Tips for a second timer....

[auntyspan]

I was desperate to bf with my DD1 and, for many reasons, didn't take to it as I wanted to. This caused me a huge amount of guilt and this time I'd like to have another crack at it - I'm 33 weeks at the moment and due for an elective c-section in 5 1/2 weeks.
My main problems were cracked, sore nips - I had a good latch on (I know that now) but constantly pulled her off cos I thought it was wrong, causing the soreness. She was also big (10lb) and needed feeding ALOT.
I'd to know any tips / products that I can get in advance to prepare me... I've heard great things about breast cushions, silver nipple tassles (is this a joke?!) and magic creams so if any seasoned BFers could point me in the right direction I'd appreciate it!

Lansinoh nipple cream is a must. It's more like sticky toffee in a tube. I only used it for a few days both times, but really helps with soreness int he first few days, which ime pretty much everyone experiences and can be toe curling, but lasts about a week maximum

Thanks little lamb, will add it to my list!

do you have peer support in your area? sometimes just having someone come by to chat about it makes it so much easier.
don't rely too much on cushions. sometimes they are more of a hindrance than a help (baby could be sitting too high/low which will effect the latch)
these are the silver things that are supposed to air in healing (no tassles though, sorry! )

biggest thing to remember is that if is hurts for more than the first few seconds then there's something wrong with the latch.

The silver things are Silverette -- not tassels but silver sort of nipple cups to promote healing if you get cracked or sore nipples.

If you do need to take your baby off for any reason, break the latch first by sliding your little finger into the corner of her mouth to release the vacuum seal. That should mean that taking her off doesn't cause additional soreness.

Expect your baby to need feeding a lot, no matter how big he or she is. Breastfeeding was far easier emotionally for me second time round because I was expecting the unremitting nature of it, which I hadn't been with DS.

I agree with the comment that a person could be your best resource. So phone around now and find out what groups are local to you. If you are having a c-section you are unlikely to be zooming around so phone some of the helplines and find out which charities have counsellors local to you who would be willing to do home visits.

If you use a cushion then the right one is important as the pp says. If you have a long torso for example a firm flat pillow like 'my breast friend' may not be a good idea as you could end up lifting the baby up from the pillow and once your arms and hands tire you could start to slip with the latch.

There are lots of bf groups who would be more than happy to have a visit from you NOW. Take along dd1 if she's around so she can see mums feeding. Chat to the counsellor/ peer supporter in the group about your concerns. Ask about good positions for after a c-section. Look at some different positions and latches and pillows.
There are some groups listed on the abm site: www.abm.me.uk