Starting Breastfeeding

Give your baby the first feed as soon as possible after birth.
Frequent unrestricted feeding, meeting the baby’s needs, will stimulate the production of milk. Go along with your baby and feed as required.

• Feed frequently whenever your baby cries or seems hungry.
• Let your baby finish the first breast before offering the second breast.
• Your baby will need to feed during the night (this also helps prevent your breasts becoming too full and uncomfortable).
• Your baby will probably want at least 6-8 feeds in 24 hours (many young babies have more than this – often 10-12 feeds).
• Giving complementary bottles (“comps”) will reduce your baby’s need to suck at the breast and so reduce your supply.

Babies also suckle for comfort – this is not feeding, but is perfectly acceptable. As your baby grows, they will nurse more vigorously and this may reduce the suckling time.