Getting Started

Start as early as possible after the birth of your baby. Feed often. “You CAN’T nurse too often - you CAN nurse too little” ( www.kellymom.com ). Feed at least 8-12 times in 24 hours. It is normal for your baby to want to “cluster feed”, feeding frequently in a short period, and then sleep longer between feeds at other times.

Let your baby feed fully until “finished” on the first breast before switching. The baby will show that they are “finished” by letting go of the breast in a relaxed manner or swallowing less. Offer the second breast. If they only nurse one side, start with the opposite breast the next feed. Let your baby guide the length of feedings.
Bottles and soothers interfere with breastfeeding. Giving a soother or bottle before your baby has learned to breastfeed can cause the baby to have problems latching and decrease your milk supply.
Feed your baby only breast milk.
In hospital get help right away if you are having breastfeeding problems. At home refer to Who to Call for Help ?

Here are two great positions for learning to breastfeed.

Cross Cradle Position	Football Position

Make sure that when positioning you are comfortable before you begin. Your back and arms need to be well supported. It will be helpful to use a pillow behind your back and under your arms as well as under your baby. Place your baby “tummy to tummy” in the cross-cradle hold, and turned on his/her side when using the football hold. Your baby’s mouth is facing you and his/her nose lines up with your nipple.

For latching, refer to the When Latching and Breast Compression handout.

Get help right away if your baby is not showing signs of breastfeeding well. Who to Call for Help?