Breast milk is the optimal food for newborns. It has the right balance of fat, protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals, plus antibodies that help protect against many illnesses. Experts suggest exclusively breastfeeding for at least the first six months, then starting to introduce solid food. After that, breastfeeding should continue for up to two years or as long as both the mother and baby want.¹

Making a breastfeeding plan will help you set goals and explain your baby’s feeding needs. It will also help the hospital understand how to support your ideal breastfeeding experience. Having a plan will set clear expectations and give you, your partner, and your hospital team more confidence.

Prenatal Preparation for Breastfeeding in the Hospital

• Take a Breastfeeding Class 
  • Before starting your feeding plan, the best way to prepare is by taking a breastfeeding class. You will learn the best practices for breastfeeding, how to avoid common breastfeeding challenges, and establish a relationship with the breastfeeding community. Support and education are powerful tools that will significantly influence your breastfeeding journey. 
• Find a Breastfeeding Friendly Hospital 
  • Where you have your baby can affect your breastfeeding experience and increase your chances of success. Find out if your hospital is designated as “Baby Friendly.”²
    • What is a Baby-Friendly Hospital?
      • The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a worldwide program that promotes better breastfeeding practices. BFHI helps hospitals use the best tools and resources to support breastfeeding. Hospitals that meet the international standards and pass a performance review are given the “Baby-Friendly” label. Moms who deliver at a Baby-Friendly Hospital have better chances for breastfeeding success and have more support available.²

Prenatal Breastfeeding Consultation

Talk to your hospital’s International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and set up a prenatal breastfeeding consultation. This is a great time to ask questions, share any concerns, and learn the basics of breastfeeding from an expert. You can also discuss any health issues and how they might affect breastfeeding. Together, you can make a feeding plan and set goals for the hospital, at home, and even when you return to work.

Here’s What to Include in Your Breastfeeding Plan for the Hospital:

• Feeding Method
  Let the hospital staff know if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, exclusively pump, or do a combination of both.
• Immediately After Delivery
  Tell your doctor and the hospital staff that you want to do skin-to-skin contact right after your baby is born. This is a special time, called the “Golden Hour,” when you can hold your baby against your skin. It’s important because it helps start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.
• Rooming in with Your Baby
  Keeping your baby with you at all times helps you bond, notice early signs that your baby is hungry, and respond right away. It also helps build your confidence in caring for your baby when you go home.
• Artificial Nipples and Bottles³
  Let the hospital staff know you want to avoid using pacifiers or bottles until breastfeeding is well established. This usually takes about 3-4 weeks.
• Breast Pumps
  If you can’t nurse your baby or if you’re separated from them, ask the hospital for a hospital-grade breast pump to express milk. If you know your baby will be in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), be sure to check with your hospital and doctor to make sure a hospital-grade pump will be available or bring your own pump to the hospital. If you’re separated from your baby, start pumping no later than 6 hours after birth, and continue every 3 hours until breastfeeding is going well.
• Breastfeeding Postpartum Support
  Most hospitals offer in-person and online support groups for breastfeeding. You can also check with your State Breastfeeding Coalition to find services and events for breastfeeding families. Getting support from other parents is important for your success with breastfeeding and a great way to meet families going through the same things with their babies.

Initiating Breastfeeding in the Hospital FAQ 

Q: When should I begin breastfeeding?

A: It is best to begin breastfeeding within the first hour after birth or as soon as you and your baby can. Colostrum, or golden milk extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies, will be your baby’s first food at the breast. Spend as much time in skin-to-skin contact as possible in the first few days. You’ll both benefit from the natural release hormones that assist with breastfeeding and bonding.¹ 

Q: How can I tell when my baby is ready to nurse?

A: Though a baby may not always display obvious signs of hunger, frequent access to the breast will encourage lots of feeding attempts. Identifying your baby’s feeding cues promotes more engagement with your baby, improves bonding, and stimulates milk production.⁴ 

Examples of Early Hunger Cues:⁴

Q: What if my baby can’t latch onto my breast?

A: If you and your baby are having trouble with breastfeeding, try hand expressing your milk and feeding it to your baby with a spoon or syringe. Avoid using bottles and pacifiers until breastfeeding is going well. If your baby isn’t latching, a hospital-grade breast pump can help bring in your milk while you work with a consultant.

Q: How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

A: In the first few days after birth, your baby’s tummy will only hold a small amount of colostrum (the first milk). It’s normal for babies to nurse often. Your baby should have at least 6 wet diapers and 3 stools (about the size of a quarter) each day by the end of week one. Your baby should nurse 8 to 12 times a day. Keep your baby close and offer the breast often.

Q: Will there be someone to help me breastfeed in the hospital?

A: Check with the hospital to see if they are a “baby-friendly” facility. This means their staff is trained in breastfeeding support. Also, ask if the labor and delivery team has breastfeeding training and if an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) will be available to help when your baby is born.

Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Share your breastfeeding plan with your provider, hospital, baby’s provider, and family to ensure good support and communication. Then, be ready to embrace a meaningful breastfeeding journey with your baby.

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Birth and Breastfeeding
• Pumping 101

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References