Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both mother and infant, requiring both time and patience.

When to Start

Research shows that the critical days for breastfeeding success are the first six to seven days after delivery, and later near the baby's sixth week. It is important to get the help you need through these times. Fatigue may play a large role in any doubts about continuing breastfeeding. If possible, get help with the household chores and infant care, allowing time for rest and comfort. Do not hesitate to accept help when offered. Simplify the chores as much as possible, such as using paper plates/cups or using a grocery delivery service.

Breastfeeding after a Cearean Birth
A cesarean birth does not directly affect the breastfeeding process. However, discomfort, fatigue, and the medications used in surgery may present more of a challenge when you begin breastfeeding. Nurse your baby as soon after delivery as possible (and on demand every one to three hours per 24 hours, which is 8-12 times per 24 hours ). Once you begin regular feedings, your milk supply will increase.

Your partner or support person will be a valuable asset in assisting you as you lift and position your baby. You may be more comfortable using the football hold, side-lying, or cradle hold while cushioning your abdomen with a pillow.

The First Few Weeks of Breastfeeding

If possible, put your baby to your breast within the first hour after birth. Nurses can teach you ways to help the baby latch on using the best positioning to ensure success. Continue to feed your baby on demand every one to three hours per 24 hours (8-12 times per 24 hours). Frequent feedings minimize feeding problems and are the best way to prevent breast engorgement.

Getting Started

• Create a peaceful "nursing station" and allow yourself to relax.
• Find a comfortable position, such as in a chair, with ample room on the sides and back for pillows to support your baby and your arms. Sitting up in bed with pillows under your legs or using a footstool when in a chair will help you be comfortable.
• Unwrap your baby and check his/her diaper; change it if needed. This will help arouse and stimulate your baby to nurse, especially if your baby is sleepy. If your baby is awake and ready to nurse, wait until after the first breast to change your baby's diapers.
• It is normal for babies to be sleepy the first 24-48 hours after birth. Attempt to breastfeed every one to three hours per 24 hours (8 – 12 times per 24 hours).

Breastfeeding Positions

Cradle Hold (Tummy to Tummy)
Cross Cradle Hold (Tummy to Tummy)
Football Hold
Side-Lying Position

Latching On

If your baby latches on only to your nipple and not the areola, problems may develop, such as sore nipples and inadequate milk supply for your baby.

You may have to repeat these steps several times before your baby latches-on correctly

1. Sit or lie tummy-to-tummy with your baby. Make sure your baby's ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line.
2. Bring your baby close to your breast.
3. Touch your nipple to your baby's lower lip.
4. When his/her mouth opens wide, quickly pull your baby in to latch on. Since your baby's mouth will be open for only a few seconds, you will need to pull him/her toward your breast quickly. NOTE: Bring your baby to your breast, not your breast to his/her head.
5. Your baby will be able to breathe even though his/her nose may press against your breast. It is helpful in the first week to continue to support the weight of your breast throughout the nursing session. Support your baby's head at the base of the neck as well.
6. Look for the following things after your baby is latched on:
   • Your baby's mouth should surround the tip of your nipple and about one inch of the areola.
   • The lips should be turned outward against the breast.
   • The motion of the suck is along the jaw, not in the cheeks.
   • Baby's ears, shoulder and hip should be in a straight line.
   • Breastfeeding should not hurt. You should feel a rhythmic tug on your breast, and a little bit of nipple tenderness is normal during the learning period. However sore, bleeding or cracked nipples are not normal.

Taking Your Baby Off the Breast and Burping

Taking Your Baby Off the Breast
Not every breastfed baby needs to burp with each feeding. Generally, breastfed babies do not swallow as much air as bottlefed babies. If your baby has been crying before the feeding, and is pulling on and off the breast, try burping then try breastfeeding again. Some babies do not burp immediately and you may need to try several positions.

Helpful positions for burping your baby

• Holding the baby with his/her chest and tummy against your shoulder.
• Lying baby tummy-down across your lap.
• Sitting the baby up, leaning forward with your hand supporting the baby's stomach, and his/her chin supported between your humb and forefingers.