Last updated on Feb 16th, 2021 at 11:20 am
The benefits of breastfeeding go beyond nutrition for your baby. During the first three days of nursing, you will probably still try to figure out how and when to feed your baby. Find some reassurance by knowing what to expect with these five helpful bits of information.
ALSO SEE: The benefits of short-term breastfeeding
Skin-to-skin
Skin-to-skin contact with your baby can help her latch on faster. Be patient, as it usually takes newborns an hour to latch naturally. Take your time and enjoy bonding with your baby.
ALSO SEE: How to get a good breastfeeding latch
Get some sleep
Rest is crucial to recuperate after labour. It will help you to feel more relaxed when nursing your little one, maintain your energy levels for a new baby, and ensure milk production.
Don’t schedule breastfeeding
For those first few days, try to breastfeed your baby on demand, as the breast milk is important for your baby’s early development.
Know what to expect
Talk to your doctor about what to look out for when you start to breastfeed and when to be concerned. Follow your intuition.
ALSO SEE: How to prepare for breastfeeding
Prepare for the second night
Your newborn will most likely sleep peacefully for long periods of time on her first day. Be prepared after those 24 hours, as she will now be awake and want to be fed and soothed.
