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Pregnant woman / delivery in facility

Pregnant woman / delivery in facility

Key Messages

  • Hold your newborn skin-to-skin immediately after birth. This will keep your baby warm and breathing well, help him or her reach the breast easily, and help you and your baby feel close.
  • Begin breastfeeding within the first hour of birth. Early breastfeeding helps the baby learn to breastfeed while the breast is still soft, and helps reduce your bleeding.
  • Colostrum, the thick yellowish milk, is good for your baby.
  • Colostrum helps protect your baby from illness and helps remove the first dark stool.
  • Breastfeed frequently to help your breast milk ‘come in’ and to ensure plenty of breast milk.
  • Do not give water or other liquids/fluids to your baby during the first days after birth. They are not necessary and are dangerous for your newborn.