If you plan to breastfeed you can discuss your plans with you doctor in advance of delivery.  Some hospitals routinely offer babies with formula or sugar water as well as pacifiers.  These are not needed and can confuse the breastfed baby.  Staff members may need to be reminded that you do not want your baby to be given anything besides your breast milk.  You can ask that your request be noted prominently on your baby’s chart or crib.

Breastfeeding is a satisfying way to be close to your

baby while providing him with the perfect food.  Your baby will have strong sucking instincts and you may be eager to start nursing.  Both of you will have to learn the skills of breastfeeding; this is a team effort and it takes a lot of practice.  The more you do it, the better for you and the baby.  Milk production will be stimulated by your baby’s sucking.