Recovering from a cesarean birth can feel overwhelming, and it’s common to wonder whether you’ll be able to breastfeed right away. The good news: most parents can successfully nurse their newborns after a C-section, even if the birth or recovery was challenging.

1. Start feeding as early as possible

After the placenta is delivered, your body’s hormones naturally signal the milk-producing cells in your breasts to begin working. For most parents, milk typically transitions from the early colostrum stage to mature milk within about three days of birth.

Early and frequent suckling helps activate these milk-making cells. Parents who nurse or pump within the first hour often find their milk comes in sooner and that they produce more over time. Offering the breast right after birth gives your baby the best chance to help kick-start your milk supply.

 

2. Embrace skin-to-skin contact and “zero separation”

Many hospitals now encourage parents and babies to remain together after a C-section. Extra nursing staff may be assigned so your baby can stay safely with you even while you’re still under the effects of anesthesia. Your baby can be placed skin-to-skin on your chest immediately after birth—even while your surgical incision is being closed—so long as you are closely monitored.

Skin-to-skin contact in the first hour has been shown to support healthy milk production and longer breastfeeding duration. If for some reason you can’t hold your baby right away, designate a support person to provide that initial skin-to-skin time and make sure hospital staff know your wishes.

3. Feed or express frequently

Newborns typically feed eight to twelve times in a 24-hour period, sometimes every two to three hours. Offer the breast whenever your baby shows signs of hunger—stirring, waking, or sucking on their lips—and allow them to nurse as long as they like.

If your baby isn’t latching well or if you are separated for medical reasons, begin pumping at least eight times per day until direct breastfeeding is established. Consistent expression keeps milk production strong. If you’re unsure whether your baby is feeding effectively or if nursing is painful, ask a nurse or lactation consultant for guidance.

 

4. Manage pain and find comfortable positions

Discomfort after a C-section is normal, both at the incision site and from uterine contractions as your body heals. Pain can make positioning your baby challenging, but most prescribed pain relievers are considered compatible with breastfeeding—don’t hesitate to ask for medication if you need it. Managing pain helps you stay relaxed and makes feeding easier.

Try positions that keep pressure off your abdomen, such as the “football hold,” which supports your baby at your side instead of across your belly. A nurse or lactation consultant can help you experiment with positions and provide hands-on support.

Bottom line

With early skin-to-skin contact, frequent feeding or pumping, and good pain management, most parents can establish a healthy milk supply after a cesarean birth. Give yourself time to heal, ask for help when you need it, and focus on bonding with your baby while your body recovers.