Early Breastfeeding

December 3, 2008

Studies have shown that the earlier a baby has her first breastfeed, the greater the chances of success. Out of the mothers who breastfed their babies, immediately after birth, only 14 per cent gave up within the next 2 weeks, compared with the 29 percent who gave up, having begun breastfeeding at between 1 and 4 hours after birth. This doesn’t mean that if you don’t breast feed immediately, you’re bound to fail. But it does mean that if there’s the chance to put your baby to your breast within the first hour or so after the birth, it’s worth taking the opportunity. Your obstetrician or midwife will probably encourage it. If not, you should certainly ask.

A baby’s suck is at its strongest in the first few hours after birth. There’s evidence that a baby is born “conditioned” for this first feeding, and is more likely to “get it right first time” the younger she is.

The first breastfeed

Because research shows that it’s advisable to try to get the baby to nurse as soon as possible after the birth, you’ll probably find yourself prompted by your obstetrician or midwife to “have a go at a feeding.” Don’t be rushed into introducing your newborn to the breast before you’re ready, but do bear in mind that if your baby is alert and not crying, this is probably a good moment to see what happens.

An obstetrician, nurse, or midwife will almost certainly stay beside you to help the baby get “latched on” - that is, sucking. properly at the breast. You need to make sure that you’re comfortable before you begin It may be difficult if you’re still lying on the delivery table, for example, but do ask for more pillows if you need them. Your baby can feed lying down next to you or on top of you, or you can sit up to feed her. It’s also perfectly okay to feed her while you’re having stitches, in fact, it can be a good distraction.

Babies aren’t always wide awake in the first hour or so after birth - some are very sleepy and barely give the nipple a second glance before settling back down for another slumber. This can be worrying for a new mother who is anxious to make sure that her new baby has her first proper feeding. You can try to wake your baby(Perfect Baby Christmas Dresses) up by gently tickling her feet or the back of her head. But don’t expect it to be a roaring success. this first time. After all, you’re both novices at this game and very few novices become expert at their first attempt at something new.

Always move your baby to your breast so that she is facing it full on - never move your breast to your baby.

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