Why breastfeeding is best for you and baby (even if it’s just for a little while), plus tips and tricks to help you through
For every struggle with breastfeeding – from sore boobs to accidentally flashing your mother-in-law – there are countless benefits to be had, for both you and your little one.
When you’re armed with sufficient help and support, breastfeeding truly can feel like one of the most seamless and rewarding aspects of parenthood.
Find out everything you need to know right here.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for baby?
There's a reason so many experts champion breastfeeding – well, several to be precise. Breast milk comes turbo-charged with an incredible number of minerals, nutrients and germ-fighting antibodies to help your baby grow and develop.
Together, these form a hard-working, balanced and easily digested meal for your little one. What's more, it's tailor-made and bespoke to your baby's needs. Research has found that when poorly babies breastfeed, it can trigger an increase in white blood cells, and other protective factors, in their mothers' milk to help baby fight the infection. Clever, huh?
According to the NHS, breastfeeding can help to reduce your baby’s risk of infections, diarrhea and vomiting, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS or cot death) and more. If your baby is exclusively breastfed (no top-ups with first infant formula) then the NHS recommends that you give your baby a daily vitamin D supplement of 8.5-10mcg. You can pick up simple-to-use drops from your local ASDA or pharmacy. If you qualify for Healthy Start, then you might be able to get them for free.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for mum?
One of the biggest plus points to breastfeeding? It's totally free! Many mums also find it hugely convenient since there are no kettles to boil, bottles to wash or formula to lug around in your changing bag.
It offers health benefits for mums, too: breastfeeding lowers your risk of many illnesses including certain cancers.
It can help speed up the process of your uterus (womb) shrinking back to size postnatally, and it has been shown to release 'oxytocin' (dubbed the 'love' hormone) which can make you feel calm and connected to your baby.
The more you breastfeed, the greater the protection. Experts recommend that you give your baby nothing but breastmilk for the first six months, but any amount of breast milk has a positive effect. Even if you manage just a few days, it’s worth it. If you are breastfeeding, just like baby, it’s important you’re getting enough vitamin D to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. You can get vitamin D in your diet by including oily fish, like salmon, or some fortified products like breakfast cereals. However, it’s hard to get enough from food alone so it’s recommended that you take a 10mcg supplement whilst breastfeeding.
What breastfeeding equipment do I need?
If you and your baby can get into the swing of breastfeeding smoothly, there truly isn't anything else required. However, there are some genius tools available to offer a helping hand.
If you're struggling to position your baby comfortably, try using a cushion or specially-designed nursing pillow for additional support.
Suffering from nipple soreness? A nipple balm can work wonders (although you should contact a health professional if you're in pain as it may indicate a poor latch or infection).
You may like to express some breast milk to allow someone else to give your baby a feed at times – for example, if you need to get a few vital hours of sleep.
For this, you'll need either a manual or electric breast pump and a bottle. Breast milk storage bags can also be used to store your milk in the fridge or freezer. Just be cautious of over-pumping as this can result in over-supply.
And if your boobs are prone to leaking in between feeds, pop breast pads in your bra to save any unwanted outfit changes. You've got enough of those on your plate with your bubba, right?
Forget watching the clock, health experts recommend you ditch the feeding schedules, instead encouraging 'on demand' or 'responsive' breastfeeding by following your baby's own feeding cues.
But how can you actually tell when your little one is hungry?
Signs to look for include:
Becoming restless
Sucking their fist or fingers
Making murmuring sounds
Turning their head and opening their mouth (known as rooting).
It's not possible to overfeed a breastfed baby and don't be alarmed if your child is feeding every hour in the first few days (often dubbed 'cluster feeding'), and still as often as every two hours in the weeks that follow.
Gradually you will find yourself getting into a pattern and the amount of milk you're producing starts to regulate, leaving you feeling more in control – we promise!
How can I breastfeed in public?
Breastfeeding when you're out and about can feel a little daunting but remember, it's your right! You are legally allowed to breastfeed anywhere in public from pubs and public transport to restaurants. That said, if you feel more comfortable doing it in a separate room, don't be afraid to ask. You might just be surprised at how welcoming people are.
For your first on-the-go breastfeed, try a soft play café or child-friendly location, or bring along your partner or fellow mum mate, for an extra confidence boost.
Nursing bras and tops can also be useful, allowing easy access without getting in a tangle. You can also pop a scarf or muslin over the top for additional privacy, if you wish, although many mums often find that with time and practice doing without is actually easier and more discreet.
How to handle the night feeds in winter
Breastfeeding can offer an unbelievable bonding experience for you and your newborn, but let's be honest – few of us look forward to that 2am feed during the depths of winter. To help make cold night feeds a little easier, ask your partner to make you a hot water bottle – to place behind your back – while you're feeding, or pop an electric blanket over your feet or chair.
Treat yourself to some snuggly PJs, slippers or a dressing gown, and make yourself a cup of decaf in a thermal flask just before you go to bed (or hot chocolate – we're not judging!)
A gentle night light can make the room feel cosier, too, without disturbing you or your baby. And don't forget to save a good book on your phone or find a gripping TV series that you'll look forward to catching up on. It can make all the difference when that baby-shaped alarm clock sounds!
Where can I get more help with breastfeeding?
It really can feel like you're simply in survival mode in those early days, your time totally consumed with feeding, punctuated by the occasional two-minute shower and cold dinners eaten one-handed.
But rest assured, you're helping your newborn to truly thrive and giving them an incredible start to life. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself, take each day as it comes and don't be afraid to ask your partner or family for help – whether it's by winding the baby after the night feeds or committing to a short daily pram walk to help you catch a break.
If you're still struggling, there are so many brilliant resources that can help aside from your GP, health visitor and midwife. Check out the National Breastfeeding Helpline,La Leche League or the NCT for more support.
