Breastfeeding 101

Breastfeeding is a time for mother and baby to connect. If you are a new mom (or dad!), here are some things to know:

· Breastfeeding is healthy for mom and baby

· Breastfeeding has been hailed by researchers as helping mom and baby maintain appropriate weight

· Breastfeeding has been shown to prevent ovarian cancer for moms, and develop healthier, happier babies

· Your baby also does not need any additional food or drink other than breast milk for the first 6 months of life.


Before you begin breastfeeding, try taking a breastfeeding class or reading books and pamphlets. While breastfeeding is natural and instinctive, it does require some breastfeeding advice, practice and patience to get it right. Tips include breastfeeding your baby within the first few hours of birth (your nurse will help you attach the infant to the breast and get your breastfeeding experience started). You cannot overfeed your breastfed baby, and research shows that babies will breastfeed 8 or more times a day.. You will know that your baby is getting enough breast milk if they feed 6-8 times a day and make 2-3 bowel movements per day. Call your physician if you have any concerns.