15+ Breastfeeding Tips to Feed Your Baby Without Pain

Breastfeeding is one of the few things that bring mom and baby close. Breast milk doesn't only prevent your newly born baby from some diseases, but also works as a stepping stone for the baby’s future growth. But breastfeeding can be challenging and painful for some. To overcome these challenges, you should learn the breastfeeding tips to feed your baby comfortably.

15+ Best Breastfeeding Tips to Feed Your Baby Comfortably

1. Meet a lactation consultant before you have the baby to learn breastfeeding tips in the prenatal period. Ask whatever questions you have in your mind pertaining to breastfeeding. The doctor will advise you on the best ways that will help you in your breastfeeding journey.
2. See other people and seek support. Another mom can be a good source for you to learn about breastfeeding.
3. Design a nursing station in your home. Create an area with a comfortable chair, a side table, a nursing pillow, water, diaper-changing products, etc.
4. Always breastfeed your baby in a good position. Here are the five breastfeeding positions you can adapt to feed your baby comfortably.
5. Keep your baby in the same room where you sleep (rooming-in). This will bring you and your baby close.
6. Position your nipple near the baby's nose and ensure the baby's tummy is facing yours.
7. Put your hand at the nape of your baby's neck, and bring her swiftly towards you.
8. Don't count minutes. Your baby will leave your breast on her own. If needed, you can offer the second breast.
9. You need more calories when you are breastfeeding than while pregnant. At least you should include 300 more calories per day. But don't go overboard. Also, garnish your meals with extra nutrients and protein-rich foods (lentils, dairy, beans, etc.) and drink plenty of water. Furthermore, avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and fried and spicy foods.
10. Apply enough purified lanolin cream between feedings to keep your nipples soft and supple. You can opt for coconut oil if you are allergic to lanolin-based creams or best apply your own breast milk over the nipple and areola.
11. Use a nursing pillow that can wrap around you for a better position. It will also curta, il stress from your shoulders, back and neck.
12. Use a well-lifted nursing bra that can give your breasts adequate support and help feed your baby without completely lifting the bra. If you're thinking of purchasing bras before your baby is born, you should go with a bigger size as breast size increases after delivery.
13. Use breast pads as breasts might leak some milk from time to time. Avoid plastic liners, as they can irritate your nipples.
14. Consider different ways to latch. Don't latch your baby in the same position every time. Breastfeed your baby from one side and then switch over to the other breast in the next feed.
15. If you experience the pain of engorgement (a condition when milk isn't fully removed from breasts ushering into swelling, discomfort, and pain), you can feed your baby whenever she is hungry to prevent this condition. Also, take a warm shower or place a cloth soaked in warm water over your chest. Warmth and gentle massages help ease the milk flow.
16. Ascertain your nipple care by checking your baby's breastfeeding position and deeper latching from time to time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I breastfeed my baby?

Experts recommend feeding breast milk exclusively for the first six months. And then continue breastfeeding along with some complementary food to fulfill the iron requirements of your baby.

How to avoid sore nipples?

Tenderness in nipples is common in the first few weeks as the nipple stretches. After a few weeks, the problem will subside. But if it doesn't, seek help from a lactation consultant. For sore nipples, apply your milk over the nipples. This may help you as breastmilk boasts antiseptic properties. But if your nipples are cracked, you should consult with a doctor.

How long does a feed last?

How long the baby latches on totally depends on your baby. Usually, 10 to 40 minutes is normal. So, let your baby decide when the feed should end.

Does breastfeeding spoil my breasts?

No. It's the pregnancy that affects the breast shape. Breastfeeding actually helps to make the breasts firmer.  

How long do women produce milk?

There's no certain age up to which women produce breast milk. Whenever the pregnancy happens, the prolactin hormone initiates milk production. However, post-40, some hormone changes in the body can hamper milk production.

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Also, Read: Breastfeeding - Everything a Mom Should Know!