Boob job: Breastfeeding with confidence

Proper technique is the secret to breastfeeding success. We give you five easy pointers on how to do it right.

Expert advice to help you breastfeed your baby with confidence.

1. Get comfortable. Use a nursing pillow or other support to help hold the baby up level with your breast so that your arms, neck and shoulders don’t get tired and achy.

2. Position your baby. Support your baby with your forearm, placing her head in the crease of your elbow. For variation, tuck her under your arm like a rugby ball, with your palm supporting her head and her body by your side. Or, try lying on your side with your baby on her side. Regardless of position, make sure your baby’s entire body is facing your chest.

3. Grab hold. Cup your breast with your thumb on top and your other fingers forming a “C” underneath, then tickle your baby’s lips with your nipple to get her to open up.

4. Be generous. When your baby opens her mouth, draw her in close so her chin is the first thing to touch your breast. Then insert as much of the nipple and areola as you can. If you need to try again, slip you pinky between her lip and your breast to break her suction.

5. Ignore the clock. Nurse until one breast feels drained, then switch sides if your baby wants to keep going. Some babies can get enough milk in five minutes, while others may take up to 45 minutes. Your baby will let you know when she’s feeling full by relaxing, letting go or nodding off. Until then, catch up on a good book.

Tips for beginners:

• Cut yourself some slack. It’s normal to feel awkward and sore when learning to breastfeed. Have faith that your breasts and your baby will adapt in a couple of weeks.


• Forget about bottles for the first month. Your baby will be working hard to figure out how to get your milk. Don’t confuse her by throwing a bottle into the mix just yet.


• Relax! Infants can sense tension. Sip some water and relax your neck and shoulders.