Breastfeeding Essentials
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it is also a learned skill. In the early days, small adjustments can make a big difference for both mother and baby. With gentle guidance the right support, most mothers can breastfeed comfortably and confidentially.
This page gives the best advice for successful breastfeeding and offers guidance for some of the common problems with breastfeeding.
How to Breastfeed Successfully
With gentle guidance and the right support, most mothers can breastfeed successfully. On this page we will walk you through the key principles that help breastfeeding feel comfortable, effective and sustainable.
Start with Comfort
Before bringing your baby to the breast, take a moment to get comfortable. A relaxed mother helps the baby latch more easily.
- Sit or lie in a relaxed position
- Support your back, arms and shoulders
- Elbows relaxed by your side
- Use pillow if needed to support arm
- Nipples in a neutral position
- Support breast to improve nipple position
When you are comfortable, your baby is more likely to settle and feed well.
Position Your Baby Gently
Your baby's position plays a major role in successful breastfeeding. Baby's body should face the mother with head and spine aligned.
Aim for:
- baby facing you, tummy to tummy
- head, neck and spine aligned
- baby close to your body
Gentle positioning helps you baby attach naturally without strain.
Aim for Face to Breast Symmetry
Face to Breast Symmetry is important in preventing nipple trauma. The Thompson Method looks at four facial points to help obtain this.
The nostrils resting on the breast. The upper lips sealing the breast
- the point of the chin to be deep in the breast
- the cheeks to be snug against the breast
- No visible gaps around these 4 points
If still have pain fine-tuning the positions can help correct the latch and help with successful breastfeeding
Achieve Comfortable Latch
A good latch is key to both comfort and efficient milk transfer
- lips go over nipple
- face to breast symmetry
- no pinching or sharp pain
If breastfeeding hurts, it often means the latch can be improved.
- More information: Why breastfeeding hurts
Feed Frequently in the Early Days
Newborn babies feed frequently until milk supply is established, usually 72-96 hours.
Frequent feeding:
- helps establish milk supply
- supports baby's growth
- keeps baby settled
Once milk supply is established, aim for 7 breastfeeds in 24 hours and offer both breasts at each feed.
Tip: Try to respond to early feeding cues rather than wait for crying.
Watch Your Baby, Not the Clock
Every baby is different.
Signs your baby is ready to feed:
- turning head (rooting)
- sucking on hands
- becoming more alert
Feeding based on your baby's cues helps breastfeeding flow more naturally.
Look for Signs Feeding is Going Well
Successful breastfeeding often includes:
- baby swallowing during feeds
- baby appearing relaxed after feeding
- regular wet nappies
- steady weight gain over time
Breastfeeding Should Become Comfortable
Some tenderness in the early days can be normal, but ongoing pain is not.
Comfortable breastfeeding usually means:
- no sharp or pinching pain
- nipples are not damaged
- baby feeds calmly and effectively
- settled between breastfeeds
If pain continues, small adjustments to positioning or latch often make a big difference.
Take Care of Yourself
Your wellbeing matters.
- stay hydrated
- eat regularly
- rest whenever possible
A supported, rested mother is better able to breastfeed comfortably.
Ask for Help Early
Breastfeeding challenges are common, but they are often easily resolved.
Early support can:
- prevent ongoing pain
- improve milk supply
- build confidence
Working with a breastfeeding professional can make a noticeable difference in a short time.
Breastfeeding is a skill that develops over time. With gentle positioning, a comfortable latch, and the right support, most mothers find that feeding becomes easier and more enjoyable.
We are here to help
If you would like personalised guidance, we offer breastfeeding consultations using the Thompson Method to help mothers breastfeed comfortably and confidently.