Breastfeeding Guide for New & Expecting Moms
The joy and journey of breastfeeding is one of the most natural and powerful ways to nourish your baby—yet it’s also a skill that takes learning, patience, and support. Whether you’re pregnant and planning ahead or already holding your newborn, understanding how breastfeeding works and where to find help can make all the difference.
Whether you’re preparing for your first feed or adjusting to life with your newborn, our certified lactation consultants are here to help.
At every stage, remember: you’re not alone. Lactation specialists are available for one-on-one telehealth coaching to help you feed your baby with confidence.
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The Benefits of Breastfeeding for You & Your Baby
Breast milk is designed perfectly for your baby’s needs—and it changes as your baby grows. The antibodies in breast milk help protect against infections, while the nutrients promote healthy brain and body development.
For mothers, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding, breast and ovarian cancers, and may support emotional bonding through the hormone oxytocin.
Benefits for Baby
- Less infections
- Gastrointestinal
- Respiratory
- Ear
- Less Overweight/Obesity
- Less Diabetes (Type I/Type II)
- Less SIDS
- Higher IQ
- Less cavities
- Less need for braces
Benefits for Parent
- Less postpartum bleeding
- Less heart disease
- Less high blood pressure
- Less rheumatoid arthritis
- Less cancer (breast and ovarian cancers)
- Lower risk of postpartum depression
- Convenient & ready food source anytime
What You Can Do Before Your Baby Arrives to Prepare for Breastfeeding
Preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives helps you start strong. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends learning about breastfeeding during pregnancy and developing a plan for those first feedings.
Here’s how to get ready:
- Take a Prenatal Lactation Class
Learn about how milk production starts, how to help your baby latch, and what to expect in the first few days. Many families find online lactation classes convenient and interactive—you can talk with a lactation consultant online before giving birth. - Discuss Your Feeding Goals with Your Care Team
Talk with your OB-GYN, midwife, or hospital nurse about your breastfeeding plan. Ask about early skin-to-skin contact, rooming-in, and how to access lactation support at your birthing facility. If you’re planning a C-section, ask how soon you can begin breastfeeding after delivery. - Create a Comfortable Feeding Space
Before your baby arrives, set up a quiet, cozy area with a nursing pillow, breast pump, milk storage bags, and soft lighting. Keep water and snacks nearby—you’ll need both while feeding your baby. - Build Your Support Network
Invite your partner, family, or close friends to learn about breastfeeding with you. Their encouragement will be invaluable during those first few weeks at home.
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Breastfeeding Guide for New & Expecting Moms
How the Breastfeeding Process Works
Your body starts preparing for breastfeeding during pregnancy. The mammary glands and lactation hormones—including prolactin and oxytocin—work together to trigger production and release of breast milk.
Three Stages of Breast Milk
- Colostrum: Thick, golden “first milk” rich in immune factors
- Transitional Milk: Creamier milk that arrives a few days after birth
- Mature Milk: Ongoing milk supply that adapts to your baby’s needs
Knowing how these stages work can help you understand your baby’s feeding cues and your own comfort.
Common Breastfeeding Questions
Most newborns nurse 8–12 times per day, including during the night. Frequent feeding helps build and maintain your milk supply.
Low supply is common early on and often improves with help from a consultant. They can teach you hand expression, checking for latch issues, and recommend gentle ways to increase milk production.
Yes, it is a helpful technique to pump extra milk and store it for another time. If you start using pumped milk early on it provides flexibility for others to help you with feeding times as well.
Yes! Many mothers begin feeding soon after surgery with support from nurses and lactation consultants. Side-lying or football hold positions are especially comfortable after a C-section.
In most cases, breastfeeding is still possible. A lactation specialist can help you adjust positions or pumping techniques.
Personalized Lactation Consulting & Support Services
Breastfeeding can be joyful—but also challenging. Every breastfeeding journey is unique—but no one should face it alone. Whether you need gentle reassurance, hands-on help, or trusted online guidance, our certified lactation experts are ready to support you every step of the way. Schedule your lactation consultation today and start your breastfeeding journey with confidence.You don’t have to do it alone.
How We Support You
One-on-One Lactation Consultations: Meet with a lactation consultant online for one-on-one telehealth guidance
Expert-Led Classes: Learn latching, pumping, and milk storage skills with lactation educators available 7 days a week.
