Breastfeeding Tips for Beginners

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it also comes with various challenges that many women may encounter. As a new mother I had hoped to breastfeed but unfortunately my supply was too low and I was unable to produce enough milk. I wish I had had more information prior to delivery and started earlier which is why I am writing this post.

I’ve shared breastfeeding tips for beginners and new moms alike below based upon how to breastfeed successfully, and the challenges that could arise along the way.

Tips on How to Breastfeed Successfully

Below are some key tips for successful breastfeeding:

1. Start Early

Begin breastfeeding as soon as possible after your baby is born, ideally within the first hour. Early breastfeeding can help establish a good latch and stimulate milk production.

2. Establish a Proper Latch

Ensure your baby has a deep latch. Their mouth should cover a significant portion of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) rather than just the nipple itself. A good latch helps prevent nipple pain and allows for efficient milk transfer.

3. Get in a Good Position

Find a comfortable breastfeeding position for both you and your baby. Common positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position. Experiment to see which works best for you.

4. Feed on Demand

Breastfeed your baby on demand rather than on a strict schedule. Watch for hunger cues, like rooting or sucking on their hands, and feed when your baby signals that they’re hungry.

5. Skin to Skin Contact

Practice skin-to-skin contact with your baby whenever possible, especially in the early days. This helps with bonding, regulates your baby’s body temperature, and encourages breastfeeding.

6. Empty One Breast At A Time

Allow your baby to nurse from one breast until it’s empty or they lose interest before offering the other breast. This ensures your baby gets the higher-fat hindmilk that comes at the end of a feed.

7. Stay Hydrated and Well Nourished

Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to support milk production. Breastfeeding requires extra calories and fluids, so take care of yourself nutritionally.

8. Nurse at Night

Nighttime feedings are essential for maintaining milk supply. If possible, try to nurse your baby whenever they wake up at night.

9. Limit Pacifiers & Bottles

Limit Pacifiers and Bottles: In the early weeks, it’s best to avoid introducing pacifiers and bottles to prevent nipple confusion. Once breastfeeding is well-established, you can gradually introduce them if needed.

10. Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you encounter challenges. Lactation consultants, healthcare providers, and breastfeeding support groups can provide guidance and support.

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, so it’s important to find what works best for you and your baby. Seek support from healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, and other breastfeeding mothers to help you navigate any challenges and enjoy a successful breastfeeding experience.

Challenges of Breastfeeding

~ 70% of new moms face challenges when breastfeeding. This is why it’s important to be aware of the challenges beforehand so that new moms can seek support and solutions as needed. Here’s a detailed list of common challenges women face with breastfeeding:

1. Latching

Difficulty achieving a proper latch can lead to nipple pain and reduced milk transfer. Babies may struggle to latch due to issues like tongue tie, lip tie, or a high palate.

2. Nipple Pain and Soreness

Nipple pain is common in the early days of breastfeeding. It can result from incorrect latch, engorgement, or other factors. Persistent pain may be due to conditions like thrush or nipple vasospasm.

3. Mastitis

Mastitis is a painful breast infection that can result from an untreated plugged duct or other factors. Symptoms include fever, flu-like symptoms, and a red, painful breast.

4. Engorgement

Engorgement occurs when the breasts become overly full and firm, making it difficult for the baby to latch. It can be painful and may lead to plugged ducts or mastitis if not addressed promptly.

5. Low Milk Supply

Some women may struggle with producing an adequate milk supply for their baby. This can be caused by factors such as hormonal imbalances, insufficient glandular tissue, or ineffective breastfeeding techniques.

6. Oversupply of Milk

While less common, having an oversupply of milk can also be challenging. It may lead to issues like a fast flow of milk, which can cause baby discomfort and difficulty latching.

7. Plugged Ducts

A plugged milk duct can occur when milk is not effectively drained from the breast, leading to localized pain, redness, and swelling. It can progress to mastitis if left untreated.

These are just a few of the challenges new moms may face when breastfeeding. Consulting with a lactation consultant, joining support groups, and discussing concerns with healthcare professionals can help address these challenges and enhance the breastfeeding experience. 

To read more, please refer to our other articles.

Tips to Overcome Breastfeeding Challenges

There are few things you can do to combat the above challenges.

Starting with latching techniques.

1. Latching

Proper latching is crucial for successful and comfortable breastfeeding. A good latch ensures that the baby can effectively remove milk from the breast while minimizing nipple pain or damage. Here are some tips on how a baby should latch properly when breastfeeding:

1. Positioning: You can try different positions, such as the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, or side-lying position, to see which one works best for you and your baby.
2. Hold the Baby Close: Bring your baby close to your breast, with their body facing your chest. Make sure their head and body are in a straight line to help them latch effectively.
3. Wait for a Wide Open Mouth: I When your baby opens their mouth wide (similar to a yawn), it indicates they are ready to latch.
4. Chin Leading: Gently touch your baby’s lower lip with your nipple, allowing the baby’s chin to lead the way. 
5. Nipple to Nose Alignment: Aim to bring your nipple to the level of your baby’s nose rather than trying to insert your nipple directly into their mouth. This helps ensure a deep latch.
6. Aim for a Deep Latch: When your baby opens wide, guide your nipple into their mouth, aiming for the lower part of the areola (the darker area around the nipple). 
7. Avoid Nipple Compression: Ensure that your baby’s lips are flanged outward (not turned in) and cover a significant portion of the areola. 
8. Listen and Watch for Swallowing: You should hear and see your baby swallowing rhythmically. 
9. Comfortable Position for the Mother: Use pillows or cushions to support your back, arms, and the baby as needed.
10. Break the Suction Gently: To release your baby’s latch, insert a clean finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth to break the suction gently. 
11. Practice and Patience: Latching can take practice. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t go perfectly the first few times. 

If you experience pain, soreness, or concerns about your baby’s latch, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider who can provide personalized guidance and support.

2. Nipple Pain and Soreness

Preventing nipple pain and soreness is crucial for a comfortable and successful breastfeeding experience. Here are some tips to help prevent nipple pain and soreness:

1. Ensure a Proper Latch: The most critical factor in preventing nipple pain is to ensure your baby has a good latch (Refer above to proper latching)
2. Frequent Feeding: Feed your baby frequently and on demand, rather than adhering to a strict schedule. 
3. Position Variation: Change breastfeeding positions. This can help prevent soreness caused by prolonged pressure on specific areas.
4. Break the Suction Gently: Avoid pulling the baby off the breast, as this can cause nipple trauma (Refer above to proper latching)
5. Proper Nipple Care: After breastfeeding, express a small drop of breast milk and rub it on your nipples to help soothe and protect them. 
6. Use Nipple Cream: Apply lanolin or a breastfeeding-safe nipple cream to your nipples. 
7. Nipple Shields: If you’re experiencing pain, consult a lactation consultant who may recommend using a nipple shield, which can provide relief.
8. Avoid Tight Clothing: As they can put pressure on your nipples and exacerbate soreness.
9. Watch for Signs of Thrush: Thrush is a fungal infection that can cause nipple pain. If you notice persistent pain, burning, or itching, consult your healthcare provider for treatment.
10. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for maintaining healthy skin and breast tissue. 
11. Limit Pacifier Use: Limiting pacifier use in the early weeks can encourage stronger sucking at the breast.
12. Rest and Self-Care: Stress and fatigue can contribute to nipple soreness and discomfort.
13. Seek Help When Needed: If you experience persistent or severe nipple pain, consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.

Remember that some initial discomfort can be normal as you and your baby adjust to breastfeeding, but severe or persistent pain is not typical and should be addressed promptly. 

3. Engorgement

Breast engorgement occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of milk in the breast tissue, causing the breasts to become hard, swollen, and painful. To prevent breastfeeding engorgement, consider the following tips:

1. Frequent and Effective Nursing: Frequent breastfeeding helps your body regulate milk production according to your baby’s needs and reduces the risk of engorgement.
2. Proper Latch and Positioning:  (Refer above to proper latching).
3. Breastfeed on Demand: Allow your baby to feed on demand, rather than sticking to a strict schedule. 
4. Breast Compression: Gently compress your breast while your baby is sucking and swallowing to encourage milk flow.
5. Avoid Long Gaps Between Feedings: Try not to let long periods pass between feedings. Waking your baby for feedings if they sleep for extended periods can help.
6. Pump for Comfort: If your baby isn’t nursing frequently enough or if your breasts feel uncomfortably full between feedings, you can use a breast pump to express a small amount of milk for comfort. 
7. Alternate Breastfeeding Sides: Make sure to switch breasts during each feeding session to ensure both breasts are emptied regularly. 
8. Avoid Artificial Nipple Use: In the early weeks, it’s generally best to avoid using pacifiers or bottles with artificial nipples.
9. Breast Warmth: Applying warmth to your breasts before feeding, such as a warm compress or a warm shower, can help relax the breast tissue and make it easier for your baby to latch.
10. Cool Compresses: After breastfeeding, applying cool compresses (a cold pack or a clean, cool washcloth) for a few minutes can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
11. Supportive Bra: Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra that doesn’t constrict your breasts but provides adequate support. A sports bra or a nursing bra with good support can be helpful.
12. Cabbage Leaves: Some women find relief from engorgement by placing chilled cabbage leaves inside their bras for short periods. However, consult with a healthcare provider before using this method.
13. Avoid Overstimulation: Avoid overstimulating your breasts by excessively pumping, as this can lead to an oversupply of milk and contribute to engorgement.

If you continue to experience severe or persistent engorgement despite following these tips, or if you develop symptoms of mastitis (such as fever, redness, or pain), it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for further evaluation and guidance.

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4. Low Milk Supply

Keep in mind that milk supply can vary from person to person, and it’s important to consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Here are some tips to help enhance milk supply:

1. Frequent and Effective Nursing: Aim for at least 8-12 nursing sessions in a 24-hour period, or whenever your baby shows hunger cues.
2. Ensure Proper Latch and Positioning: (Refer above for proper latching)
3. Breast Compression: Gently compress your breast while your baby is actively sucking and swallowing.
4. Nurse on Demand: Allow your baby to nurse on demand rather than following a strict schedule. 
5. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend time with your baby in skin-to-skin contact, which can help regulate your baby’s body temperature and stimulate breastfeeding. This is particularly helpful in the early days.
6. Breast Massage: Gently massage your breasts before and during nursing to help stimulate milk flow and promote better drainage.
7. Empty the Breast: Ensure that your baby empties one breast before switching to the other side. 
8. Pump After Feeding: If your baby isn’t effectively emptying your breasts during feedings, consider using a breast pump after nursing to stimulate additional milk production.
9. Cluster Feedings: Allow your baby to cluster feed, which means feeding more frequently during certain times of the day. This can help signal your body to produce more milk during growth spurts.
10. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods: Drink plenty of water and maintain a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients, including protein, calcium, and iron.
11. Galactagogues: Some foods and herbs are believed to boost milk supply, such as oats, fenugreek, brewer’s yeast, and lactation teas. Consult your healthcare provider before using galactagogues.
12. Rest and Reduce Stress: High stress levels can negatively impact milk production.
13. Power Pumping: Involves pumping for shorter periods with breaks in between. For example, pump for 20 minutes, rest for 10 minutes, and repeat for an hour.
14. Consult a Lactation Consultant: If you’re struggling to increase your milk supply, consider consulting a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist.

Remember that it can take time to see an increase in milk supply, and individual results may vary. Be patient with yourself and your body, and continue to monitor your baby’s growth and diaper output to ensure they are receiving enough milk.

5. Oversupply

An oversupply of breast milk can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. Here are some tips to help prevent or manage oversupply during breastfeeding:

1. Frequent Nursing with Full Drains: Encourage full breast drainage during each feeding. Allow your baby to finish one breast before switching to the other.
2. Block Feeding: Block feeding involves nursing your baby on one breast for consecutive feedings, usually for a few hours or until the breast feels softer. This approach can help regulate milk production and reduce oversupply.
3. Shorten Feeding Sessions: If your baby tends to linger at the breast without actively feeding, try to shorten feeding sessions. 
4. Avoid Pumping Excessively: If you’re using a breast pump, avoid excessive pumping, especially in the early postpartum weeks. 
5. Pump Carefully: Use a low suction setting and limit pumping time to avoid sending signals to your body to produce more milk than necessary.
6. Laid-Back Nursing Position: Try laid-back nursing positions that allow your baby to have more control over the flow of milk. 
7. Use a Haakaa or Soft Suction Pump: Some mothers find that using a Haakaa or similar soft suction pump on the non-nursing breast during feeds can help manage oversupply.
8. Cabbage Leaves: Placing chilled cabbage leaves inside your bra for short periods may help reduce milk production. However, consult with a healthcare provider before trying it.
9. Manage Letdown: If you experience forceful letdown, you can try nursing in a reclined position to allow gravity to slow the milk flow. 
10. Consult a Lactation Consultant: They can provide personalized guidance and a plan tailored to your specific situation.
11. Monitor Your Baby: Pay attention to your baby’s cues and monitor their weight gain and diaper output. Oversupply can sometimes lead to green, frothy stools or fussiness in infants.
12. Avoid Herbs and Supplements: Some herbs, such as fenugreek and blessed thistle, as well as certain lactation supplements, can increase milk supply. Avoid these if you are dealing with oversupply.

It’s essential to remember that it may take some time to regulate your milk supply, so be patient with the process.

6. Plugged Ducts

Plugged or clogged milk ducts can be painful and uncomfortable for breastfeeding mothers. Preventing plugged ducts is important for maintaining milk flow and preventing more serious issues like mastitis. Here are some tips to help prevent plugged ducts:

1. Proper Latch and Positioning: (Refer above for proper latching).
2. Frequent and Effective Feeding: Feed your baby on demand, and make sure they are nursing effectively. 
3. Empty the Breast Completely: Ensure that your baby empties one breast before switching to the other side. 
4. Nurse in Different Positions: Vary your breastfeeding positions to ensure that all parts of your breast are drained during feedings.
5. Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight clothing can compress the milk ducts and potentially lead to clogs.
6. Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can put pressure on your breasts, potentially causing ducts to become blocked. 
7. Breast Compressions: This can help your baby receive more milk and reduce the risk of ducts becoming blocked.
8. Pump When Needed: If you miss a feeding or your baby doesn’t empty your breasts completely, use a breast pump to express milk. This can help prevent milk from stagnating in the ducts.
9. Manage Stress: High levels of stress can impact milk flow and increase the risk of clogged ducts. 
10. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper hydration and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining healthy milk production and preventing duct blockages.
11. Breast Massage: Gently massage your breasts before and after feedings to help stimulate milk flow and ensure that all areas of your breasts are adequately drained.
12. Gradual Weaning: If you decide to wean your baby from breastfeeding, do so gradually to prevent sudden changes in milk production, which can lead to clogged ducts.

If you do experience a plugged duct, it’s crucial to address it promptly. To clear a plugged duct, try warm compresses, gentle massage, and nursing frequently on the affected breast. If the duct does not clear, or if you develop symptoms of mastitis (such as fever, redness, or increasing pain), seek guidance from a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant. They can provide specific advice and treatment to resolve the issue safely.

7. Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can be painful and sometimes associated with an infection. It’s essential to address mastitis promptly to prevent it from worsening. Here are some tips to help prevent and treat mastitis:

Preventing Mastitis:

• Proper Latch and Positioning: (Refer above for proper latching)
• Frequent and Effective Feeding: 
• Empty the Breast Completely: 
• Nurse in Different Positions: 
• Avoid Tight Clothing: 
• Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach: 
• Breast Compressions: 

Treating Mastitis:

• Continue Breastfeeding: It is generally safe to continue breastfeeding from the affected breast while you have mastitis. In fact, frequent nursing can help clear the infection and reduce inflammation.
• Rest and Stay Hydrated: 
• Warm Compresses: 
• Massage: Gently massage the affected breast before and during breastfeeding to help break up any milk blockages and encourage drainage.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you are breastfeeding.
• Continue Antibiotics: If your healthcare provider prescribes antibiotics for mastitis, make sure to take the full course even if you start feeling better. This is important to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.
• Frequent Nursing:
• Express Milk if Necessary: If your baby is having difficulty latching onto the affected breast due to pain or swelling, use a breast pump to express milk and maintain milk production.
• Contact a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms worsen or do not improve within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics, or if you develop a high fever, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Mastitis can be a challenging condition, but with prompt treatment and proper breastfeeding techniques, most cases can be resolved without complications. If you suspect mastitis or have any concerns about your breast health, seek guidance from a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant. They can provide specific advice and support to help you recover.

These are just some breastfeeding tips that I think could be useful for new or to be moms. There are many more that will be covered separately within another article. At the same time, we hope these tips have been helpful and educational as well. Best of luck in your breastfeeding journey!