What is a “normal” suck/swallow pattern for my baby?
Each baby’s suck/swallow pattern is unique. Initially, when beginning breastfeeding right after birth, your baby may take quick, brief sucks until colostrum is tasted. Following that, the suck/swallow pattern is more rhythmic. When you first begin a feeding you want to see about six to ten rhythmic sucks to each swallow followed by a pause. You will feel a gentle pull on the breast with each suck if you have positioned the baby correctly. Multiple sucks encourage your milk to let down. Once the milk is flowing, your baby will swallow more frequently with fewer pauses.
