Physically, there's no real preparation to do if you are planning to breastfeed your baby. But it's useful to witness breastfeeding in action, either by watching a friend or going to a local breastfeeding group. Practically speaking, you should get measured for nursing bras at 36 weeks, and talk through any questions with your midwife.

Virtually all women are physically able to breastfeed. It doesn't matter what size or shape your breasts are; fatty tissue isn't involved in milk production. Finding a comfortable position can be tricky, but your midwife can help.

Milk is produced on a supply and demand basis, so the best way to
increase your supply is to feed more often. Skin-to-skin contact can
help to stimulate prolactin, the milk production hormone. For the first
few days after birth, you produce an early milk called colostrum, packed
with antibodies. Your milk will then 'come in' around day three.
A healthy diet with plenty of fluids is essential, but very few women
genuinely don't have enough milk - if your baby seems unsatisfied,
it's more likely that your latch isn't right, so ask your midwife for help.
 

You may feel a little sore at first - that powerful suck takes some getting used to. Soreness is often a sign that your positioning isn't right, so get your midwife or health visitor to check. Your breasts may also become very swollen when your milk comes in, but you can relieve the discomfort by expressing a little milk, or try breast gel pads for instant warming or cooling therapy. If feeding still hurts after the first few weeks, it's worth seeing a breastfeeding counsellor. And if you develop sore, red patches on your breast, see your GP - as this could indicate mastitis (an infection of the milk ducts).