How to Breastfeed Your Newborn

Congratulations on the arrival of your precious little one! You’ve been waiting a long time for this moment, and now that your baby is here, you can finally get to know them and bond with them as they grow. 

One way to bond is through breastfeeding. In fact, some experts say it is the best way to nourish and bond with your baby. If you choose to embark on this beautiful journey, here are some practical tips to help you get started and make breastfeeding a positive experience for both you and your newborn.

Preparing for Breastfeeding

Before getting started with breastfeeding, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success:

Educate Yourself

Take the time to learn as much as you can about breastfeeding. Do some online research, attend a breastfeeding class, or speak with a lactation consultant. Understanding the process and benefits of breastfeeding will help you feel more confident and prepared.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Set up a cozy breastfeeding area at home. Choose a quiet and relaxing space where you can comfortably sit with good back support. Keep essentials like pillows, burp cloths, and water within reach. Having everything you need nearby will make breastfeeding sessions more convenient for both you and your little one.

Stock Up on Supplies

Gather essential supplies such as: 

  • Breast pads to absorb leaks
  • Nursing bras that provide support and easy access
  • Lanolin cream or nipple butter to soothe any nipple soreness
  • Breast pump (optional but useful for expressing milk)

Here is our complete list of all the essentials you need. 

Getting Started with Breastfeeding

Let’s now dive into the practical steps of breastfeeding your newborn:

Before You Start

The first few days of breastfeeding your little one can be a little tricky. You and your baby are both learning on the job. Don’t worry though, you’ll both soon become pros. Here is what you need to know: 

  • Wash your hands before each feeding.
  • Make sure your baby is in a comfortable position.
  • Make sure you achieve a proper latch each time. We’ll cover more on this in later sections, but the gist of it is:

    • Bring your baby close to your breast, aiming their nose at your nipple.

    • Wait for your baby to open their mouth wide, like a yawn.

    • Quickly bring your baby's mouth onto your breast, ensuring they take in a big mouthful of your areola (the darker area around the nipple).
    • Your baby's lips should be flanged outward, forming a seal around your breast.

Find a Good Position

Positioning your baby correctly is crucial for a successful latch and comfortable feeding. Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you and your baby. Here are a few common positions to try:

  • Cradle hold: This is the most common breastfeeding position. To do it, sit in a comfortable chair and place your baby in the crook of your arm. Support your baby's head and neck with your hand.
  • Football hold: This position is good for babies who have trouble latching on. To do it, sit in a comfortable chair and place your baby across your lap, facing you. Again, support your little one’s head and neck with your hand.
  • Cross-cradle hold: This position is similar to the cradle hold, but your baby is positioned on the opposite side of your body. To do it, sit in a comfortable chair and cross your arm over your body. Place your baby in the crook of your arm while supporting their head and neck. 
  • Side-lying position: This position is good for late-night feedings or if you have had a cesarean section. To do it, lie on your side and place your baby next to you, facing you. Remember to support your baby's head and neck.

Achieve a Proper Latch

We touched on this a little earlier. It is important to always remember that a good latch is essential for effective milk transfer. It will also help prevent nipple soreness. Follow these steps for a proper latch:

  • Bring your baby close to your breast, aiming their nose at your nipple.
  • Wait for your baby to open their mouth wide, like a yawn.
  • Quickly bring your baby's mouth onto your breast, ensuring they take in a big mouthful of your areola (the darker area around the nipple).
  • Your baby's lips should be flanged outward, forming a seal around your breast.

Pay Attention to Feeding Cues

Your baby will give you cues when they're hungry. Look for signs like rooting, sucking on their fists, or making smacking sounds. Respond to these cues promptly, as early feeding cues are easier to work with than waiting for your baby to cry.

Feed on Demand

In the early days, it's important to feed your baby on demand. Do it whenever they show hunger cues. Also, allow your baby to nurse as long as they want on each breast. This helps establish your milk supply and ensures your baby receives enough nourishment.

Monitor Diaper Output

A good way to track your baby's feeding progress is by monitoring their diaper output. In the first few days, expect around one wet diaper per day and three to four bowel movements per day.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges and How to Deal With Them

Breastfeeding can sometimes present challenges. The most important thing to remember is that with patience and support, you can overcome them. Here are a few common ones:

Sore Nipples

If you experience soreness, make sure your baby is latching correctly. Apply lanolin cream or nipple butter after each feeding to soothe and protect your nipples. If the pain persists, consult a lactation consultant for further guidance.

Engorgement

Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly full and uncomfortable. Apply warm compresses before feeding to help milk flow. Also, consider expressing a little milk by hand or using a breast pump to relieve pressure.

Low Milk Supply

If you're concerned about your milk supply, ensure you're feeding your baby on demand and practicing proper latch and positioning. Breastfeeding is a supply-and-demand process, so the more your baby nurses, the more milk your body produces. If you have any concerns, reach out to your healthcare provider or lactation consultant.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding is a unique and special way to bond with your little one. As you breastfeed your baby, do not forget to also take care of yourself. Eat well and stay hydrated. And take care of your mental health as well by seeking support from your partner, family, and friends. Cherish the journey, because before you know it, you’ll have a toddler on your hands and your breastfeeding journey will be at an end. They grow up so fast!