Prenatal Prep and the First 24 Hours

Preparing for breastfeeding while still pregnant can make the first days with your baby feel much less overwhelming. One of the best things you can do is learn what to expect before your baby arrives. We offer a free prenatal breastfeeding class at Thrive Lactation Center, and we encourage all expecting families to join. This class covers everything from hand expression, colostrum, and early latch, to common newborn feeding behaviors. It also answers the big question: what really happens in those first 24 hours after birth?

In the hospital, your baby may be sleepy at first, but skin-to-skin and frequent attempts at feeding help stimulate milk production and encourage bonding. Colostrum is produced in small but powerful amounts and is all your baby needs in those first days. Knowing this ahead of time can relieve a lot of worry and help you feel confident. The more you know before birth, the smoother the transition will be.