Helpful Breastfeeding Hints

1. Breastfeed your baby in the first few hours of life. The first breastmilk is rich in nutrients and is the baby's first immunization. Newborn babies are usually alert and ready to eat in the first few hours after birth. This is the perfect time to get to know your baby and practice how to feed.
2. Some babies cluster their feedings. Your baby may breastfeed several times close together and then sleep for a few hours. Breastfeeding frequently doesn't mean that you don't have enough milk. Your baby is helping you to produce just the right amount of milk. Babies set their own feeding schedule which will change as the baby grows.
3. Breastfeed your baby based on infant cues. Crying is a late sign of hunger. The baby is ready to eat when you see the following cues.
   • moving mouth (eyes may be closed)
   • putting hands to mouth
   • moving head
4. Breastfeeding should not be painful. For the first few seconds you may feel some stretching discomfort. If you experience prolonged pain, the baby may not be attached to your breast correctly. It may take a little practice for you and baby to learn how to breastfeed. If you have pain, contact a lactation specialist or consult with your physician.

Tips for Getting and Keeping a Good Milk Supply

• Breastfeed the baby 8-12 times each day. This will help your baby grow well.
• Breastfeed as often as the baby wants to at night. Your body may produce more hormones to make milk at night. Most babies have their days and nights 'mixed up' in their early life. It will change with time.
• Don't give your baby a pacifier for the first few weeks of life. The baby may suck differently on your breasts if given a pacifier. This can cause pain for you if the baby is not sucking correctly. Constant pain is not normal when breastfeeding.
• Don't give any formula to your baby unless there is a medical reason. Your breasts only produce milk when the baby sucks on them. When you give formula, your breast will not be stimulated to make more milk.

Good for You! Good for Baby!

You are giving your baby a healthy start by choosing to breastfeed. Some benefits of breastfeeding inlcude:

• Natural protection from sickness
• Money savings
• Less ear infections
• Less risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
• Less risk of obesity
• Less risk of breast cancer for mother

How to Know that your Baby is Getting Enough to Eat

Your baby is likely getting enough to eat if you notice the following:

• From the fifth day of life onward, your baby has at least 6-8 wet diapers and 3-4 stools every day
• Your baby awakens easily and has a strong cry
• You baby breastfeeds 8-12 times each day
• By the third day of life your baby swallows with every suck
• Your baby is gaining weight after the first few days of life

Notify the doctor if your baby is not doing these things.