Breastfeeding tips for new parents
Breastfeeding is natural but it is also a skill that you and your baby learn together. These practical tips can make the first weeks easier.
Get a good latch
Bring your baby to the breast, not the breast to the baby. Baby's mouth should be wide open and cover not only the nipple but also a good part of the areola, with the chin pressed into the breast and the nose free. Breastfeeding should not hurt beyond the first few seconds. If it does, break the suction with a clean finger and try again.
Find a comfortable position
Cradle, cross-cradle, football hold and side-lying all work. Support your back and arms with pillows and have water and a snack within reach. Skin-to-skin contact helps both with bonding and milk supply.
Alternate breasts and let baby finish
Let your baby finish the first breast before offering the second, so they get the fatty milk at the end of the feeding. Start the next feeding on the breast you finished with, or the one that did not get a turn. Many parents forget which side is next when sleep deprived, which is why Plumpy shows you which breast to start with.
Look after yourself
Rest when you can, drink to thirst and eat regularly. Nipple creams, a few drops of breast milk left to air dry, and a correct latch help against sore nipples.
When to ask for help
Persistent pain, a hard red lump with fever, cracked or bleeding nipples, or concern about your baby's weight gain are all reasons to contact your midwife, health nurse or a lactation consultant early. Most problems are easy to fix when caught early.