Why is it important to breastfeed immediately after delivery?


It is best to feed as soon as you can. Of course when this will happen will depend on variables such as how you are feeling, your baby's health. At this point your breasts will have a good supply of colostrum. Feeding your baby this is very beneficial; feeding your baby early will also help establish milk flow. Frequent and early nursing will establish a better milk supply instead of waiting till a few days later. Studies show that babies fed within the hour of birth will pass meconium earlier and have lower levels of bilirubin (high levels of this in the blood causes jaundice). Immediate suckling is also responsible for early expulsion of the placenta. As your uterus contracts caused by baby's suckling, excessive bleeding can be prevented.