Breastfeeding can be a wonderful bonding experience between a mother and her baby, but let’s be honest—it can also be incredibly challenging. For many new moms like me, breastfeeding brings questions, frustrations, and unfortunately sometimes even pain. During my own breastfeeding journey, I encountered several struggles that felt overwhelming at first. However, thanks to some practical breastfeeding tips from experienced moms, lactation consultants, and helpful products, I managed to turn breastfeeding into an enjoyable, nurturing experience.
Today, I’m sharing five breastfeeding advices that genuinely worked for me, offering practical advice to make your breastfeeding journey smoother. Each tip comes from real-world experience, aimed at helping new moms like you achieve comfort, confidence, and satisfaction in nursing your little bundle of joy.
1. It’s Breastfeeding, Not Nipple Feeding: Adjust for Comfort
Top Breastfeeding Tip – Understanding Proper Latch
One of the best pieces of breastfeeding tips I received was simple yet incredibly impactful: “It’s breastfeeding, not nipple feeding.” Initially, breastfeeding caused significant pain for me, leaving me anxious every feeding session. I mistakenly assumed this discomfort was normal, but in reality, pain during breastfeeding often signals an improper latch.
A proper latch means your baby’s mouth covers a significant portion of your areola, not just your nipple. When the latch is shallow, your nipple bears all the pressure, causing pain, soreness, and sometimes cracks. Realizing this helped me identify when my baby wasn’t latched properly.
Exploring Different Positions
To improve comfort, I experimented with different breastfeeding positions. Some common positions include the cradle hold, rugby hold, side-lying, and laid-back (also known as biological nurturing). Each mother and baby have unique preferences, so it’s worth trying several positions to find what works best for you and for your baby.
For us, the laid-back breastfeeding position was most comfortable. This position allowed my baby to latch more deeply and naturally, significantly reducing discomfort. Lying semi-reclined, I placed my baby tummy-to-tummy, allowing gravity to help my baby latch deeply. This approach helped breastfeeding sessions become more relaxed, comfortable and over time efficient.
Tips for a Better Latch
- Make sure your baby’s mouth opens wide.
- Position baby’s chin to touch your breast first.
- Ensure your baby’s lips flare out, forming a comfortable seal around your breast.
2. Reduce Latching Pain by Gently Pushing Baby’s Chin
A Quick Trick for Pain Relief
Early in my breastfeeding journey, pain during latch-on was a frequent issue. One brilliant breastfeeding advice that transformed my experience was to gently push down on my baby’s chin after they initially latched. This simple trick encourages your baby to open their mouth wider, helping achieve a deeper and more comfortable latch.
Why Does This Technique Work?
When babies initially latch, they might clamp down, causing you sharp pain. By lightly pressing down on their chin, you gently encourage the jaw to widen, resulting in a more comfortable latch. This breastfeeding tip significantly reduced the soreness and irritation I experienced, turning breastfeeding from a dreaded task into the relaxing moment I’ve heard people talk about.
How to Do This Effectively
- Use your index finger to gently apply downward pressure on your baby’s chin.
- Watch carefully as your baby opens wider; you should immediately feel less pressure and discomfort.
- Remember, gentle pressure is key—you don’t need to force your baby’s jaw.
3. Best Breastfeeding Advice – Baby to Boob, Not Boob to Baby
Correct Positioning is Key
Another fantastic piece of breastfeeding advice that changed my experience was the phrase: “Baby to boob, not boob to baby.” It means allowing your baby to naturally reach your breast instead of leaning forward or stretching uncomfortably toward them.
When you bring your breast to your baby instead of the opposite, you risk straining your back, neck, and shoulders, and potentially causing an improper latch. By patiently waiting for your baby to open their mouth wide and then pulling them gently toward your breast, you achieve a better latch while preserving your own comfort.
Benefits of Proper Positioning
This advice significantly improved my breastfeeding sessions. Proper positioning:
- Prevents unnecessary muscle strain.
- Ensures deeper latching.
- Allows for more relaxed feeding sessions for both mom and baby.
Steps to Follow
- Get comfortable first—use pillows for support.
- Hold your baby close, belly to belly.
- Wait until your baby opens their mouth wide (like a yawn).
- Gently pull them toward your breast to latch.
4. Essential Breastfeeding Tip – Keep Your Baby Awake During Feedings
Addressing Sleepy Newborn Babies
A common breastfeeding challenge is a sleepy newborn baby who tends to doze off mid-feed. When my baby repeatedly fell asleep, I initially worried they weren’t feeding enough. Thankfully, I received breastfeeding tip that genuinely worked: stroke your baby’s legs, back, butt, or head gently to keep them awake during feedings.
Gentle Stimulation Techniques
This gentle stimulation method effectively wakes sleepy babies without startling or upsetting them. The key is gentle yet persistent touch, helping your baby remain alert long enough to feed adequately.
Effective Ways to Keep Baby Awake
- Softly rub or tickle your baby’s feet or legs.
- Lightly stroke your baby’s back or buttocks.
- Gently caress your baby’s head and ears to encourage alertness.
Using this technique ensured my baby received sufficient nourishment, providing peace of mind and better feeding sessions.
5. Choose Medela Breast Massage Oil Over Lanolin Creams
Why Comfort Matters During Breastfeeding
Breast discomfort or pain can severely impact breastfeeding success and enjoyment. Initially, I tried lanolin-based creams to soothe my nipples, but they felt too sticky and uncomfortable. Eventually, I discovered the soothing relief of Medela Breast Massage Oil, which made an enormous difference in my breastfeeding comfort.
Advantages of Medela Breast Massage Oil
Unlike lanolin, Medela’s oil is lightweight, not greasy, and easily absorbed. It’s formulated specifically for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring safety if ingested by your baby. Regularly using this oil:
- Reduced breast tenderness and engorgement.
- Improved circulation and milk flow.
- Kept my skin hydrated and prevented painful cracking.
Medela Breast Massage Oil became my go-to product for gentle, effective comfort, making breastfeeding more enjoyable.
Easy Application Tips
- Pour a small amount of Medela Breast Massage Oil onto clean hands.
- Gently massage into your breast area, I use it now once a day after my shower. When needed before or after feeding.
- Safe for use anytime—no need to wash off before breastfeeding.
Additional love goes to Nuxe body R̻ve du Miel series, as this miracle lotion has been my go to for long lasting (hello Р48h!) skin hydration. You can check my review on topic here on the blog.
Next to hydration, scrubbing has helped my skin keep up with all the changes during pregnancy and postpartum. I like to use Tree Hut yummy flavors -> check my review.
Additional Practical Tips for Breastfeeding Success
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Breastfeeding demands hydration and nutrition. Drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious meals can improve milk supply and overall energy levels.
Seek Support and Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from lactation consultants or support from breastfeeding groups. Having a support network was invaluable in my breastfeeding journey.
Trust Your Instincts
Always trust your instincts as a mother. If something doesn’t feel right, seek help, adjust your methods, or try a new approach until breastfeeding becomes comfortable and rewarding for both you and your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding
How Do I Know if My Baby Is Getting Enough Milk?
Signs include regular wet diapers, steady weight gain, and visible swallowing during breastfeeding sessions.
When Should I Seek Professional Breastfeeding Help?
If breastfeeding continues to cause pain, if you’re worried about milk supply, or if your baby struggles to latch consistently, consider contacting a lactation consultant.
Final Thoughts: Turning Breastfeeding Struggles into Success
Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be an overwhelming or painful experience. With the right advice and support, it becomes a nurturing, comfortable bonding time for you and your baby. Remember these five breastfeeding tips:
- It’s breastfeeding, not nipple feeding—adjust positions.
- Reduce latching pain by gently pushing baby’s chin.
- Baby to boob, not boob to baby.
- Keep your baby awake by gentle stimulation.
- Use products for your comfort like Medela Breast Massage Oil
Implementing these practical advices transformed my breastfeeding journey from challenging to joyful. I hope these insights help you feel more comfortable, confident, and fulfilled during your own breastfeeding experience. Every journey is different but sharing it with other makes us feel less alone and its always good to share our experiences.
Follow me along my motherhood journey on TikTok – @tezmomlife
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