Congratulations on Your Baby!
Choosing to breastfeed is a beautiful decision. It’s not only nourishing for your baby but also deeply beneficial for you. If you ever feel unsure, reach out to a lactation consultant, La Leche League leader, or WIC counselor—they’re there to guide and support you.
💖 Why Breastfeeding Matters
Benefits for Mom
Helps reduce bleeding after delivery
Encourages your uterus to return to normal size faster
Lowers risk of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer
Burns 200–500 calories daily
Strengthens the bond between you and your baby
Breastfed babies are healthier, meaning fewer doctor visits and missed workdays
Benefits for Baby
Breast milk adapts to your baby’s changing needs
Easy to digest, reducing gas, colic, and spit‑ups
Fewer respiratory and ear infections
Lower risk of childhood cancers and allergies
👩🍼 Breast Changes During Pregnancy
Your body begins preparing for breastfeeding early on:
Breasts may grow larger, nipples and areolas darken and become more sensitive
By the 5th or 6th month, your breasts can already produce milk (colostrum)
Colostrum is rich in protein and antibodies—your baby’s first “superfood”
Toward the end of pregnancy, choose a supportive nursing bra for comfort
🤱 Latching On A good latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding.
Sit comfortably with your back supported
Use a pillow to bring baby level with your breast
Position baby tummy‑to‑tummy with you
Guide baby’s mouth to the nipple—chin touches first, lips curled outward
Signs of a Good Latch
Gentle tugging without pain
You hear swallowing every few sucks
Baby’s jaw and ears move rhythmically
Nipple looks round after feeding
🪑 Nursing Positions Finding the right position makes feeding easier and more comfortable:
Football Hold: Great for C‑section moms, twins, or large breasts
Cradle Hold: Common but may be tricky in early days
Cross‑Cradle Hold: Helpful for learning and correcting latch
Side‑Lying: Perfect for nighttime or resting feeds
Tandem Nursing: Special holds for feeding twins together
🍼 Milk Composition
Colostrum: Thick, yellowish milk in the first few days—packed with antibodies
Transitional Milk: Produced between days 5–15, richer in calories and fat
Mature Milk: Arrives after 2 weeks, adapting to your baby’s needs with foremilk (lighter) and hindmilk (creamier, weight‑building)
🔄 Supply & Demand
Your body produces milk based on how often milk is removed. The more you nurse or pump, the more milk you’ll make. Early, frequent feedings are key.
🧩 Common Challenges & Tips
Engorgement: Swollen, painful breasts → nurse often, apply cold packs, hand express for comfort
Plugged Ducts: Sore, firm spots → start feeding on that breast, apply warm compresses
Mastitis (Infection): Red, hot, painful breast with fever → keep nursing, rest, call your doctor
Sore Nipples: Usually from poor latch → reposition baby, use lanolin or hydrogel pads
Thrush: Yeast infection in mom or baby → consult your provider, sterilize pump parts and pacifiers
👶 Is Baby Getting Enough Milk?
Steady weight gain (4–8 oz per week in early months)
5–6 wet diapers daily after day 5
2+ bowel movements daily in the first month
You hear swallowing during feeds
🛠 Using a Breast Pump
Choose a pump that feels comfortable (manual, electric, or battery‑powered)
Pump in a private, relaxed space—having baby’s photo or blanket nearby helps
Store milk safely:
Room temp: 6–10 hours
Fridge: up to 8 days
Freezer: 3–6 months (12 months in deep freezer)
Thawed milk: 24 hours in fridge, never refreeze
🤝 Partner Support Partners play a huge role:
Offer encouragement and patience
Help with chores and baby care
Bring snacks or drinks during feeds
Stay close during nursing—it strengthens family bonds
🌍 Feeding in Public
It may feel awkward at first, but practice helps:
Watch baby’s hunger cues early
Find a discreet, comfortable spot
Use clothing or a blanket for coverage
Remember: most people won’t even notice
💼 Back to Work
Breastfeeding while working is possible:
Pump during breaks and lunch
Store milk properly in a cooler or fridge
Nurse on demand at home
Keep spare pump parts and nursing pads handy
⏳ How Long Should You Breastfeed?
Every day counts. Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, but continue as long as it feels right for you and your baby.
⚕️ Medications, Alcohol & Tobacco
Always check with your doctor before taking medication
Limit or avoid alcohol—it can reduce milk supply
Quit or cut back on smoking; never smoke near your baby
✨ —sometimes challenging, always rewarding. With patience, support, and the right information, you’ll find your rhythm and enjoy this special bond with your baby.