When is early breastfeeding recommended to be initiated after birth?

Early breastfeeding is recommended to be initiated within the first hour after birth, which aligns with the guidance of many health organizations, including the World Health Organization. The rationale behind this recommendation is multifaceted. Initiating breastfeeding as soon as possible, specifically within the first 90 minutes after birth, capitalizes on the baby's alert state and innate reflexes to suckle, which facilitates better latch and feeding.

This early initiation plays a crucial role in establishing breastfeeding effectively, as it promotes maternal-infant bonding and enhances the production of colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk. Additionally, breastfeeding shortly after birth has been shown to reduce the likelihood of complications for both the mother and the infant, such as postpartum hemorrhage and improved neonatal outcomes.

Although initiating breastfeeding anytime could be considered beneficial, it fails to harness the unique physiological and psychological advantages offered during that critical early window post-delivery. Hence, the emphasis on the 90-minute timeframe is significant for promoting optimal health practices in both breastfeeding initiation and maternal-infant interactions.