Getting Off to a Great Start

Babies are born to breastfeed. Let your baby follow his natural instincts. He can breastfeed with just a little help from you.

Breastfeed your baby as soon as possible after delivery. Tell your doctor and nurses that you want to hold your baby skin-to-skin during the first hour or two after birth.
Ask the hospital if they have a lactation specialist who can give you helpful advise.
Breastfeeding takes practice - just like learning a new dance. It takes time and gets easier as your baby grows.
Call someone on our resource list for help.

Colostrum is mother's first breastmilk.

Your first milk is called colostrum. It is thick and yellow and your body makes it in very small amounts. Your baby will only take about one teaspoon a day for the first day or two.

Colostrum is miracle food because:

It coats the baby's stomach preparing it for the mature milk
It helps babies pass their first bowel movement
It's full of antibodies that fight germs
It builds immunity

Simple Steps to Successful Breastfeeding

Nurse as soon as possible after birth
Nurse frequently (8-10 times in 24 hours) or every 2 hours
Avoid bottles and pacifiers in the first month
Get into a comfortable position
Hold baby's tummy to your tummy
Tickle baby's bottom lip with your nipple until baby opens mouth very wide (like a yawn)
Pull baby close - tip of nose and chin touch breast
Expect your baby to want to nurse more at 2-3 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks. These are times of growth spurts.

https://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-challenges/common-breastfeeding-challenges

How to Tell if Baby is Getting Enough Breastmilk

6-8 wet diapers in 24 hours
2-5 poopy diapers in 24 hours
Baby gains 1/2 to 1 oz a day
Baby seems satisfied after nursing