The science
One of the first signs of pregnancy is heavier, sensitive breasts. As your baby grows inside you, your breasts are preparing for birth. Colostrum, the early milk, is produced in your breasts from four-five months during your pregnancy and for the first days after the birth.
When your baby is born, the levels of prolactin, the milk-producing hormone, rise in your body. When your baby starts sucking, the hormone oxytocin is released, causing the let-down reflex (breast milk is squeezed out of your breast and into your baby’s mouth).
In the first days your baby is fed colostrum, a special thick milk that is low in fat and high in carbohydrates, protein and antibodies. It is easy to digest and low in volume (teaspoons rather than ounces), so your baby needs to breastfeed often. In these early days it is important to breastfeed your newborn at least 8-12 times each 24 hours. Your breasts will produce mature milk around the third or fourth day or anytime up to seven days after the birth. This milk appears thinner and the supply is more abundant.
Young babies need frequent feeds – these will tend to be quicker and more spaced as your baby grows. In the first weeks, you can expect frequent bowel movements and up to six wet nappies a day – this indicates your baby is feeding well.
If your baby is feeding all the time, this could be because they might not be latched on properly (read more on how to breastfeed topic) or they are going through a growth spurt (by feeding often, your baby is increasing your supply). If, at any time, you feel your baby is not thriving, seek support and medical advice.
If your baby is well but not gaining weight, try feeding her/him more often (typically every three hours, but do discuss this with a healthcare professional). Share your concerns with healthcare professionals and a breastfeeding support group.
When your baby is born, the levels of prolactin, the milk-producing hormone, rise in your body. When your baby starts sucking, the hormone oxytocin is released, causing the let-down reflex (breast milk is squeezed out of your breast and into your baby’s mouth).
In the first days your baby is fed colostrum, a special thick milk that is low in fat and high in carbohydrates, protein and antibodies. It is easy to digest and low in volume (teaspoons rather than ounces), so your baby needs to breastfeed often. In these early days it is important to breastfeed your newborn at least 8-12 times each 24 hours. Your breasts will produce mature milk around the third or fourth day or anytime up to seven days after the birth. This milk appears thinner and the supply is more abundant.
Milk changes during the feed
Early in the feeding, your baby receives foremilk, which is thirst-quenching. If they continue feeding, your baby will get hindmilk, which has more fat and calories, satisfying your baby’s hunger. Let your baby stay on one breast until they come off or stop sucking. Then offer your baby the other breast.How much and how often?
Allow your baby to set the pace for feeding in the early weeks. A baby who is well attached will stop feeding when they are full. Your baby might not always need both breasts, but do offer both to be sure.Young babies need frequent feeds – these will tend to be quicker and more spaced as your baby grows. In the first weeks, you can expect frequent bowel movements and up to six wet nappies a day – this indicates your baby is feeding well.
If your baby is feeding all the time, this could be because they might not be latched on properly (read more on how to breastfeed topic) or they are going through a growth spurt (by feeding often, your baby is increasing your supply). If, at any time, you feel your baby is not thriving, seek support and medical advice.
If your baby is well but not gaining weight, try feeding her/him more often (typically every three hours, but do discuss this with a healthcare professional). Share your concerns with healthcare professionals and a breastfeeding support group.
How long should I breastfeed?
The World Health Organisation recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months, then continuing to breastfeed while introducing solids, up to two years and beyond. Some mums breastfeed well into toddlerhood. This is referred to as extended breastfeeding and has benefits for both mum and baby because breastfeeding benefits are cumulative.
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