August is National Breastfeeding Month. Many moms know a successful breastfeeding journey starts with good preparation and knowledge. Mom and baby are both learning a new skill together. Getting ready during pregnancy can help you feel more confident and give you an easier start. Breast milk is the best source of key nutrients for babies. It changes to match your baby's needs. It also gives babies antibodies that protect them from illness and help build their immune system. Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of several health problems in babies, such as:
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Breathing illnesses
- Asthma
- Obesity
- Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Moms who breastfeed may also lower their own risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Preparing early for breastfeeding can lower stress and boost your confidence before your baby’s birth. Read below to learn how you can prepare.
Learn what to expect before baby arrives
We’ve collaborated with Maven, a virtual clinic for women and families that offers free services to pregnant women and new moms. Maven helps with planning for birth and breastfeeding. Maven also offers coaching on things like sleep and diabetes. Members can book virtual lactation visits with Maven, both before and after birth.
During pregnancy, it's also important to talk with your obstetrician (OB) provider about any medicine, vitamins, herbal products or supplements you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicine. The CDC keeps a list of medicines that are considered safe during breastfeeding. Still, your provider can confirm what is safe for you and let you know if you need a safer option.
Get ready for latching and gather your supplies
The first hour after birth is often called the "Golden Hour." This is a valuable time for skin-to-skin contact and the first feeding. Skin-to-skin contact helps your baby use their natural breastfeeding instincts and helps both of you enjoy the experience. According to La Leche League, a healthy, full-term baby often knows instinctively what to do at the breast. Staying close during this first hour can help lead to a smooth first latch.
If you can, ask your birth team to support skin-to-skin contact right after delivery and to help guide the first feeding.
Getting your supplies ready before birth can cross one more worry off your list. One key task is gathering your pumping supplies. Our members can get a breast pump at no cost during the third trimester, once every two years. And you don’t need preapproval or prior authorization. To get your breast pump, call Member Services at 1-866-329-4701 (TTY: 711), then ask for care management.
Understand your milk supply
Learning about your milk in the first week can help you feel more confident. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) your milk goes through a few stages. Knowing about these stages can also help you tell if your baby is getting enough.
Colostrum is your first milk. It shows up during birth and lasts for the first few days. This milk is thick, yellow and full of nutrients and antibodies. It comes out in small amounts, which is exactly what a newborn needs at first.
Next comes your transitional milk. Around day 3 to 5, you may notice more milk coming in. Your breasts may feel fuller and firmer, and the milk's color and amount will change. The final stage is mature milk, which is fully in place by about 10 to 14 days after birth. From this point on, your milk keeps changing to match your baby's needs.
Learn hunger cues and know if your baby is getting enough
The CDC recommends feeding your baby early, often and on demand. Newborns usually breastfeed 8 to 12 times a day. Feed your baby based on hunger cues, not a strict schedule. These cues include:
- Lip smacking
- Bringing hands to the mouth
- Rooting (turning the head toward touch, looking for the breast)
Many moms worry their baby isn't eating enough in the first few days, especially before their milk supply increases. Watch for these signs to make sure your baby is getting enough:
- Breastfeeding at least 8 to 12 times per day
- Baby seems satisfied after feeding
- You can see or hear your baby swallowing
- Baby's stool changes from black to yellow during the first week
Signs of a good latch
Latching is also a common early challenge moms face. Pay attention to how your baby attaches to the breast. A good latch supports milk flow and supply.
Signs of a good latch include:
- Baby's whole body facing yours and held close
- Baby's mouth open wide before latching on
- Repositioning if the latch hurts
Be on the lookout for these symptoms
New parents will likely face a few hurdles in the first weeks and beyond. Call your OB provider right away if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Breast pain that doesn't go away or gets worse
- Redness, warmth or soreness in the breast
- Swelling or a hard spot in the breast
- A fever of 100.4°F or higher
- Flu-like symptoms, such as chills and body aches
These symptoms can be signs of a breast infection called mastitis. It's important to track these symptoms closely, since mastitis may need quick treatment to keep both mom and baby safe.
We’re here to help
You don't have to handle this alone. Aetna Better Health® of Illinois is here to help. Getting support early can help prevent problems and solve them quickly. We have resources to help you along the way:
- Aetna® More for Moms™ Virtual Prenatal Education Series offered in English and Spanish
- Care management to help you plan your pregnancy
- Maven virtual lactation consultants, members can book an appointment during pregnancy or anytime after delivery
- In-person lactation support through your hospital or clinic
- La Leche League groups
Stay ahead and in charge of your health as you start this journey into motherhood. Read our Healthy You, Healthy Baby (PDF) guide to learn more about the benefits available to you. Stay prepared and know that support is here for every step of the way.