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Step 1
Make a commitment to breastfeed your baby and stick with it. You may be scared if your precious baby has lost weight since birth. Your pediatrician will tell you if you have to worry about your baby's weight loss. They generally say that it is normal for babies to lose up to 10% of their body weight after birth before your milk supply is established, so don't give up too soon.
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Step 2
Some babies have trouble latching on. Imagine an adult trying to latch his mouth onto a beach ball. If your baby lunges at your breast but ends up shaking his head from side to side in frustration, your baby may be having trouble getting his tiny mouth on your big breast. Try pinching the end of your breast just above the areola and pushing it into his mouth.
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Step 3
When your baby latches on properly, you will feel a slight tug as the nipple enters his throat and he sucks and swallows. However, if it is extremely painful, he is probably nipple feeding. Nipple feeding is when your baby has just your nipple in his mouth and not the areola. This can damage your nipple, so take him off immediately and try again.
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Step 4
If your baby still won't take the breast, try feeding him expressed milk with a bottle. First try the breast. Then give him a few swallows of the bottle and try the breast again. This may take that edge off his hunger and he may be more patient and willing to breastfeed.
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Step 5
Call your doctor's office and ask for a lactation consultant. The consultant will meet with you and give you some pointers. You can also contact La Leche League, which has a team of volunteers who have, themselves, breastfed and can meet with you to help.
