LOVE YOUR BABY.
Of course you will! And so you will want to meet his needs, both physical and emotional. When baby's needs are met consistently and promptly, he learns to trust, to be secure, providing the foundation for his future emotional development.
Two things to remember are: (1) if you have chosen breastfeeding, breastfeed on demand, which is good for your breastfeeding relationship, and good for both mom's and baby's emotional needs (see Successful Breastfeeding); and (2) cuddling is a valid need--people say "if you pick her up every time she cries, you'll spoil her"... nonsense! I don't believe you can spoil a baby; if she stops crying when you pick her up, that's what she needed, and you have met that need. Emotional needs are as valid as physical ones.
TRUST YOURSELF.
You know your baby best, and because you love him you'll want to do what's best for him. Trust your instincts. Two keys here are: (1) there is a time for outside help (ie. medical questions), and sometimes advice from experienced parents can be great. However, you'll get all sorts of advice, and you'll read conflicting things in books. Take what's right for your family (ie. the family bed versus sleeping through the night as soon as possible). (2) Make use of resources, such as postpartum support groups, La Leche League, your doctor, friends, family, et cetera. It's okay to ask for help, but do remember to trust yourself.
LOVE YOUR BABY and TRUST YOURSELF... these are my philosophies, so, as with other things you hear about or read about, sift through the information in this article and take what's right for you.
Best wishes....
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