Breastfeeding: The benefits and how to make it easier

Last reviewed: 24 January 2026

Breastfeeding is great for newborn babies and babies in general. However many mums are a little daunted by learning this new skill. We understand that, so here’s our guide to help you make your life a little easier.

Breastfeeding can be amazing for both you and your baby, but it’s also a skill that takes practice, patience, and the right support. This guide breaks breastfeeding down into what it is, why it matters, how to get started, common challenges, and where to find help.

TL;DR

Breastfeeding is a learnt skill for both you and your baby. A deep latch and comfortable positioning solve many early problems. If feeding is painful, your baby is not gaining weight, or you feel worried, getting support early can make a big difference.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice.

Breastfeeding: the basics

Breastfeeding can feel surprisingly hard at first. That does not mean you are doing it wrong. Many parents need reassurance and practical support in the early days and weeks.

Health guidance in the UK recommends breastfeeding exclusively for around the first six months where possible, then continuing alongside solid foods if it suits you and your child.

Benefits of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides nutrition, immune support, and a unique bond between you and your baby. Health experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for around the first six months, with continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods up to age 2 or longer if it suits you.

Breast milk is made for your baby and adapts as they grow. It can:

help protect babies from some infections
support digestion and development
provide comfort, closeness, and reassurance

Breastfeeding can also have health benefits for mums over time.

The benefits of breastfeeding for mothers

Breastfeeding can have benefits for mums too. Some research links breastfeeding with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and it can also help the uterus contract after birth.

It can also be cheaper and more convenient than formula feeding. If breastfeeding is not working for you, you have not failed — your health and your baby being fed matter most.

Breastfeeding and your diet

You do not need a perfect diet to breastfeed. Aim for regular meals, plenty of fluids, and a mix of protein, slow-release carbohydrates, and fruit and vegetables when you can. If you feel unusually tired, dizzy, or unwell, speak to your midwife/GP — it may not be “just tiredness”.

If you drink alcohol, it’s safest to keep it occasional and small amounts. If you are unsure what is safe for you and your baby, check NHS guidance or speak to a health professional.

How to breastfeed your baby

Many early breastfeeding problems come down to positioning and latch.

A good latch usually means:
your baby opens their mouth wide
their chin is close to the breast
they take a good mouthful of breast, not just the nipple
feeding feels like tugging or pulling, not sharp pain

A helpful tip for many parents is to bring your baby to your breast, rather than leaning your breast towards your baby.

Expressing milk

Expressing milk can be useful for many reasons, including building a supply, relieving engorgement, or allowing someone else to help with feeds.

Milk can be expressed by hand or with a pump. Some parents find hand expressing helpful in the early days, especially when milk volumes are small. Pumps, either manual or electric, can be useful once feeding is established or if you need to express more regularly.

If you are expressing to support breastfeeding, it can help to express around the same times your baby would normally feed. This helps maintain supply, as milk production works on supply and demand.

Expressed breast milk can be stored safely for later use, as long as storage and hygiene guidance is followed.

The best breast pump for expressing

Medela breast pumps

In a Which? magazine review of breast pumps, 36% of mums went for a Medela breast pump. View the range of Medela breast pumps on Amazon

How often should a newborn feed?

Newborns usually feed very frequently, especially in the first few weeks. Cluster feeding, where babies feed many times close together, is normal and does not mean you are doing anything wrong.

Breastfeeding tips

Breastfeeding advice can sometimes feel overwhelming. These tips focus on the things that tend to make the biggest difference day to day, especially in the early weeks.

Focus on an effective latch first. Many common problems, including pain and poor milk transfer, improve once positioning and latch are adjusted.
Feed responsively rather than to a clock. Watching your baby’s early hunger cues and feeding when they show interest helps support milk supply and keeps feeds calmer.
Use skin‑to‑skin contact often. This can help settle your baby, encourage feeding cues, and support milk production, particularly in the early days.
Protect your own comfort and energy. Changing positions, using cushions for support, resting where possible, and eating and drinking regularly all help make feeding more sustainable.
Remember that supply follows demand. Frequent, effective feeds (or expressing) signal your body to make more milk.

Cow’s milk is not suitable as a main drink for babies under 12 months of age.

Signs that your baby is getting enough milk

Some signs that can help reassure you include:

Regular wet nappies.
Your breasts will feel softer after feeding.
Your baby will suck a few times followed by a pause as they swallow.
They’ll be chilled out while feeding, satisfied after and may fall asleep.

When to get help urgently

Seek advice from your midwife, health visitor, GP, or urgent care if:

your baby is very sleepy and difficult to wake for feeds
there are fewer wet nappies than expected
you notice signs of dehydration
your baby cannot latch at all
you have fever, flu-like symptoms, or a painful red area on your breast

Common breastfeeding problems

Sore nipples or pain

Ongoing pain is not something you should have to push through. Soreness is often linked to latch or positioning and usually improves quickly with the right support.

Engorgement

Very full breasts can feel uncomfortable. Feeding frequently, using warmth before a feed, cool compresses after, and gentle hand expression can help.

Worries about milk supply

Milk supply is usually led by demand. Effective and frequent milk removal signals your body to make more. If you are worried, having a feed observed by someone trained in breastfeeding support can be very reassuring.

A note on feeding choices

Breastfeeding is not the only way to feed your baby. Mixed feeding and formula feeding are valid options. What matters most is that your baby is fed, growing, and that you are supported.

Support in the UK

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Support is available through NHS services, health visitors, and breastfeeding support organisations. Getting help early often makes feeding easier and more enjoyable.

NHS Breastfeeding support
National Breastfeeding helpline – 24 hour support call 0300 100 0212