While you are pregnant
Learn as much as you can about breastfeeding.
- Read about breastfeeding.
- Attend a breastfeeding class.
When you deliver
- Hold your baby skin-to-skin right after birth, and throughout your hospital stay. This helps your baby adjust from womb to world, and is comforting for both of you.
- Breastfeed within one hour of delivery, and frequently thereafter. It may take a while to get the hang of it since you are both learning together. Practice breastfeeding every 1 to 2 hours – whenever your baby shows early signs of hunger. This helps you make plenty of milk.
- Room-in with your baby. Keep your baby with you both day and night. Rest when your baby rests. Limit visitors. This early time of being together is precious.
- Give your baby breast milk only. Unless ordered by your healthcare provider, do not offer any water, formula or other liquids.
- Do not give your baby a pacifier until 3 to 4 weeks of age. Breastfeeding is great for soothing a fussy baby.
- Get help with breastfeeding while you are in the hospital. Ask to see a Lactation Consultant or other resource.
- Before leaving the hospital, find out who to contact for help and support once you are back home.
After baby comes
Breastfeeding support is very important for achieving your breastfeeding goals.
When you travel
Here is where you will find information about how to travel with your child (and without your child) when you are breastfeeding. Includes a link to the latest TSA regulations about expressed milk.