Once your baby is born, keeping your baby on your chest is one of the best things you can do for both of you. From birth until about 3-4 months of age, your baby’s breastfeeding abilities rely on instinct and reflexes. Placing your naked baby on your chest between your breasts will stimulate these reflexes and allow baby to start seeking your breast.
Be confident that any standard exams or procedures can be done right there in your arms – baths, weighing and eye drops can all wait until after the two of you have had a good, leisurely first nursing.
Be aware that baby may need a whole hour just to smell, touch, feel and listen to you before they make an attempt to latch. Once the baby latches, breastfeeding can last for well over an hour. Did you know that the temperature of your body actually increases while you breastfeed, helping your baby stay warm!