Dear Tammam,
Thanks for your question.
Bear in mind that if we only start to counsel later on, several practices that we would like to avoid may have already occurred (e.g. discarding colostrum, pre-lacteal feeding), some of which may cause contribute to challenges with breastfeeding later on.
Early initiation of breastfeeding (within 1 hour of birth) is a critical, lifesaving activity and helps get breastfeeding off to a good start. We are more likely to support mothers to do this successfully if we have prepared her and her family well antenatally (through practice, support and providing tailored, relevant information)
The days following childbirth can be overwhelming and are not the right time to overload a new mother with information and new ideas.
Consider including during ANC:
- A discussion on how she intends to feed her baby once born. Provide her with the information needed to inform this intention but remember that she doesn't have to decide until the baby is born. If she intends to artificially feed her infant, she will need to make necessary preparations in terms of feeding equipment etc.
- If this is not her first child, ask her about previous (breast)feeding experiences and any difficulties /challenges she faced so you can support her to overcome these.
- If the mother is living with HIV, a discussion needs to be had around how she will feed her infant.
- Include key decision makers / influencers from her family to ensure she receives the support she needs
- Maternal nutrition, skin contact, responding to baby's needs
Try to ensure that women have the information they need by 34 weeks - during this time, explore her thoughts, perceptions, knowledge and feelings and provide tailored information and support based on what she tells you.
http://www.unicef.org.uk/BabyFriendly/Resources/AudioVideo/Communication-in-pregnancy