Newborn reflexes are amazing!
Take a peek at this video and see what they can do.
Let's also acknowledge that not all parents can do the breast crawl with their baby immediately after birth. There certainly are many reasons for this, including a medical emergency for the baby or mom or both.
Some hospitals or midwives just aren’t as accommodating of the breast crawl as it can take some time, but it can't hurt to ask as this is changing.
Bonus tip: Babies have this reflex for weeks after birth so you can practice when you are home or when you have some support to do so in the hospital.
Great graphic explaining how to help prevent sore nipples
This video demonstrates how an deep asymmetric latch will protect the nipples during a nursing session. It also goes over why this might not be physically possible for a baby to do and how that can lead to sore and even cracked nipples.
When these babies are going through this period they seem to resist soothing. Nothing helps. Even though certain soothing methods may help when they are simply fussy or crying, bouts of inconsolable crying are different. Nothing seems to soothe them.
Research Shows that it is Optimal to Place New Babies Skin-to-Skin with their Mother
Skin-to-skin babies are warmer and have higher blood sugar, they breathe better and are more awake and able to look at and connect with their mother. A Newborn is Familiar with its Mother Before Birth and Feels Safest on Her Skin After Being Born
There are also other considerations for babies’ well-being. Babies need an attachment environment of people who will be constantly close to them for the first few years of their lives. Compensating for a lack of a primary caregiver can be hard work, but does not doom the baby, as long as the right interventions take place, which might involve speech therapists or occupational therapists, depending on the need.
DISCLAIMER: Near the end, this video has a child sleeping on his father, on the couch and this is NOT safe. Lactation Help does not advocate this practice. Featuring: Dr. Nils Bergman
Bonus: Additional information in the comments here: http://www.drmomma.org/2012/04/diaper-change-roll-technique-to-reduce.html