Breastfeeding: Is There a Right or Wrong Way?

Breastfeeding is often described as natural.

That doesn't necessarily mean it comes naturally.

For many mothers and babies, breastfeeding is a skill they learn together. Positioning, attachment, feeding cues and simply getting comfortable can all take practice.

So is there a right or wrong way to breastfeed?

There isn't one position or routine that works for every mother and baby. But there are some important principles that can help breastfeeding become more comfortable and effective — and there is support available if things aren't going well.

Breastfeeding Is a Skill You Learn Together

Every breastfeeding experience is different.

Some babies attach easily from the beginning. Others need more time and support. Some mothers breastfeed exclusively, some combine breast and formula feeding, some express milk, and feeding plans can change over time.

Try not to judge your own experience against somebody else's.

The NHS describes breastfeeding as a skill that mother and baby learn together, and says it can take time to get used to.

What Does a Good Breastfeeding Latch Look Like?

Attachment — often called the latch — is important because it helps your baby feed effectively and can reduce nipple soreness and damage.

Rather than thinking that your baby should simply latch onto the nipple, the aim is for them to take a good mouthful of the breast.

The NHS advises bringing your baby close with their nose level with your nipple, allowing their head to tip back slightly and waiting for a wide-open mouth before they attach. Their chin should touch the breast and their cheeks should remain rounded while feeding.

If you're uncertain about attachment, ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist to watch a feed.

Small adjustments can sometimes make a considerable difference.

Which Breastfeeding Position Is Best?

There isn't one.

Different positions suit different mothers, babies and circumstances.

Common breastfeeding positions include:

• cradle hold
• side-lying
• laid-back breastfeeding
• rugby hold

For example, some women who have had a Caesarean birth find side-lying or the rugby hold more comfortable because these can reduce pressure around the abdominal area.

The important things are that you're comfortable, your baby's head and body are aligned, and your baby is held close enough to attach effectively.

How Often Should a Newborn Breastfeed?

Newborn babies usually feed frequently.

Rather than following a rigid timetable, NHS guidance recommends allowing your baby to guide how often and how long they breastfeed.

In the first few weeks, newborns commonly breastfeed at least eight times in 24 hours, although some will feed more frequently. Periods of very frequent feeding, known as cluster feeding, can also be normal.

Learning your baby's early feeding cues can help too.

Is Breastfeeding Supposed to Hurt?

Some nipple sensitivity or soreness can occur when breastfeeding begins, but persistent or significant pain shouldn't simply be accepted as something you have to endure.

One of the most common causes of sore nipples is poor positioning or attachment. If your nipples hurt at every feed, become cracked or bleed, NHS guidance recommends getting help from a midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter as soon as possible.

Pain can sometimes have another cause, including infection, so seek professional advice if it isn't improving.

What Can Help Sore or Cracked Nipples?

The first priority is to check why your nipples are sore.

If attachment is the problem, a product on its own won't correct it.

The NHS recommends getting positioning and attachment checked and offers several practical measures for sore or cracked nipples, including changing breast pads regularly and wearing a well-fitting non-underwired bra.

Current NHS guidance also includes silver nipple cups used between feeds among the measures that may be tried if nipples become cracked.

Silver nipple cups — sometimes called silver nursing cups — are worn over the nipple between feeds rather than while the baby is feeding.

If you're considering them, they should be viewed as an adjunct to appropriate breastfeeding support rather than a solution to poor attachment, infection or another underlying cause of persistent nipple pain.

999 Silver Nursing Nipple Cups

How Do I Know Whether My Baby Is Getting Enough Milk?

This is one of the most common concerns when breastfeeding.

Signs that feeding is going well can include hearing or seeing your baby swallowing, rounded cheeks while feeding, appearing content after most feeds and producing an appropriate number of wet nappies.

After the first few days, the NHS says babies should generally have at least six wet nappies every 24 hours. Weight gain is another important indicator, although some weight loss during the first week after birth is normal.

If you're concerned about your baby's feeding or weight, speak to your midwife or health visitor rather than trying to judge milk intake alone.

What About Breastfeeding Nutrition?

You don't need a complicated "breastfeeding diet".

Eating a varied, balanced diet and drinking according to thirst is a sensible foundation.

Rather than trying to hit an assortment of precise daily nutrient targets from an online article, seek individual advice if you have dietary restrictions, concerns about your nutrition or have been advised to take supplements.

We've covered breast milk and nutrition separately in our guide to Breastfeeding, Breast Milk and Its Nutritional Benefits.

What If Breastfeeding Isn't Going to Plan?

Ask for help early.

Problems such as painful nipples, poor attachment, engorgement and concerns about milk supply are common reasons for seeking breastfeeding support.

You can speak to your:

• midwife
• health visitor
• breastfeeding supporter or specialist
• GP where appropriate

The National Breastfeeding Helpline is also available 24 hours a day on 0300 100 0212.

Breastfeeding difficulties aren't evidence that you're doing motherhood incorrectly.

So, Is There a Right Way to Breastfeed?

There is no single perfect position, timetable or breastfeeding experience.

What matters is that your baby is feeding effectively, you're as comfortable as possible, and you both receive appropriate support when something isn't working.

Breastfeeding can take practice.

Ask questions. Try different positions. Get attachment checked if feeding hurts. Seek help early rather than struggling alone.

And allow your feeding experience to be your own, rather than measuring it against somebody else's.

Further Reading

Fourth Trimester: The Complete Guide

Postpartum Recovery: The Complete Guide

Breastfeeding, Breast Milk and Its Nutritional Benefits 

Breast Milk and Its Changing Colours 

Written by Primrose + Ginger