Health library

Few things in life may be more rewarding than nursing your new baby. You're nourishing your little love with the perfect first food—plus, there's all that oh-so-sweet cuddling.

It's completely natural, but it still takes practice. Many new moms and babies need some time to get the hang of things. 

So don't be too hard on yourself—and let these tips from experts help smooth the way:

1. Master the latch. 

This is best way to prevent sore nipples. Start with skin-to-skin contact between you and baby. Encourage your baby to latch on by tickling your baby's lower lip with your nipple—until your baby's mouth opens wide, like a yawn. Then bring your baby to your breast—not your breast to your baby.

Your baby is nursing correctly if:

• Your baby's mouth is filled with breast—and most of the areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) is covered.
• Your baby's chest is nuzzled close to your body. 
• Your nipple is comfortable after your baby's first few sips. 
• Your baby is swallowing regularly. 

Try, try and try again. If nursing hurts, break the suction with your finger. Then reposition your baby for a better latch on. Proper latching may take practice to get right. If your baby struggles or your nipples are tender despite your best efforts, talk with your doctor or a lactation nurse for advice. 

2. Look for the early signs of hunger—and respond right away. 

Crying is a late, feed-me-now stage of hunger—and babies this upset may have a harder time latching on. When babies are getting hungry, they tend to:

• Look alert.
• Bend their arms.
• Close their fists. 
• Bring their hands to their mouths.

3. Follow your baby's lead.

Some moms nurse their babies from both breasts at each feeding, others alternate. Either way, most babies get enough milk if you offer your breast when they're hungry and let them decide when to stop feeding. 

Concerned about your milk supply? It's likely just fine—if your baby is gaining weight after the first four to five days and has frequent wet and soiled diapers.

4. Ease engorged breasts. 

Engorgement is the flip side of making too little milk. You're overproducing, which can be uncomfortable. Nurse often on an engorged breast—and hand express or pump a little milk before nursing to soften your breast for latch on. 

5. Keep your baby close at night. 

You'll nurse more easily if your baby sleeps in a crib or bassinet in your bedroom. What's more, studies show that when babies share a bedroom with their parent—but never a bed—they have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). 

Babies who suck on pacifiers during sleep may also have a lower risk of SIDS. But if you're nursing, give it a few weeks—until feeding is going well—before offering your baby a pacifier. 

Good for babies and moms.

Read about breastfeeding's many impressive benefits.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; Office on Women's Health

Reviewed 12/18/2023