CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

What Happens at a Breastfeeding Class

Breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world—but it doesn't always come naturally to mom and baby. Learn how a class can help you prepare.
save article
profile picture of Myra Wick, MD
By Myra Wick, MD, OB-GYN
Updated April 28, 2017
Hero Image

Is a breastfeeding class a requirement? No. Will it help you know what to expect and help you prevent problems? Yup! So if you can fit a breastfeeding class into your schedule, we definitely recommend it.

“It’s always a good idea to be as educated as you can,” says Myra Wick, MD. “A breastfeeding class can introduce you to some of the different holds and offer some reassurance that breastfeeding is not something that’s going to happen immediately. You and baby are both going to need some time to get the hang of it.”

Of course, you might need more help right after baby is born. Even if you’ve taken a class and learned what a perfect latch is, that doesn’t mean actually doing it—and doing it right—it will be a breeze. It takes practice—and maybe even some hands-on instruction! Most nursery nurses are pros at helping moms and babies get the hang of breastfeeding. Your hospital might also have special lactation specialists or consultants on staff. Take advantage of any help you can get! Breastfeeding is definitely a learned process, and the more help you get in the hospital, the better equipped you’ll be to handle it at home.

If you can’t get to a breastfeeding class, try to set aside some time to read a breastfeeding book. (The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is excellent.) Talking to other moms or watching how-to-breastfeed videos online can help too.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

entrance of disney world
Photo of Mom Breastfeeding Her Baby on Disney Ride Goes Viral
By Wyndi Kappes
a mother breast pumping milk while sitting on bed at home
Why You Might Consider Power Pumping (and How to Do It)
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
young woman pouring a glass of red wine in kitchen at home
Breastfeeding & Alcohol: Is It Safe to Drink?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
closeup of baby breastfeeding
Are There Foods to Avoid While Breastfeeding?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
Cluster Feeding: Everything You Need to Know
Cluster Feeding: Everything You Need to Know
Medically Reviewed by Lauren Crosby, MD
tb-best-nursing-clothes-hero
Where to Shop for the Best Nursing Tops and Dresses
By Martina Garvey
black mother breastfeeding baby at home
Black Women on Finding Joy in Breastfeeding
By Ashley Simpo
ADVERTISEMENT
Mom Responds After Video Shaming Her for Breastfeeding Goes Viral
Mom Responds After Video Shaming Her for Breastfeeding Goes Viral
By Wyndi Kappes
smiling mother breastfeeding baby at home
Top 13 Benefits of Breastfeeding
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
mother breastfeeding baby while working
Over 15,000 Breastfeeding Moms Share Their Motivations and Challenges
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
mother breastfeeding baby while browsing on laptop
Can't-Miss Sales in Celebration of National Breastfeeding Month
By Wyndi Kappes
mother breastfeeding baby on bed at home
World Breastfeeding Week 2023: How You Can Help Working Parents
By Wyndi Kappes
Georgia Mom Asked to Stop Breastfeeding Her Baby by Water Park Staff
Georgia Mom Asked to Stop Breastfeeding Her Baby by Water Park Staff
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
mother breastfeeding newborn baby
What Is a Milk Bleb or Blister?
By Korin Miller
mother feeing bottle to baby
Can You Mix Breast Milk and Formula?
By Colleen De Bellefonds
Mother baby mastitis breast pain while breastfeeding
Here’s How to Stop Mastitis From Making Breastfeeding Unbearable
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
mom struggling to breastfeed her baby
Breast Engorgement: What It Is and How to Find Relief
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
Best Nursing Pillows-hero
Our Favorite Nursing Pillows (Plus How to Use One)
By Kathleen Harris
mom holding baby while drinking coffee in kitchen
Can You Drink Coffee While Breastfeeding?
By Natalie Gontcharova
Breast Milk Storage Bags
The 9 Best Breast Milk Storage Bags to Preserve Your Liquid Gold
By Danielle Halibey
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List