Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful (and challenging!) parts of early motherhood. While every journey is unique, these tips can help you feel more confident and supported as you feed your little one. Remember a fed baby is the most important thing so if breastfeeding isn’t working out for you it is ok.
1. Get Comfortable
Set up a cozy spot for nursing with a supportive chair, pillows, snacks, water, and a good book or show. Your comfort matters just as much as your baby’s. Cover up or not. If you are looking for a soft multi use blanket for nursing check out our Everything Blanket. It is perfect for nursing and swaddling your baby.
2. Feed on Demand
Newborns usually nurse every 1.5 to 3 hours. Look for hunger cues like rooting, sucking motions, or hand-to-mouth gestures before your baby starts crying.
3. Find a Good Latch
A deep, comfortable latch helps prevent nipple pain and ensures the baby gets enough milk. Your baby’s mouth should cover both the nipple and part of the areola. If it hurts, try gently breaking the suction and trying again. I would align my baby’s nose to my nipple to stimulate them latching. Consult a lactation specialist if latching is an issue.
4. Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished
Breastfeeding uses up extra calories and fluids. Keep a water bottle nearby and snack on nourishing foods like yogurt, oatmeal, nuts, or fruit. Ask someone to make you lactation cookies! These cookies have oatmeal and flaxseed in them to help milk production.
5. Rest When You Can
Fatigue can hit hard in the early days. “Sleep when the baby sleeps.” It was so tempting for me to get things done around the house when the baby was asleep. Nap when your baby naps and accept help from others. A rested mom makes for a happier nursing experience.
6. Take Care of Your Nipples
Air-dry after nursing, use lanolin or coconut oil if they get sore, and change nursing pads often to stay dry and comfortable.
7. Burp and Switch Sides
Burp your baby halfway through and offer both breasts during feedings. Start with the opposite side at the next session to keep your milk supply balanced.
8. Give Yourself Grace
Breastfeeding can take time to get the hang of. Be patient with your body and your baby. You’re both learning something brand new. The amount and frequency your body will make milk may differ a lot from other moms. My kids nursed every 1-3 hours even after they were a newborn! Ahhh!!! My boobs produced little amounts around the clock.
9. Ask for Help
You know your baby best. If something feels off, seek help. Lactation consultants, midwives, pediatricians, and support groups can offer game-changing advice. Don’t struggle alone, help is out there! The best resource that I used was a mom group through the hospital that was run by a nurse and lactation consultant. My first was gaining weight very slowly so I was able to weigh the baby, then nurse and weigh (weigh/feed/weigh) to see how many ounces of milk they were getting. The mom group also got me and the baby out of the house every week for support and socialization.
10. Enjoy the Baby Bliss!
This is such a short and special time with your baby. You’re not just feeding your baby, you’re comforting, bonding, and giving them the best start and doing an amazing job!
