FAQs - WHO/WHAT/WHEN/WHERE/WHY AND HOW

Who should breastfeed?

Every woman should at least consider breastfeeding their baby. There are only a few instances where breastfeeding is completely contraindicated.

Who should take a breastfeeding class?

Anyone interested in breastfeeding, be it a pregnant mom, her spouse/partner, a postpartum mom going back to work, a woman who will be adopting a baby and is looking to do induced lactation to nurse said baby, moms at risk for having a premature baby, among others.

What should someone interested in breastfeeding do to learn?

Sign up for a breastfeeding class! There are many breastfeeding classes out there, but I will say that not all classes are created equal. You should look for a class that is taught by a Certified Lactation Educator (CLE), a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). CLEs, CLCs and, especially, IBCLCs are professionals who specialize in Lactation Information and have been certified as lactation specialists.

When should someone take a breastfeeding class?

This depends on the class in question. I offer some classes that are best taken prenatally and I offer some classes best taken post-partum.

• Breastfeeding 101 should be taken during the last trimester of pregnancy. If you decide to take this class after the baby is born, it should be taken in the baby's first week of life.
• Breastfeeding and Working should be taken in the post-partum period. The exact "when" depends on when you are planning on returning to work. I recommend a mother returning to work outside of the home take this class anywhere from three to six weeks post-partum for maximum benefits.
• Bed Rest Breastfeeding 101 should be taken during the second or third trimester, depending on the severity of the issue that has you on bed rest. Contact me for further information.

Where should I take a breastfeeding class?

Precious Gifts classes are available at various places for maximum level of convenience. If these classes are not compatible with your schedule, check with your local hospital or doctor's office for other classes that may be available.

Why should someone take a breastfeeding class?

In breastfeeding, knowledge is the key to success. Sure, breastfeeding is a natural process, but even the most natural things take time to learn. Educating yourself beforehand speeds up that learning process and lends to less confusion and frustration when the time to actually breastfeed comes. It is always a good idea to have at least a basic understanding of what breastfeeding is like before your baby arrives. Breastfeeding classes are available to help you expand your knowledge of various aspects of breastfeeding.

How do I sign up for a breastfeeding class?

To sign up for a Precious Gifts breastfeeding class, click on the link to the left labeled Calendar. Just select the day/class that you would like to attend. You can pay directly online using a credit card or PayPal (PayPal is preferred). If you do not have a Paypal account and wish to pay via check or cash, please contact me and we will see what arrangements can be made. I am always flexible. If the cost is an issue, again, contact me and we will see if a payment schedule of some kind will work. Getting you off to the best start possible with regards to breastfeeding is my main goal.