Avoid nipple shields. These allow the baby to latch onto the shield, not the breast. This may decrease milk supply.
Initially avoid supplementing with formula and pacifiers. These decrease nursing time. The baby’s nursing is the way your body knows
Don’t worry that there is no milk at first. Colostrum is there and that is just what your baby needs for a good start. Expect your milk to come in within 36-72 hours after delivery. You will usually be aware the milk is there and you may be sore. This will pass with nursing, warm showers, and compresses. Remember, when the milk arrives, your baby’s nursing is what stimulates breast milk production. Interrupting nursing with supplements and pacifiers will delay breast milk production.
Take care of yourself. Eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and stay rested.
Open the baby’s mouth to ensure contact with the whole areola, not just the nipple.
Ask for help from the staff, doctors, and your family.
Feeding and preparation for feeding will occupy a lot of time with your baby over the first month. Once you have begun breastfeeding, it is helpful to establish a routine for getting ready to nurse. Prior to nursing, wash your hands, gather whatever you need during nursing (a beverage, burp cloth, reading material), and consider turning off your phone so you can nurse undisturbed.