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BREASTFEEDING ESSENTIALS Your Quick Guide to Getting Started Design by: Selina Richardson, BBA, BSN, RN, IBCLCIntroduction Breastfeeding is a beautiful and deeply personal journey, but it can also come with challeng- es. Whether you’re a first-time parent or looking for ways to enhance your breastfeeding experience, preparation and knowledge can make all the difference. This guide covers four key topics to help you start with confidence: colostrum harvesting, breast checks, latch techniques, and a hospital pack guide. From understanding your body’s natural milk process to ensuring a deep, comfortable latch, these insights will set the foundation for a smoother breastfeeding expe- rience. While this eBook provides a quick, practical over- view, there’s always more to learn! For in-depth guidance, expert tips, and personalized support, schedule a one-on- one consult or Prenatal Consult On Demand to receive tailored advice for your unique breastfeeding journey. WelCome Breastfeeding Essentials: Your Quick Guide to Getting StartedTable of Contents Getting ready for baby’s first feed Colostrum harvesting 01 Pack like a milk maker pro 04 Pack Guide Understanding your breast shape & nipple type 02 Breast check Alignment, positioning and proper latch is key 03 The latchGetting ready for your baby’s first feed. Colostrum, often called “liquid gold,” is the first milk your body produces, packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune-boosting properties to support your newborn’s early days. Harvesting colostrum before birth can be especially beneficial if you’re planning to breastfeed exclusively or if your baby may need extra nutritional support after delivery. 💡 WhentoStart:Colostrumharvestingistypicallysafetobegin after 37 completed weeks of pregnancy with your OB/GYN’s approval. 💡 HowtoHarvest:Gentlyhand-expresssmallamountsofco- lostrum and store it in a sterile syringe or container. Avoid using a pump until your mature milk comes in UNLESS supplementation becomes medically necessary. 💡 Want a Personalized Plan? With a one-on-one consult, we’ll re- view your health history, identify any risk factors, learn how to latch and create a custom feeding plan tailored to you and your baby. Or, use your HSA/FSA/Major debit card to purchase our exclu- sive Prenatal Consult On Demand for an in-depth video tutorial. Colostrum HarvestingFirst time mom, Advanced maternal age, Anemia, Gestational diabetes, Excess weight, Hormonal disorders (such as PCOS, thyroid conditions, infertility), Hypertension or Preeclampsia, Psychotropic medications (certain antidepressants or mood stabilizers), Newborn admission to transitional or NICU care. If you have any of these risk factors, colostrum harvesting can help ensure your baby has access to your own milk, even if direct breastfeeding is delayed. Deciding how to feed your stored colostrum to your newborn is an important step in preparing for those first feedings. Since colostrum is produced in small, but powerful amounts , it’s typically too little to be bottle-fed. Instead, consider using: Oral/colostrum syringes – Ideal for precise, small feedings. Spoons – A simple and effective way to feed tiny amounts of colostrum. Finger feeding – Can help encourage baby’s natural suck reflex while providing nourishment. 💡 Pro Tip : Have your preferred feeding tools with you at the hospital so you can respond quickly to your baby’s needs. Certain pregnancy conditions may increase the risk of your baby requiring early supplementation. These include: Feeding Baby: Using Stored ColostrumWant a Breastfeeding Readiness Check? A prenatal lacation consult includes a breast exam, ensuring you have a personalized feeding plan tailored to your unique needs. Book an in-person consult for a comprehensive assessment and expert guidance. 💡 Pro Tip : If you have firm breast tissue, flat or inverted nipples, or are experiencing latch difficulties, you may benefit from a manual pump to help draw out the nipple. Breast CheckUnderstanding Your Breast Shape & Nipple Type Knowing your breast shape and nipple type is key to a smooth breastfeeding journey. A breast exam by a IBCLC can help you understand how your breast tissue elasticity, density, and nipple shape may impact feeding, milk flow, and storage capacity: Soft & Stretchy (like a loaf of bread) – More elastic breast tissue can make it easier for milk to flow and adjust to changes. Firm & Dense (like a mandarin orange) – Higher density may mean a stronger letdown but could also make hand expres- sion or early latching a bit trickier. Your nipple shape can influence how easily your baby latches: Nipple Shape: What’s Your Type? Normal/Protruding – Typically latches with little adjustment. Short or Flat – May need extra stimulation to become more prominent before feeding. Inverted – Might require techniques like suction exercises or a nipple shield for easier latching. CheckProper alignment makes breastfeeding more comfortable and effective. You and your baby should be facing each other, with your baby’s body touching yours. Baby’s head should be level with your nipple, and their neck should be supported for easy latch-on. 💡 ProTip:Trythe“laid-back”position,whereyoureclineslightlywithbaby nesting on top of you. This position encourages baby to latch instinctively. The latch is one of the most important aspects of breastfeeding. A good latch helps your baby feed effectively and minimizes nipple pain. When your baby latches on correctly, their mouth should cover a large part of your areola, not just the nipple. 💡 ProTip:Ensureyourbaby’schinistouchingyourbreast,andtheyare not just sucking the nipple. A wide-open mouth helps achieve a deep latch. Positioning / Alignment Latch techniqueLatch Alignment & Technique: The Right Position for Both You and Baby with a Proper Latch is Key. Pillow support is equally important. The LatchNext >