Breastfeeding is one of the most anticipated parts of becoming a mother. While it’s the most natural way to nourish your baby, it doesn’t always come naturally. It’s a learning experience - for both you and your little one. The best way to set yourself up for success is to strike a balance between knowledge and realistic expectations. In this blog, we’ll share practical ways to prepare for your feeding journey.
Talk About Your Intention to Breastfeed
Although breastfeeding is a physical act between mother and baby, your success is heavily influenced by those around you. Your partner, family, friends, and healthcare team all play a role in shaping your experience - more than you might expect.
In fact, research shows that the words and attitudes of partners and loved ones can significantly impact a mother’s ability to meet her breastfeeding goals. Even the words they use have an impact. That’s why it’s important to openly share your intention to breastfeed well before your baby arrives.
Start by identifying the people who influence you most. Then have an honest conversation about what you’re planning and how they can support you. Some conversation starters:
- Did you breastfeed your children? How did it go? If not, what influenced your decision?
- I’m looking forward to feeding my baby naturally. The first two weeks are especially important, and I’ll need lots of support—can I count on you?
- I’m choosing breastfeeding because… (for baby’s health, bonding, convenience, etc.)
- Would you be willing to help me in the hospital or at home if I need extra support?
If you don’t have strong support in your immediate circle, consider joining a local breastfeeding support group or connecting with other moms online. You can also use your insurance or Medicaid to access a lactation consultant - under the ACA, breastfeeding support must be covered.
Nourish Your Body for Breastfeeding
Staying healthy and well-nourished during pregnancy lays the foundation for milk production after birth. Your body is preparing to take on a new role - making milk around the clock! Give it the best possible start:
- Eat iron-, protein-, and calcium-rich foods.
- Include plenty of Vitamin C to support iron absorption.
- Stay hydrated—not just for labor and recovery, but to get used to all the fluids you'll need daily while nursing.
What Equipment Do I Need for Breastfeeding?
While the market is full of breastfeeding accessories, you really don’t need much. Your body already has everything your baby needs. But a few well-chosen items can make the early days smoother:
- Nipple balm or ointment to ease tenderness.
- Absorbent burp cloths, especially the classic cotton ones - great for catching leaks.
- A breast pump (Breast pumps are covered under the ACA and usually with Medicaid (this can vary between states) or inquire about rentals through WIC):
Haakaa (vacuum pump) – Great for relieving fullness in the early days.
Manual hand pump – Simple, portable, and perfect for occasional use.
Double electric pump – Efficient and powerful for building supply.
Wireless pump – Convenient for work or travel but not ideal for establishing supply.
Adapters – for flexibility and connectivity, make sure you purchase adapters which match your bottles. Emulait has an adapter pack here.
Milk freezer bags for storing pumped milk.
- Breastfeeding pillow for support during feeds.
- Nursing pads to stem awkward leaks, you can choose reusable or disposable pads.
- Nipple shields may be helpful if you have flat or inverted nipples, or if your nipples are cracked and sore. They can also be helpful when transitioning between breast and bottle. However, shields should only be used as a temporary measure – professional advice.
- A good nursing bra Support comes in all shapes! A good nursing bra is essential – check out the gorgeous range at Kindred Bravely.
- Nursing cover or shawl, if you prefer privacy while nursing.
- A huge water bottle It’s so important to hydrate before, during and after breastfeeding!
- Parenting app or notepad to track feeds and diaper changes in the early days - check out the Emulait app for a seamless tracking experience. The Emulait app is helpful for tracking which breast to begin on at the start of each feed as it is recommended to switch each nursing session. Take the guess work out of feeding and have the app remind you as you track baby's feeds.
Can I Pump Before My Baby Is Born?
Some mothers choose to express a little milk before birth - but this should only be done if you’re full-term and cleared by your healthcare provider. Pumping can trigger uterine contractions, so safety comes first.
- If you do pump, keep sessions short to avoid nipple irritation.
- Collect and store any colostrum - it can be helpful during those early cluster-feeding nights.
- Hand expression is another gentle option. Place your fingers an inch above and below your nipple, press inward toward the chest wall, and then compress toward the nipple to collect drops of colostrum in a spoon or medicine cup.
What If I Have Flat or Inverted Nipples?
Firstly, remember: babies breastfeed, not nipple-feed! While the nipple stimulates the suck reflex, it’s the areola and surrounding breast tissue that your baby latches to.
To check your nipples, gently pinch around the base and see if they protrude. If they remain flat or inverted, consider taking a nipple shield to the hospital. It can help your baby latch during the early days until your milk comes in. Remember: nipple shields are an interim tool - follow up with a lactation consultant, as they aren’t recommended for long-term use.
Plan for Skin-to-Skin Contact After Birth
Skin-to-skin time is one of the most powerful ways to kickstart breastfeeding. The simple act of holding your baby on your bare chest helps regulate their temperature, heart rate, and feeding instincts - this is called biological nurturing. In fact, there is a correlation between how much time a baby spends snuggled on your chest in the first week and how smoothly breastfeeding goes.
- Plan for private time right after birth - just you, your baby, and your partner.
- If you’re having a c-section, advocate for skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible.
- Feed your baby frequently in those early hours and days.
- Keep them close - being close encourages them to nurse more.
Take Care of Yourself
The best way to get ready for a newborn is to care for yourself now. Rest, eat nourishing food, and surround yourself with people who support you. Be honest with your partner about what you need - emotionally and practically. Be honest with family and friends about the kind of support you hope they will give you.
- Consider a breastfeeding class and invite your partner to join.
- Find a lactation consultant ahead of time so that you find someone who you like and identify with.
- Be flexible - every journey looks different, and it’s hard to know ahead of time how breastfeeding will pan out for you.
- Research bottles designed for breastfed babies. Some, like Emulait, are functionally designed to mimic the breastfeeding experience and support smooth transitions between breast and bottle.
When to Seek Professional Support
For some breastfeeding is a breeze, but this shouldn’t be an expectation. If you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing any of the following, reach out for professional support:
- No noticeable increase in breast fullness or milk output by the end of week one.
- Baby has not regained birth weight by two weeks or still needs supplementation.
- Persistent nipple pain, cracking, or bleeding.
At Emulait, we support every family’s unique feeding journey. Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, combining with pumping, or using a bottle, our science-backed biomimetic bottle is designed to support you and your baby every step of the way.
