Most medical professionals recommend letting a baby eat on demand. But during the first few days of breast-feeding, be sure to awaken your baby for feedings about every 2 hours. This will help to get your milk supply going. To make the transition from sleep gradual and comfortable, try the following:
- Cool your baby off by taking off his or her clothes. Have skin-to-skin contact with your baby as you place him or her for feeding. Keep a light-weight blanket nearby.
- Pat your baby's face gently with a damp washcloth.
- Tickle your baby lightly wherever you get a reaction (on the feet, neck, top of head, or stomach).
- Change your baby's diaper.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Denele Ivins |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 10, 2007 |
Author:Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Last Updated: 05/10/2007
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