14 Top Breastfeeding Tips From the Modern Midwife

Breastfeeding support from The Modern Midwife

At Kit & Kin, we’re here for every stage of your parenting journey, including the wonderful, wobbly, and often emotional early days of feeding your baby. If you’re planning to breastfeed, or just exploring your options, this honest guide from The Modern Midwife, Marie Louise offers grounded, judgement-free advice to help you get started and feel supported along the way.

Whilst breastmilk might be natural, breastfeeding doesn’t always feel that way. This isn’t about ‘breast is best’ - it’s about helping new parents feel confident, informed and empowered, whatever feeding looks like for you.

1. Start with skin-to-skin

The best way to get off to a positive start? Skin-to-skin contact with your baby as soon as you can after birth, no matter what kind of birth you had. It’s not just backed by research, it’s also instinctive and a very powerful tool for your breastfeeding journey. Aim for that first feed within six hours of birth to get the milk-making hormones flowing. And if that’s not possible, expressing in those early hours helps, too.

Kit & Kin newborn breastfeeding tips skin to skin

2. Know that it’s different for everyone

Breastfeeding may be natural, but it doesn’t always come naturally. For some, it clicks straight away. For others, it’s a learning curve. There’s no right or wrong, the journey looks different for everyone - just follow what works for you and your baby, and make sure to ask for help from trusted professionals, utilising breastfeeding support groups, your midwife or health visitor

3. Even one feed makes a difference

That very first milk your body produces - colostrum - is packed with infection-fighting power, high in protein and vitamins A and K, and helps colonise your baby’s gut. Even a few drops of colostrum can support your baby’s developing immune system. So if you reduce or stop breastfeeding, know that whatever breastmilk your baby had, it went a long way!

4. Frequent feeding is normal

Your baby’s tummy is tiny, about the size of a marble, so they’ll feed often. Cluster feeding (feeding lots in a short space of time) is normal, and it doesn’t mean something’s wrong. It’s how they build your milk supply and get what they need.

5. Latch makes a big difference

Pain when feeding is often a sign that the latch isn’t quite right. A good latch means:

Baby’s chin and lower lip touch the breast first
Nose near the nipple (not mouth directly on it)
Wide open mouth and a big mouthful of breast tissue
More areola visible above baby’s top lip than below

If it hurts, pause, reposition, try again. And always ask for help if you need it.

6. It’s OK to get help (and you should)

Midwives, lactation consultants, breastfeeding support groups - they’re all there for you. Use them. If you're in hospital, stay until you feel confident with feeding. Watch videos, ask questions, and lean on other mums for support. You weren’t meant to do this alone.

7. Plan ahead with comfy gear

Invest in comfy, clip-down breastfeeding bras, supportive pillows, and nipple balm (you can start using it before baby arrives). A good breast pump can help if you're planning to express later on - some are even wearable for hands-free pumping.

8. Your baby’s nappies tell you a lot

Worried about how much milk your baby is getting? Look at what’s coming out. Wet and dirty nappies, an alert and feeding baby - those are all good signs.

9. Protect your milk supply

The first 3–5 days are key. This is when your colostrum transitions into mature milk. Feeding (or expressing) regularly during this time helps establish your supply long-term. Following your baby’s feeding cues and feeding on demand is recommended - remember that frequent feeding may be normal for your baby, and milk production is all about supply and demand.

10. Breastfeeding after a C-section? You’ve got options

Try side-lying or rugby hold positions to ease pressure on your tummy. Your baby might be less interested in feeding right away (especially if they’re clearing mucus), so keep offering the breast regularly.

11. Create a feeding bubble

This is your time to bond, recover and feed. Let your support network know you need to rest, eat and focus on baby - they can handle everything else. Hold off on visitors if they’ll interrupt that flow. Your wellbeing matters, and this is your space to protect.

12. Don’t push through pain

Sore, cracked nipples are one of the top reasons mums stop breastfeeding early. If feeding hurts, something needs adjusting, it might be the latch, position, or nipple care. Use a trusted and natural nipple balm, ask for support, and consider healing cups if you’re struggling. If you think your baby may be tongue tied or you’re having difficulty latching your baby on, get your baby assessed by a specialist, lactation consultant or midwife.

13. You don’t have to pick a team

Formula, combination feeding, exclusive breastfeeding - it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Do what’s right for you, and let go of the guilt. You can create your own feeding plan and change course if needed. Your baby just needs you, making choices with love.

14. Your goals are your own

Whether it’s one feed, six months or beyond, your breastfeeding goals are valid. Hold them lightly and adjust as needed. Support your mental health, protect your peace, and remember: you’ve already done something amazing.

Final thought from Marie

“You’re the boss. You really have got this.”

For more tips and advice from The Modern Midwife, visit her website here.

FAQs

Is it normal for breastfeeding to hurt at first?
A little discomfort can be normal, especially early on, but pain isn’t. It’s usually a sign that baby isn’t latched properly – seek support right away.

Can I breastfeed after a C-section?
Yes! It might take some experimenting with positions, but many C-section mums breastfeed successfully. Keep baby close and feed or express regularly.

Do I have to exclusively breastfeed?
Not at all. You can combination feed or switch to formula if that’s what works best for you and your baby. It’s not all or nothing.

What if I can’t get my baby to latch properly?
Try holding your baby close, with their nose level to your nipple, and encourage a wide-open mouth before guiding them on. If you're still finding it tricky, a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist can support you.

How often should I feed my newborn?
Newborns typically feed 8–12 times in 24 hours, but this can vary. Some babies cluster feed, especially in the evenings, and that’s normal. Follow your baby's cues and feed responsively, whether that’s breast, expressed milk or formula.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Signs your baby is feeding well include regular wet and dirty nappies, steady weight gain, and contented behaviour after feeds. If you're unsure, check in with your midwife or health visitor for reassurance and support.