Theresa Lucker nurses her son shortly after birth. Nursing soon after birth will help your uterus contract by stimulating the release of oxytocin. This first time at the breast is a time to introduce your baby to breastfeeding. Don t expect too much or try to practice everything you ve read or learned. Some babies will just nuzzle and lick the breast, while others will latch on immediately.
Mothers are usually more rested and less stressed when they are with their babies.
This allows you to wake up naturally when your baby wakes for a feeding, and to respond to your newborn s early signs of hunger, such as stretching, rooting, or a change in his breathing pattern. Before you leave the hospital, you should be able to tell whether your baby is latching on properly, and whether he is getting colostrum or milk from the breast. If you and your baby are leaving the hospital without knowing this, or if you have very sore nipples, seek help immediately. Supplements of water, sugar water, or formula are rarely needed if your baby is taking the breast properly and getting the milk that is available. Remember that milk production is a supply and demand situation.