PBC BABY Expo Midwife's top 3 tips for breastfeeding

Breastfeeding has so many benefits for both you and your baby. Breast milk contains antibodies, good bacteria, and other nutrients that help reduce the risk of your baby developing gastroenteritis, respiratory tract infections, and ear infections.

Below are my top 3 tips for breastfeeding:

1. Getting a good attachment is one of the key factors in successful breastfeeding. Poor attachment can lead to many issues including nipple pain/damage and low supply. When your baby is breastfeeding they need to have a large mouthful of breast tissue in their mouth. This can sometimes be tricky to get the hang of, but it is so important in having a successful breastfeeding journey.

2. Find the right position. There are a number of different ways you can position your baby when breastfeeding – this may be the cradle hold, football hold or side-lying. I suggest trying out different positions to find what is most comfortable for you and your baby.

3. Breastfeeding has benefits for your baby beyond 12 months of age. It is a myth that breastfeeding is only beneficial for babies under 12 months of age. We know that breastfeeding your toddler provides many of their daily nutrient requirements. The World Health Organisation recommends children are breastfed until at least two years of age. This is a personal decision, but if you are breastfeeding at 12 months and want to continue you absolutely can!

Tips supplied by PBC Expo Midwife