Which statement about postpartum lactation support is correct?

• A. Wait to breastfeed until the milk comes in
• B. Skin-to-skin contact and early latch promote successful breastfeeding
• C. Breast pumping is contraindicated
• D. Latching problems cannot be corrected

Answer: (B)

Early postpartum lactation support centers on starting breastfeeding as soon as possible with skin-to-skin contact and helping the newborn latch correctly. Skin-to-skin on the mother’s chest right after birth stimulates hormonal responses that promote milk let-down and bonding, and it supports the baby’s natural rooting and latch reflexes, making a successful latch more likely from the first feeding. When the latch is deep and effective, milk transfer is optimized, nipple discomfort is minimized after the initial learning curve, and milk supply is better established through frequent stimulation.

Delaying feeding until milk “comes in” deprives the infant of early colostrum and delays establishing breastfeeding, which can make positioning and latch more challenging later. Pumping is not contraindicated; it can be a helpful adjunct when direct breastfeeding isn’t possible or to stimulate supply. Latching problems can be corrected with hands-on assessment and coaching on positioning and latch, using different holds until the baby takes a large portion of the areola and sucks effectively.