Firstly get ready and prepare as much as you can. Read those handouts you get from the midwife, become familiar with the nose to nipple position and if there's one nearby, book yourself onto a breastfeeding class. Breastfeeding is natural so you may think it will come naturally, and for some it does, but others - like me - have to work at it. Research and preparation can only be useful!
Buy or hire a breast pump - manual, electric, double, single - there is one for you and even if you don't plan on pumping you never know when you might need it. After having H I pumped in the hospital and during the first week as we could get our positioning right and I just wanted to be certain he was getting something. Now I take it on nights away from H so I can empty by boobs and stay comfortable. I use the Medela electric pump and the Philips manual pump depending where I am.
Vests are essential in my eyes if you want to feed discreetly as they allow you to get your boob out without showing your stomach which for me was important. Even 21 months down the line I still wear a vest under most outfits as I can lift up my top and pull the vest down so only minimal skin is exposed. I only use cheap camisole vests and never bought purpose made breastfeeding ones as I'm not convinced they are worth the money.
You need support from both your underwear and those around you! Underwear-wise I found Marks and Spencer's nursing bras were both good value and supportive, they also go up to the bigger sizes (34G in my case).
Finding and getting support from those around you is another matter. In those very stressful, tear filled early days I was lucky in having my sister to help me and check my positioning. If you don't have someone close by who can help you then I would recommend a breastfeeding group. Initially I went to one just because it followed a playgroup I attended but it was an excellent way to meet mums in the same position and ask more experienced mums any questions you may have.
Copious amounts of tea and cake are a must! Although, if like me you have to take iron tablets then tea is sadly a no-go an hour before or after taking them (or so I was advised). I must admit I did ignore this advice on a few occasions but that may be why I had to take iron tablets for nearly 6 months after having H. Cake however is everyone's friend. I used to time a slice of cake with a feed and just take the time to relax and rest. It might not be the sleep you're craving but it will help keep you sane.
To begin with you will probably find yourself watching your baby feed, altering position and stroking their tiny toes but at some point feeding times will require some entertainment to keep you occupied. A Kindle is a great buy because you can read it one handed, I've heard other people suggesting a subscription to Netflix as well so there's always something to watch whatever the time.
A thick skin can come in handy when breastfeeding, especially if you opt for extended breastfeeding. Sadly breastfeeding isn't always seen as the norm so you may find yourself defending your choice. Don't take any comments to heart and trust your instincts. Also remember, the World Health Organisation, y'know the EXPERTS on health, recommend breastfeeding until your baby is at least 2 years old. This advised timescale is for women in the developed world and I've seen adverts from the U.S. and Australia which reflect this. Sadly I am yet to see this information distributed in the UK where the majority of literature states 6 months. (I may be wrong here so please tell me!)
So there you go, it might not buy you anything but hopefully it'll help make breastfeeding an enjoyable activity and not merely a money making opportunity!
