Preparing for Breastfeeding with Dr. Eliza Hannam, GP, IBCLC, NDC Accredited, and Mother.

A breastfeeding plan is a flexible document that can change as your needs and circumstances change. Keep an open mind and be prepared to adjust your plan as needed. The most important thing is to prioritise the health and well-being of both you and your baby. Every mother-baby pair is unique, and your breastfeeding journey may not be exactly like anyone else's. Seek professional support to help you prepare for breastfeeding if you have concerns or difficulties. With patience, persistence, and professional support you can encourage a successful and rewarding breastfeeding relationship with your baby.

This FREE guide is a fantastic resource to help you get started, but we highly recommend pairing this with the support of a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) or breastfeeding expert.

I chatted with Dr. Eliza Hannam, GP IBCLC, about some questions to ask an LC/IBCLC in your first consult.

Here are 20 questions that you can ask your LC or IBCLC in preparing for breastfeeding:

1. How can I prepare for breastfeeding before the baby arrives?

2. I’m interested in colostrum harvesting, can you show me how to do this?

3. Can you please explain how breastmilk is made?

4. What is “establishing breastfeeding”?

5. What does all this breastfeeding lingo mean? “Cluster feeding”, “on demand”, “deep latch”,

   “supply”, “micro-adjustments” etc

6. How do I safely bed share?

7. How often should I breastfeed my baby and for how long?

8. How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk?

9. What are some common breastfeeding problems, and how can I manage them?

10. Can you explain mastitis to me and what’s the latest evidence-based recommendation on managing it?

11. What are the signs that my baby may need to be evaluated for tongue tie or other oral restrictions?

12. What should I do if my baby has difficulty latching or seems to be struggling to breastfeed?

13. Are there any medications or supplements that I should avoid while breastfeeding?

14. How do I side-lay breastfeed and how can I do this safely?

15. What other feeding positions do you recommend?

16. How can I manage my well-being whilst breastfeeding?

17. How can my partner support me with breastfeeding?

18. How do I manage going back to work and breastfeeding?

19. How/When can I introduce pumping safety and manage this without impacting my supply?

20. Can you recommend any breastfeeding classes or what support can you offer before and after my baby is born?

You can find a local LC or IBCLC in this Directory. Be sure to feel comfortable with your LC or IBCLC and ask about rebates.