Breastfeeding in the first weeks

How often to feed

In the first few days, she may feed every 1 to 3 hours. Some babies feed every hour at first. Over the first weeks, expect at least 8 to 12 feeds in 24 hours.

Feed her as often and for as long as she wants. You cannot overfeed a breastfed baby. Night feeds matter, because they help build your milk supply.

Your first milk is called colostrum. It is thick and golden. She only needs about a teaspoon at each feed. Your milk usually comes in 2 to 4 days after the birth. Your breasts then feel fuller.

Signs she is hungry

She gets restless. She sucks her fist or fingers. She makes small murmuring sounds. She turns her head and opens her mouth.

Try to feed her at these early signs. Crying is a late sign. A crying baby is harder to feed.

Helping her latch

• Get comfortable first. Use cushions if you need them. Relax your shoulders.
• Hold her close, facing your breast, with her head and body in a straight line.
• Start with her nose level with your nipple.
• Do not hold the back of her head. She needs to tip it back.
• When her mouth opens wide, bring her to your breast, chin first.
• Bring her to the breast, not the breast to her.

Signs the latch is good

• She has a wide mouth and a big mouthful of breast.
• Her chin touches your breast. Her nose is clear.
• You see more of the dark skin above her top lip than below her bottom lip.
• Her cheeks stay full and round.
• Her quick sucks turn into long, steady sucks and swallows.
• The first sucks may feel strong, but the feed does not hurt.