Expert: ruth kraft - 7/9/2009

Question
Hi I am expecting my 1st baby in the fall and I have been overwhelmed with all the info out there!  I am having a planned c-section that will take several hours to complete due to prior medical condition.  What are the main points for setting myself up for success in breastfeeding post-c-section and the early days?  I know that after my section I will be very anxious to put the baby to the breast, hopefully he won't starve while I'm back in surgery.  Any tips will help! Thanks! Jenn :)

Answer
first, I promise you the baby wont starve while you are in surgury :) in fact, babies wont stave even if they get no food for the first few days :)  so, helpful hints, hire a doula who is willing to come to the hospital after the baby is born and help you with making sure proper latch and evaluate that all is well. and watch for things to come up that need tweaking if they do. then, have her come to your home when you are home and check in again, and then again at 2 weeks. You can find a doula for alot less than a lactation consultant. and although they will have an LC at the hospital, if the doula can see how everything progresses and she comes to you, then she will be able to help you more effectivly. She can also meet with you ahead of time ( before birth ) to give basics and create a birth plan with you , even though its a section that is planned.  this helps everything go much smoother.

you can also have easy to read , quick refrence handouts on nursing and latching. Have the number of someone, either the doula, or someone from la leche league that will be able to answer little questions that come up.  if you get that support in place, you will go on to nurse for as long as you want :)

good luck :)
Ruth Kraft
www.honoringwomen.com