Before Birth: Preparing to Breastfeed

Nursing is a learned experience for both mother and baby. With time and practice, you will learn to recognize your baby's cues. 

Prior to delivery, we strongly encourage you and your partner to take our free prenatal breastfeeding class. You will learn about the many ways breastfeeding benefits mother and baby and techniques to assist with breastfeeding. Taking this class will help build your confidence in this natural process. Dads are also encouraged to attend. To register, call (727) 462-7500 or search for a class or event. 

To best prepare, you may also want to arrange to rent an electric breast pump from the hospital (check your insurance too) and purchase some nursing supplies, such as:

• Nursing pads to prevent leaks
• Nursing bras for support and convenience
• Nursing gowns or blouses for convenience
• Nursing covering for privacy
• Lanolin to soothe nipples
• Nursing pillow for baby and support pillow for mother
• Manual breast pump
• Electric breast pump (rent or purchase)
• Breast milk storage bags

Shortly after your baby is born, the nursing team will place the baby on your chest for skin-to-skin bonding and you may begin nursing your baby right away.  Our highly trained nurses are able to assist all of our moms with breastfeeding. This includes positioning, latching and questions. However, a lactation specialist is available as needed.

Medela breast pumps are available for rent and sale through BayCare HomeCare. For more information, call (727) 394-6575, option #3.

Questions? Contact our Breastfeeding Help Line: 727-953-9107