Breastfeeding For Beginners

We know it’s natural, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a bit daunting. Follow these tips to help your feeding routine get started.

  1. Twenty minutes is average, but feeds can last between 10 minutes and an hour.

  2. When your baby comes off the breast or is no longer suckling actively, burp her and offer the other breast, but she may be satisfied with just one.

  3. Start each feed on alternate breasts. If your baby is not keen, express a few drops of milk onto her lips so that she can smell and taste it.

  4. Use your thumb to press your breast out of the way of the nose if you have large or engorged breasts.

  5. Make sure your baby is latching on well to prevent sore nipples. His or her jaws should grasp the areola, not just the nipple, and the nose should be touching your breast, while still allowing baby to breathe comfortably.

  6. Set yourself up in a comfortable and relaxed position – experiment with different ones to work out which is best.