How will I know if I will be able to breastfeed??

Question

I'm currently 24 weeks pregnant, and I do plan to breastfeed after giving birth. When my husband and I first found out we were expecting, he suggested that I breastfeed, but I was unsure. So I told my original ob that I would not. But after reading up on it, I know it's a wonderful idea. I was looking at my b*****s and my nipples, and they don't look right to me. I mean, maybe it's all in my head, but I was looking at the tips of my nipples they look open, and around them, and I don't see how the milk will be coming out. Do the nipples change somehow after giving birth?? Will my new ob be able to look at my b*****s and determine if I will be able to breastfeed or not? This really isn't a silly question, I guess I'm just kind of confused about all of it. Please help with any decent answers if you can. Thanks.

Answer 1

You'll probably be able to breast feed.  Not being able to is pretty rare.  I have been worried, since I've had no colostrum and I'm at 34 weeks, but no one in my family has ever had leaking or issues breastfeeding.  Also, if I remember correctly, your nipple is more like a sprinkler system than a water gun, so you probably wouldn't be able to see exactly where the milk comes out just by looking at your nipples.

Answer 2

All through my pregnancy i was determined that i would breastfeed. When i had my baby the milk was flowing but she wouldnt latch on. i think the best advice i could give you is to not worry about it until your baby is born and see what he or she wants to do. Dont feel like you have to breastfeed. Keeping an open mind is the best thing.

I always thought that the milk had nowhere to come out from but your b*****s do change towards the end, they become engorged and feel really heavy and start to leak, trust me the milk is there and it will come out. No one can tell you if you will be able to breastfeed, its entirely up to you and your baby. good luck  

Answer 3

Rurouni is right about the "sprinkler system". I have breastfed for 7 1/2 months now and I still can't see where it comes out. I do think my b*****s and nipples look different than they used to, but that's motherhood.

My advice is just to stick with it. A lot of women get it in their head that they won't be able to for one reason or another and they give up too quickly. Remember that you are learning and so is the baby. It takes a little time and practice, but it's what's best.

And I'm sure you'll have no problems. That's what your b*****s are designed for. Best of luck and congratulations!!! :)

Answer 4

You will probably be fine.  You can talk to your ob and they should be able to refer you to a breastfeeding coach.  The coach will be able to do a breast exam and let you know if there is anything that you need to do to prepare.