Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial things you can do for your baby — but that doesn't mean it comes naturally. Many new moms struggle in the first days and weeks, and that's completely normal. This guide covers everything from the first latch to managing supply, written with inputs from certified lactation consultants across our 8 Laxons Baby World stores.
Getting the First Latch Right
A good latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding. Your baby should take in a large portion of the areola (not just the nipple) — their mouth should be wide open like a yawn before latching. Signs of a good latch: no pain after the first 30 seconds, you can hear swallowing, and baby's cheeks are full and round.
💡 Laxons Baby World Tip
Use a nursing pillow like the Chicco Boppy to bring baby to breast height instead of hunching over. This prevents back and neck pain during long feeds.
Common Breastfeeding Positions
- ✓Cradle hold — Classic position, baby's head in the crook of your elbow. Good for older babies once latch is established.
- ✓Cross-cradle — Opposite hand supports baby's head, giving more control. Best for newborns.
- ✓Football hold — Baby tucked under your arm like a football. Excellent for C-section moms (no pressure on incision) and twins.
- ✓Side-lying — Both you and baby lie on your sides. Great for night feeds — you can rest while nursing.
How Often Should You Feed?
Newborns (0–4 weeks) typically feed 8–12 times in 24 hours — roughly every 1.5 to 3 hours. Watch for hunger cues: rooting (turning head side to side), sucking on hands, smacking lips. Crying is a late hunger cue — try to feed before baby gets that upset.
"Feed on demand" is the golden rule. Your supply works on supply and demand — the more frequently baby feeds, the more milk your body makes.
Building and Maintaining Milk Supply
Most supply issues in the first month are due to infrequent feeding, not a genuine low supply problem. Key tips: offer both breasts each feed, ensure baby is draining the first breast before switching, stay hydrated (at least 3 litres/day), and don't skip night feeds in the early weeks — prolactin (the milk-making hormone) peaks at night.
💡 Products We Recommend
Haakaa manual breast pump (₹999) — use it on the opposite breast while nursing to catch let-down. Philips Avent manual breast pump (₹2,499) for occasional pumping and storage.
Dealing with Common Challenges
- ✓Sore nipples — Usually caused by a shallow latch. Try lanolin cream (Lansinoh, ₹699) after every feed.
- ✓Engorgement — Feed more frequently or hand-express a little before latching so the areola is soft enough to latch.
- ✓Mastitis — Red, hot, painful area + flu-like symptoms. Don't stop feeding — keep draining. See a doctor immediately for antibiotics.
- ✓Low supply concerns — Track wet diapers (6–8/day after Day 5 = good supply). Avoid formula top-ups without medical advice.
When to Seek Help
Don't struggle alone. Reach out to a lactation consultant if: baby loses more than 10% of birth weight and hasn't regained it by Day 10, you're in significant pain beyond the first 30 seconds of latching, or baby isn't producing enough wet/dirty diapers. All Laxons Baby World stores have trained staff who can help with basic breastfeeding questions — or we can refer you to a certified IBCLC consultant.