Every major health organization recognizes breastfeeding as the ideal first food for babies.
The American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Recommends:
- Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months
- Continued breastfeeding as complimentary foods are introduced
- Continuation of breastfeeding for 1 year or longer as mutually desired by mother and infant
Get off to a good start!
- Skin-to-skin contact is important right after birth and continuing until breastfeeding and your milk supply are well established.
- Start breastfeeding within 1 hour after delivery.
- Keep your baby in your room so that you can nurse on demand.
- Don’t give baby a pacifier or any artificial nipples until breastfeeding is well established, usually 3-4 weeks after birth.
- Colostrum is the first milk that your baby gets and he or she just needs small amounts, your milk will come in after a few days.
- Nurse often, at least 8 times a day, so that you will continue to increase your milk supply.
- Before you switch to formula, get help from a breastfeeding professional! Your pediatrician can help or guide you to someone who can help.