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THE FIRST DAYS OF
BREASTFEEDING
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This page of advice is
for the breastfeeding mom during her hospital stay from moments after
delivery to the seventh day.
OFFER THE BREAST WITHIN THE
FIRST HOUR OF BIRTH
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Babies are often
sleepy the FIRST 24 HOURS. Offer your breast every 2 - 3
hours but do not be concerned if your baby seems uninterested.
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AFTER the first
24 hours it is NORMAL for babies to nurse frequently. Let the
baby feed as often as he likes DAY & NIGHT!
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Feed the baby as
SOON as shows signs of hunger. Head turning from side to side,
fist to mouth, and lip licking are all signs of hunger. DON'T
WAIT UNTIL THE BABY IS CRYING!
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DON'T let more
than THREE hours pass between feedings/attempts.
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The MORE often
you feed the MORE milk you will have.
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Breast milk takes up to
5 days to "come in." Until then your breasts produce small amounts
of COLOSTRUM, which fits perfectly in your baby's small
tummy. Colostrum is ALL your baby needs the first few days.
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Allow the baby to
finish the first breast before offering the second. DON'T RUSH!
Depending on appetite, he may or may not feed on the second breast.
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For greatest
breastfeeding success, AVOID the use of BOTTLES, PACIFIERS,
and FORMULA.
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Expect 1 wet diaper on
day 1 (one day - 24 hours), 2 wet diapers on day 2, 3 on day 3, and
so on up to day 7.
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Ask for HELP.
The first few days of breastfeeding can be a challenge. Call your
nurse for assistance or request a Lactation Consultant,
(239) 432-3186, if a problem persists.
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Click here for Infant Feeding Log
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