Breastfeeding Techniques

Breastfeeding is a skill you and your baby will learn together. Read on for tips, information and advice to help you get started. 

When to Start

Right after birth, your baby is eager to breastfeed. Place your baby skin-to-skin immediately and often during the first days. This helps your baby adjust and breastfeed better. Full-term infants show feeding cues like rooting and suckling. The first feedings are crucial and positive experiences for both of you.

Your baby’s initial alertness is followed by deeper sleep. At around 20 to 24 hours old, your baby will be more awake and interested in nursing, often cluster feeding. Normal, healthy newborns may breastfeed every hour or several times in one hour, especially in the evening or early morning. 

Breastfeeding After a C-Section

A Cesarean birth doesn’t directly affect breastfeeding, but discomfort and fatigue may present challenges. Nurse your baby as soon as possible (8 to 12 times per 24-hour period). Your partner can help lift and position your baby. You may find the football hold, side-lying, laid-back or cradle hold more comfortable. 

The First Few Days of Breastfeeding

The first two weeks are critical for breastfeeding success. Get help with household chores and infant care to allow time for rest. Create a comfortable “nursing station” and relax. Find a comfortable position with pillows for support. Unwrap your baby and check their diaper to stimulate them to nurse. Breastfeed 8 to 12 times per 24-hour period. 

Breastfeeding Positions

• Cradle Hold (Tummy-to-Tummy)
• Cross Cradle Hold (Tummy-to-Tummy)
• Football Hold
• Side-Lying Position
• Laid Back Position

Latching On

Ensure your baby latches onto the areola, not just the nipple, to avoid sore nipples and ensure a good milk supply. Sit tummy-to-tummy with your baby, bring them close and place your nipple under their nose. When their mouth opens wide, quickly pull them in to latch on. Support your baby’s head at the base of the neck. 

Look for these signs after latching on:

• Baby's chin touching the breast, mouth fully open
• Lips turned outward against the breast
• Sucking motion along the jaw
• Ear, shoulder, and hip in a straight line

Breastfeeding should not hurt; you should feel a strong rhythmic tug. 

Taking Baby Off The Breast 

Break the suction by slipping your finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth. Don’t remove your baby until the suction is released to avoid sore nipples. 
 

Burping Your Baby

Not every breastfed baby needs to burp with every feeding. If your baby is fussy, spitting up or pulling on and off the breast, try burping them. Pat their back between the shoulder blades gently but firmly.

Helpful positions for burping:

• Hold baby upright against your shoulder
• Lay baby tummy-down across your lap
• Sit baby on your lap, leaning forward with your hand supporting their cheeks and tummy.