Breastfeeding Guide: A Successful Start

Although breastfeeding is a natural process, it's a skill that needs to be learned — for both mother and baby. WHO and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, then breastfeeding alongside complementary foods until age 2. Every breastfeeding journey is different and yours will have its own unique pace.

Proper latch: The baby's mouth should be wide open, grasping not just the nipple but also the areola (dark ring). The lower lip should be turned outward, with the chin touching the breast. If breastfeeding is painful, the latch is probably incorrect — you can gently detach the baby's mouth and try again.

Positions: Cradle hold (most common), football hold (comfortable after C-section), side-lying breastfeeding (ideal for night feeds), biological nursing (lying back with baby on chest). Different positions suit different mothers — you can find your comfort by experimenting.

Common problems and solutions: For cracked nipples, proper latch and lanolin cream can help. For engorgement, frequent nursing and cold compresses may help. For a blocked duct, current guidance (ABM 2022) suggests cold compresses, very light lymphatic massage that barely touches the skin, and feeding on demand; deep massage, heat and extra pumping to empty the breast can make the swelling worse. If mastitis (fever and redness) develops, contacting your doctor is important — antibiotics may be needed. The most effective way to increase milk production is frequent nursing.