10 Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms: How to Get Breastfeeding Off to a Strong Start

September 24, 2026

Breastfeeding is natural, but it doesn’t always come naturally. For many new mothers, the first few days after delivery are a learning experience for both mom and baby.

Understanding what to expect and how to respond can help establish a successful breastfeeding relationship from the start.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or welcoming another child, these expert breastfeeding tips from the team at Beaufort Memorial can help you build confidence, support milk production and ensure your baby gets the nutrition they need.

What Are the Most Important Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms?

At a glance, the most important breastfeeding tips include:

Breastfeed within the first two hours after birth.
Watch for early hunger cues.
Feed your baby at least every two to three hours.
Practice skin-to-skin contact.
Ensure proper positioning and latch.
Ask for help if early breastfeeding feels difficult.
Stay patient with yourself and your baby.

Read More: Common Breastfeeding Questions

1. Breastfeed Within the First Two Hours After Birth

Immediately after delivery, most newborns are alert, awake and ready to feed.

"This wakefulness will likely dwindle in the hours that follow,” says Lauren Nates, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, IBCLC, board-certified nurse practitioner and certified lactation consultant with Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists. “Bring the baby to the breast as soon as possible and let them feed for as long as they are willing.”

Early breastfeeding helps stimulate milk production, encourages bonding and allows babies to receive colostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold” because of its concentrated nutrients and antibodies.

2. Learn to Recognize Early Hunger Cues

One of the most common questions asked by new parents is, “How do I know if my baby is hungry?”

Look for these early hunger signs:

Stirring or waking from sleep
Turning their head from side to side (rooting)
Lip smacking or licking
Bringing hands to their mouth
Sucking on fingers
Head bobbing or searching movements

Responding to these cues before your baby becomes upset or begins crying often makes breastfeeding easier and more successful.

3. Feed Your Baby Every Two to Three Hours

Many newborns are sleepy during their first few days of life. While sleep is important, regular feedings are essential for establishing milk supply and supporting healthy growth.

“It may be tempting to let your baby sleep for long stretches,” Nates says, “but frequent breastfeeding helps build milk supply and ensures your baby receives the nutrition they need.”

Aim to breastfeed on demand or at least every three hours, including overnight, unless your healthcare provider recommends otherwise.

How to Wake a Sleepy Baby for Feeding

If needed, try:

Unswaddling your baby
Changing their diaper
Gently rubbing their back, tummy or feet
Holding them skin to skin

4. Prioritize Skin-to-Skin Contact

Skin-to-skin contact offers benefits for both mother and baby.

Research shows that skin-to-skin time can:

Help regulate a baby’s temperature
Support stable heart and breathing rates
Reduce stress and crying
Encourage breastfeeding behaviors
Promote bonding between parent and child

Simply placing your baby against your bare chest can create more opportunities for successful feedings.

5. Create a Calm Environment for Feeding

Breastfeeding requires focus, especially during the first few days.

Consider setting reasonable boundaries with visitors and creating quiet time for feeding sessions.

If family and friends visit you at the hospital or at home after you’ve given birth, don’t hesitate to ask for privacy while you and your baby learn together.

6. Use Proper Positioning and Body Mechanics

A comfortable feeding position can make a significant difference in preventing soreness and improving latch quality.

Before feeding:

Use supportive pillows.
Bring your baby to your breast rather than leaning toward your baby.
Ensure your baby’s head, neck and body remain aligned.
Relax your shoulders and arms whenever possible.

Good positioning can improve comfort during feedings and help prevent back, neck and shoulder strain.

7. Hand Express Colostrum Before Feeding

Hand expression involves gently expressing a small amount of colostrum before nursing.

Benefits may include:

Helping your baby smell and taste your milk
Encouraging interest in latching
Making the nipple easier for your baby to locate and latch onto

Don’t worry if you don’t see much colostrum. Newborns only need small amounts, and regular breastfeeding helps stimulate production.

Read More: Benefits of Breastfeeding

8. Avoid Introducing Pacifiers Too Early

During the first few weeks, frequent breastfeeding helps establish milk supply and allows babies to practice effective feeding at the breast. If your newborn seems eager to suck, offering the breast first may reinforce feeding cues and support breastfeeding success.

Talk with your pediatrician or lactation consultant about when introducing a pacifier may be appropriate for your baby’s specific needs.

9. Ask for Breastfeeding Help Early

Many new moms wonder whether breastfeeding should feel easy right away.

Not necessarily, Nates says.

“Breastfeeding a newborn can feel awkward at first, especially for first-time moms,” she adds. “Don’t hesitate to ask for help.”

Reach out to:

Labor and delivery nurses
Lactation consultants
Certified nurse-midwives
Your baby’s pediatrician

Getting support early can prevent small challenges from becoming larger obstacles.

10. Give Yourself Grace

One of the most important breastfeeding tips is also the simplest: be patient.

Parenthood comes with a learning curve, and breastfeeding is no exception.

“You and your baby are developing a new skill together,” Nates explains. “Successful breastfeeding is built over days and weeks, not a single feeding session.”

If things don’t immediately click, you’re not alone. Many mothers experience challenges before finding a breastfeeding routine that works.

Breastfeeding Support at Beaufort Memorial

Questions don’t always happen during office hours. That’s why Beaufort Memorial offers a 24/7 breastfeeding warm line at 843-522-5147 for guidance and support.

Prep for success before your baby comes by attending our free Baby University Breastfeeding Class.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding

How often should a newborn breastfeed?

Most newborns should breastfeed 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period, or approximately every two to three hours.

Is it normal for breastfeeding to be difficult at first?

Yes! Many mothers experience challenges with positioning, latch, milk production or confidence during the early days.

How can I increase my milk supply?

Frequent breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact and feeding on demand are among the most effective ways to support milk production.

When should I seek breastfeeding support?

Contact a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing significant pain, concerns about milk supply, poor latch or worries about your baby’s weight gain or feeding habits.