Which practice best supports immediate initiation of breastfeeding after birth?

• A. Delay breastfeeding until after checkups.
• B. Encourage early initiation of breastfeeding.
• C. Limit time with infant in rooming-in.
• D. Offer only formula first.

Answer: (B)

Initiating breastfeeding promptly after birth supports successful breastfeeding by taking advantage of the newborn’s natural reflexes and the benefits of early skin-to-skin contact with the mother. When feeding begins soon, the baby is more likely to latch effectively, which helps milk transfer and stimulates the milk letdown reflex through oxytocin. Early start also uses the first breast milk, colostrum, which is rich in antibodies and easy to digest, and it promotes bonding and stability for both mother and baby, including temperature regulation and blood sugar control.

Delaying breastfeeding, restricting rooming-in, or giving formula first can disrupt this early latch and the establishment of breastfeeding, making it harder for milk supply to come in and for the infant to learn feeding cues. Encouraging early initiation creates the strongest foundation for successful exclusive breastfeeding.