Nurse as soon as the baby is willing after birth. Many newborn infants are quietly alert for an hour or two and interested in learning to nurse.
Encourage the baby to latch correctly. The lactation and nursing staff can assist you with positioning and timing. It sometimes takes a little while for the baby to learn to open wide and latch on effectively.
Nurse frequently and on demand. A newborn infant may need to nurse 10-12 times a day at first.
Avoid supplements, pacifiers and artificial nipples at first, if possible. Nursing frequently will help establish a good milk supply and ensure that the baby gets enough to eat.
Eat well and drink enough fluid, about 500 extra calories and 6-8 glasses of water. Rest as much as you possibly can.