Congratulations, new mama! The journey you’ve just begun is one of the most incredible adventures of your life. As you settle in with your new baby, it’s completely natural to have questions and concerns about breastfeeding. The early hours and days after birth are a crucial time for both you and your baby, and understanding what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty. Here is some reality-based expectations in those early moments of breastfeeding and address some common concerns.
Will I Get Help from Professionals Right After Birth?
In most hospitals, you’ll be surrounded by a caring team of professionals, but it’s important to know that immediate, specialized breastfeeding support might not always be available right at the time of birth. While labor and delivery nurses are often knowledgeable and can assist with breastfeeding, they may be busy with making sure both you and baby are well and their availability to focus on breastfeeding can vary.
Lactation consultants, who are breastfeeding experts, usually come into the picture a bit later—often after 24 hours of the birth, when your baby starts waking up more and showing interest in feeding. While they may not be there during in those early hours, they’re typically available to help once you and your baby have settled in and are ready to focus on breastfeeding.
What if My Baby Doesn’t Latch Right Away?
It’s very common for babies to not latch perfectly right after birth. Immediately they may latch and then become sleepy. Your baby might be sleepy from the delivery and might not be ready to nurse for a period of time in the first 24 hours. This can be perfectly normal, but it can also feel frustrating or worrying, especially if you’re eager to get breastfeeding started.
If your baby doesn’t latch right away, don’t panic. Skin-to-skin contact is your best friend during this time. Holding your baby close, skin to skin, can help regulate their temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and it can also stimulate their natural instincts to breastfeed. This bonding time is incredibly valuable, even if your baby isn’t actively nursing.
What Should I Do if My Baby Doesn’t Latch?
If you find yourself in a situation where your baby isn’t latching despite the nurses assistance, you still have options. One practical step you can take is to manually express some colostrum from each of your breasts for several minutes — this is your first milk, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies. Even if it’s just a few drops, this colostrum can be fed to your baby using a small spoon or syringe.
Hand expressing colostrum can also help stimulate your milk supply and encourage your baby to latch later on. Once your baby has had a little taste, they might be more interested in trying to latch again.
Will I Have Something to Offer My Baby?
Yes, absolutely! Even if your baby doesn’t latch right away, your body is already producing colostrum. This thick, nutrient-packed milk is exactly what your baby needs in those early hours and days. Your baby’s stomach can not hold much at the time of birth, so even small amounts of colostrum are sufficient to meet their needs.
Remember, it’s okay if breastfeeding doesn’t happen perfectly right away. Your body and your baby are learning together, and it’s all part of the process.
When Will I See a Lactation Consultant?
Lactation consultants are a fantastic resource, but they typically aren’t in the room immediately after birth. They usually visit you within the second 24 hours of the baby’s life, once you and your baby have had some time to rest and recover. By this time, your baby might be more awake and ready to try breastfeeding, and the lactation consultant can offer personalized guidance on how to achieve a good latch and address any concerns you might have.
Should I Give My Baby Formula if Breastfeeding Doesn’t Start Right Away?
The decision to supplement with formula is a personal one and depends on your specific situation. If your baby isn’t latching and you’re concerned about their intake, talk to your healthcare provider about your options. In most cases, your baby can get everything they need from colostrum in those first days, even if it’s just a small amount.
However, if you’re feeling stressed or your baby has specific medical needs, your healthcare provider might suggest supplementing with the colostrum and/or formula. This doesn’t mean you’ve failed at breastfeeding; it’s simply another way to ensure your baby is getting what they need at that particular time.
Take It One Step at a Time
Breastfeeding is a journey, and like any journey, it can have its ups and downs. The most important thing is to take it one step at a time and ask for help when you need it. Whether your baby latches right away or it takes a little longer, you’re doing an incredible job. Each small victory, whether it’s a successful latch, a few drops of colostrum, or a peaceful moment of skin-to-skin contact, is something to celebrate.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Reach out to your healthcare team, lactation consultants, and other support resources available to you. Breastfeeding might have a learning curve, but with patience, persistence, and support, you and your baby will find your rhythm together. You’ve got this, mama!