"Preparing for Breastfeeding Success: Essential Steps for Expectant Parents"

For many new parents, breastfeeding can be a source of anxiety and uncertainty. Will it go smoothly? How will I know if my baby is getting enough milk? What if I need help? In this article, we'll explore practical steps to prepare for breastfeeding success and where to find support when needed.

​Breastfeeding Preparation: Why Taking a Class Matters

Taking a class while pregnant can help you to learn what to expect, how to get a good latch, how to know that your baby is enough as well as to troubleshoot what you will do if things aren’t going well at any point. Birth Class Seattle’s 4 hour newborn care class covers all this and more, Click here for more info on that.

Finding Lactation Support: Your Lifeline in the Early Days

f things aren’t going well in the first days and weeks after birth, you’ll need the help of a lactation consultant. 

Most Seattle hospitals have lactation consultants you can meet with and I encourage you to ask for one while still in the hospital even if things are going well.

After going home, it can be most helpful to receive lactation support in your own home. I encourage you to find a lactation consultant while still pregnant and put their name and number in your phone and on the fridge. That way you already know who to call when you’re sleep deprived and don’t want to make any decisions.

I recommend the following out of hospital lactation consultants:
Catherine Fenner IBCLC 
Betsy Hoffmeister IBCLC 
Joy Mctavish IBCLC 
Jocelyn Pierce IBCLC 

Connecting with Community: Breastfeeding Support Groups

Breastfeeding support groups can be a wonderful way to get general breastfeeding help while also building community with other breastfeeding parents.

Nurturing Expressions holds weekly support groups in West Seattle and Kitsap County 

Melody Hansen runs a monthly support group in the Wallingford neighborhood on the first Wednesday of every month 

La Leche League holds support groups throughout the Seattle area and beyond 


Breastfeeding is a journey of learning for both you and your baby. For most people it isn't instantly successful and putting together the right support before you begin your breastfeeding journey will help you on the road to success.