Preparing for Breastfeeding Before Baby Arrives: A Guide for Expecting Moms

Most of the focus during pregnancy is on labor and delivery—but what comes next? For many moms, breastfeeding brings just as many questions and surprises as childbirth.

The truth is, getting ready to breastfeed before your baby arrives can make a big difference in how confident and supported you feel during those early days.

Here are a few helpful ways to prepare while you’re still expecting:

1. Learn the Basics

Taking time to understand how breastfeeding works—milk production, baby’s latch, hunger cues, and what’s normal—can give you a strong foundation. Consider reading a few trusted resources, listening to lactation-focused podcasts, or attending a prenatal breastfeeding class.

Knowing what to expect can help reduce stress and boost confidence when your baby arrives.

2. Consider a Prenatal Lactation Consultation

Meeting with a lactation professional during pregnancy may not be on your radar—but it can be incredibly helpful. A prenatal consult can cover:

• How to get a good latch from day one

• What to do if you have flat or inverted nipples

• How to manage colostrum expression before birth (if recommended)

• What supplies are worth having on hand (and what’s not necessary)

It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, discuss past breastfeeding experiences if relevant, or talk through any concerns.

3. Prep Your Nipples—Gently

For most people, the best way to prepare your nipples is simply to leave them alone. You don’t need to scrub or toughen them. Instead:

• Get familiar with your breast anatomy

• Avoid soaps or lotions that dry out the area

• Consider applying a gentle nipple balm or purified lanolin in the final weeks of pregnancy to keep the skin moisturized

Your body is doing a lot of preparation naturally—you don’t need to force anything.

4. Talk With Your Partner or Support Person

Breastfeeding can be an emotional and physical experience. Having someone who understands your goals and knows how to help—whether by bringing you snacks during cluster feeds or encouraging you when things feel hard—makes a huge difference.

Before baby arrives, talk through how they can support you, both practically and emotionally.

5. Set Realistic Expectations

Breastfeeding can be beautiful, but it can also be messy, tiring, and unexpected. Knowing that it may take a few days to establish your milk supply—or that you can ask for help if it’s painful—can reduce pressure and help you stay present.

You’re already doing something amazing by preparing now. Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and yours will unfold one day at a time—with plenty of chances to grow, learn, and connect with your baby along the way.