At around week 36, your breasts work overtime in preparation for lactation. Breastfeeding strengthens your baby’s immune system and prevents diseases such as allergies, asthma and diabetes. It will also help your uterus contract and prevent bleeding. Further, this will promote the emotional bond between you and your baby.

To prepare yourself for nursing your baby, you may find the following tips useful:

Eat healthy
Lactating women need an additional 300-500 calories per day to keep up with the demand of producing breast milk. Food that enhance milk production include salmon, oatmeal, carrots, spinach, basil and fennel seeds. Supplements like fenugreek also help a great deal.

Practice breast massage
Do this by stroking the upper part of the breast in a circular motion, moving towards the nipple then outwards again. Avoid scrubbing your nipples with towels or other materials as this will slough off the natural oils.

Use breastfeeding aids
To prevent leaking while not nursing, you can use breast or nipple shields. If your nipples are sore, apply a lanolin-based nipple cream. When breastfeeding for long periods, prop a nursing pillow behind you to prevent back pains.

Breastfeeding, really, is more about maternal instincts. Even without anyone showing you how to do it, your body will tell you what to do exactly, and you will be surprised to find out how good you are at it.