Objective To explore the effect of breast crawl of newborns on breastfeeding, so as to provide reference to improve breastfeeding. Methods A total of 104 primiparas were divided into an experimental group and a control group using a random number table, with 52 cases in each group. The experimental group conducted 90 minutes breast crawl after delivery, and the control group conducted maternal and infant skin contact after routine care until perineorrhaphy and related check for the new mothers was completed (about 30 minutes). The score of Breast-feeding Assessment tool (BAT) in the first breastfeeding and success rate, the spontaneous nipple insertion success rate in the second breastfeeding, the onset time for maternal lactogenesis and prolactin level, and the exclusive breastfeeding rate at discharge and one month postpartum were compared between the two groups. Results Finally 50 primiparas in the experimental group and 48 primiparas in the control group completed the study. When compared with the control group, the BAT score in the first breastfeeding and success rate, the spontaneous nipple insertion success rate in the second breastfeeding, and the exclusive breastfeeding rate at discharge of the experimental group were significantly higher, and its onset time for maternal lactogenesis was significantly shorter (P＜0.05，P＜0.01), while there were no significant differences in prolactin level and the exclusive breastfeeding rate at one month postpartum between the two groups (P＞0.05 for both). Conclusion Breast crawl can realize the self breast-seeking behavior among newborns, improve early breastfeeding and shorten the onset time for maternal lactogenesis, and increase the exclusive breastfeeding rate at discharge.