When I became a mom for the first time, I wasn’t really coached on how to breastfeed or what to expect. My baby latched, milk came out, and that was it—or so I thought.
No one told me about the different positions you can breastfeed in, how to care for sore nipples, or how emotionally and physically overwhelming it can feel.
No one prepared me for the exhaustion of feeding on demand—the countless hours, the feeling of being constantly touched, of being the only source of comfort and food for this tiny human.
Looking back, I wish someone had told me: You’re not alone. It’s okay to feel all the feelings. And there is support available.
Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms
Gentle, practical guidance to help you feel more confident.
Learn Before Birth
- Take a breastfeeding class during pregnancy.
- Talk to a lactation consultant early to get familiar with the basics.
Skin-to-Skin Right After Birth
- Encourages baby’s instinct to latch.
- Boosts milk production and bonding.
Latching Tips
- Aim for a deep latch: baby’s mouth should cover more than just the nipple. Tugging is normal—sharp pain is not.
- Try nose-to-nipple alignment: this prompts baby to open wide for a proper latch.
- Check positioning: baby’s head, neck, and spine should be in a straight line. Bring baby to your breast—not your breast to the baby.
Feeding Patterns
- Feed on demand: expect 8–12 feeds in 24 hours. Learn baby’s cues (rooting, lip smacking, hand-sucking).
- Night feeds are essential: prolactin levels are higher at night, helping to establish supply.
Milk Supply and Comfort
- Stay hydrated and nourished: drink water and eat balanced meals and snacks throughout the day.
- Avoid early bottles or pacifiers (if possible): this can prevent nipple confusion in the early weeks.
- Soothe sore nipples naturally: express a little breastmilk and air-dry, or use lanolin or cool compresses.
Support and Mindset
- Ask for help: reach out to a lactation consultant, your doula, or a support group like La Leche League.
- Remember: you’re learning together—be gentle with yourself, this takes time.
- Rest when you can: let others help. Breastfeeding is a full-time job in itself.
Breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding a baby—it’s about growing into a new role, learning as you go, and giving yourself grace every step of the way.
Beautiful read.
As a first time mom, I realized how learning how to breastfeed prior is actually as important as lesson during pregnancy. No one can ever equip you enough for those first two weeks of breastfeeding which I have learned that they are really important because you learn about your body and also baby’s feeding patterns. Even though you can have as much information as possible, I also believe support is just as important because breastfeeding is not an easy journey. To all the new mom’s reading this, know that we’ve got this and everything will be okay. Sending you virtual hugs