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First Time Breastfeeding After Birth
Let’s start with breastfeeding for the first time after birth. Some people recommend delaying breastfeeding until three hours after labor, but this is unnecessary and even counterproductive to optimal post-labor care. Milk is already present in the breasts before birth, and the first milk (colostrum) is packed with essential nutrients. It even helps babies pass their first stool!
That said, every birth story is different and there’s nothing wrong with waiting a few hours if you or your baby need time to recover.
Breastfeeding Expectations and Preparations
One common myth is that you should clean your nipple before breastfeeding. This is false—babies are naturally drawn to their birthing parent’s body and scent. Plus, nipples are prepared to breastfeed at any time and can even produce beneficial bacteria that helps build a strong immune system for baby.
It’s also common for many parents to assume discomfort and irritation are part of breastfeeding when in reality, proper positioning can result in painless feeding. Ideally, baby’s tongue should cover the lower gum line, and their gums should cover the areola. While instances of discomfort from feeding do occur, in such cases consultation with a lactation expert or medical professional can help.
Do You Need To Choose Between Breast and Bottle?
No—you do not need to choose just one way to feed your baby! Depending on your lifestyle, obligations and other circumstances, it may be impossible (not to mention emotionally and mentally draining) for the breastfeeding parent to be the sole feeder. Pumping allows others to help with feeding while giving the breastfeeding parent a break and encouraging bonding time with family members.
If you are concerned about causing “nipple confusion” from alternating between bottle and breast, there are ways to help avoid this:
- Wait until breastfeeding is well established (around 3–4 weeks) before introducing a bottle.
- Find a nipple that is more like breastfeeding. Bottle feeding requires less work for the baby since the milk flow is quicker. Find a nipple that provides a slower flow.
- Express a little breastmilk and put it on your nipple. This gives baby a little taste of what’s to come!
Weaning Off Breastfeeding
Many say all babies should be weaned off breastfeeding before their first birthday, but there is truly no “one fits all” timeline for when your baby should stop breastfeeding. Standard protocol is to begin incorporating foods at about six months, with a combination of breastfeeding and solid foods achieved by baby’s first birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months and encourages continued breastfeeding until at least 12 months, but ultimately, weaning is a personal decision that depends on both parent and child. Personally, I planned to breastfeed my daughter until 18 months, but by 14 months, she naturally began moving on!
Check out these podcasts on Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding!
At the Prenatal Yoga Center, we hold both in-person and online classes for expectant and postpartum folks. To view our list of classes for Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga click the button below.
FAQs
How long should you wait after birth to start breastfeeding?
No waiting is necessary! If baby is ready, breastfeeding can begin immediately since colostrum is already present in the breasts.
Can baby formula replicate breast milk?
No formula can fully replicate the unique nutrients and immune-boosting properties of natural breast milk. However, there are wonderful and nutritional formulas if you choose this route.
When should a baby be introduced to solid food?
While there’s no exact timeline, most babies are ready for solid foods around six months. Please consult with your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns.
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