hour after birth, newborns are usually very alert. Your baby welcomes the comfort of your arms and the chance to breastfeed.
Breastfeed every two or three hours. Your baby will get a good supply of colostrum and have many chances to learn to breastfeed.
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Avoid giving bottles or pacifiers in these early weeks. A baby sucks differently on a bottle nipple and may get confused. Using a pacifier may keep you from making enough milk.
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Keep your baby with you so you can breastfeed when your baby first seems hungry. Babies breastfeed best then.
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Ask for help to make sure you are holding and latching your baby correctly.
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At Home
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Take good care of yourself so you can take good care of your baby:
- Make a comfortable place to breastfeed.
- Have a healthy snack and drink nearby.
- Rest when your baby sleeps.
- Ask for help with household task
You can make sure you have enough milk if you hold and latch your baby on correctly and breastfeed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. -
Until you know breastfeeding is going well, count the wet and dirty diapers. Babies are getting enough breast milk when they have at least six wet and three dirty diapers in 24 hours.
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You will feel better if you eat a healthy diet. Even if your diet is sometimes not the best, you can still make the best milk for your baby.
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It takes a little practice for breastfeeding to go smoothly. If you have any questions or concerns call a support person.
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RETURNING TO WORK OR SCHOOL
You may wonder about returning to work or school. If you have to stop breastfeeding, should you even start? Yes, there are many benefits to you, your baby, and your family even if you breastfeed just a few weeks. You and your baby will be healthier, and your family will save money.
Many mothers combine school or work with breastfeeding their babies. Stay home as long as you can. Postpone big projects. Use this time to take good care of yourself, get breastfeeding off to a good start, and enjoy your new baby.
The people at work or school can help you continue breastfeeding. Think about what plans you can make:
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- Work fewer hours or take fewer classes.
- Bring your baby along.
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Find a caregiver close to school or work, and go there to breastfeed your
baby.
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Plan to pump your milk and save it for the caregiver to feed your baby.
- Feed your baby formula while you are away.
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YOU CAN BREAST FEED YOUR BABY
Find out how breastfeeding works.
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- Give yourself and your baby a chance to learn to breastfeed in the hospital and in the early days at home.
- Ask for help if you have any questions or concerns.
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THE PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP YOU
Share information about the benefits of breastfeeding and how it works with the people who are important to you and your new baby. Ask for help and support. Talk to friends or relatives who enjoyed breastfeeding their babies. They can encourage you.
For breastfeeding information and answers to your questions, call a lactation consultant, health care provider, WIC breastfeeding specialist, or La Leche League (1-800-525-3243).
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