When to Seek Help
Call your baby's doctor or breastfeeding counselor if:
- Baby has less than 4 dirty diapers and 6 wet diapers a day by the end of the first week.
- Baby nurses fewer than 8 times in 24 hours.
- It hurts to nurse your baby.
- You can't hear baby swallowing.
- Baby seems fussy.
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Getting Started
- Let your doctor know you plan to breastfeed.
- Tell nursing staff you want baby to have only breastmilk and would like to have your baby in the room with you.
- Watch your baby.
- Feeding cues include moving around, smacking lips, and sucking hands.
- Try to nurse before your baby cries, because crying babies are hard to feed.
- When full, baby will fall asleep or spit out the nipple.
- Is baby getting enough?
- By the end of the first week, baby has 6 to 8 wet diapers and 4 or more dirty diapers a day.
- Baby seems satisfied and relaxed after nursing.
- You can hear or see your baby swallow.
- Baby wants to nurse 8 to 12 times in 24 hours.
- Baby gains weight (4 to 8 oz. a week).
- Take care of yourself.
- Drink when you are thirsty.
- Eat when you are hungry (at least every 4 hours).
- Rest when you can. Ask for help around the house.
- Enjoy your baby!
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