Initiation of Breastfeeding by the Breast Crawl

The breast crawl is a technique for initiating breastfeeding advocated by UNICEF. It is recommended that all babies should breastfeed within 1/2 hour of birth, which in my experience helps tremendously with latching on and other issues. The breast crawl involves placing the baby on the mother’s chest with the breasts exposed. The baby will then seek out the breast on its own. My midwives used this technique with my first child, and it worked very well. My second child had health issues, so his breastfeeding was delayed somewhat, and he did struggle with latching on. It took him three days to learn to breastfeed, but we never gave up and never used formula. Our pediatrician and midwives were very supportive and set minimum standards about how much breastfeeding was necessary each day until my son got the hang of it. The breast crawl uses the baby’s natural motivation and inclinations to nurse, and the video should be shared with doctors, midwives, doulas, and expectant mothers around the world. Pay special attention to the cheek to cheek method.

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