A feeding plan: breastfeeding basics

Why breastfeeding is recommended, and how to prepare

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to 2 years of age or beyond. WHO also recommends starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth where possible, because early, frequent feeding helps establish milk supply and gives the baby the earliest, antibody-rich milk (colostrum).

Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both parent and baby, and it does not always come easily at first — latch difficulties, supply worries, and pain are common early challenges, not a sign anything is wrong with you. A lactation consultant, midwife, or your baby's doctor can help troubleshoot in the first days and weeks, and support is worth asking for early rather than waiting.