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About breastfeeding:
Breastfeeding can take place within 30 minutes to an hour after birth.
Newborns are very alert after the first hour of birth, so this is the ideal
time to establish a breastfeeding relationship. Human milk provides protection
against infection that is important immediately following birth. The baby will
gain nutrients to prevent low blood sugar levels. The baby will also be
stimulated to nurse better later, when it experiences an early taste of
milk.
Breastfeeding after delivery establishes a strong emotional bond between mother
and baby. Studies show that this type of bond helps the baby develop a trusting
relationship with the mother and helps the baby better adapt to life outside
the womb.
Your body actually prepares for breastfeeding as your baby grows inside of you.
Your breasts become fuller and begin to make colostrum—a yellowish substance
that contains the protective white blood cells, which protect against harmful
bacteria. This is what your baby will receive during the first few feedings.
Within a few days, milk will come in.
When the baby takes the nipple in his or her mouth, the sensation triggers an
automatic reflex called let-down to occur. This signals your breast to release
milk. Breastfeeding works on a supply and demand principle. Your body will know
just how much milk to produce to meet your baby’s needs. The more stimulation
your breasts receive from your baby, the more milk you produce. Your body also
knows what type of milk your baby needs at his or her particular developmental
stage.
The decision not to breastfeed:
There are circumstances that can change your plans to breastfeed. The ultimate
decision may depend on the infant’s physical condition and your health
following the birth. Some babies are unable to adequately breastfeed due to
premature birth, small size, weak physical condition, difficulty sucking, birth
defects of the mouth, or digestive problems.
Mothers may be unable to breastfeed because of a breast infection or abscess,
breast cancer or other cancer, previous surgery or radiation treatment, or an
uncommon condition that causes inadequate milk supply. Serious illness, eclampsia,
nephritis, active tuberculosis, HIV infection or AIDS, active herpes infection or
severe malnutrition may also preclude a mother from breastfeeding.
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