Breastfeeding Guidelines

 American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) promotes the following breastfeeding guidelines: 

1. Breastfeed during the first hour after delivery.
2. No supplements (such as water, glucose water or formula) should be given to breastfeeding newborns unless needed because of a medical condition.
3. Newborns should be fed whenever they show signs of hunger, such as increased alertness or activity, mouthing or rooting. Crying is a late sign of hunger.
4. Feed the baby only breast milk for the first six months of life so your baby receives the ideal nutrition that supports optimal growth and development.
5. A trained observer should evaluate breastfeeding within 24 to 48 hours after delivery and at a follow-up visit 48 to 72 hours after mother and baby leave the hospital.
6. Expressing and storing breast milk are encouraged, so the baby can receive the stored breast milk instead of formula at times the mother and baby have to be apart.
7. Breastfeeding is recommended for the first 12 months of life, or longer if the mother and baby want to continue.