I let this happen with DS2. As soon as i pushed him out he was placed on my tummy, i lay for ages stroking him (i was fascinated with his full head of dark hair), he lay for a while but then started sort of pushing his way upwards. He wasn't much off my boobs but he was moving his head around and opening his mouth for the nipple, i moved one closer to him and he eventually got it in to his mouth.

It was the most satisfying natural experience i've had, and sadly so much better than my experience with DS1 where he was taken away for 5 minutes BEFORE being placed on my chest. With him, it didn't feel right, and i didn't attempt to breastfeed until hours later when i was told to. It was this experience which lead me to strive for a better one with DS2 and i got it.

I had also stipulated THIS in the birth plan, i had written that i'd wanted to allow him to self attach to the breast when ready and that weighing etc be delayed, and that he was not to be taken away. THe midwife was so great she even prepared the oxygen nearby just in case he needed it so he wouldn't have to be removed from me. So if you let them know your needs beforehand they will cater to you.