Breastfeeding Tips From TalkMum Bloggers

Breastfeeding can be one of the most enriching aspects of new motherhood, and an important way of bonding with your new baby.

According to stats from the UK Government, almost 68% of women in the UK start breastfeeding, however only 48% continue beyond 6- 8 weeks, which is below the recommended 6 months in line with guidance from the WHO, and only 1% of babies are still being exclusively breastfed by the time they are six months old. There are many reasons behind this, and it is also clear that lots of women encounter problems and obstacles.

Breastfeeding help and support is available from a variety of different sources and it’s important to reach out if you’re struggling. We also asked our TalkMum bloggers to talk about their own experiences, what helped them, and to give their tips to support you in your breastfeeding journey. We’ve also listed various places you can go to for breastfeeding advice and help.

TalkMum Bloggers Share Their Experiences And Breastfeeding Tips

It Gets Easier

‘Breastfeeding can be really tough to start with and it might seem like it’ll never come as second nature, but persevere and try to relax as much as possible, it really does get easier.’ Fran

Ask For Help

‘Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your midwife or health visitor. I struggled initially to breastfeed my first baby, but after seeking help from health visitors, breastfeeding drop-in clinics and the NCT helpline, we finally got the hang on it and went on to have a long and happy feeding journey.' Gill

Trust Your Instincts

‘Trust your instincts and ask for help. My son was tongue tied but it was dismissed by every nurse I asked. By three weeks old, finally he was diagnosed! This was after much perseverance and me not accepting a first opinion. It turns out, he was so severely tongue tied and only had 10% movement in his tongue, resulting in him having two procedures to correct it.’ Katrina

Make Yourself Comfortable

‘I created a little breastfeeding haven in the nursery for me and the baby, and really quite enjoyed doing it.’ Eleanor

Don't Beat Yourself Up

‘My breastfeeding advice would be to try to breastfeed if you can but if you struggle then don't feel bad about not breastfeeding. I tried my hardest to breast feed, but after trying everything, stopping was the right thing to do for us.’ Fozia

Remember Every Feeding Journey Is Unique

‘Don’t assume if you had issues first time round this will be the case with a new baby. I struggled with my first baby – although we finally got there after a lot of help – but my second latched on no problem and we had no issues. Every feeding journey is unique and different.’ Gill

You're Important Too

‘I never made enough milk and the guilt about stopping was hard. But my babies went on to thrive, and we were all immediately happier. My breastfeeding tip is to make the choice that's best for both of you. Don't forget that both of you includes you.’ Rachel

Get Up To Do Night Feeds

‘Many people find night feeds tough. I found getting out of bed to do the night feeds made it more enjoyable and less stressful for everybody.’ Eleanor

Remember It’s Not Just You

'If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, it can be easy to think it’s just you that can’t do it. It’s not! It’s common to encounter issues with breastfeeding. Try and find other breastfeeding mums that you can talk to and help support each other.’ Gill

Where You Can Find Breastfeeding Tips, Advice And Support:

The first port of call for breastfeeding help is to ask your midwife or health visitor, either while you are still in the hospital or when you are at home. They will be able to offer support on all aspects of breastfeeding. They will also be able to point you in the direction of online support services and drop-in clinics for advice.

The NHS has tips and advice on seeking breastfeeding support, including information on how you can find your local breastfeeding drop-in centre and a number of different helplines to call for support. Find out more here.

NHS Start 4 Life has a wealth of online information about breastfeeding, including tips, advice and fact sheets. You can also access the Start 4 Life Breastfeeding Friend digital tool on Facebook Messenger or via Amazon Alexa, where you can get answers to questions asked by new mums, and tips on things like sore nipples and what to do if your baby cries during feeds. More information is here.

The NCT is a charity for parents that offers help and support with breastfeeding. If you have questions, concerns or need support, you can speak to a breastfeeding counsellor by calling the NCT helpline on 0300 330 0700, whether you are exclusively breastfeeding or using formula milk. The helpline is open 8am to midnight, including bank holidays.

La Leche League is a charity that provides mother-to-mother, parent-to-parent breastfeeding support across the UK, and offers help in a variety of ways. Find out more here.