Newborn Know-How

Our postnatal expert MELINDA HUNT answers some common questions

How can I prepare for breastfeeding?

During your pregnancy, it’s a good idea to get to know your breasts! Over the next few months, they will be growing and changing in preparation for their breastfeeding role. In the breastfeeding bible The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, Cheryl Chapman, a nurse and massage therapist (and also author of The Happy Breast Book), advises pregnant and nursing mums to move their breasts around at least twice a day. In fact, this can be a very good idea for all women, whether pregnant or nursing! Cheryl states that the simple exercise of bending at the waist and cupping your hands under each breast and moving it up and down facilitates better self-awareness of changes in the breasts. It also improves lymph drainage, leading to the removal of toxins and therefore enhancing the immune system.

Consider talking to a lactation specialist towards the end of your pregnancy to address any concerns or questions you might have in relation to breastfeeding. The La Leche League is another useful source of information where women can share their breastfeeding experiences. Finally, if you’re going back to work and nursing, you’ll need to talk to your workplace about a hygienic and private facility to pump and store your milk and breastfeed.