For many new mothers, breastfeeding is both deeply rewarding and surprisingly challenging. While breastfeeding is a natural process, it is also a learned skill for both mom and baby. The early weeks can bring questions about latch, feeding frequency, sore nipples, expressing milk, and finding a routine that works for the whole family.
This World Breastfeeding Week (1-7 August), healthcare professionals are encouraging families to remember that breastfeeding is not something mothers have to do alone. Practical support from partners, grandparents, and other caregivers can make a significant difference to a breastfeeding journey.
“The most important thing I tell new mothers is that breastfeeding doesn’t have to look perfect from day one,” says Sr Londe, independent midwife and Vital Baby’s trusted advisor. “Patience, rest, hydration, and support from the people around you are often just as important as any feeding technique.”
Start with a comfortable latch
A good latch is one of the best ways to prevent nipple pain and help baby feed effectively.
Helpful signs of a good latch include:
- Baby’s mouth is wide open before attaching.
- Baby takes more of the areola into their mouth, rather than just the nipple.
- Baby’s lips are flanged outward.
- Feeding feels like a gentle tug rather than a sharp pinch.
- You can hear rhythmic swallowing after the first few sucks.
If breastfeeding is consistently painful, seek help from a midwife, lactation consultant, or clinic rather than trying to push through severe discomfort.
Feed early and often
Newborns typically feed 8-12 times in 24 hours. Frequent feeding helps establish milk supply and usually becomes easier as baby grows.
Watch for early hunger cues such as rooting (turning toward the breast), hand-to-mouth movements, lip smacking and restlessness. Feeding before baby becomes very upset can make latching easier for both of you.
Protect sore nipples
Some tenderness in the early days can be normal, but cracked or damaged nipples usually signal that something needs adjustment.
Try:
- Checking the latch first.
- Letting a few drops of breast milk dry on the nipple after feeds.
- Using a soothing nipple balm between feeds if needed.
- Allowing nipples to air dry when possible.
For mothers who are struggling with latch difficulties or temporary nipple sensitivity, Vital Baby Nipple Shields may provide short-term support when used with appropriate guidance.
Stay hydrated and nourished
Breastfeeding increases fluid and energy needs. Keep water within reach during feeds and aim for regular, balanced meals rather than striving for a perfect diet. Easy snack ideas include; yoghurt, fruit, nuts or seeds, whole-grain toast, boiled eggs, peanut butter on crackers. Rooibos or breastfeeding-safe herbal teas can also help keep mom’s hydration up.
“Mothers often focus so completely on feeding their baby that they forget to feed themselves,” says Sr Londe. “Even small, regular snacks and enough water can help support energy levels during the demanding newborn period, and this is where partners and family can offer support.”
How partners and family members can help
One of the biggest myths about breastfeeding is that only the mother has a role to play.
A supported mother is far more likely to feel confident and able to continue breastfeeding. Dads, partners, grandparents, and other caregivers can make a huge difference by:
- Bringing baby to mom for night feeds.
- Refilling water bottles and preparing snacks.
- Handling burping, nappy changes, and settling after feeds.
- Washing and sterilising pump parts and bottles.
- Taking over household tasks so mom can rest.
- Offering encouragement instead of criticism when feeding is difficult.
- Protecting mom’s feeding time from unnecessary interruptions.
Expressing milk: keep it simple
“Ideally, expressing breast milk can begin once your milk supply is well established and you and your baby have settled into a comfortable feeding rhythm,” says Sr Londe. “However, there are situations where expressing may need to start earlier, such as if your baby is admitted to the NICU.”
Whether returning to work, building a small freezer stash, or simply sharing feeding responsibilities, expressing milk can offer flexibility.
Useful tips:
- Express after a feed if you are trying to build a stash.
- Choose times when you feel fullest, often in the morning.
- Label milk with the date.
- Store milk according to current healthcare guidance.
Many mothers find that an electric pump such as the Vital Baby Flexcone Electric Breast Pump helps make expressing more efficient, especially when pumping regularly.
For storage, Vital Baby Easy Pour Breast Milk Storage Bags can help keep expressed milk organised and ready for future feeds.
Don’t forget hygiene
Any equipment that comes into contact with breast milk should be cleaned thoroughly and sterilised according to manufacturer instructions.
For mothers who are expressing while travelling, at work, or between appointments, Vital Baby Microwave Sterilising Bags can offer a convenient way to sterilise pump parts and feeding accessories when a full steriliser is not available.
Look after yourself too
Breastfeeding can be emotionally intense, particularly during the first few weeks when sleep is limited and hormones are changing rapidly.
“Give yourself permission to learn,” says Sr Londe, “and ask for help if you are feeling overwhelmed.”
Support from family, healthcare professionals, breastfeeding counsellors, or local mom groups can make a meaningful difference.
Remember:
- Breastfeeding does not have to be all-or-nothing.
- Every feed counts.
- Needing support is normal.
- Learning takes time for both mother and baby.
With practical support, realistic expectations, and a little patience, many families find that breastfeeding becomes easier and more enjoyable as the weeks go by.
Vital Baby is a family-run business with over 45 years of experience in the baby industry. Their mission is to create products that make family time effortless and enjoyable for parents. The Vital Baby range, now including biodegradable and recyclable EarthSmart products, is 100% BPA-free and covers every stage of your baby’s development, from feeding and weaning, to hygiene and soothing. Explore the range online at Vital Baby® (vitalbabyshop.co.za) and Amazon, or find at Clicks, Dischem, and selected Woolworths.
