A lot of prenatal focus is on the birthing plans and preparation - rightfully so, everyone should be prepared for such a huge endeavor.

Point to consider: more and more people spend less time learning domestic affairs hence the postpartum period has become a bit of an unknown.  Leaving this period to 'happen as it may' can turn a somewhat stressful time into an unmanageable train wreck of a time. Even the smallest bit of preparation can help tremendously be it a book, a class, calling your friends who have kids, flying in your sister to stay for a week or so.. anything to get you started will increase your confidance and your calm.

But when it comes to breastfeeding (or any sort of infant feeding) preparing is beyond a suggestion it is imperative. 

After a small, unregulated and completely unblinded study conducted right here via MilkSupport, the data shows that parents who have taken a class, read at least part of a book AND met with a lactation consultant have far greater success with feeding in the first 2 weeks.  

WHY?

• No crash course in how milk is made needed
• Baby's feeding reflexes are helpful not just cute
• Less crying on everyone's part
• Happier nipples

..to name a few.  The best advice after preparing for birthing the baby is to prepare for feeding the baby.  Please listen to all the parents past and don't wait until you're sleep deprived and desperate. Add it to your prenatal To Do List to check in with some breastfeeding know hows. You'll thank yourself later.  And so will your lactation consultant.