Breastfeeding Class

Is it necessary to take a class to learn how to breastfeed? I am still unsure if I am going to breastfeed, but I am trying to plan ahead.

Re: Breastfeeding Class

I took an informal one at Stony Brook. I think that you can actually take some sort of "class" during your stay in the hospital if you don't want to do it ahead of time.

Re: Breastfeeding Class

I took one (& DH came also) & it was very informative...learning how to get them to latch & learning the different positions for them to feed & also issues you may have when trying was helpful to me. I'm sure you could also get a video if you didn't want to go to the class. I think BRU is also having a breastfeeding class/seminar soon.

Re: Breastfeeding Class

my ob told me not to bother. He said the baby will eat and I will have milk. If a problem should come up, then we will deal with it then...that there is no way to solve your problem in a class if you don't know if and what your problem may be.


But, I went to a very pro-breastfeeding hospital with a huge support system round the clock.

Re: Breastfeeding Class

We took a class at our hospital and it was VERY helpful, I would do it!

Re: Breastfeeding Class

I didn't take one and I am BFing w/ no problems. However, I think a class would help with any fears, etc. with the anticipation (esp. since you are hesitant).

Re: Breastfeeding Class

It helped me immensly! It set up some realistic expectations, gave me contacts to help me after I had the baby, and talked about things I wouldn't have otherwise thought about. I think its one of the classes I wouldn't miss!

Re: Breastfeeding Class

i took a BF class and although i did learn some things, it's nothing compared to havng your baby there with you. i had a breastfeeding specialist come to me right after the birth of my baby. she was able to make me understand how exactly. the hospital i went to (ny meth) also had daily breastfeeding classes.

but most ppl normally do take a bf class prior to their baby's birth. but in the end, it was not necessary for me.

have a happy pregnancy!

Re: Breastfeeding Class

I took one at the hospital and it was totally helpful. I actually took notes and referred to them after DD was born so I was glad that I did!

Re: Breastfeeding Class

I took a class at BRU and read some books. I actually started doubting myself after going to the class. I am glad I took the class and learned about "realistic" expectations. I learned quite a few things.

I found that the most help was really needed AFTER the baby was born. That when you actually encounter any issue. That's when you are home alone and don't have a clue on what to do.

I suggest you contact a LC. I was very hesitant at first while PG but really this is the best advise I was given.

Re: Breastfeeding Class

It really depends on the teacher. I went to one which was the biggest waste of time. The teacher never breastfed herself and spent 2 of the 3 hour class telling us WHY we should breastfeed when most of wanted to learn how.

The Only peice of advice that was useful was her advice to keep it up for 3 weeks. The first 3 weeks were SO hard, but something happens at 3 weeks that it stops being painful. I think I could have given up before if I didnt hear that. I ended up nursing exclusively for the whole year.

Re: Breastfeeding Class