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Home › Articles › Breastfeeding Basics › Precious Moments

Precious Moments

Making the Most of First Nursings

By Melissa Clark Vickers, IBCLC

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

What will it feel like?

I remember being surprised at the strength my babies had that first time. Tiny as they are, newborns are ready, willing and able to nurse! You'll feel some suction, but it shouldn't hurt! If it doesn't feel right, then use your little finger to slide in the corner of his mouth. This will break the suction, and you can gently take him off and try again. Remember, this is practice!

Will he get any milk?

This is a common concern of new moms, and naturally so. Remember that pregnancy has been preparing your body to breastfeed, and delivery sets full milk production in motion. You already have colostrum – the concentrated "liquid gold" – and your mature milk will come in a few days from now.

Take a look at your baby's fist. That's how big his stomach is! It won't take much to fill him up, and he may be ready to eat again soon. That's the wonderful thing about how the whole system works. Both of you need to practice to get comfortable nursing, and his body is set up to need small amounts of milk at a time. Your colostrum is just perfect for short, frequent feedings. By the time your mature milk comes in, you'll both be ready.

How can I tell if my baby is latched on well?

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