Nature provides a supply of food for the newborn that satisfies its various needs: physical warmth and closeness are given to the baby, as is the quenching of hunger and thirst. Your body produces the natural and healthy baby food.

You always carry it with you at a comfortable temperature, so that it is available at any time and in any place. This can be very convenient. Breastfeeding your baby continues the unique prenatal closeness after birth.

The idea of using your breast to nurture your baby can trigger different feelings. A woman's breasts are also associated with sexual attractiveness. Some women are afraid of losing this or do not want to breastfeed for other reasons. If you want to breastfeed, you can get help from a midwife or lactation consultant.

Your baby may start drinking within the first hours of life after birth. This will stimulate milk production. Babies don't need any other liquids or food, lots of skin contact, lots of rest, no bottle, and no pacifier. You'll notice your baby will let you know when it's hungry. You'll put it to the breast before it cries.

By breastfeeding on demand, you're not spoiling your baby. On the contrary. This strengthens your bond. Let your baby and your gut instinct guide you. With the first child, this is sometimes not as easy as it sounds. Lactation consultants know these problems and are happy to help you as well.

Here you can find organizations with differently trained lactation consultants:

www.afs-stillen.de
www.lalecheliga.de
www.bdl-stillen.de/stillberatungsuche.html

Foto: privat