How to Produce Colostrum After a Cesarean Birth

Colostrum, the first milk from a mother, is produced in the last trimester of her pregnancy, and it gives the baby antibodies to protect the infant from disease. The type of birth, whether cesarean or vaginal, makes no difference to colostrum or breast milk production. Generally mothers who have cesarean births are just as successful at breast-feeding as mothers who have vaginal births. However, a few simple steps should be taken to ensure breast-feeding goes smoothly.

Instructions

1

Discuss with your doctor your plans to breast-feed your newborn, and that you want to take all the steps necessary to do this easily. Most cesarean births are not planned, so you need to tell your physician what you want before your due date.

2

Read a breast-feeding book or talk to a lactation consultant before your due date for recommendations of breast-feeding positions after a cesarean birth.

3

Ask for pain medication that will not interfere with breast-feeding. Some anesthetics used during labor and cesareans are secreted in breast milk, and you need to be given ones that do not.

4

Hold your newborn as soon as possible. The hormones that create colostrum and breast milk come from holding your baby, not from a vaginal birth. A cesarean birth should not make any difference to your milk production, though sometimes it might take longer for the regular milk to come in.

5

Prop a pillow next to you as you first breast-feed your baby in the side-by-side position. Most hospitals have lactation specialists who can show you the proper way to breast-feed after a cesarean birth. Try to latch your baby onto your breast as soon as possible.

6

Feed your baby your colostrum, the yellowish clear liquid your body produces before the regular milk comes in. It's packed with nutrients and antibodies to protect him or her from disease.

7

Nurse your baby on demand. This will help with your bonding and milk production.

8

Sleep near your baby in the hospital. Most hospitals allow babies to stay in the mother's room after a cesarean. This will give your baby all the colostrum he or she needs, and you will be on your way to successful breast-feeding.