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Breast-Feeding: Waking Your Baby

Topic Overview

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 lightweight blanket nearby.
  • Tickle your baby lightly wherever you get a reaction (on the feet, neck, top of head, or stomach).
  • Change your baby's diaper.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Mary Robbins, RNC, IBCLC - Lactation Consultant
Last Revised April 13, 2011

Last Revised: April 13, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Mary Robbins, RNC, IBCLC - Lactation Consultant

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