When I had my first baby, I thought breastfeeding would come naturally. After all, it’s supposed to be the most natural thing in the world, right? But the truth is—it wasn’t easy at all. I remember sitting on the couch with my newborn in my arms, completely unsure if I was doing it “right.” Was my baby latching correctly? Was he getting enough milk? Why did my breasts feel sore and heavy all the time?
If you’re a new parent and feeling the same way, please know this: you’re not alone. Breastfeeding is beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming in the beginning. Over time—and with three little ones of my own—I’ve learned some simple, practical lessons that I wish I had known from day one. Today, I’m sharing my story and my best breastfeeding tips to help you feel more confident and supported on your journey.
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My Struggles With My First Baby
With my firstborn, I didn’t know the importance of proper positioning. I would hunch over, the baby would slip off, and I ended up with sore, cracked nipples. On top of that, I constantly worried: How do I know if he’s getting enough milk? Every fuss or cry felt like a sign that I wasn’t producing enough.
Then came the clogged milk ducts—something I had never even heard of before. The pain was awful, and I had no idea how to relieve it. Looking back, I realize so much of my struggle came from not knowing what was “normal” and not asking for enough help.
By the time I had my second and third babies, I had learned a few things that made all the difference. And I want to pass those lessons on to you.
Breastfeeding Tips for New Parents
1. Focus on Position and Latch
Hold your baby tummy-to-tummy, making sure their nose is in line with your nipple. A good latch should feel more like a tugging sensation, not sharp pain. Don’t be afraid to try different positions until you find what works for you and your baby. My position is sitting, holding the baby horizontally on a slightly raised rectangular pillow so that the baby’s head fits comfortably at the level of my chest.
Signs of a Poor Latch
One of my biggest struggles with my first baby was figuring out if the latch was right. I kept thinking, “Maybe this pain is normal?”—but it wasn’t. If you notice these signs, it might mean your baby’s latch needs adjusting:
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Your nipples are sore the entire feeding, cracked, or even bleeding
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When the baby comes off the breast, your nipple looks creased, flattened, or slanted
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You hear clicking or smacking sounds as your baby sucks
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Your baby keeps slipping off or unlatching after only a few sucks
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Baby’s cheeks dimple inward with each suck (like they’re sipping from a straw)
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Baby still seems hungry right after feeding
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Baby has fewer than 6–8 wet diapers a day after the first week
If any of these sound familiar, don’t get discouraged—it’s so common. Try repositioning your baby, making sure their mouth is open wide and taking in both the nipple and some of the areola. And if you’re still struggling, reaching out to a lactation consultant can make all the difference. I wish I had asked for help sooner instead of pushing through the pain!
2. Watch for Signs, Not Ounces
One of the hardest parts of breastfeeding is not being able to see exactly how much your baby is drinking. Instead of stressing over ounces, watch for signs: plenty of wet diapers (more than 6-8 wet diapers), rhythmic sucking and swallowing, and a content baby after feeding. These are the best indicators that your little one is getting enough.
3. Prevent Clogged Ducts Early
Clogged ducts were my biggest challenge. To prevent them, I learned to:
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Alternate breasts each feeding
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Avoid tight bras or clothing
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Massage gently while feeding
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Use warm compresses if I felt a lump starting (This is very important! By all means you must soften the lump to prevent it from getting worse by increasing breastfeeding – because the baby’s sucking force is quite strong, it will help you a lot, wiping with warm water and actively massaging.)
If a clog does happen, get help if it doesn’t clear.
4. Feed Often in the Beginning
Newborns need to feed a lot—sometimes every 1–2 hours. I used to panic that something was wrong, but it’s completely normal. Frequent feeding helps build your supply and comforts your baby.
When your baby is first born, you may feel like your milk supply is too low. I remember staring at my tiny newborn, worrying that I wasn’t making enough milk for him. But here’s the truth: your milk supply is designed to grow with your baby’s needs. In the early days, your breasts produce colostrum—often called “liquid gold.” It’s thick, nutrient-dense, and comes in small amounts, which is exactly what your baby needs for their tiny stomach.
As your baby nurses more often, your body gets the signal to produce more milk. This is why it’s so important not to rush to formula right away, even if you feel like your supply is low. Supplementing too early can actually interfere with your body’s ability to build up milk production.
Instead, keep putting your baby to the breast as often as possible. Think of it as “supply and demand”—the more your baby nurses, the more milk your body will make. If you’re ever unsure, watch for those wet diapers, weight gain, and satisfied little sighs after feeding—those are your best clues that things are on track.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Lactation consultants, nurses, and even experienced moms can be lifesavers. I wish I had reached out sooner instead of pushing through the pain and doubt alone.
A Note for New Moms
I hope these breastfeeding tips from a mom of three help you feel more prepared and less alone. Remember—no one is perfect at this right away, and every journey looks different. Trust your instincts, lean on support when you need it, and celebrate every little win along the way.
You’re doing an amazing job, mama. ❤️
Read more: Parenting Tips for New Moms: A Guide from a Mom of 3
Or listen to a relaxed music (my YouTube Channel): Calm music – Relaxing Music – Gentle Spring – Blooming Flowers
