How to Feed Your Newborn
Healthcare professionals agree that nothing is better for your newborn baby than breast milk. Nutritionally speaking, it’s tailor-made for your infant. Of course, sometimes mothers cannot breastfeed, due to medical problems or other special circumstances. Discuss with your pediatrician how best to feed your newborn. No matter how you decide to feed your baby, be sure to always hold him while feeding. The cuddling that comes with nursing and feeding helps to build a strong, loving bond between you and your baby. Here are a few tips for when you’re breastfeeding your baby:

Get an early start
Nursing should begin within an hour after delivery if possible, when your infant is awake and the sucking instinct is strong. Even though you won’t be producing milk yet, your breasts contain colostrum, a thin fluid that contains beneficial antibodies.

Proper positioning
The baby’s mouth should be wide open, with the nipple as far back into his or her mouth as possible. This minimizes soreness for you. If you’re having trouble getting your baby to latch on or experiencing any pain, rest assured that this is a common problem. Talk to other mothers and seek help from a lactation specialist at your hospital.

Nurse on demand
Newborns need to nurse frequently, about every two hours, and not on any strict schedule. This will stimulate your breasts to produce plenty of milk. Later, the baby can settle into a more predictable routine. Alternate breasts with each feeding: if you started with the right breast with one feeding, start with the left the next.

Use nursing pads
Use a nursing pad, such as super-absorbent, cushiony JOHNSON’S® Nursing Pads, to help eliminate embarrassing leakage between feedings.

Air dry
In the early postpartum period or until your nipples toughen, you should air dry them after each nursing to prevent them from cracking and getting infected. Coating them with breast milk may protect against soreness. Proper positioning at the breast can help prevent sore nipples. If you’re very sore, your baby may not have the nipple far enough back in his or her mouth.

Watch for infection
Watch for infection: Symptoms of breast infection include fever, painful lumps and redness in the breast. These require immediate medical attention. Clean hands and breasts thoroughly before each feeding to avoid infection.

Eat right, get rest
Eat right, get rest: To produce plenty of good milk, you’ll need to eat a balanced diet that includes an extra 500 calories a day and drink six to eight glasses of fluid. Getting the proper amount of rest is crucial when your body is facing these extra challenges.

Click on the links below to download your additional FREE Expert Guides:

• Newborn Sleep Guide 0-3 Months (PDF)
• Infant Sleep Guide 3-6 Months (PDF)
• Baby Sleep Guide 6-18 Months (PDF)
• Toddler Sleep Guide 18+ Months (PDF)