- Choose a comfortable place for breastfeeding. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be. If you or your baby are easily distracted, find somewhere quiet.
- You may feel dehydrated while breastfeeding so always keep a glass of water handy.
- Holding your baby correctly when breastfeeding is essential so your arms and back do not get sore.
- Bring your baby's head close to your breast and gently touch his cheek with your nipple. His head should turn towards your nipple. Then, gently brush his lip with your nipple to encourage him to latch on.
- When your baby latches on correctly his mouth should cover the entire nipple and a large portion of the surrounding breast tissue. If latching hurts, break the suction by gently inserting a clean finger between the baby's gums and your nipple. Try again. Do not get discouraged if you (and your baby) find breastfeeding hard at first. This is quite normal.
- Your baby will suck rhythmically for 10-15 minutes on each breast, but he may pause periodically. He should seem satisfied after nursing, and may fall asleep at the second breast.
- Your newborn should nurse between 8-12 times in 24 hours, that is, every 2 to 3 hours. But some babies may nurse more frequently, even hourly. You may need to wake your newborn up for feedings because they may not demand to be fed often enough, especially during the first week or two.
- After breastfeeding your baby, you should burp him to get rid of any swallowed air.
