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Breastfeeding

Breastmilk is the best food for babies. It helps them grow and protects them against infections and allergies. It is also a wonderful way to form a close bond with your newborn.
Breastfeeding is best for moms, too. It helps you get back in shape, and it lowers your risk of breast cancer.
To give your baby the nourishment he needs, eat healthy food and drink plenty of liquids. Mothers can easily make enough milk for one or more infants. With patience and a little practice, almost every mother can breastfeed.

Your Baby Needs to Latch On

Your Baby Needs to Latch On

Your baby’s mouth should be open wide before she begins breastfeeding. She needs to latch on to your nipple and the whole area around it. Her nose, cheeks and chin should all touch your breast. Lift her bottom to move her head back a little or lift your breast slightly with your hand. If you feel pain or your baby fusses or falls asleep right away, start over.

How Often Should I Breastfeed?

How Often Should I Breastfeed?

For the first few weeks, breastfeed every 1 to 3 hours. It’s usually better not to let your baby sleep for more than 5 hours without being fed. If you have more than one baby, feed each baby at least 10 times a day.
The more you breastfeed, the more milk you will make.

Everything You Eat or Drink Goes into Your Baby

If you think something is upsetting your baby’s stomach, try not to eat it for a while. For example, the cow’s milk you drink may cause your baby to have gas. If the problem doesn’t stop, talk to your health care pro-vider. Be sure to limit coffee, tea and cola and avoid alcohol.

Things You Can Do

Where to Find Help

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Breastfeeding Positions

Cradle Hold

Cradle Hold

Hold your baby across your stomach, with her head in the bend of your elbow. You and your baby are tummy to tummy.
For the cross-cradle hold, hold your baby the same way but support her with the arm opposite the breast she’s feeding from.

The Football or Clutch Hold

The Football or Clutch Hold

Place your infant on a pillow at your side. Use one hand to support her head. This hold is good for small babies, or mothers who have had a C-section.

Lying Down

Lying Down

Lie down next to your baby so that his mouth is near your nipple. You may want to place a pillow behind his back for extra support.