The initial days following the birth of my first child were a whirlwind of emotions—shock, tears, and frustration. Though both my baby and I were in good health, I faced significant challenges in getting him to breastfeed. He simply wouldn’t open his mouth to latch on, which was heart-wrenching and stressful.
When my second child arrived, I was not only more familiar with the breastfeeding process (after much perseverance, my first child did eventually latch), but I had also become a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). With this knowledge in hand, I was determined to create a smoother breastfeeding experience this time around.
Reflecting on my first experience, I realized that shortly after his birth, my first baby was taken for bathing, examinations, and his Vitamin K shot. This time, I was well-informed about the significance of that crucial first hour after birth. I had seen videos capturing the remarkable “breast crawl,” a natural instinct where newborns move towards the breast, self-latching with minimal assistance.
I was resolute in my plan: my midwives supported the idea of allowing my baby to spend at least an hour resting on my chest before any medical interventions were performed. After a quick and intense delivery, my little one was placed on my chest. Initially, he seemed to simply explore, sniffing and licking, as if familiarizing himself with his surroundings. About 20 minutes later, I felt his tiny foot pushing against me, and he began to army-crawl toward my nipple, pecking around like a little bird.
Then, in a moment that felt miraculous, he latched on perfectly. This experience was incredibly healing for me after my first challenge with breastfeeding. From that moment on, he had no issues latching.
I wholeheartedly encourage new mothers to try the breast crawl. Unless there are unforeseen medical complications, most babies can successfully perform this instinctual behavior, whether or not exclusive breastfeeding is your goal. It’s a wonderful bonding experience, showcasing the capabilities of both mother and baby.
How Does the Breast Crawl Work?
Experts suggest that newborns are born with innate instincts that activate during that critical first hour after birth, orchestrating this incredible behavior. According to Dr. Emily Carson, a pediatrician, “All newborns, when placed on the mother’s abdomen soon after birth, have the ability to crawl to their mother’s breast and begin feeding on their own.” This natural process can help address common early breastfeeding challenges.
Breastcrawl.org describes newborns as having a built-in program, much like a computer, that guides them to the breast. “Young humans, like other baby mammals, instinctively know how to find their mother’s breast,” they explain. The entire process typically takes newborns about 30 to 60 minutes, so patience is key. While there are no strict rules, keeping your baby skin-to-skin with you is essential during this time.
In addition to improving breastfeeding initiation rates, UNICEF highlights the benefits of the breast crawl, which enhances mother-infant bonding and provides other advantages. “It helps to keep the baby warm,” Dr. Gangal mentions. “The baby starts receiving colostrum, which is rich in antibodies, offering protection against infections.”
Furthermore, mothers benefit too, as the breast crawl can promote uterine contractions, facilitate faster expulsion of the placenta, and reduce maternal blood loss. How amazing is that?
If you’re willing and able, I encourage you to experience this extraordinary phenomenon. It’s a moment you’ll cherish for a lifetime. For further insights on fertility and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource from Mount Sinai here. And if you’re interested in home insemination options, you can explore more in-depth information at this link.
In summary, the breast crawl is a remarkable experience that can enhance bonding and support breastfeeding initiation. With the right information and support, new mothers can create a fulfilling beginning for themselves and their babies.
Leave a Reply