Your guide to breastfeeding

Why Breastfeeding Is Worth It (Even When It's Hard)

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world — and also one of the most challenging. If you're a new mum struggling in those early days, you're not alone. Most mothers face at least one significant hurdle before breastfeeding becomes second nature. This guide is here to help you understand what to expect, how to overcome common problems, and how to set yourself up for a positive breastfeeding experience.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breast milk is uniquely tailored to your baby's needs. It contains the perfect balance of nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that formula simply cannot replicate. Here's why so many mothers choose to breastfeed:

 
• Immune protection — Breast milk is rich in antibodies that help protect your baby from infections and illnesses in their first months of life.
 
• Digestive health — It's easier for babies to digest than formula, reducing the risk of constipation and colic.
 
• Bonding — The skin-to-skin contact during feeding releases oxytocin in both mum and baby, deepening your emotional connection.
 
• Benefits for mum — Breastfeeding can help your uterus contract after birth, reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and support postpartum weight loss.

Getting Started: The First Few Days

The first 48–72 hours are crucial. Your body produces colostrum — a thick, golden milk packed with antibodies and nutrients. It may not look like much, but it's exactly what your newborn needs. Try to feed your baby within the first hour after birth if possible, as this helps stimulate your milk supply.

Your mature milk will typically come in between days 3 and 5. You may notice your breasts becoming fuller and heavier — this is completely normal.

How to Get a Good Latch

A poor latch is the root cause of most breastfeeding problems, from sore nipples to low milk supply. Here's how to achieve a deep, comfortable latch:

 
• Hold your baby tummy-to-tummy with you, with their nose level with your nipple.
 
• Wait for your baby to open their mouth wide — like a yawn.
 
• Bring your baby to your breast (not your breast to your baby).
 
• Your baby's chin should touch your breast first, with their lower lip covering more of the areola than the upper lip.
 
• You should feel a strong tugging sensation, but not pain. If it hurts, gently break the latch with your finger and try again.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges (and How to Solve Them)

Sore or Cracked Nipples

Usually caused by a shallow latch. Focus on positioning first. After each feed, apply a little expressed breast milk to your nipples and let them air dry. Lanolin cream can also help. If pain persists, see a lactation consultant.

Engorgement

When your milk comes in, your breasts may feel rock hard and painful. Feed frequently, use warm compresses before feeding to help let-down, and cold compresses after to reduce swelling.

Low Milk Supply

The best way to build supply is to feed on demand — the more your baby feeds, the more milk your body produces. Ensure your baby is latching well, stay hydrated, and rest as much as possible. Avoid supplementing with formula unless medically necessary, as this can reduce your supply.

Mastitis

A painful breast infection that causes flu-like symptoms. Keep feeding through it (it's safe for your baby), apply warm compresses, and see your GP if symptoms don't improve within 24 hours as you may need antibiotics.

Breastfeeding in Public

You have every right to breastfeed wherever you are in the UK — it's protected by law. If you feel more comfortable with a little coverage, a breathable organic nursing cover can give you confidence and privacy without overheating your baby. Our nursing cover is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, so it's gentle against both your skin and your baby's.

How Long Should You Breastfeed?

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods up to 2 years and beyond. That said, any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial — even a few weeks makes a difference. Do what works for you and your baby.

Creating a Comfortable Feeding Environment

Those long feeding sessions (newborns can feed 8–12 times a day!) are a wonderful opportunity to rest and bond. Set up a cosy feeding corner with:

 
• A supportive chair or nursing pillow
 
• Water and snacks within reach
 
• A soft organic cotton baby blanket to keep your baby warm and snuggled during feeds
 
• Your phone or a good book for the longer sessions

When to Ask for Help

Don't struggle alone. Reach out to:

 
• Your midwife or health visitor
 
• A certified lactation consultant (IBCLC)
 
• The National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212
 
• La Leche League GB for peer support groups

You're Doing Brilliantly

Breastfeeding is a skill — for both you and your baby. It takes time, patience, and practice. Be kind to yourself in those early weeks. Every feed you give is an act of love, and every challenge you overcome makes you stronger. You've got this.

Looking for more support for your breastfeeding journey? Explore our range of parent-approved organic baby essentials parent-approved organic baby essentials designed to make those precious early months a little easier.