Best prep. for breastfeeding

[stpatysdaybaby87]

I'm 24 years old, and 28 weeks pregnant with my first child.  I'm seriously considering breastfeeding but I have heard horror stories about soreness, cracks, and bleeding that don't make it sound very appealing!  My mother suggested rubbing my nipples with a dry, rough towel, (which doesn't strike me as fun), but i have also heard that keeping them moisturized, doing nothing at all, works just fine..... I realize that everyone has a different experience, but I'm looking for a few suggestions. I'm open to all the advice I can get!

[MsKitty84]

Some people swear by Bag Balm re skin. It's actually made for cow udders but does the same thing for nursing moms.

My BF's mom told him that he would need to "help" me out with lots of nipple stimulation before baby comes. He's been taking this job rather, uh, seriously.

[stpatysdaybaby87]

Thank you ALL for such great advice!! :)

[Morrisfamily2012]

My mother told me the same trick. Also that lanolin ot latlin or something along those lines helps with the craking.

[kfrasher]

Definitly try it!! I took a class when prego with my first and it really helped..I will say I was uncomfortable in the hospital with the lactation specialists manipulating my breasts tho!! Lol..but when we got home if was a much better experience..my second daughter we tried but she  didn't cooperate at all..only lasted 3 wks with her..just remember its ok if it doesn't work out..just give it your best effort and go from there.

[Spiket77]

I think it is really smart that you are asking these questions now. I wish I had been more prepared for breastfeeding. It is a huge commitment but breastfeeding can be very rewarding too. Don't let the horror stories scare you. Lots of women successfully breastfeed without major issues. Like the other ladies said... There are special creams for your nipples. I used Lansinoh Lanolin when my nipples were starting to get tender and I never had cracking or any yeast issues. After my milk came in, I didn't really get sore anymore. Good Latch is so important and you can tell a good latch from a bad one right away. I did eliminate sugar and dairy from the start to avoid yeast and allergies. But, that isn't something everybody does. Also, don't wash your nipples with soap  and keep them out of the direct stream of hot water. That can dry them out.

[la_reina87]

Nipple cream is a must have... I loved it! And letting your milk down before the baby latched on is definitely a great idea, it worked very well for me! Also making sure your nipple is in the baby's mouth correctly is important, if its not in their mouth all the way it can hurt! And when you shower try not to scrub your nipples or wash them with soap, that can irritate them! And when you dry off don't rub, just pat them dry! And be sure to apply cream, not lotion! Hope this helps... :)

[Cutiebabe36]

Buy lanolin to put on them..i breastfeed my daughter till 2 and a half. Most amazing experience ever..never had any issues. She latched fine and I made more then enough milk. Its what were designed to do..give it a try

[nicole8989]

Well first off they make nipple cream for breast feeding. Dont put lotion on them b/c the babies mouth will be there.   What helped me i would massage my breast before feeding which lets the milk down. To the point where i started leaking.  This way my baby didnt have to suck so hard.   And if the latch hurt try a different possition.   Usually in the hospital when u decide to breast feed they will bring someone in to help u.     And from my experience after i was done feeding i would take a cool cloths and put them on my breast. Then the nipple cream.    Keeps them from drying out or cracking.  

[texasangel343]

I would suggest taking a breastfeeding class before you have your baby.  I don't know of anything that can prepare you for it.  It doesn't have to be painful, though.  There are lactation consultants in the hospital to help you get a good latch.  There is lanolin to help with sore nipples.  I also would recommend you ask your OB for a prescription for triple nipple cream.  It has be compounded at a pharmacy but it's worth it.  

I've had sore cracked nipples and breast yeast.  It's painful sometimes, but knowing that I'm giving my baby the best thing in the world makes it worth it.  I didn't have a great experience with my first born and gave up way to quickly.  I was determined this time.  

I hope you'll stick with it.  The best thing to do if you're having trouble (even weeks after your baby is born) is to see a lactation consultant in your area.  Surround yourself with people that support breastfeeding and can be there when you need them.  But, if breastfeeding doesn't work out know that it's ok too.