Breastfeeding Basics

Disclaimer: This material is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor does it replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. Reference to a specific commercial product or service does not imply endorsement or recommendation of that product or service by CPCMG.

Skin to Skin

What is skin to skin with your baby?

Place baby at your chest wearing only a diaper (no clothing, socks, or mittens). Mom should wear no clothing from the waist up. You can put a blanket around you or over baby’s back.

It’s also great for partners to spend time with baby skin to skin!

Benefits of skin to skin

Skin to skin can help:

Regulate baby's temperature, breathing and heart rate
Calm baby
You relax and bond with baby
Increase your milk supply

You can be skin to skin with baby before, during, and after feeding. The benefits don’t wear off!

Hunger Cues

How do I know when my baby’s hungry? 

Try to catch your baby’s feeding cues early – avoid crying – and begin breastfeeding early.

Early hunger cues:

Waking up
Soft sounds
Mouthing (licking lips, sticking tongue out)
Rooting towards the breast (turning the head and opening the mouth)
Bringing hands to mouth

Your baby does not have to cry to let you know they’re hungry. Crying is the last hunger cue!

A Good Latch

How do I get a good latch?

Find a comfortable position that works for you, and place baby skin to skin.

Baby should be facing your body (tummy to tummy).

Make sure to support baby's shoulders, neck, and body, holding baby in close to you. 

Hold your breast like a “sandwich” behind your nipple and areola. Touch your nipple to baby’s upper lip.

When baby opens their mouth wide, bring them deeply onto your breast, not just the nipple.

Take a deep breath. When baby is latched deeply and begins sucking, you can let go of your breast. Don't worry! Your baby can breathe.

This publication was written and approved by CPCMG Lactation Subcommittee with information and images adapted from the USDA WIC and AZDHS.

Reviewed by: SA N.P., IBCLC; EH C.L.E.| 01/2024