How to breastfeed
It can take time for you and your pēpi (baby) to learn how to breastfeed. But with the right help almost all women can breastfeed. Find out about what a good latch looks like, how to position your pēpi, and how to get support.
A good latch
A good latch is the key to successful breastfeeding. Babies should be breastfed 'tummy to tummy'. If you can see your baby’s tummy button they are not turned close enough to latch well. Make sure that:
- you bring baby in close
- baby’s head is tilted back
- baby’s mouth is wide open
- baby’s tongue is forward and right down
- baby’s chin touches your breast and baby’s nose lines up with your nipple.
Gently tickle the top part of baby’s lip with your areola (the darker area around the nipple). Bring your pēpi to your breast quickly so the bottom lip is pushed back to form a suction cup. Let your pēpi take in a large mouthful of breast, not just the nipple.
How to know pēpi has a good latch
Your baby’s chin will be touching the breast but their nose should be reasonably clear. Baby’s bottom lip will be turned outwards and not turned inwards. They will be sucking quite quickly, but once the milk starts to flow they will change to rhythmic, longer sucks with some short pauses. You will also start to hear them swallowing — this will happen more as your milk comes in and flows more. Your baby’s cheeks should stay rounded when sucking.
Breastfeeding should feel comfortable
If breastfeeding does not feel comfortable, start again. Slip your finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth between their gums, with the soft side (not the nail) next to the lip so that you gently break the suction. If you let your pēpi suck the wrong way it can cause problems. If you feel pain in your nipples or breasts, ask your midwife for help.
Positioning your pēpi
There are different ways that you can hold your pēpi to breastfeed. Find the ones that are comfortable for you.
Cross-cradle position
It is often easier to start breastfeeding by holding your pēpi in the cross-cradle position. This means that their head is supported with your hand at the base of their neck. The position of your hand is important as they need to be able to tilt their head back slightly. Make sure that your arm or hand is not behind the baby’s head, or they might not be able to tilt it back. Your other hand is supporting your breast.
Cradle hold
Once your pēpi is latched well, you can change to a cradle hold, which might be more comfortable.
Release your hold on your breast, unless it is very heavy and full. In this case you may need to support it during the feed — see the underarm/rugby hold below — and move your arm gently around the baby.
Other positions
Underarm or rugby hold
The underarm or rugby hold can also be useful if your breasts are heavy, as the weight is partially supported by the baby.
Lying down
Using a lying-down position or the underarm or rugby hold can be useful if you have had a caesarean.
Getting help with breastfeeding
When you first start breastfeeding, it can take a few weeks to feel relaxed and confident. It will help if you can get support from your partner and whānau (family) during this time.
If you are having difficulty, or just want some more support, there are many ways you can get help. Depending on your needs you can:
- talk to your midwife, Well Child Nurse or healthcare provider
- ask for a referral to a free lactation consultant
- search online for local breastfeeding support services, drop in centres or support groups
- talk to a peer counsellor (another breastfeeding woman) through an organisation like La Leche League
- see a private lactation consultant.
Breastfeeding problemsexternal link
Helplines
You can call PlunketLine:
- Phone: 0800 933 922external link
They can offer support with a lactation consultant by video call.
La Leche League
The La Leche League provides information and support for breastfeeding families. It has groups across Aotearoa New Zealand and can provide support in person, over the phone or online.
Support apps
This app provides breastfeeding support, particularly when there are problems. It uses visuals and kupu Māori.
This app provides simple information, guidance on common issues, and personal stories.
Information about breastfeeding and alcohol. The app helps you estimate when your breastmilk is likely to be free of alcohol after drinking.
Family assistance providers
Right Service Right Time helps parents get help from various agencies. You can refer yourself to this service or ask your healthcare provider for more information.
Right Service Right Timeexternal link
Use of images
The images on this page are reproduced with the permission of Mama Arohaexternal link