The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breast-fed for 1 year. There are several advantages for both you and your baby when you choose to breast-feed. Breast milk is made especially for your baby so it's easily digested and has just the right amount of the nutrients that he needs. It also passes on immunities that can prevent your baby from getting sick. Some studies suggest that breast-fed babies develop fewer allergies. And, of course, breast feeding is convenient and inexpensive. If you chose to feed your baby formula, you will spend approximately $1000 on formula alone during the first year.

Breast feeding can be good for you as well. You may lose weight quicker and your uterus should return to its normal size faster. There is a decreased chance that you’ll develop breast cancer later in life if you breast-feed your baby.

For two to three days after you have your baby, your breasts will excrete colostrum, a yellowish fluid high in protein and protective antibodies. A white, thinner milk will "come in" generally 48-72 hours after delivery. The more frequently your baby feeds, the more milk you will make. Newborn babies generally nurse every 1 1/2 to 3 hours. After several days, your body will be making exactly the right amount of milk to meet your baby's needs.

To begin feeding, start by washing your hands. If your baby is sleepy, checking her diaper prior to the feeding is often a good way to wake her up. Make sure to wash your hands again after checking her diaper. Sit in a comfortable position. An upright position is best as it puts your nipple in a great position for your baby to latch on. This won't be as important later on, but can make a big difference when you and your baby are first learning to breast-feed. Several pillows may also help with positioning.

This is called the "cradle position". You place your baby's head in the crook of your arm on the side that you wish to nurse first. Turn your baby toward you, with her head slightly higher than the rest of her body. With your opposite hand, support your breast by cupping it in a "C" position (with your thumb on top, fingers below) slightly back from the areola. This will not only help you to guide your nipple into baby's mouth, but will also support the weight of your breast.

This position is called the football/clutch hold. Here you hold your baby along your side on the side you wish to nurse first. It's helpful to support your baby with pillows. Hold your baby's head and neck with your hand while placing her legs behind your arm. Your forearm will support her upper body. Turn your baby toward you, with her head slightly higher than the rest of her body. With your opposite hand, support your breast by cupping it in a "C" position (thumb on top, fingers below) slightly back from the areola. This is an excellent position for mothers after cesarean birth or if you're having difficulty with engorgement or sore nipples. The "football hold" is often easier to do than the cradle hold, and it's easier to look at your baby's face when you use this hold.

For the side-lying position, you should lie down in bed on the side you wish to nurse first. Place your baby on his side facing you, with his head in the crook of your arm and your forearm along his back. Turn your baby toward you with his head slightly higher that the rest of his body. With your opposite hand, support your breast by cupping it in a "C" position (thumb on top, fingers below) slightly back from the areola. This position works great for nighttime feedings.