my baby number 2 is due soon. I tried breast feeding with my first and failed miserably. but I'm…

I breastfed and supplemented my first for the first 5 months and then he just didn't want to nurse anymore T.T from day one he was introduced to formula so that was a big mistake. I've been ebf my daughter for almost 4 months now. It's been a lot easier the second time around. I recommend getting some supplies first: a good hand pump/electric pump, breast pads, nursing bras, nipple cream and some storage milk bags. You should also look up videos on how to self express some milk because sometimes the pump just won't do it. Put your baby on your breast as often as possible. Try to avoid formula as much as possible unless your doctor says otherwise. I think the best piece of advice I can give you is talk to a good lactation consultant! If it wasn't for mine I seriously wouldn't have made it this far. If you have any specific questions don't mind asking 😊@mullinsmama

Definitely talk with a good, supportive lactation consultant. Mine was absolutely wonderful in the hospital. If the doctor suggests supplementing, see if you can't express some of your milk & use that to supplement, it's easier for babies to feed from a bottle than the nipple so sometimes they get too tired to eat all they should. Plus it helps you establish your supply better. Also babies don't really need to eat until they've excreted all of their meconium (black tar) poop, so don't get discouraged if it takes a few days for your milk to come in. You should also tell the hospital you'd prefer the baby not get any formula, I've heard stories of hospitals just assuming it would be ok & giving them formula while they ran tests or whatnot instead of giving the baby back to mom to nurse.

@anap1012, thanks so much!

@marabu92, thank you.

I agree with the other ladies- find a good lactation consultant! I had some latching issues along with major pain and my lactation consultant helped me a lot! Also, I watched tons of videos showing how to get a proper, deep latch.