Starting to breastfeed? This can feel like stepping into a whole new world. You want to do right by your baby. But sometimes there are so many “tips for breastfeeding,” “breastfeeding tips for new moms,” and advice from everywhere. You get scared and nervous.

What breastfeeding latch works? How often should you breastfeed a new born? When does breastmilk come in? And what about pumping or storing breast milk? If you're a first-time mom, here’s a clear and friendly guide to help you with breastfeeding basics – tips for first time moms.

Breast Milk vs. Formula

Breast milk is often called liquid gold. Why? Because it’s naturally designed for your baby.

The first breast milk that comes out after delivery is called colostrum. It is packed with antibodies and nutrients that protect your newborn in the first days of life. As milk transitions, it continues to adapt to your baby’s needs. It contains the perfect mix of nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes that support growth.

Formula is a safe and nutritious alternative. But should be opted for when breastfeeding is not possible. And sometimes parents choose it. It provides consistent calories and nutrients. Today’s formulas are carefully regulated. Some moms also combine breastfeeding and formula (known as combination feeding) for flexibility.

Bottom line: Breast milk offers unique immune and bonding benefits. Formula feeding can still raise a healthy baby. The best choice is the one that works for both baby and mom.

How to Breastfeed a Newborn Baby

Before you begin you must get comfortable.

Sit in a supportive chair with armrests (or prop your back with pillows).

Use a nursing pillow or regular pillows. This is to bring baby up to breast level. You should not have to lean forward.

Keep a glass of water, burp cloth, and your phone/clock nearby. Relax your shoulders.

Step 1 — Watch for feeding cues (don’t wait for crying)

Look for: licking lips, smacking, rooting (turning head toward cheek you stroke), putting hands to mouth, or small stirring.

These are the best moments to offer the breast. Newborns often cue 8–12 times in 24 hours.

Step 2 — Choose a comfortable breastfeeding position

Try one or two until you find what works:

• Cradle hold: The head of the baby should rest in the crook of your arm. It should be tummy to tummy. It is good for older newborns.
• Cross-cradle hold: Support baby’s head with the opposite hand to the breast you are offering. It gives you better control for latching. Great for early days.
• Football (clutch) hold: Tuck baby alongside your hip, under your arm. Great after c-section or for small/late preemies and twins.
• Side-lying: Lie on your side with baby facing you. This is useful for night feeds or c-section recovery.

Breastfeeding Tip: Use a pillow between your knees if sitting, or a pillow behind you for back support.

Step 3 — Align baby for a deep latch

• Hold your breast with a gentle “C” shape. The thumb should be on top. The fingers should be below. The nipple points toward baby’s nose.
• Bring baby to your breast. The nose of the baby should be just opposite your nipple. (Bring baby to breast and don’t lean forward.)
• Support baby’s shoulders (not the neck) so they can tip their head back slightly. This will help them open wide.

Step 4 — Encourage a wide open mouth and latch

• Make the baby to open wide. Just like a big yawn.
• Quickly bring baby next to the breast. Their bottom lip and chin should take the areola (aim lower portion of areola into mouth).
• Lips of the baby should be flanged out like fish lips. The chin should be touching the breast.

Signs of a good latch:

• Baby has more areola in their mouth below the nipple than above.
• You feel tugging but not sharp pain (a little discomfort at the very first seconds can happen, but strong pain means shallow latch).
• You can see and hear regular swallowing (soft “gulp” sounds).
• Baby’s cheeks look rounded, not sucked in.
• If latch hurts or baby is clicking/smacking, gently break suction with your finger in the corner of baby’s mouth and try again.

Step 5 — Let baby feed, switch when ready

Let baby nurse until they slow down, pause, or release the breast on their own. That’s typically how you know they are satisfied on that side.

Many newborns feed 10–20 minutes per side, but some are faster or slower. How long to breastfeed on each side varies — follow baby’s cues.

Once the baby finishes the first breast and if they’re still interested, you can offer the next breast. If baby’s full, they may not take the second side and that’s okay.

Step 6 — Burp and check baby’s satisfaction

Burp between sides or after the feed if baby seems gassy. Some babies burp easily; others don’t need much burping.

Signs baby is getting enough in early days: active swallowing during feeds, 6–8 wet diapers/day by day 4–5, and steady weight gain after the first week.

Helpful extras & troubleshooting (fast tips)

• If nipples are sore: Check the latch first (most soreness = shallow latch). Use lanolin or expressed breastmilk on nipples; air-dry when possible. See a lactation consultant if cracked/bleeding.
• If baby is sleepy at feeds: Skin-to-skin, undress to diaper, tickle feet or rub back to rouse. Offer the breast frequently.
• If supply seems low: Nurse often, use breast compressions during feeds, pump briefly after feeds to increase stimulation. Skin-to-skin also helps.
• If you need to burp or switch sides mid-feed: Break suction gently with a clean finger, burp, then offer the other side.
• After a c-section: Try side-lying or football hold to keep pressure off your incision.

How many times should you breastfeed a newborn?

A new born baby normally takes breastmilk 8–12 times every day. Feeding “on demand” (watching cues) establishes supply better than strict schedules. Cluster feeding (frequent feeds in short windows) is normal. Especially in the evenings.

When to get professional help

If pain persists despite changing latch/position, baby is not gaining weight, or you are feeling overpowered, reach out to a lactation consultant (IBCLC), your pediatrician, or your maternity unit.

Breastfeeding Tips & Tricks

These are small things many first-time moms find helpful:

• Keep a nursing pillow to support baby and reduce neck/back strain.
• You should use nipple cream or gel pads if nipples feel sore or cracked.
• Nighttime feedings: You should keep lights dim, stay cozy, prep everything in advance (diaper, burp cloth).
• Enlist help: someone to bring you a drink, snack, or help with chores so you can focus when feeding.

Start Your Breastfeeding Journey

Breastfeeding is an experience that is a mix of joy, learning, and yes, sometimes frustration. You will learn about your baby’s cues. You will discover what positions feel right for both of you, and you will find your rhythm.

Using these breastfeeding basics and tips for new moms, you will be better prepared to steer the early days with confidence. Take things one feed at a time. Always remember: every mom and baby pair is distinctive.

What works for someone else might not feel right for you—and that’s totally okay.