by Karen P. Roeske, RN, IBCLC
belliesbabiesbreasts.com

Pregnancy is a wonderful time to prepare for breastfeeding. Below are the top ten ways you can prepare to be successful as you get ready to embark on your breastfeeding journey with your new baby.

1. Make a commitment to breastfeed. Verbalizing your commitment and putting it in writing will allow you to envision and meet your goals. Discuss your plans with your support person so they can be fully supportive of your breastfeeding goals after delivery.

2. Attend a breastfeeding class. An overview of the benefits of breastfeeding, positioning, latching and how to handle common obstacles you may encounter are typically all covered in a basic class. Classes are commonly offered in a private setting, at a local hospital or at your care provider's clinic. Take your support person with you to class!

3. Check out a book or video from the local library. Utilize your library! It is a great resource in your community. This can allow you to read books and watch videos on your own time and in the privacy of your own home. There are also board books on breastfeeding available to help prepare the sibling in the house.

4. Choose a pediatrician who is supportive of breastfeeding. This might seem a little silly but it is truly important. Call the office and find out if your pediatrician offers appointments to meet with you and your support person. During the office visit, find out if your pediatrician has an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) on staff specifically to assist with any breastfeeding issues. Look around to see if there are formula samples or sign up postcards for formula magazines. If these items are present, then the office is not breastfeeding friendly and is in violation of the WHO (World Health Organization) Code. Talking to your pediatrician and observing their office space should give you a good perspective if they are supportive of breastfeeding both in their practice as well as creating a breastfeeding friendly environment/office space.

5. Create a list of local resources and post it on your refrigerator. This little piece of paper can be your life line if you encounter any issues with breastfeeding. Local support groups like La Leche League and Nursing Mother's Counsel are great resources that are free and available in most communities. They usually have mother to mother phone support and group meetings available. Locate a local lactation consultant and post their number as well in case you need the further assistance of a health care professional.

6. Meet with a lactation consultant. Consultations are available prior to delivery of your baby. You may choose to meet with a consultant to discuss any questions you have and create a plan for breastfeeding. A consultation may be recommended if you have certain medical conditions. For example, a consultation may be sought if a mother would like to discuss breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery.

7. Call your insurance company to find out if they cover lactation consultations, breast pump rental and/or breast pump purchase. It is important to spend time evaluating how your health insurance plan supports breastfeeding. Review the basics of your plan. Breast pump rentals are listed under durable medical equipment clauses in your policy. Call your insurance company to find out the following about consultations and equipment:

• Are breast pump rentals only available for medical indications?
• Will they provide you with funds towards a pump purchase?
• Lactation consultations usually won't be recognized by the computer. Ask the representative if they cover care from a licensed health care provider in the event your baby has feeding difficulty.
• Do you need to get prior authorization?
• Do they need a referral/prescription from your physician?

Getting answers to these questions prior to delivery can really help you down the road....figuring out the intricate details of your coverage are better done when you aren't in the midst of needing services. Also, it is important to know that lactation consultations and breastfeeding products are available for reimbursement through cafeteria plans offered by employers that set aside a portion of pre-tax dollars for health care expenditures throughout the year.

8. Find out what the hospital policies are where you are delivering and try to choose a Baby Friendly hospital. Hospitals can seek the Baby Friendly Hospital designation by initiating and complying with the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. Hospitals that are Baby Friendly show a commitment to providing you and your baby an optimal environment that supports, protects and promotes successful breastfeeding.

9. Choose nursing clothes and bras for you. Stores everywhere carry nursing bras and comfortable clothes. Buying a few new items in the last few weeks before you have your baby is a good idea.

10. Make a nursing nest at home. Many women enjoy having a "nursing nest" at home. It can consist of anything you choose. The following are things you may want to include: comfortable chair, stool, pillows, blanket, burp rag, radio, nutritious snacks/beverages and reading material. You can breastfeed anywhere, but a little nest can be a comfy area for you and your new baby to be together during feedings.