Getting Started with Breastfeeding

By Melissa Kotlen Nagin, About.com Guide to Breastfeeding

So you've made the wonderful decision to breastfeed your baby...Now what? Here you will find everything you need to know about preparing to breastfeed before your baby arrives; how breastfeeding works; what to expect once your baby arrives; and the different stages of breastfeeding.

1. Preparing to Breastfeed
2. How Does Breastfeeding Work?
3. Once Your Baby Arrives
4. Stages of Breastfeeding

Preparing to Breastfeed

What should you know about breastfeeding before your baby arrives? Here is some information on how you can mentally prepare for the experience.

• Breast Anatomy and Development
• Breast Changes in Pregnancy
• Pros and Cons of Breastfeeding
• Breast Self-Assessment and Evaluation
• When to Consider a Lactation Consultant

How Does Breastfeeding Work?

The dynamics of breastfeeding can be intimidating at first. But with a detailed explanation of the functions of the lactating breast, you'll feel comfortable and ready to feed.

• Breastfeeding Basics
• The Content and Composition of Breast Milk
• Breastfeeding Problems and Solutions
• The Difference Between "Nutritive" and "Non-Nutritive" Sucking

Once Your Baby Arrives

Your baby is here, and your life has become a bit hectic! Here are some guidelines on taking care of yourself, in addition to properly positioning and latching your baby -- making breastfeeding a positive, comfortable process for you.

• Alerting the Baby for Feeding
• Latching On
• Cross-Cradle Position

• Football Hold
• Side-Lying Position
• Cradle Hold

Stages of Breastfeeding

Just when you think you're in a nice groove with your baby's patterns, things change. Here is what to expect from the different stages your baby encounters.

• What to Expect from Breastfeeding in the First 24 Hours
• First Three Days of Breastfeeding
• The First 2 Weeks

• Breastfeeding by Stage
• Breastfeeding During a Baby's Growth Spurt
• Infant Digestion