How to prepare for a baby
Here’s what you might not be thinking about yet, but should be (hint: it’s breastfeeding)
Preparing for your baby’s arrival is an exciting and transformative journey, filled with anticipation, joy, and — let’s face it — a healthy dose of uncertainty and fear, too. If you’re feeling nervous about the journey ahead, know that your feelings are valid, and many parents feel this way!
Whether this is your first child or your third, there’s naturally a lot on your mind right now — detailing your birth plan, putting the final touches on the nursery, and researching breastfeeding tips and tricks. Luckily, that’s where our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) come in. They’ll provide you and your baby with clinical expertise to tackle unforeseen obstacles and help you feel empowered and seen every step of the way.
Below, we’ll guide you through the ins and outs of how to prepare for your baby’s arrival, so you can feel confident on the road ahead — even if there are some bumps along the way. The important thing is that you keep going and remember: You’ve got this.
How to prepare for labor
Preparing for labor and preparing for a baby go hand in hand. The first step? Staying on top of your prenatal appointments; these are key to keeping an eye on your baby’s development and catching any issues early. Childbirth classes are also a great resource. In these, you’ll learn what to expect during labor and get helpful pain management and breathing techniques.
We recommend taking a tour of your birthing facility ahead of time, too. This step can help you feel more at ease when the big day arrives.
Research childbirth options
Before the big day, it’s important to research the various delivery methods and consider which one you prefer. From vaginal birth and natural birth methods to elective C-section, there are many options. Talk with your healthcare provider to understand the pros and cons of each, especially in relation to your medical history and any potential complications. Consider factors like your pain management preferences, recovery time, and any specific birthing experiences you envision. If possible, visit a birthing center or hospital to see what resources and support are available for each type of delivery.
You might want to put together a birth plan with your preferences, but remember to keep an open mind since things can change. Trust your instincts and choose the method that feels right for you, knowing that a healthy and safe delivery is the ultimate goal.
Prepare physically and mentally for labor
Regularly practice doctor-recommended exercises to help strengthen the body for labor. Don’t overlook the power of mental preparation either; take time to relax, meditate, and visualize a positive birthing experience.
How to prepare your home for your newborn
Bringing your newborn home from the hospital is an exciting and emotional experience, and a little preparation can help make the transition smoother. From choosing the right crib and baby-proofing the room to stocking up on diapers and clothing essentials, the following steps will help ensure you create a safe and nurturing environment for your baby:
- Stock up on essentials: Gather all the basics you’ll need for the first few weeks, including diapers, baby wipes, baby clothes, blankets, and feeding supplies. Also, have a well-stocked first aid kit with baby-safe essentials, like a thermometer and infant pain reliever.
- Set up the nursery: Ensure your baby’s nursery is ready with a safe crib or bassinet, a firm mattress, and fitted sheets. Keep essentials like diapers, wipes, clothes, and swaddles within easy reach. Consider nightlight and comfortable seating for late-night feedings and diaper changes.
- Prepare for feeding: Whether you plan to breastfeed or formula-feed, have everything ready to go. If breastfeeding, invest in a comfortable nursing pillow, nipple cream, and nursing bras. If formula-feeding, make sure you have bottles, sterilizers, and formula on hand.
By having all this set up in advance, you’ll be able to focus more on enjoying those precious first days with your newborn at home.
How to prepare for breastfeeding
Making decisions about breastfeeding is a personal journey. Before your baby arrives, it’s important to learn about the benefits of breastfeeding and what it involves. Many parents enter the breastfeeding journey believing it will come naturally, that they’ll just instinctively know how to do it. But breastfeeding requires a set of skills that both parent and baby must learn together. As a matter of fact, plenty of seasoned parents are surprised to find their third baby feeds nothing like their first, or that, despite all their research, they still need help days—or even weeks—after leaving the hospital!
It comes down to this: Breastfeeding can’t be mastered by simply taking a one-hour course or having one 15-minute session with a lactation consultant right after birth. It’s a complex relationship that needs consistent, intentional nurturing. This is where an IBCLC comes in, uniquely equipped to provide the guidance, support, and expertise necessary to help you navigate the challenges and joys of breastfeeding.
Should you decide to breastfeed, there are steps you can take to prepare for this experience both before and after your baby is born.
Breastfeeding preparation tips for parents
- Breastfeeding awareness
Attend breastfeeding classes or workshops to understand the basics, such as latching techniques, feeding schedules, and how to recognize hunger cues. Familiarize yourself with common breastfeeding challenges like latch issues, low milk supply, or nipple pain, and know that these are normal and can be eased with the right support. - Set up support
Create a support network by surrounding yourself with experienced mothers, joining breastfeeding support groups, and discussing your concerns with healthcare professionals, including consulting with an IBCLC. Involve your partner in the preparation process so they can understand what you’re experiencing and offer support. - Find your gold-standard breastfeeding advocate: Your IBCLC
An IBCLC offers personalized assistance, helping families overcome breastfeeding challenges and establish a nurturing feeding relationship with their newborns. International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants play a critical role in addressing concerns and ensuring a positive breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.
Connecting with an IBCLC early on is a great step. They can provide personalized advice, answer questions, and offer highly specialized, hands-on help both before and after your baby is born. Plus, their services are often covered by insurance, and you can get the care you need throughout your unique journey, whether in-office, via telehealth, or in the comfort of your own home once your baby is born. - Get supplies
Shop for comfortable bras, nursing pads, nipple cream, and other breastfeeding supplies. It may take a while to find what works for you; trial and error is part of the process! - Navigate common breastfeeding difficulties
Breastfeeding can come with its challenges, but remember, you’re not alone, and there are ways to make it easier. When starting to breastfeed, it’s common to encounter difficulties with latching. If you experience pain or discomfort, try adjusting your baby’s latch; often, a small change in positioning can make a big difference. These difficulties are normal, and there are solutions and support available to help you navigate through them. - Eat well and drink water
Proper nutrition and hydration are vital for breastfeeding because they directly impact the quality and quantity of breast milk. A well-balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients that fuel the body and help produce milk rich in vitamins and minerals, essential for a baby’s growth and development. Staying well-hydrated is equally important, as breast milk is mostly water, and dehydration can reduce milk supply.
The importance of routines and a support system
Getting into a routine and having a solid support system can make a world of difference for new parents. A regular schedule helps bring some much-needed order to the chaos of newborn life. Try to create a rhythm that works for you and your baby, keeping things flexible but consistent.
Just as important as establishing a routine is having a go-to crew, whether it’s family, friends, or a supportive community group — or a combination! This personal support system can offer everything from a helping hand with chores and meals to a friendly chat and an emotional lift. And don’t forget about professionals who can be invaluable parts of your support network, like an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
By blending a helpful routine with a strong support network, you’ll find that managing life with a newborn becomes a bit easier and a lot more enjoyable.
Book a lactation consultation with one of TLN’s IBCLCs to learn more about breastfeeding and get a head start on building your prenatal to postpartum support system.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
