Breastfeeding

Tips for new moms

Breastfeeding in the first 6 months

• Breastfeed your baby as soon as possible after birth. Keep your baby's bed in your room in the hospital and at home. It is easier to breastfeed a hungry baby right away if you are always together.
• Breastfeed your baby when she is hungry. She will show you she is hungry by sucking on her hands, moving her mouth or eyes, or stretching. Do not wait until she is frustrated and crying.
• It is normal for your body to make only small amounts of milk during the first few days after your baby is born. This milk, called colostrum, will protect your baby from germs and illness. Your body will make more milk 2 to 4 days after birth.
• Newborns need to breastfeed every few hours. Breastfeed your baby at least 8 times every 24 hours during the first few weeks after birth. The longer and more often your baby breastfeeds, the more milk your body will make. After about a month, your baby should learn to take in more milk with fewer feedings.
• Do not use pacifiers or bottles in the first few weeks after birth - they may make it hard for your baby to breastfeed.
• Your baby will want to breastfeed more often during growth spurts at 2 to 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Your body will make enough milk at these times to meet his needs.
• Talk with a breastfeeding specialist before giving your baby formula for the first time. Using formula will cause your body to make less milk.