Breastfeeding is natural – but that doesn’t mean it’s instinctive. Like birth, it’s a process that your body is designed for, but one that still benefits from preparation, support, and a little know-how.
Whether you’re days away from meeting your baby or just starting to think about feeding options, here are six gentle, practical ways to help you feel more confident before that very first feed.
1. Learn the Basics
Understanding how breastfeeding works can go a long way towards easing the early challenges.
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Supply and demand is key – the more baby feeds, the more milk your body produces.
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Latch and positioning matter – a deep, comfortable latch helps avoid pain and protects your supply.
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Know what’s normal – cluster feeding, engorgement, and sore nipples are incredibly common in the first few weeks. They don’t mean you’re doing it wrong.
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Take a class – many midwives, hospitals, doulas, and birth centres offer antenatal breastfeeding workshops to help you prepare.
2. Get the Right Support in Place
Breastfeeding isn’t meant to be done alone. Having the right support – before you need it – can make all the difference.
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Save the details of a lactation consultant (IBCLC), especially if you’re keen to establish feeding early.
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Let your care team know you plan to breastfeed, and ask about immediate skin-to-skin after birth, which helps trigger your baby’s feeding instincts.
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Join an online or local breastfeeding community – like ABA, La Leche League, or a trusted Facebook group – where you can ask questions, vent, and feel seen.
3. Prepare Your Body
There’s no need to “toughen up” your nipples, but a bit of gentle prep can help.
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Apply a lanolin-free nipple balm in the final weeks of pregnancy to hydrate and soothe the skin.
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Consider colostrum harvesting from around 36 weeks (with your midwife’s guidance), especially if you have gestational diabetes or a planned caesarean. A warm compress can help stimulate flow.
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Make sure you’re well hydrated and nourished – breastfeeding demands a lot of energy from your body.
4. Create a Comfortable Feeding Space
You’ll likely spend hours here – especially in those early weeks – so make it feel supportive and calm.
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Choose a comfortable chair or spot with good back support.
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Keep essentials within reach: water, snacks, nipple balm, breast pads, burp cloths, a supportive pillow, and your phone (for feeding apps, podcasts, or just a scroll).
5. Stock a Few Useful Items (But Don’t Overdo It)
You don’t need all the gadgets – just a few thoughtful essentials to start with:
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Nipple balm – a must-have for sore or cracked nipples.
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Nursing bras or tops – choose soft, wire-free support that makes feeding easy.
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Breast pads – to catch any unexpected leaks (especially at night or out and about).
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Warm & cool compresses – to soothe engorgement or help unblock ducts.
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Large water bottle – hydration is key. A leak-proof, one-handed option is a game-changer when feeding.
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Healthy snacks – think oat bars, nut butters, lactation cookies, or anything you can eat one-handed at 2am.
6. Set Realistic Expectations
This is the part that gets missed in most antenatal chats: breastfeeding is a learned skill – for both of you.
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It may feel uncomfortable or even hard at first. That doesn’t mean you’re failing.
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It’s okay (and encouraged) to ask for help – from midwives, lactation consultants, or other mums.
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Your baby will feed often – sometimes hourly – especially in the early days. That’s how your supply is built and regulated.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one right way to feed your baby – but if you’re planning to breastfeed, these early steps can make it feel less overwhelming and more supported.
And remember: breastfeeding doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. You’re doing a beautiful thing.