Prenatal Breastfeeding Consults: Preparing for Success

Breastfeeding is an awesome and nutritionally complete way to feed your newborn, but it can also come with challenges! Many expectant mothers are curious to learn how to prepare for breastfeeding before their baby arrives. This is where prenatal breastfeeding consults come into play. In a prenatal breastfeeding consult, we will talk about absolutely EVERYTHING you want to know about breastfeeding your baby.

In this blog post, we will explore the value of prenatal breastfeeding consults, what to expect during these sessions, and how to prepare for a successful breastfeeding relationship.

Understanding Prenatal Breastfeeding Consults

What Are Prenatal Breastfeeding Consults?

Prenatal breastfeeding consults are educational sessions designed for expectant mothers and their support person. We can schedule these at any point (some mothers love to be prepared from the start), but we do like to see mothers somewhere around week 28 + of pregnancy. We offer in-home, office, and telehealth prenatal appointments.

Why Are They Important?

1. Learn the things you need to know: Prenatal consults provide the foundational information you want to know about latch, breast milk supply, and what to expect the first few weeks. Understanding these concepts before your baby arrives can help you feel confident when you begin to breastfeed your baby.

   
   

2. Addressing Concerns: Many mothers have concerns about breastfeeding, whether it's about breast anatomy, milk supply, nipple pain, or how (and when and why) to pump. We will discuss these topics with you in mind, and we'll have a plan to address these concerns that is unique to you.

   
   

3. Creating a Support Plan: During a prenatal consult, we will develop a plan that includes support from family members, your chosen local healthcare providers, and of course us! You will know exactly who to reach out to (and when) if you have any questions once your baby arrives.

   
   

4. Setting Realistic Expectations: Breastfeeding can be challenging, and having realistic expectations about breastfeeding, mothering, and your newborn can help you navigate the ups and downs.

   
   

What to Expect During a Prenatal Breastfeeding Consult

Initial Assessment

Before your appointment, you will receive an intake form. During your appointment, we will discuss:

• Your Medical History: Your medical history, including any previous breastfeeding experiences, surgeries, or health conditions you may have, will help us to know if there is anything that may impact the way you want to feed your baby.

• Family History: Understanding any family history of breastfeeding challenges or concerns.

  
  

Education on Breastfeeding Basics

We'll talk about everything you want to know about breastfeeding your baby, including:

• Anatomy of the Breast: Understanding how breasts produce milk and the role of hormones and milk removal.

• Breastfeeding Positions: Learning about different positions for breastfeeding, such as the cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position.

• Latching Techniques: Practicing how to achieve a good latch that is effective (despite what you may have heard, breastfeeding should NOT be painful).

  
  

Discussion of Common Challenges

We'll also talk about when to reach out for help, like when you experience:

• Sore Nipples: Nipple pain can be common, but breastfeeding should not hurt.

• Milk Supply Issues: Understanding how to recognize and address low milk supply.

• Low diaper output: Knowing what to do if your baby is pooping or peeing well.

• Low weight gain: Understanding what is normal with weight gain and when to reach out for help.

  
  

A Breastfeeding Care Plan that is Unique to You

Following your consult, we will send you a detailed, unique care plan that will give you the confidence to get breastfeeding off to a great start.

• "Flags" that may impact the way you want to feed your baby: This are anything in your personal history that could impact milk supply, breast or bottle-feeding, and more.

• Normal Newborn Behavior: Even babies can communicate! And we want to help you learn to read your baby's cues.

• How to access help when you need it: We see fresh babies all the time (even babies less than one day old!) We'll be here for you when you need support, and we have created a list of solid referrals for both moms and babies (pediatricians, chiropractors, release providers, bodyworkers, pelvic floor therapists, therapists, and more)!

  
  

Preparing for Your Prenatal Breastfeeding Consult

Book your appointment

It's easy, just follow the links above! Have questions? We're always here to help.

Fill in your intake form

Before your consult, you will receive an intake form. Intake forms are fairly detailed, and they may take 10-15 minutes to complete.

Bring your questions

You have questions, and we have answers! Some things most moms want to know are:

• What should I do if my baby is not latching properly?

• How can I increase my milk supply?

• What are the signs that my baby is getting enough milk?

The Benefits of Prenatal Breastfeeding Consults

Increased Confidence

One of the most significant benefits of prenatal breastfeeding consults is the boost in confidence you need to know that breastfeeding is going well (and where to go if you need help). Knowing what to expect and having a plan in place can help you feel more prepared for the challenges of breastfeeding.

Better Outcomes

Research shows that mothers who receive prenatal breastfeeding education are more likely to initiate breastfeeding and continue for longer periods. This can lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Support Network

Building a support network during your prenatal consult can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey. Having people to turn to for advice and encouragement can help you overcome challenges and stay motivated.

Common Myths About Breastfeeding

Myth 1: Breastfeeding Always Hurts at First

While some discomfort is normal in the early days, breastfeeding should not be painful. If you experience pain, it may indicate an issue with latching or positioning. We are super good at getting to the bottom of painful latches. We've got you.

Myth 2: You Can't Breastfeed If You Have Flat or Inverted Nipples

First of all, many moms come to us having already heard from some sort of provider that their nipples are too flat for a baby to latch. Most of the time, these nipples are perfectly normal and should cause no issues with breastfeeding. And if you do indeed have flat or inverted nipples, it's completely possible to breastfeed, and we can help with that.

Myth 3: Breastfed Babies Don't Need to Poop Everyday

Yes, yes they do! Ideally, all humans should be pooping every day. But for breastfed babies, this is VERY important, especially in the first 6 weeks of life. If your baby isn't pooping as often as she should be, it may mean they aren't getting the fat and calories they need to grow well. We can help pinpoint any issues and get you and your baby in the right place.

Conclusion

Prenatal breastfeeding consults are a valuable resource for expectant parents looking to prepare for a successful breastfeeding experience. By gaining knowledge, addressing concerns, and creating a personalized plan, you can approach breastfeeding with confidence.

As you prepare for your baby's arrival, schedule a prenatal breastfeeding consult! It could be the key to a smoother breastfeeding journey and a wonderful start for your little one.

Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and seeking support is a sign of strength. Embrace the process, and know that help is available when you need it.