How do you go about the first breast feeding??
Thanks for your answers!
Answers:
I think this is really great that you are choosing to educate yourself so early. So many people just assume 'it'll just happen' and end up having troubles and feeling forced to switch to formula.
First off - I highly recommend a doula, or childbirth coach. They are worth the money (and if you don't have the money,there are many that will volunteer to help you anway) and they can help you with breastfeeding problems afterwards. Not to mention the fact that there is oodles of proof that having a childbirth coach with you lowers your risk of needing an epidural, forceps,vaccum,episiotomy and cesarean, considerably. See the first link in my sources.
On to your question! (sorry, I have to tell every pregnant woman I know about doulas because I can't say enough about how much mine helped me!) Colostrum is all a baby needs in the first few days. Depending on the type of birth the milk will usually come in within three days. (I say this because in a drug-free, vaginal birth milk comes in usually within 24 hours - in a cesarean it can take up to 3-4 days, sometimes more)
Colostrum is INCREDIBLY rich in proteins, and nutrients. In fact, more so than regular breastmilk! you will have very little of it but it is VERY concentrated and definetley all your baby needs. Your baby WILL lose weight after birth but this is a normal process and as long as they don't lose more than 10% of their body weight it is normal (the hospital will tell you this as well). Once your milk comes in,it will REALLY come in, and you will be very full. Baby will nurse, and nurse, and nurse and nurse to make your milk come in and establish your supply (establishing the supply can take up to 3 months). Feedings can last an hour sometimes, and then they could be hungry half an hour later - this is NORMAL don't worry. Baby will be working very hard to bring that milk in and make sure s/he is going to get enough in the long run.
Do make sure that you learn about proper latching. The beginning of a breastfeeding relationship can be very (VERY) difficult if you have no help and don't know what you're doing, or have nurses/help that doesn't know proper latching. See the second link in the sources.
Congratulations on your pregnancy, enjoy your last trimester, and best wishes for birth and breastfeeding!
Other Answers:
Colostrum is just fine for the few couple of days. And the nurses at the hospital will be very helpful, just ask them to help you out. Good luck with your baby!
They will give her to you right after she is born to get the colostrum. It also begins the bond with your baby and start your milk flowing.
By the way, once you are done nursing...to dry your milk up, place a cabbage leaf on your breast. It trully works...my doctor gave me that advice with my first and its a miracle.
contact your local LaLeche League. They give you good advise and will help you with all your concerns. Read alot and you will find that your fears will be replaced with logical, substantiated information. You will do great, but set yourself up for success. Do your homework. Your baby deserves it. Colostrum is the early milk. It is very nutritious, and has *lots* of antibodies to various diseases. It is perfect for the first day or two after the baby is born, when they aren't really ready to eat much. If you nurse frequently (at least every 2 hours, or at least 10-12 times) during the first 24 hours, you will probably find that your mature milk "comes in" within 48 hours. If not, or if you have certain medical conditions, it could take up to 5 days.
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