How do I get the support I need for breastfeeding?

[mummyhill]

I got no support at all when trying to feed dd and am due to go into labour any day now with number two. I would really like to breast feed this time round but am not sure how to get the support I will need as I know I will have difficulties getting baby to latch on as I have inverted nipples.

Contact the NCT, La Leche League, Association of Breastfeeding Mothers or Breastfeeding Network to speak to a breastfeeding counsellor before you have the baby.

Then see if there is a breastfeeding workshop you can attend nearby - the NCT run them, I know.

After the baby is born, you will then hopefully have established a relationship with somebody who knows what they're talking about and you won't need to rely on a procession of midwives and HVs with different and limited experience of breastfeeding.

And post on MN if it gets tough.

As for inverted nipples, Avent make something called a Nipplette (I think) that you wear for a while each day - it draws your nipples out so that they're easier for the baby to latch onto. Loads of women have successfully breastfed with inverted nipples though.

If all the before the baby's born stuff is too much to fit in (you say you're due any day) - at least try phoning one of the bfeeding helplines now. You will get some reassurance that you can do it and you will also feel more comfortable phoning if you do have problems afterwards if you've already spoken to someone, I'm sure.

Thanks hunkermum. I am currently 11 days overdue and will hopefully be induced on Wednesday as I can't take any more of the chronic back pain I am getting due to a prolapsed disc. Will phone one of the helplines.

Ow, poor you. Went 10 days over with DS, so kind of know how you're feeling (but not the back pain - ow ow ow). Hope things start very soon for you. And good luck with bfeeding xxxxxxxxxxx

Good luck mummyhill, I am in a similar position, although not due for another 7 weeks. Would love to bf this time round, first time gave up ater 8 weeks when nothing seemed to go right.

I was made to feel a failure and gave up before I even left the hospital last time. Am hoping not to have the same problems this time round. Will probably be a bit more vocal/demanding this time round.

Good Luck and just you go for it with being more vocal!

I got help second time around from a local la leche league lady and she really boosted my confidence as well as practical advice.