Top 10 Breastfeeding Tips for First-Time Mums (From Mums Who’ve Lived It)

Let’s be honest, breastfeeding is one of those things people tell you is “natural” — and yet somehow feels like you’re learning to ride a bike… with your boobs… while sleep-deprived and leaking. It can be beautiful, chaotic, bonding, and absolutely baffling.

So, if you’re in those hazy early days thinking “Why didn’t anyone mention it’d be this hard?”, this is for you. These tips come straight from mums who’ve been through the cracked nipples and cluster feeds and lived to tell the tale.

1. It’s Not Always Natural, Even Though Everyone Says It Is

You’re not doing it wrong if it feels awkward. Breastfeeding doesn’t magically “just happen.” Babies aren’t born knowing how to latch like pros, and you don’t get a how-to manual with your placenta. It’s clumsy at first. Messy. Sometimes painful. That’s normal. It gets easier.

2. Pain Is a Signal, Not a Rite of Passage

Yes, there might be some discomfort when you’re starting out. But pain that makes you wince or dread the next feed? That’s a red flag. Could be a latch issue, tongue tie, or your position. Get support. You don’t need to tough it out in silence. Pain isn’t the price you pay for feeding your baby.

3. Get Help – Even If You Feel Weird Asking

Lactation consultants are brilliant. And no, you don’t need to wait until you’re in tears to book one. Confused? Worried? Sore? Ask for help. Even a quick check-in can make a huge difference. It’s not a sign you’re failing, it’s a sign you care enough to get it sorted.

4. Formula Is Not the Enemy

If you’re topping up, switching completely, or doing a mix of boob and bottle — you are still feeding your baby with love. That’s what matters. The guilt? Chuck it in the bin. Fed is best. Always has been.

5. Cluster Feeding Will Mess With Your Head

That phase where your baby wants to feed every 15 seconds in the evening? Totally normal. Totally exhausting. It doesn’t mean your milk’s disappearing. It’s your baby’s way of telling your boobs, “Oi, more milk please.” It’ll pass. Deep breaths. Snacks. Netflix.

6. You Still Matter (Yes, You)

In the blur of feeds, nappies, and midnight googling, it’s easy to forget you’re a person too. Eat. Drink. Nap if someone else can hold the baby. You’re not being selfish, you’re being sensible. You matter. Full stop.

7. Positions Matter – Find Your Comfy Zone

Don’t suffer through a position just because it’s in a leaflet. Side-lying might be your 3am saviour. Football hold could help if you’ve had a C-section. Try different ways until something feels good. Your comfort is not negotiable.

8. Feeding in Public Gets Easier

The first time might feel like you’re on stage at the Opera House. But it gets better. Wear what works. Use a cover or don’t. Your baby comes before someone else’s awkward glance. Every time you do it, your confidence grows.

9. Everyone Has Opinions – Smile and Nod

From “Are you still breastfeeding?” to “Why don’t you pump?”… the opinions come thick and fast. Here’s a tip: filter everything. If it helps, take it. If it doesn’t, let it go. You’re the expert on your baby. Full stop.

10. It Gets Easier – Promise!

One day, you’ll realise you haven’t thought about latching in days. You’ll be feeding while scrolling or chatting or just chilling. That day comes. But even before it does, you’re doing an amazing job. Be gentle with yourself.

Closing Thoughts

Breastfeeding can be beautiful, maddening, intimate, and downright hard. You don’t have to love every minute. You just have to keep going in whatever way works for you and your baby.

Got a tip that got you through the long nights or sore days? Share it below. Your story might be exactly what another mum needs to read at 2 am.