By: Health Haven:

Your child’s first birthday is a huge milestone! You might throw a big party or just host a small family gathering. However you choose to celebrate, it is a special occasion. But let’s back up. When you first found out you were expecting you probably read books, websites, maybe even attended classes to prepare for the big day, the birth of your baby. 

Our culture puts a lot of emphasis on the birth itself, which typically only lasts about a day. That day is the “birth” of your baby, but also of you as a parent. But how much emphasis do we put on the first year of life? Breastfeeding, milestones, daycare, starting solid foods, etc. 

I would encourage you to think about planning ahead not only for the “birth” day, but also for how you are going to feed your baby. Breastfeeding seems like it should be easy and natural, but that is not always the case. Many new babies need help with breastfeeding. There are many factors that can affect a baby’s ability to breastfeed. Were they full term, or slightly early, or many weeks early? What interventions did you have during labor? Do they have a tongue tie, torticollis, jaundice, or other medical issues that make breastfeeding difficult? I believe in the importance of preparing for the “birth” day, but it’s also important to prepare for breastfeeding and parenting. A prenatal breastfeeding consultation can be invaluable in preventing problems before they occur and preparing you for what lies ahead. 

I’m Alicia, of Health Haven Consulting. I am an RN and IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). I can help you prepare for your breastfeeding journey and a prenatal lactation consultation may even be covered by insurance!