Baby Nutrition--First Feeding

Breastfeeding is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics as the ideal choice during Baby's first year of life. If you're planning to breastfeed, have your breasts examined at one of your last prenatal checkups. Then ask your doctor to write an order for the hospital that the baby is to be exclusively breastfed.
Try to breastfeed within the first hour of birth when your baby is alert. Sometimes, Baby can't be breastfed immediately because of complications with her or Mom in delivery. Tell your nurse whether your baby is to receive pumped breastmilk or a certain brand of formula. Even if you can't breastfeed at first, a transition can be made back to the breast after leaving the hospital.
When you start breastfeeding, your mature milk won't come in for about three days. Still, your baby will benefit from your early milk, called colostrum, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, easy-to-digest proteins, and protective antibodies that strengthen your baby's immune system.
The first time you breastfeed, you’ll need both patience and practice. But the extra effort you put in at first is worth it when you consider the many long-term benefits for both you and your baby. Before you start, get comfortable and relax. Use pillows to prop you and your baby in a cozy position.
Latching On
The key to successful breastfeeding starts with your baby being able to properly latch on to your breast. Follow these steps to help ensure that your baby latches on correctly and is provided with adequate breastmilk:
1. To start, cup your breast with thumb on top and forefinger underneath, and lightly touch Baby’s lower lip with your nipple. This may be enough to stimulate her rooting reflex, and she’ll turn her head to your nipple, mouth wide open.



2. When Baby opens her mouth wide, draw her in close (rather then leaning in to her). If she is latched on correctly, her lower lip curls down. Her mouth should be around the nipple and as much of the areola as possible. If she’s latched on, you should hear several sucks, a pause, then a swallow.



3. When Baby is properly attached, there’s a strong seal between her mouth and your breast. To release Baby from the breast or to move your baby to the other breast, gently place your finger between her gums to break the sucking action. (Keep your fingernails trimmed to avoid scratching your baby’s mouth.)


source from http://www.verybestbaby.com