Preparing for Breastfeeding
What Calgary Moms Wish They Knew Before Birth
Breastfeeding can be a really special way to connect with your baby, but it doesn’t always feel simple at the beginning, especially if it’s your first time. There can be a learning curve with latching, positioning, and figuring out what is normal. Preparation helps so much. In my work as a doula, I’ve supported families in hospitals, birth centres, and at home, and I’ve seen how getting a little guidance early on can make those first feeds feel calmer and more confident.
This guide pulls together practical tips and real questions I hear from parents all the time, along with local resources so you know where to turn if you need support. Let’s get into the things most people wish they had known before their baby arrived.
Why Prepare for Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is natural, but it doesn’t always feel natural at first. Most new moms deal with something, whether it’s tender nipples, worrying about supply, or just trying to figure out if you’re doing it “right.” Learning a few basics ahead of time can take a lot of pressure off and help those first feeds feel calmer. And truly, you’re not expected to figure it out alone. There are so many ways to get support: lactation clinics, community groups, doulas, and people who are there to help you find what works for you and your baby.
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Breastfeeding
Before baby arrives, get familiar with how breastfeeding works:
How It Starts: Your milk “comes in” 2-5 days after birth, starting with colostrum (nutrient-rich “first milk”). Babies feed 8-12 times in 24 hours, every 1.5-3 hours. At this time, their stomach is about the size of a chickpea.
Latching 101: Baby’s mouth should cover most of the areola, not just the nipple. A good latch feels like tugging, not pinching. There should not be pain with breastfeeding. (Although some do experience this, and I would recommend a lactation consultant if this is the case).
Supply and Demand: The more your baby nurses, the more milk you produce. Frequent feeding in week one is critical.
Step 2: Prep Your Body and Mind
Small steps now can prevent common hurdles:
Nipple Care: Avoid soaps on nipples to prevent drying (Calgary’s dry air doesn’t help!). Try lanolin cream (available at Shoppers Drug Mart) if soreness starts. I also sell a natural, healing nipple balm – contact me if you’d like to learn more!
Diet and Hydration: Eat nutrient-dense foods like oats or salmon. Keep a water bottle handy. Aim to drink 2-4L of water per day, and increase your calories by 500-1000 from your normal daily amount—breastfeeding burns 500 or more calories daily. Traditional Medicinals (tea brand) sells a tea called “Mothers Milk” which is full of all the herbs to help with increasing your supply.
Mindset: Expect a learning curve. It's normal for breastfeeding to feel “weird” at first.
Step 3: Tackle Common Challenges Early
Reddit threads are full of “I wish I knew” stories. Here’s how to prep for frequent issues:
Sore Nipples: Use warm compresses before feeds and hydrogel pads after (find them on Amazon). Check latch with a lactation consultant if pain persists.
Low Supply Fears: Track wet diapers (6-8 daily by day 5) to confirm baby’s getting enough. Stress can delay milk.
Engorgement: When milk comes in, breasts may feel hard. Hand-express a little before feeding to soften them.
Step 4: Build Your Support Network
Calgary’s resources are a lifeline for breastfeeding moms:
IBCLCs: Certified lactation consultants offer in-home or virtual help for complex issues like tongue-tie.
Peer Support: Ask questions on Calgary Pregnant and Newborn moms facebook group—it’s perfect for swapping tips with other moms.
Postpartum Doula: My services at www.laurenhaledoula.com include hands-on breastfeeding coaching, from positioning to pumping schedules.
Step 5: Gear Up (Without Overbuying)
You don’t need much, but these essentials help:
Nursing Bras: Get 2-3 comfy, non-underwire bras.
Breast Pads: Reusable bamboo pads are eco-friendly and soft.
Pump (Optional): If returning to work, rent a hospital-grade pump from your local pharmacy, or purchase a hands free pump to give you more mobility and freedom while pumping. Start pumping after 2 weeks to build a stash.
Comfort Items: A nursing pillow, and a water bottle with a straw make late-night feeds easier. Lots of women will put a cart full of snacks, burp cloths, and other comforts beside their nursing spot so everything is within arms reach.
Burp Cloths: You don’t need anything fancy, but a thick, absorbent cloth is great so you can keep your clothing clean from spit ups while burping. (For some reason, the most COMMON baby gift is blankets, if you find that you have an oversupply of these, repurpose some as burp cloths!)
Breastfeeding Prep Checklist for Calgary Moms
Take a Class: Register for AHS’s free breastfeeding workshop.
Stock Supplies: Nipple cream, breast pads, and a water bottle
Connect Early: Schedule an AHS lactation clinic visit for week one.
Practice Positions: Try “cradle” and “football” holds at home.
Plan Support: Line up a partner, friend, or doula to help with meals and rest so you can focus on nursing. It takes lots of time and energy to feed your newborn, and someone should be taking care of you!
Why Breastfeeding Prep Matters in Calgary
Breastfeeding takes patience, support, and a whole lot of grace. You’re learning. Baby’s learning. You’re a team.
If you want support before baby arrives, I offer private breastfeeding prep sessions—latching practice, feeding strategies, and space to ask every question.