There are two key things to remember to protect your baby’s health and your milk supply when breastfeeding. They are essential if you are having any struggles with breastfeeding:
- Feed your baby at least 8 times a day/every 24 hours (after the first day).
- If your baby is not nursing at least 8 times a day (after the first day) or is nursing but not removing your milk, you should hand express or pump. You need to remove milk and empty your breasts at least 8 times a day (during the first few weeks) to protect your milk supply.
Feeding your baby
Newborns need to eat frequently. They have small stomachs and absorb breast milk quickly. Poor feeding can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), dehydration, and increased risk of jaundice that needs to be treated. Any of these can be harmful to your baby’s health. After the first day or so, babies need to eat 8-12 times a day. If your baby is not nursing at least 8 times a day or you are having problems with your milk supply, then your baby may need supplements until any problems can be addressed. If your baby is sleepy, you should wake them up at least every 2-3 hours to feed. Newborns should eat overnight as well.
Removing your milk
In order to have a good milk supply, it is important the first few weeks to remove your milk at least 8 times a day. If your baby is not nursing well at least that many times a day, you need to remove your milk. You can use a breast pump or express your milk by hand. Hand expression is recommended the first 2-3 days instead of pumping, but either method gets the job done.
Two more key points
There are two more critical factors when getting started breastfeeding:
- Learn how to position and latch your baby so that you and your baby are comfortable and your baby can transfer milk from your breasts.
- Get help if you are having any struggles with breastfeeding.
