Breastfeeding 101: From Newborn Tips to Weaning

Breastfeeding is natural, beautiful — and let’s be honest — sometimes a little bit baffling. One minute you’re marvelling at your newborn’s tiny hands, the next you’re wondering if you’re holding them at the right angle or if it’s supposed to feel like that. Between the sleepy cuddles, endless feeds, and occasional moments of "Am I doing this right?", the breastfeeding journey is a real mix of magic and mayhem. There’s a lot to figure out, but you don't have to go through this all alone!

If you're looking for a helpful breastfeeding guide that can answer most of your questions, this is the one for you. We’ve got you covered with tips, advice, and a few reassuring truths to make your breastfeeding journey a little easier and a lot more joyful.

Get going with breastfeeding

The early days of breastfeeding can feel a bit like fumbling around in the dark, and that’s absolutely fine. In those first precious hours after birth, your little one will show an impressive instinct to latch on, but it might take a spot of practice for you both to get into the swing of things. To make things smooth, keep your baby snuggled close to your breast and let them latch on naturally.

Finding a comfy position is key, and a good latch is all it takes. If you’re feeling a bit wobbly about it, don’t think twice about calling over a midwife or a lactation consultant. They will guide you with the most practical and useful breastfeeding tips for first-time mothers like you!

Breastfeeding basics for first-time moms

For first-time mums, breastfeeding can feel like a bit of a puzzle at first. But with a little patience and practice, it’ll soon fall into place. Here are a few tips that you can use from this breastfeeding guide to help you piece it all together.

• Start early: Try to have your first breastfeeding session within the first hour after birth. Your baby is usually very alert during this ‘golden hour,’ and early skin-to-skin contact can help kickstart your milk supply and bonding.

• Having said that, do not fret if your baby needs immediate medical attention and supervision soon after birth or if you need to be monitored after the delivery and cannot immediately nurse the baby, you and your baby will catch up soon and sail through the process easily, if you stay calm and rested. 

• Watch baby's hunger cues: Rather than waiting for your baby to cry, look out for signs like lip-smacking, rooting (turning their head from side to side and opening their mouth), or sucking on their hands. Early feeding when they’re calm makes latching easier for both of you.

• Feed on demand: Forget the clock! Feed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger, which may be 8-12 times a day or more in the early weeks. This will also help your milk supply adjust to your baby's needs. You will soon learn to recognise the signs of hunger; however, this does not mean that you need to feed the baby every time they wake up from sleep or the moment they start to cry. Babies cry as a way to communicate, to call — when they are wet, when they are cold, when they need to be burped, or when they need a hug. 

• Ask for help: Breastfeeding is natural, but it’s something you and your baby learn together. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask your midwife, healthcare provider, or lactation consultant for a bit of hands-on support.

• Hydrate and eat well: Breastfeeding can be physically demanding, so be sure to drink plenty of water and eat a balanced breastfeeding diet. Munching on healthy snacks like nuts and fruits and having regular meals will keep your energy levels up. Do consume the foods prepared as per your customs. As there is a lot of wisdom in old traditions.

• Try different positions: Experiment with different feeding positions like cradle hold, rugby hold, or lying down, until you find one that feels natural and comforting. Make sure that you provide maximum support for your back, arms, and feet properly to avoid aches, especially during longer feeds.

The lowdown on lactation

Here’s a simple lactation guide to get you started. Lactation, the process of making breast milk, begins during pregnancy and steps up once your baby is born. When your baby latches onto your breast, it triggers hormones that let down the milk into the nipple, making it available to the baby. As breastfeeding continues, another hormone boosts milk production and the more they feed, the more milk you’ll make.

In the first few days, your body produces colostrum, a thick, yellowish milk rich in nutrients and antibodies, giving your baby’s immune system a strong start. After a few days, your milk changes to mature milk; lighter in colour and full of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to help your baby grow and thrive.

Breastfeeding challenges? We’ve got you!

Breastfeeding can be full of special moments and a few tricky ones too. These are some of the common problems you’re likely to face, but don’t worry! With your guide to breastfeeding by your side, you’ll be well-prepared to handle whatever comes your way. 

• Sore nipples 

Problem: Tender or painful nipples, often from a poor latch  

Solution: Ensure your baby’s mouth is wide open before latching, so that it covers the entire areola. A good latch will make all the difference.

• Engorgement  

Problem: Breasts feel full, swollen, and uncomfortable  

Solution: Feed your baby more frequently or express a little milk to relieve the pressure.

• Blocked ducts and mastitis

Problem: Blocked ducts cause swelling and pain; mastitis can bring flu-like symptoms.  

Solution: Breastfeed regularly and make sure your breasts are well-drained to prevent blockages and infections.

• Low milk supply

Problem: Constantly worrying that you’re not producing enough milk.  

Solution: Feed your baby often; offer both breasts at each feed. Other experts say that emptying one breast completely at one feed, provides more nutrition to the baby than offering both breasts together due to the concept of difference in foremilk and hind milk. Maintain a good diet and adequate hydration, sleep while the baby sleeps, enjoy skin-to-skin time, interact warmly with your baby while feeding, and seek advice from a lactation consultant if needed.

• Cluster feeding

Problem: Baby feeding very frequently over a few hours, especially during growth spurts.  

Solution: Know that it’s normal and temporary; usually occurs in the first week after birth and may occasionally happen around 4-6 months. It's your baby’s way of boosting your milk supply. If it persists for a longer time and the baby does not appear satiated in spite of frequent feeding, you must see a lactation consultant.

The weaning process

Weaning is the gradual process of introducing your baby to solid foods while slowly reducing breastfeeds. Research recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, after which you can start offering solids alongside milk. In this breastfeeding guide, let’s take a closer look at the weaning journey.

Each baby is different, and so is the weaning process. Weaning should be attempted when both you and your baby are ready. While there is no right time or right way to start the weaning process, here are some general tips for weaning. 

• Introduce solid food when your baby starts exploring/showing interest in food. 

• Begin with soft, mashed, simple foods like mashed fruits, vegetables, and dalia when your baby is around six months old for one meal only.

• Keep giving breast milk or formula to meet their nutritional needs. 

• Let your baby take the lead in the weaning process; some may be excited to try new foods, while others may need more time. Don’t hurry the process; start slow and be patient.

• Do not introduce too many foods together. 

• As your baby eats more solids, slowly cut back on breastfeeding sessions. However, increase your comforting cuddles to tide over this emotional transition for you both.

Here’s to happy feeding times ahead

As you move forward, remember: there’s no perfect way to do this, only your way. Whether it’s mastering the latch, navigating growth spurts, or gently preparing to wean, take it one feed at a time. Trust your instincts, lean on support when you need it, and most importantly, cherish the closeness these moments bring. You’re doing better than you think, and these days truly do pass faster than you realise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I start breastfeeding after birth?

It's best to start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. Newborns have a natural instinct to latch on, and early feeding helps stimulate milk production and makes bonding with your baby easier.

2. How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

Signs your baby is getting enough milk include regular wet nappies, steady weight gain, and satisfied, relaxed behaviour after feeds. If you're unsure, consult a lactation expert.

3. How long should I breastfeed each time?

Each feed can last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on your baby's age and hunger. Let your baby nurse until they seem satisfied and stop on their own.