Breastfeeding is a journey, and each one of my children had a unique story. With my first child, things went relatively smoothly after the initial adjustment period. He latched well, and aside from a couple of bouts of mastitis, we had a positive experience—so positive that he nursed until almost two!
With my second, however, it was a different story. There were latch issues, and we had to navigate through challenges I hadn’t faced before. By the time my third came along, I recognized problems right away and was able to have a successful breastfeeding journey.
This dual perspective as both an experienced mom and now as an IBCLC allows me to offer insights that blend real-world practicality with evidence-based strategies.
If you’re preparing to breastfeed, I want you to feel supported and empowered, regardless of your journey. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Ask for Help
Breastfeeding may be natural, but it isn’t always intuitive. Never hesitate to seek assistance—there’s no shame in needing guidance.
In the Hospital
Ask for a lactation consultant to visit you during your hospital stay. If your hospital doesn’t automatically offer this, request one! Nurses are also a great resource; ask them to check your baby’s latch during every feeding. Their tips can set you up for success before you head home.
At Home
Once you’re home, resources like La Leche League, private IBCLC consultations, and WIC (if eligible) can provide continued support. My professional recommendation is to schedule a lactation consultation early if you encounter any challenges. Don’t wait for things to feel overwhelming.
Master the Latch
A proper latch is the foundation of pain-free, effective breastfeeding. Signs of a good latch include:
- Baby’s mouth wide open with lips flanged outward.
- Chin pressed into the breast, with nose free.
- You feel a strong, rhythmic tug, not pinching or biting pain.
If pain persists beyond the initial weeks, or if your baby isn’t gaining weight, consult with an IBCLC to troubleshoot.
Explore Different Positions
Experiment to find what works best for you and your baby. Whether it’s the cradle hold, laid-back nursing, or the football hold, comfort is key. A comfortable, reclining chair can make a world of difference.
Know What’s Normal
It’s easy to worry about whether your baby is getting enough milk, especially during growth spurts or cluster feeding. Here are some reassuring signs:
- Consistent weight gain.
- 4-6 wet diapers daily.
- Baby seems content and alert after feeds.
Consider investing in a scale like the Hatch Baby Scale for peace of mind, or do weighted feeds with an IBCLC.
Build Your Breastfeeding Toolkit
Invest in products that can make breastfeeding more comfortable and effective:
- Silverettes: Natural relief for sore nipples.
- A reclining, comfy chair: Essential for those marathon nursing sessions.
- Lansinoh Therapearls: Provide both heat and cold therapy for engorgement or soreness.
For more product recommendations, sign up for my Breastfeeding Registry Guide!
Don’t Suffer in Silence
Some discomfort is normal, but breastfeeding should not be excruciating. Persistent pain can signal a latch issue, tongue/lip ties, or even infections. As an IBCLC, I’ve helped countless moms identify and overcome these hurdles—don’t wait to get professional help. A personalized course or one-on-one consult could make all the difference.
Be Kind to Yourself
Breastfeeding can be hard, and it’s okay if your journey doesn’t look like someone else’s. You’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you succeed. If you’re looking for comprehensive guidance, consider enrolling in one of my courses or scheduling a consult. Let’s make your breastfeeding journey as smooth as possible.
