How can I help my family prepare for breast-feeding?

You can start helping your partner prepare for breast-feeding by learning the benefits. Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for your baby and boosts your baby's immune system. It's considered the gold standard for infant nutrition.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months after birth — and breast-feeding in combination with solid foods until at least age 1. Beyond age 1, breast-feeding is recommended as long as your partner and your baby wish to continue.

Attend breast-feeding classes with your partner. If you know the positions and techniques involved, you might be better able to help your partner after birth. Classes can also help you understand the impact that the use of bottles, pacifiers and supplemental feedings can have on the breast-feeding process, and spur you and your partner to make decisions together about how you'll care for your baby.