Carrie is days away from delivering her first baby. She has been contemplating breastfeeding for its nutritional and immunological benefits and has been reading about breastfeeding and talking to mothers who breastfed their babies. The birthing center where she receives prenatal care, and where she will deliver her baby, has scheduled Carrie to meet with its lactation expert. Carrie has read the birthing center's "Guide to Successful Breastfeeding" and is prepared to ask the lactation expert about relaxation techniques. Not only is Carrie "high-strung" by nature, but she is quite anxious about the childbirth process, let alone the prospect of breastfeeding. Imagine you are the lactation expert who is counseling Carrie.
Carrie can best prepare to breastfeed her infant after delivery by performing which step?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carrie should stop using soap and lotions on her breasts to help prevent any irritation or dryness. This can make it easier for the baby to latch on and also reduce the risk of nipple cracking or pain. It is important to keep the breasts clean, however regular washing with warm water and no soap is sufficient. Using a breast pump before delivery typically is not necessary in order to prepare for successful breastfeeding, and may even have little effect on whether or not a mother is able to produce enough milk. Applying a warm wash cloth may help increase circulation and stimulate milk flow, but it should not replace regular breastfeeding or pumping.

Carrie Is Days Away from Delivering Her First Baby