Q: Will my baby get any milk during the first feeding?
A: 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.
By Melissa Clark Vickers
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
Moms & Babies Huntingdon, Tenn.
