The first time I walked into a hospital room as a new mom, I felt equal parts excited and terrified. The tiny life I’d carried for nine months was finally here, and yet, I was already second-guessing myself.
I’d heard all the advice—the good, the bad, and the downright discouraging—and it had left me more confused than confident.
One nurse said, “Just be prepared for your nipples to hurt.” A mom on the internet swore lactation cookies were the only way to keep up supply. And a friend reassured me, “Don’t worry, the nurses will teach you everything.”
But deep down, I wondered, “What if it doesn’t work? What if I can’t do this?”
Fast forward to today, and I wish I could go back and tell that version of myself: It doesn’t have to be this way.
Breastfeeding can be comfortable. You don’t need gimmicks. And while nurses are incredible, they might not always have the time or expertise to guide you.
Here’s the truth: With the right preparation, you can set yourself up for a joyful, confident breastfeeding journey. Imagine starting this chapter of motherhood feeling equipped, capable, and empowered.
Here are three crucial things to know before your baby arrives:
1. Master Latching & Positioning for a Pain-Free Experience
The idea that nipple pain is unavoidable is a myth that leaves too many moms bracing for discomfort. The reality? Pain is often a sign that something needs adjustment. By mastering latching and positioning techniques that align with your baby’s natural instincts, you can avoid unnecessary pain altogether.
Think about it: When your baby latches correctly, they’re able to feed efficiently, and you can skip the sore or cracked nipples that come from an improper latch. Learning how to position your baby and ensure a deep latch—and knowing how to adjust when something feels off—sets the stage for a seamless and comfortable experience.
2. Boost Your Milk Supply Naturally with Frequent Feedings
Let’s ditch the idea that pricey lactation teas and cookies are the answer to milk supply concerns. While they might be trendy, they’re not miracle workers. Your body’s milk production is beautifully designed to work on a supply-and-demand system. Frequent, effective feedings are the true key to building and maintaining your supply.
When your baby latches deeply and nurses often, your body receives the signal to produce more milk. This process ensures that your baby gets the nourishment they need while supporting your milk supply over the long term. By understanding normal feeding patterns and recognizing when to seek support, you’ll feel confident in your ability to meet your baby’s needs naturally.
3. Seek Support Beyond Nurses for Breastfeeding Success
Hospital nurses can be incredible resources, but let’s be honest—they’re often juggling many responsibilities and may not have the time or specialized training for in-depth breastfeeding support. Depending on who’s on staff, your experience could range from amazing to minimal guidance. That’s why preparing before your baby’s arrival is so important.
Think of breastfeeding as a skill you can learn and practice. Would you dive into deep water without first learning how to swim? Probably not. Instead, take the time to prepare ahead of time, so you have the knowledge and confidence to handle any challenges that come your way. This proactive approach ensures you’re not left feeling unprepared or overwhelmed.
Your Next Step: Join the Confident MamaBear Society
Inside the Confident MamaBear Society, moms like you are discovering everything they need to start breastfeeding with confidence and ease.
Here’s what you’ll gain:
Debunking myths that hinder breastfeeding success.
Avoiding common pitfalls that cause unnecessary struggles.
Identifying the root causes of breastfeeding pain—and how to resolve them.
Mastering my go-to LATCH Technique to transform your experience from painful to pain-free.
Picture this: You, holding your baby, feeling calm and confident as you navigate those first feedings—no fear, no pain, just connection and joy. That’s the kind of experience we’re creating together inside the Confident MamaBear Society.
You don't have to suffer and struggle alone -- support is here, ready and waiting to help!
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