Whether or not you choose to breastfeed, there’s no denying the wonder of it all. The ability of women to nourish their infants with their own bodies is truly one of nature’s most remarkable feats. What many may not realize is that newborns possess an instinctive knowledge of how to breastfeed. This phenomenon, known as the “breast crawl,” is genuinely astonishing. The World Health Media Project has shared a video that illustrates this process, showcasing the incredible capabilities of freshly born babies.
We often hear from healthcare professionals, the media, and even well-meaning relatives about how “natural” breastfeeding is. While it is indeed natural, the experience may not always come easily for new mothers and their restless infants. Sometimes, the methods taught can feel forced or unnatural. The breast crawl aims to facilitate a more instinctual experience, allowing an infant to spend their initial hour of life autonomously navigating to their mother’s nipple for their first feeding. The video captures this beautifully, and once you understand the reasoning behind it, it all makes sense.
Essentially, during the first hour after birth, a baby should remain on the mother’s chest. This practice helps regulate their body temperature and supports a smooth transition from the cozy womb to the outside world. The video’s narrator explains that while the baby is dried off, the hands are intentionally left coated in amniotic fluid. This fluid carries a scent similar to that of the mother’s nipple, guiding the baby as they seek it out. In the footage, newborns successfully locate and latch onto the nipple independently, all while gradually warming against their mother’s skin. Isn’t it remarkable? Nature equips the baby with everything they need, often requiring minimal intervention from the mother.
Research conducted by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden highlights the success rate of the breast crawl. The study found that after birth, when the child is placed on the mother’s chest, spontaneous sucking and rooting movements occur, peaking at around 45 minutes. The first hand-to-mouth movement typically happens about 34 minutes post-birth, and by the 55-minute mark, infants often find the nipple and begin to suckle. The findings suggest that “Babies completing the Breast Crawl with spontaneous attachment is instinctive and nearly universal, with very few needing assistance.”
Unfortunately, many mothers don’t experience this ideal scenario. The first hour after a baby’s birth is often filled with routine procedures such as bathing, weighing, and performing the APGAR test. While not always the case, this is a common occurrence. Transitioning from the tranquil womb to a bustling hospital environment can be overwhelming for a newborn, and the breast crawl allows for an uninterrupted bonding period with the mother, which can lead to a smoother nursing experience. It’s a logical approach, and scientific evidence supports its efficacy.
Reflecting on my own experience, learning to nurse my son felt somewhat pressured. After my C-section, I was pleased that I could nurse him so soon, but he didn’t seem ready at all. I recall the nurse guiding his head toward my breast, contrary to what the video advises, and he appeared to resist. He seemed to crave closeness rather than immediate nursing. In those early days, he struggled to latch on, and I often wonder if allowing him to approach feeding at his own pace might have made a difference. It felt as if the nurses were more focused on ticking off “ensure baby nurses” from their checklist rather than honoring our own timeline.
Every mother has her own vision for the moments following childbirth, and of course, not all mothers choose to breastfeed. However, for those who wish to establish a successful nursing relationship, the breast crawl is worth considering. Transitioning into nursing can be challenging, and every bit of support helps make the process smoother. Understanding that babies are instinctively equipped to navigate this journey can empower mothers to let their little ones find their own rhythm.
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In summary, the breast crawl is a fascinating natural instinct that many newborns exhibit, enabling them to find their way to their mother’s breast shortly after birth. This process is not only beneficial for feeding but also for bonding. Understanding and facilitating this instinct can greatly enhance the nursing experience for mothers and their babies alike.