Breastfeeding Guidance During Your Hospital Stay

Within the first hour of birth your nurse will assist you with breastfeeding. We encourage you to nurse your baby as often and as long as the baby wants, switching sides regularly to prevent sore nipples on either side. You’ll also want to burp the baby during feedings to avoid painful gas and air build up.

Since babies normally want to eat eight to 12 times in 24 hours, we practice "rooming-in." This enables you to be with your baby around the clock while your maternity staff is close at hand to help build your skills as well as confidence. 

While you’re in the hospital, you’ll receive a breastfeeding diary to help you track each time you nurse, as well as the type of diaper you baby produces. This helps ensure that your milk production is on target and that you baby’s getting the nutrition he or she needs.

The process of breastfeeding and your milk change as your baby grows and develops. A newborn's feeding routine may be different from that of a breastfeeding 6-month-old. As the baby grows, the nutrients in your milk adapt to your growing baby's needs. The anti-infective properties also increase if you or your baby is exposed to some new bacteria or virus.

Questions? Contact our Breastfeeding Help Line: 727-953-9107