National Breastfeeding Awareness Month: Tips for a Successful Breastfeeding Journey

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a great time to celebrate the many benefits of breastfeeding. The first few weeks can be a learning experience, but you’ll establish a good routine with patience, support, and the right resources in your corner. 

Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms 

Learn to spot your baby’s hunger cues 

Your little bundle of joy will usually show signs of hunger before crying. These cues may include turning their head from side to side, putting their hands in their mouth, rooting, opening and closing their mouth, or becoming more alert or fussy.

When it’s time to feed, let your baby take the lead. Some babies feed from both breasts, while others do one at a time. Offer both and allow your baby to decide. As long as your baby is actively sucking and swallowing, let them eat as long as needed. It’s important for your baby to breastfeed 8-12 times per day to ensure your breasts are stimulated to initiate and sustain breastmilk production.

Prioritize skin-to-skin contact

Skin-to-skin contact starts immediately after birth at Beebe, whether you deliver vaginally or by  C-section. This helps promote bonding and encourages a successful start to breastfeeding. 

The benefits continue after you go home. Skin-to-skin contact is known to help calm crying and regulate your baby’s temperature, heart rate, breathing rate and blood sugar. 

Many moms enjoy “wearing” their baby in a soft carrier or wrap. If you choose to babywear, just make sure you only do so when you’re fully awake and able to actively monitor them. 

Keep your baby close for easy nighttime feedings 

At bedtime, keep your baby close but in a safe sleep space, like a crib or bassinet in your bedroom. 

Room-sharing (not bed-sharing) makes nighttime feeds easier and has been shown to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing for at least the first six months, and ideally for the baby's first year.

Take care of yourself too 

Breastfeeding requires extra energy, so taking care of yourself is an important piece of taking care of your little one. 

Try to rest whenever you can, even if that means sleeping when the baby sleeps or having someone else handle household tasks so you can recharge.

Staying hydrated, eating healthy meals, and getting enough sleep will support your recovery and promote a healthy milk supply.

Give yourself time to establish a routine

The first week or two is a big adjustment. Consider limiting visits from family and friends during this time so you can focus on establishing your routine. Your baby needs time to learn too!

Also, it’s best to avoid introducing a pacifier or bottle during these early weeks. Breast milk provides all the nutrition your baby needs for the first six months, and unnecessary supplementation may impact your supply. 

If supplementation is needed, expressed breastmilk is often the first choice. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help you explore other breastfeeding-friendly methods such as syringe, cup, or supplemental nursing tube feeding. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help 

Breastfeeding can take time, practice, and patience for both you and your baby. Pay attention to your baby’s cues, take care of yourself, and let friends and family know you need quiet time to establish your feeding routine. 

The first two weeks are often the most challenging for new moms, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Beebe’s certified lactation consultants, counselors, and breastfeeding champions are available to answer questions, troubleshoot challenges, and provide personalized support every step of the way. 

If you have questions about breastfeeding or would like additional support, call (302)-645-3577 to learn more or schedule a consultation with an IBCLC.