You can start feeding your baby as soon as possible after birth or within 1 hour of delivery. This is necessary to get your milk production started. Also, your baby is most alert during this period.
In the first days after giving birth, only a thick yellow ‘milk’ is produced, called colostrum. But don’t worry. Colostrum is sufficient for the needs of the baby in the first few days. It is very rich in nutrients and antibodies and helps protect yoru baby against infections. So you can see how important it is.
During this time, your baby should be offered your breast whenever he or she wants to be fed.Your breasts may also feel empty in the beginning, but it’s all right, because you have enough for what your new baby needs. The milk usually comes in on the 3rd or 4th day. By now, your baby is bigger too and you will have quickly learnt to recognize the cry of hunger.
Feed your baby as long as he or she wants to. If you baby is hungry, the automatic response is to cry. If you baby is contented, he or she will fall asleep or release your nipple spontaneously. Feed your baby as often as and whenever she or he wants to be fed. This is called ‘demand feeding’.
It is important to breast feed your baby for as long as possible but for at least 6 months. Many mothers continue to breast feed even after going back to work. Weigh your baby regularly. You’ll be able to see that your baby puts on weight steadily if he or she is getting enough breast milk.
