19/01/2023
Are you about to give birth and are planning to breastfeed in a hospital space? My first advice is to know your hospital space? Is it breast/chestfeeding friendly (Does it intentionally support families to breastfeed)? Ask questions during your hospital tour or call prior to the birth to find out. Hospitals that support breastfeeding may already have practices that lean this way such as allowing the parent and baby to stay together after birth (rooming in), delaying intervention to allow breastfeeding, and not intentionally providing formula. However, not all policy is made equal in every hospital and I do recommend knowing what your preferences are and thinking those through prior to your labor and having a support person/doula available to help you enforce those desires u
nless theres a medical need that necessitates separation. On your postpartum plan, which can be an extension to your birthing plan, you can add any of these tips.
✨Delayed intervention prior to golden hour (no bathing, vaccines,separation)
✨Calming environment & less staff present
✨Skin to skin
✨No bottles, pacifiers, or artificial ni***es
✨Allow for immediate access to a breast pump if a separation does occur. (Not necessary if you and your baby are together or reunited within a short amount of time)