The First Six Weeks

Breast milk is the best food you can give to your

baby. Breast milk is a complete food source,

containing all the nutrients your baby need - at

least 400 of them to be exact, including hormones

and disease fighting compounds that aren't found

in formula.

The nutritional makeup in breast milk will adjust

to your baby's needs as he or she grows and

develops. Aside from the brain building, infection

fighting benefits of breast milk, which no formula

can match, nursing will also help to build a special

bond between you and your baby. When nursing,

your child thrives on the contact, cuddling, and

holding - which you will as well.

Since breast feedings can take up to 40 minutes or

more, you should pick a cozy spot for nursing. The

atmosphere is very important, even more so in the

early days of breast feeding when you're still

trying to get the hang of it. If you get easily

distracted by noise, go somewhere quiet.

You should always hold your baby in a position

that won't leave your arms or back sore. It works

the best to support the back of your baby's head

with your hand, although which position you choose

depends on what's more comfortable to you.

When supporting your baby, a nursing pillow can

sometimes be a big help. You should never feed

until both you and your baby are comfortable. Pay

attention to how your breasts feel when your baby

latches on, as his mouth should cover most of the

areola below the nipple, and the nipple should be

far back into your baby's mouth.

While some women adjust to breast feeding easily,

other moms find it hard to learn. If you feel

discouraged, always know that you aren't the only

one. Everyone feels different when starting, it

all depends on the mother and the situation.

Breast feeding will take practice. Therefore, you

should give yourself as much time as you need to

get it down to second nature. Always take it one

feeding at a time. If you are having a bad day,

tell yourself that it'll get better. Keep in mind

that any problems are temporary, as you'll be

nursing like a pro by your six week postpartum

checkup.

The first six weeks will be both an adventure and

training. You can't expect to know everything when

you begin, which is where training and practice will

really help you excel. The more you breast feed,

the more you'll learn. You'll also build a bond

with your baby - which is something you'll always

have for the rest of your lives.