Breastfeeding classes
Breastfeeding classes offer advice and techniques for those wanting to breastfeed
These courses are for those that want to learn about breastfeeding! Women who attend breastfeeding courses usually report better success with breastfeeding than those who do not.
Where are they held?
Can be held in someone's house (in the case of NCT breastfeeding courses), at a local clinic or hospital or in a midwife-led centre.
What to expect from breastfeeding classes
Expect a small class of about six women. You may watch DVDs of women breastfeeding and learn about the different positions you can use, or a new mum who’s currently breastfeeding may come along to show you how to do it. The course may also include some 'practice' on a plastic doll!
Your class should cover:
• Breastfeeding positions and how to get your baby to latch on
• Basic guide to how breastfeeding works
• Best ways to establish a good milk supply
• How to know if your baby is getting enough milk
• When and where to get breastfeeding help
Breastfeeding aids may also be discussed eg pillows and supports, nipple guards and creams, and how to 'express' your breastmilk so someone else can feed the baby with a bottle. (Male) partners are sometimes encouraged to attend.
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Wait until the third trimester of pregnancy so you don't forget what you've learnt. Attendance is usually a minimum of 3 two-hour sessions. Costs vary between no-cost classes run by the NHS to private classes charging up to £15 a class.
You may want to check the following about your breastfeeding teacher before booking…
• Has she breastfed babies herself?
• What’s her background? You may want to check if she’s either a certified lactation counsellor (CLC) or an international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC)?
Check out our list of local breastfeeding classes in pregnancy classes. Plus you can also find breastfeeding classes at National Childbirth Trust (NCT) or La Leche League GB or ask your midwife for details on NHS-run courses. There are also private breastfeeding counsellors available.
Why choose a breastfeeding class?
If you know you'd like to try breastfeeding and want help to get it right. It’s best for women who have not breastfed before, but who want to, or for those who had trouble with their first baby and would like to try again. Mums can have very different experiences with different babies.
But don’t choose if
You’re an expert on breastfeeding because you've done it before recently.
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