What You Can Do During Pregnancy to Prepare for Breastfeeding As a woman, your body is already prepared for breastfeeding. Rest assured that you can produce breast milk. The guidelines below may help you feel ready for breastfeeding. • Attend a breastfeeding class. If possible, bring along those who are going to support you. What you learn can help you to be more confident and to know if and when you need help. • You will probably have some breast tenderness and may see your breasts grow larger during pregnancy. Let your health care provider or breastfeeding resource person know if you have had any kind of breast surgery. • Look at your breasts. Are your nipples usually erect, flat or inverted? (See the diagrams below.) Do they stand out when touched or cold? If your nipples are flat or inverted, or if you’re not sure, ask your health care provider or breastfeeding resource person for information to help you get ready for breastfeeding. Flat or inverted nipples will not prevent you from breastfeeding. Erect nipples Flat nipples Inverted nipples stand out from form a smooth sink into the full the breast. line with the part of the breast rest of the and may form a breast. “dimple.” Check your wardrobe for clothing that will be loose-fitting, comfortable, and easy to adjust when breastfeeding your baby. There is no need to buy special clothing. • Try not to apply soap or lotion directly to your nipples; use clear water for washing. If the area around your nipples is very dry, talk with your breastfeeding resource person. • Colostrum (your first milk) may leak from your nipples during the last months of pregnancy. Wear cotton breast pads inside your bra if you need them. You could also use a folded cotton handkerchief and change when wet. Pads with a waterproof layer are not recommended because they trap heat and moisture. • If you choose to wear a bra (many women do, for comfort), be sure it is well fitting (see other side for helpful hints). Continued X12952bc (1/2018) ©AHC What You Can Do During Pregnancy to Prepare for Breastfeeding, Page 2 Choosing a nursing bra A bra can be worn for support, convenience and comfort. You may be just as comfortable without a bra. If you choose to wear one, wear a clean bra every day when nursing. Because your breasts will continue to grow during pregnancy, shop for the best fit about four weeks before your due date. Ask for help in fitting. Try on different styles and sizes until you find the most comfortable one for you. A well-fitting bra will not sag in front or ride up in back. Underwire bras must fit well so that the wires don’t press into the breast (this may limit milk production and cause plugged ducts). Never wear an underwire bra while you sleep. Features to look for in a nursing bra include: • Non-elastic straps (give more support) • Front fasteners (convenient, easy to open) • Plastic-free cotton cups • Expandable upper cups, with room for breast pads or shells • Made of cotton or other “breathable” fabric The information presented is intended for general information and AuroraHealthCare.org educational purposes. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care provider. Contact your health care provider if you believe you have a health problem. X12952bc (1/2018) ©AHC .