Breastfeeding a newborn

Breastfeeding a newborn

The early days of breastfeeding a newborn are crucial to maintaining an adequate milk supply and a sustainable nursing relationship.

It’s important to try to nurse your newborn in the first couple of hours after the birth while s/he is in an active, alert state. If this doesn’t happen it’s not the end of the world, but do try to at least allow the baby to attempt to latch on. Hold him or her skin to skin in the period after birth and he may figure it out on his own!

Nurse your newborn when you notice initial signs of hunger, like rooting, head turning from side to side, or hands in the mouth. Don’t wait until s/he is screaming her head off! Most newborns will eat eight to 12 (or more) times in 24 hours and will nurse in longer sessions than an older baby.

photo credit: Raphael Goetter

In other words, plan on spending a lot of quality time breastfeeding a newborn.

Your baby should, on average, have about six (or more) wet diapers every 24 hours. The diaper situation can vary—as long as your baby is gaining a sufficient amount of weight, you don’t have to worry about milk supply. Keep in mind that if you’re using disposable diapers, it’s harder to tell if they’re wet than if you’re using cloth.

Breastfeeding a newborn can be challenging but is a wonderful period of adjustment and bonding with your new little one. Don’t stress out. Seek out a lactation consultant to get off to a good start and, most importantly, relax and enjoy your baby.