You've gazed into your baby's eyes, counted fingers and toes, and breathed a sigh of happy relief. Now it's time to nurse your baby. It's ideal to nurse the baby for the first time within 30 to 60 minutes after birth. This is when babies are usually alert and eager to get to know their mothers. While they may not be very hungry, many babies already know that sucking can be soothing, and they will feel calm and relaxed suckling at the breast.
Most babies nurse well from the start.
But, some conditions can make the first nursing harder. If you want help, ask for the breastfeeding specialist to assist you. Many hypoglycemic babies show no signs, however. Hypoglycemic babies need to eat fairly soon and often. Colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk, is an excellent food for these babies.