How can you Successfully breastfeed

[mumma_lion]

Hubby and I have decided to go for a 3rd baby.
With this baby I am hoping to be able to breast feed exclusively. Does anyone have any tips to be able to do this.
Is there meant be changes in yours breast when pregnant?

Thanks for any advice

[turtleschell]

I think an important tip is to not be conned into 'supplementing' with formula, in any circumstance.
Just feed your newborn on demand, and at least every 4 hours if he/she isn't waking up very often for feeds.
Know that breastfeeding works. And that every problem you stumble across has a solution.
Also, try not to use any bottles of EBM, or a pacifier in the first 6 weeks.

[onthefly]

Good luck with No.3!
What has been your experience with breastfeeding so far?
I'd recommend joining the ABA - read the book you get when joining, take one of their preparing for breastfeeding classes and go along to your local meeting to talk with your local ABA counsellors. If you've had problems with breastfeeding in the past, it might be a good idea to talk through those experiences before the next baby.
Also a good idea to think about what help and support you'll have in the first month or so after birth - a new baby takes a lot of time and effort (as you know) and breastfeeding itself can be very time consuming. A lack of support is an important reason why many women stop breastfeedign early on, I think.
All the best~~

[MummaSue]

I totally second what Marcellus has said, make sure you have plenty of support and good advice in your first few days. I didn't get that and almost gave up but got some excellent support from a friend and after 2 months, am still exclusively breastfeeding.
It's an amazing experience when things are going well!
Good luck
Sue x

[Lily Dust]

My biggest piece of advice is: Know that there will be hurdles and that you will get through them with the right advice, support and subborness . Everyone is here to help you, so dont be frightened to sing out for help!

[BekZ]

Congrates on your 3rd baby. I didn't succeed in bfing my first 2 babies past 3 months, so with the 3rd baby I was determined to continue to at least 6 months. 11 months later we are still bfing. Here are my tips.

Join the ABA and call them as much as you need
Don't be afraid to come here and ask questions, vent, or celebrate a mile stone . A few kind words can keep you going
Don't keep formula in the house. It is really tempting to go for the bottle in the middle of the night when the chips are down.
Give into the process, throw the clock away. Follow you baby's lead. Remember that breast feeding is not just about food. It is about bonding, and helping your baby to feel safe as well. My 3rd journey with bfing has been successful because some wise ladies here at BB helped me realised what bfing was all about.
If you are having any sort of attachment problems please seek advice from a Lactation Consultant.
Get your partner involved and ask for their support. I really couldn't have established a good supply initially without the 3 hour long feeds of an evening. Nor could I have done this without my DH helping me with my other young children.
Get a cleaner or any other help
Drink heaps of water, go for a walk, go to bed when baby does.

Before DD was born I reflected on why my last bfing attempts were not as successful and this helped me mentally prepare for situations that may have hampered my attempt to bf for a longer term

Good luck. If I think of anything else I will come back.