1. Find a quiet spot. The first time you breastfeed will likely be in a hospital bed with a kindly (we hope) lactation consultant guiding baby's mouth to the right spot. At that point, ambiance is the least of your concerns. But once you're on your own at home, you'll want to find a quiet place where you and baby can relax. Think low lights and limited noise. Not only does the right environment put baby in the mood, but it also sends your body the signal that it's time to let the milk flow. Of course, this isn't always possible. If you nurse long enough, you will inevitably find yourself in the backseat of your car (parked, of course), fumbling with your nursing bra, trying to calm a hungry infant and doing your best not to flash the guy parking the Explorer next to you. Setting the mood isn't so important then, but that's the exception rather than the rule.

2. Make sure you will be comfortable for the long haul. Once you get baby latched on and happily sucking away, the last thing you want to do is disturb her just to keep your arm from falling asleep. Think ahead and grab something to support your arm as you hold baby. Try a nice firm pillow or one of those C-shaped nursing pillows on the market.

3. Have a glass of water handy. You may find that the minute baby starts nursing you're suddenly very thirsty. It's as if that little parasite is sucking you dry. Wait, he is, which would certainly explain your thirst. For this reason, it's not a bad idea to have a bottle of water on hand at all times. You can even stash an extra near your favorite comfy chair for those times you forget to bring one with you and your spouse — and resident drink fetcher — is conveniently nowhere to be found.

4. Be patient. Baby may not get it right away. This is annoying, but true, apparently, for many moms. If you have trouble at first, don't give up until you've tried it for at least a couple of weeks, unless you are truly miserable or baby is showing signs of failing to thrive, in which case a switch to formula might be in order. Either way, it's probably a good idea to check with your doctor before you do anything drastic.

5. Invest in some nursing cream. Lansinoh makes a product that sooths sensitive skin and is safe for baby to ingest. Get a small tube: A little goes a long way.