We attended our breastfeeding class on Saturday. We learned some basics about it such as, positioning, latching on, identifying early hunger cues, health benefits, financial benefits, etc. We also learned about nursing bras, breast/nipple care, pumps, and storage of breast milk.
There was a lot of information and right now that’s what I want. I’m trying to absorb it all like a sponge. Brian goes with to learn and help remind me when pregnancy brain hits. Plus, if I’m feeling overwhelmed after she gets here, he will probably be able to recall things easier than my stressed out, sleep deprived brain.
The idea of a breastfeeding class before having baby might seem odd at first because it’s not like you can really practice until the baby is born. But, knowledge is power. The more I know about options, resources, and what I might need help with …. the better prepared I am. It’s very important to me to breastfeed babygirl, so I don’t want to get frustrated and give up right away.
Thankfully, the hospital I’ll be delivering at is very pro-breastfeeding, so they are all about helping moms be successful at it before leaving the hospital. They have certified lactation consultants (CLC) as well as their nurses being trained and knowing a thing or two about it. Also, the minimum standard is to have at least 1 trained staff person observe mom feeding baby within an 8 hour shift. Not to mention, moms can call for assistance and troubleshooting after returning home.
I think that is wonderful. I’ve heard horror stories about people not receiving any help or inaccurate information from nursing staff.
So tons of info, a couple of videos shown… practiced positioning a doll (just the hold and where their head should be. No boobs came out!).
I really was glad to get some information about when and where to get fitted for nursing bras. It’s something I’ve been wondering about but not quite sure when to do it. The instructor suggested at 36 weeks or 2 weeks postpartum because inbetween there the ribcage expands as your body prepares for delivery.
Interesting stuff!
Oh, and don’t worry… Brian wasn’t the only husband in class! Pretty much everyone brought a significant other of some sort with them. I think only one woman didn’t, so there were like 10+ couples there.
Other updates: Just to make sure you all know, my blood pressure was ok at my last OB appointment. Still on the higher end of normal, but not as high as last time. Also, my bloodwork for preeclampsia came back just fine. My OB did recommend I get a blood pressure monitor or cuff so I can keep an eye on it at home between visits. I did buy one, but the stupid cuff isn’t big enough. It’s just a couple inches too small, which upset me a lot. I tried calling the customer service number to get a larger cuff, but they were already closed by the time I called Friday evening… have to wait til tomorrow.
