Chest/Breastfeeding

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Human milk is the natural food for newborns, it contains everything your baby needs. It's important to remember that you have the right to nurse anywhere, anytime.

Health care providers recommend that you feed your baby human milk exclusively for the first six months. Your baby requires no other liquids during this time. After that, you can continue to nurse your baby for up to two years and beyond. Nursing is very important for you, your baby, and your family. Not only is it free and therefore reduces costs for your family, it also promotes bonding between you and your baby.

For you, nursing may control postpartum bleeding (flow after birth from birth canal/vagina), help you lose the weight you gained in pregnancy more quickly, and slow down the return of your period. For your baby, nursing and human milk protects them from many infections and illnesses, builds healthy eating habits, and promotes healthy jaw and brain development.

It is recommended that you feed your newborn based on their cues. This will likely be 8 or more times per 24 hours (day and night).

For some people nursing comes easily, for others it may be a skill that takes practice and patience. It can take some babies extra time to latch properly. Life with a new baby in the first few weeks is tiring, and nursing hormones can help you manage by enhancing the quality of your sleep. Having good support is really important. Most nursing concerns can be resolved with support.

The links below have lots of information on nursing, how your body prepares for lactation, how your partner and family can support you, how to tell if your baby is getting enough milk, storing human milk, helpful tips for getting a good latch and finding comfortable feeding positions, as well as information on taking medications and other drugs while nursing.