Getting Off to a Good Start With Breastfeeding

• 7 in 10 mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than they planned, often because of pain or worries about milk supply.
• Breastfeeding should not be painful — early tenderness is normal, but ongoing pain usually means you need support with positioning or attachment.
• Most mothers can make all the milk their baby needs.

These videos show what effective breastfeeding looks like and how to stay comfortable:

• Breastfeeding in the First Hours
• Attaching Your Baby at the Breast
• Positions for Breastfeeding
• What To Do About Nipple Pain
• Is Your Baby Getting Enough Milk?

• The first hour is a special time when babies are naturally ready to connect and begin breastfeeding.
• When placed skin‑to‑skin, babies follow instinctive behaviours known as The Nine Stages — from the birth cry to self‑attachment and suckling.
• This process can take an hour or more and supports:
  • Successful breastfeeding
  • Bonding
  • Parental confidence
  • Baby’s ability to regulate themselves
• Formula‑fed babies also benefit from skin‑to‑skin.
• Skin‑to‑skin at any time is helpful for your baby.

• Breastfed babies: No water needed for the first 6 months; extra feeds meet thirst.
• Formula‑fed babies: May need small sips of cooled boiled water in hot weather.