Does every newborn starts breastfeeding as soon as he is born?

It is recommended that a baby start breastfeeding after delivery (best within the first hour). Babies learn to breastfeed through breastfeeding. Having more skin-to-skin contact can help baby breastfeed more often and also help the mother be more sensitive to baby’s cues to nurse. It will also be easier for baby to latch well when he/she is calm. Getting a good latch is important so that baby could get the beneficial colostrum more easily and also brings less discomfort for mummy. Newborns are often very sleepy and would fall asleep easily at the breast. Try to keep the baby awake while nursing to help build supply and to ensure that the baby is getting enough. Try rubbing the baby’s head, feet or massaging his/her back while nursing to prevent him/her from sleeping. For more information, you can refer to this article: www.fitpregnancy.com/baby/breastfeeding/first-48-hours-after-birth

My baby was placed onto my chest, skin to skin after she was wiped down by the nurses. She did a breast crawl and latched on. I believe it helped to establish the bond. During the hospital stay, the nurses were very proactive in helping my baby latch on and the lactation consultants also ensured that I knew how to express colostrum and latch the baby properly. It is important to establish a proper latch in the first few days to kick start your supply and prevent yourself from feeling down when your supply is disrupted due to bottle feeding.

This is recommended bu all hospitals however, it also depends on the condition of mummy and baby at that point of time. Usually they will encourage skin to skin contact once baby is born whether is vaginal birth or c-sec This is very good as there will be antibodies known as colostrum which is superb for baby. It also helps baby to learn to latch on. Fret not if you aren't successful at the 1st try as there is also help available. This will also helps in bonding between mummy and baby.

thanks