Baby Steps for Breastfeeding Success

Moms and Families

Baby Steps to Breastfeeding Success

Congratulations on your pregnancy! Becoming a parent is a fun and exciting time. You will hear a lot about the benefits of breastfeeding and hopefully you'll be able to attend a class that teaches you all the different tips and tricks associated with breastfeeding. Knowing the hows and whys of breastfeeding is the most important thing you can do to have breastfeeding success.

Get off to a good start right after the birth of your baby. Review the following steps and watch the videos below to learn how to keep your baby breastfeeding longer. Each step makes a difference—don't get discouraged if you can't do all the steps and be proud of what you are doing for your baby!

• Skin-to-Skin
  Newborn babies are ready to feed when they are born.  Holding your baby skin-to-skin on your chest helps you and your baby get to know each other and gives your baby a chance to practice feeding at the breast.
• Breastmilk
  Breast milk is the only food that newborns need.  Giving water or formula can make a baby's tummy hurt or cause allergies. Your doctor will tell you if your baby needs something other than your milk.
• Stay Together
  New parents need to be with their babies to get to know each other. Babies give signs to let you know when they are hungry. This is a great time to learn what your baby is telling you.
• Only You
  Babies should do all sucking at the breast. Avoid pacifiers and artificial nipples so you are able to build a great milk supply.
• Support
  Babies don't come with instructions, so it's important to know where to turn for help. Get answers to your breastfeeding questions 24 hours a day by calling the the Arizona Department of Health Services' Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-800-833-4642.