Thinking Ahead: Make an Honest Feeding Plan

Preparing for the birth of a new baby is a big job! From decorating the nursery to finding the perfect baby gear, your to-do list can sometimes feel overwhelming. We know! We’ve been there!

We’re all about making things easier for you, so here’s a simple checklist to streamline one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a new parent: How you’ll feed your baby. Clearly, how you feed your baby will change over time, but our feeding plan covers the first few days and weeks that will lay the groundwork for the months and years ahead. (Those first moments have such a big impact!)

A feeding plan helps you understand your options and clarify your preferences for feeding your newborn after delivery. Use this checklist to help get yourself organized:

During my pregnancy:

• I would like to take a breastfeeding class with my partner
• I would like to discuss my insurance company’s coverage of a breast pump
• I would like to research different formulas & bottles
• I would like to locate a breastfeeding support group and/or lactation consultants in my community
• I would like to investigate the breastfeeding laws for returning to work

For each box you checked off, schedule a time to do it. Trust us – time will fly by, so if you don’t make it a priority and get it on the calendar, there’s a good chance it will be forgotten!

Feeding my newborn:

• I would like my newborn skin to skin for at least the first hour after birth
• I would like my baby to room in with me in the hospital
• I plan to breastfeed
• I plan to combine breast and formula feed (“combination feeding”)
• I plan to formula feed

Make sure everyone who will be involved in the birth of your child understands your desires for feeding your newborn well in advance. Labor and delivery can include a wide spectrum of unexpected circumstances – the more prepared you (and those around you) are, the more empowered you will be to ensure your expectations are met.

Even after your baby is born, remember to continue to expect the unexpected. Welcome to parenthood!