First breastfeed
Languages
First breastfeed
Babies have such a strong instinct to breastfeed. Usually in that first hour your baby will start to show signs of being ready to feed. If left, they will move towards your breast and latch on by themselves.
Babies have such a strong instinct to breastfeed. Usually in that first hour your baby will start to show signs of being ready to feed such as nuzzling, hand sucking or mouthing (opening their mouth and turning their head). If left, they will move towards your breast and latch on by themselves.
Feed whenever your baby wants to feed. Keeping your baby close to you, including sleeping in the same room at night (not in your bed), will help ensure you do not miss the signs that your baby is ready to feed.
The first milk (colostrum) is like gold - it's full of goodness and helps protect your baby from infection. Breast milk is also full of antibodies. Your baby will feed on colostrum for the first 2-3 days until your milk comes in.
Free parenting advice
PlunketLine
0800 933 922
Free health advice
www.healthline.govt.nz (link is external)
0800 611 116
Content endorsed by
Paediatric Society of NZ
Supported by
Ministry of Health NZ
Supported by
Starship Foundation
This page last reviewed 02 June 2013.
Email us your feedback