Many mums struggle to breastfeed at first, with common concerns including, “Is my baby getting enough milk?” and “Am I feeding them too much?”

It is well known within the breastfeeding community that the first 6-8 weeks are the most challenging, but fortunately, there are several tried and tested tips that can help you navigate this difficult time.

From breastfeeding immediately after delivery to finding the right breastfeeding technique to creating a stress-free environment to feed, keep reading to discover the top five breastfeeding techniques for breastfeeding beginners.

1. Get started right away

Giving birth is an overwhelming experience, and you are likely to feel in a bit of a daze immediately after. That being said, if you can, this is the perfect time to start your breastfeeding journey. Whatever type of delivery you have, you will be encouraged to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby, which helps to stimulate your milk production and strengthen the bond between yourself and your newborn.

You should aim to feed your baby at the breast within an hour of giving birth. Even if they do not feed, this process will still help them to start developing their sucking reflexes.

2. Prepare for breastfeeding

Although the only things needed to breastfeed are you and your baby, there are supplies that you can get that will make your breastfeeding sessions more comfortable. These include a nursing bra, a nursing pillow, breast pads and a selection of snacks and drinks as you need to keep your fluid and energy levels up.

If you are planning to breastfeed in public or in front of family members and you feel a bit shy in doing so, a muslin breastfeeding cover is an ideal solution. Bibado offers breastfeeding covers that double up as a muslin cloth, providing you with a discreet way to breastfeed wherever you are.

3. Practice your technique

You have probably heard horror stories about cracked and bleeding nipples and breast pain, but these can be avoided with the right breastfeeding technique. It is vital that your baby gets a big mouthful of breast, not just the nipple, and that your baby’s body and head are aligned in a straight line against your breast.

If your baby is struggling to feed or you are experiencing pain when feeding, it is possible that your baby has tongue-tie, which can make breastfeeding difficult. Your doctor will be able to tell you if this is the case, and a simple procedure can rectify this issue.

4. Don’t stick to a routine

Breastfeeding differs from bottle feeding in that it works on a supply and demand basis, meaning the more you feed, the more milk you will produce. In the first 6-8 weeks, you may feel like you are breastfeeding your newborn around the clock but rest assured this is completely normal.

Try to recognise signs that your baby is hungry, such as rooting with the fist, placing their fingers in their mouths and smacking their lips.

5. Create a calm environment

Although this may be easier said than done, especially if you have other children, breastfeeding a newborn is much easier if you are feeling relaxed and free from stress. Try to find a quiet place to feed and turn off your mobile phone. This is a special time for you and your baby, and you should aim to be completely present in the moment.