The first 24 hours after giving birth are special, but they can also be overwhelming. If you’re planning to breastfeed, those first hours play a significant role in setting the stage for your milk supply. Here’s how to establish a strong milk supply right from the start, including why early pumping can be helpful.
1. The Golden Hour: Skin-to-Skin TimeRight after delivery, holding your baby skin-to-skin is not just for bonding—it signals your body to start producing milk. This “golden hour” helps stabilize your baby’s heart rate, temperature, and breathing while also stimulating your body to release oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk letdown. Don’t worry if your baby doesn’t latch perfectly; that initial skin-to-skin contact is still doing wonders.
2. Early Latching and Colostrum: If possible, encourage your baby to latch within the first hour after birth. Even if only a few drops of colostrum are expressed, those drops are full of powerful nutrients and antibodies. Colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold” because of its health benefits for your newborn. The act of latching also signals your body to keep producing milk and transition to mature milk in the coming days.
3. Pumping Soon After Birth: If latching isn’t immediately successful or if your baby needs extra support, consider using a breast pump within the first few hours after birth. Early pumping can help stimulate milk production and establish a milk supply, especially if your baby is in the NICU or unable to nurse directly. Aim for short, frequent pumping sessions—about 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours. This mimics a newborn’s natural feeding pattern and encourages your body to produce milk.
4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Your body has just gone through an incredible journey, so staying hydrated and eating nutrient-dense foods is crucial. Keep a water bottle nearby and reach for snacks rich in protein and whole grains. Foods like oats, brewers yeast, and flaxseed can help naturally support milk production (and yes, that’s why they’re in our Miracle Milkookies!).
5. Rest When You Can: We know it sounds impossible with a newborn, but rest is essential. Your body produces prolactin (the hormone that supports milk production) more efficiently when you’re rested. Sleep when your baby sleeps, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Support: If latching or milk production feels challenging, reach out to a lactation consultant for guidance. They can help troubleshoot latching issues, show you different breastfeeding positions, and give you personalized tips to boost your milk supply.
The first 24 hours after giving birth are a whirlwind, but they’re also an opportunity to set a strong foundation for your breastfeeding journey. Whether through skin-to-skin, early latching, or pumping, every little effort counts. Remember, it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly—you’re learning, and your baby is, too.
You’ve got this, mama. And as always, we’re here cheering you on!
xoxo Whitney