Breastfeeding Tips for New Mums: What No One Tells You

Breastfeeding is one of those things that sounds simple in theory and can be genuinely challenging in practice. If you're finding it hard, you are not alone — and it does get easier.

Here's the honest guide no one gives you in the antenatal class.

The first few days

Your body produces colostrum in the first days after birth — a thick, golden milk that's packed with antibodies and exactly what your newborn needs. It comes in small amounts, which is fine, because newborn stomachs are tiny (about the size of a cherry on day one).

Your milk will "come in" around days 2–5. You'll know when it happens — your breasts will become noticeably fuller and sometimes uncomfortable.

Getting the latch right

A good latch is everything. A poor latch causes pain and can affect your milk supply.

Signs of a good latch:

• Baby's mouth is wide open, covering more of the areola below the nipple than above
• You can see their jaw moving rhythmically
• You can hear swallowing
• No clicking sounds
• Breastfeeding may feel uncomfortable at first, but should not be painful

If you're in pain, gently break the latch by sliding a clean finger into the corner of baby's mouth, and try again.

How often to feed

Feed on demand — this means whenever your baby shows hunger cues (rooting, sucking on hands, turning head side to side), not on a schedule. Newborns typically feed 8–12 times in 24 hours.

Frequent feeding in the early weeks is normal and important — it stimulates your milk supply.

Common challenges

Sore nipples

Very common in the first week. Usually improves once latch is established. Lanolin cream or your own breastmilk can help with healing. If pain is severe or nipples are cracked and bleeding, speak to a midwife or lactation consultant.

Engorgement

When milk first comes in, breasts can become painfully full. Feed frequently, apply warm flannels before feeds and cold after, and hand express a little before latching to soften the areola.

Low milk supply concerns

Most women produce exactly what their baby needs. The best way to maintain supply is to feed frequently — supply works on demand. If you're concerned, track feeding times and wet nappies (6+ in 24 hours is a good sign).

Cluster feeding

Your baby wants to feed constantly for hours at a stretch — usually in the evenings. This is normal developmental behaviour, not a sign that you don't have enough milk. It typically peaks around weeks 2–3 and again at 6 weeks.

Tracking feeds with TinyYears

Keeping track of which side you fed on, how long, and when can feel impossible when you're sleep-deprived. The TinyYears app has a dedicated feed tracker with a timer for left and right breast, so you never have to try to remember.

When to get help

Don't suffer through it. Contact:

• Your midwife or health visitor for general support
• A lactation consultant (IBCLC) for persistent latch or supply issues
• The National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212 (9am–9pm, every day)
• La Leche League GB (laleche.org.uk) — free peer support groups

You're doing brilliantly. 🤍