Welcome to your comprehensive guide dedicated to breastfeeding. Whether you are pregnant and full of questions, or a new mom navigating the first days with your baby, you are in the right place. Breastfeeding is a deeply personal journey, a unique bond that is woven day by day. But it is also a path that can raise questions and present challenges.

We have created this resource to support you at every step. From the fundamental benefits to techniques for getting started, from solutions for common difficulties to tips for seamlessly integrating it into your daily life, you will find here reliable information, practical advice, and non-judgmental support.

The Fundamentals: Why and How Does It Work?

Before diving into practical aspects, it is essential to understand why breastfeeding is so valuable and how this natural mechanism works. This first step will provide you with the confidence and basic knowledge to approach your journey with serenity.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Baby and Mother

Breastfeeding is much more than just a way to nourish your child. It is a true gift for health, both for your baby and for you.

For your baby: tailored nutrition and unique protection

Breast milk is a living food that constantly adjusts to your child’s needs. It offers:

Perfect nutrition: An ideal balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins, easy to digest and perfectly suited to their immature digestive system.

An immune shield: Rich in antibodies, enzymes, and white blood cells, it protects your baby from many infections (gastroenteritis, ear infections, respiratory infections). Colostrum, the first thick yellow milk, is a concentrate of immune defenses.

A reduction in long-term risks: Studies show that breastfeeding reduces the risk of allergies, asthma, obesity, and type 1 diabetes later in life.

Optimal cognitive development: The essential fatty acids present in your milk play a key role in your baby’s brain development.

For you, the mother: easier recovery and lasting benefits

The advantages of breastfeeding do not stop at your baby. For you, it allows you to:

Accelerate postpartum recovery: The hormones released during breastfeeding (notably oxytocin) help your uterus contract and return more quickly to its original size, while reducing bleeding.

Protect your health: Breastfeeding lowers your risk of developing certain cancers (breast, ovarian) and suffering from cardiovascular diseases or type 2 diabetes.

Provide well-deserved rest: The hormones involved in breastfeeding have a relaxing effect and can help you fall back asleep more easily after nighttime feedings.

Understanding Lactation: The Natural Process Explained Simply

Milk production may seem magical, but it is based on a perfectly orchestrated hormonal mechanism, centered on a simple principle: supply and demand.

Baby’s suction: the starting point. When your baby nurses, it sends a signal to your brain.

Prolactin: the milk-making hormone. In response, your body releases prolactin, the hormone that tells your breasts to produce milk for the next feeding. The more your baby nurses, the more prolactin you produce, and therefore more milk.

Oxytocin: the let-down hormone. The suction also triggers the release of oxytocin. This hormone causes the contraction of small muscle cells around your mammary glands, which pushes the milk out: this is the “let-down reflex”.

Your milk also evolves in three stages to adapt to your baby’s growth:

Colostrum (Days 1-3): “Liquid gold,” highly concentrated with proteins and antibodies to protect the newborn.

Transitional Milk (Days 3-15): The famous “milk coming in.” The volume increases, and its composition is enriched with fats and sugars.

Mature Milk (After 15 days): The final milk, whose composition varies during the feeding (richer in water at the start to hydrate, richer in fat at the end to satisfy).

The essential role of the mother-child attachment bond

Beyond nutrition, breastfeeding is a moment of intense connection. Skin-to-skin contact, exchanged glances, and the warmth of your arms create a secure cocoon for your baby. Oxytocin, often called the “love and bonding hormone,” plays a central role here. Released in both you and your baby during nursing, it strengthens this unique bond, soothes stress, and promotes a mutual feeling of well-being. This secure attachment is the foundation on which your child will build confidence to explore the world.

Getting Started: The First Steps of Breastfeeding

The first days with your baby are a time of mutual learning. Patience and practice are your best allies. This section provides you with the technical keys and essential landmarks to make the start of your breastfeeding as smooth and intuitive as possible.

Techniques and Positions: Finding Comfort for You and Baby

Comfortable breastfeeding is more likely to last. A good position prevents tension in your back and shoulders and avoids nipple pain. Don’t hesitate to use breastfeeding cushions or pillows to support yourself and bring your baby to the right height. It’s the baby who comes to the breast, not the other way around.

Here are the 4 most common positions to try to find the one(s) that suit you best:

The Cradle Hold: This is the most classic position. Baby lies on their side, tummy against yours, with their head supported by your forearm on the same side as the breast they are feeding from.

The Cross-Cradle Hold: Ideal for the early days and for guiding a newborn. If you’re feeding from the left breast, you hold the baby’s head with your right hand, their body resting on your right forearm. Your left hand supports your breast.

The “Football” Hold: Perfect after a cesarean section (to avoid pressure on the scar), for twins, or if you have a large chest. Baby is tucked under your arm, feet pointing toward your back, as if holding a football.

Side-Lying Position: The best position for nighttime feedings or to rest. You and your baby lie on your sides, facing each other, tummy to tummy.

Latching: Recognizing a Good Latch and Signs of an Effective Feeding

A good “latch” by your baby is the key to a pain-free and effective breastfeeding experience. It ensures proper milk transfer and protects your nipples.

How to achieve a good latch?

Support your breast with your hand in a “C” shape, fingers underneath and thumb on top, away from the areola.

Bring your baby’s chin to your breast and gently tickle their upper lip with your nipple.

Wait for them to open their mouth very wide, like yawning.

At that moment, quickly bring them to your breast. They should take not only the nipple but also a good portion of the areola into their mouth.

Signs of a good latch:

Their mouth is wide open and their lips are flanged outward.

You feel no pain (a slight pinch at the beginning is possible, but it should not last).

Their chin is pressed into the breast and their nose is clear.

You see and hear your baby swallowing regularly after a few quick sucks at the start.

Signs of an effective feeding:

Your baby is calm and relaxed during and after the feeding.

They release the breast on their own, looking satisfied.

Your breasts feel softer after the feeding.

They wet enough diapers: expect at least 5-6 well-wet diapers within 24 hours after milk comes in.

The rhythm of the early days: feeding on demand

Forget your watch! During the first few weeks, the golden rule is to feed on demand, or more precisely at the signs of wakefulness. This is the best way to properly establish your milk production, which will perfectly adjust to your baby’s needs. A newborn nurses very frequently, on average 8 to 12 times every 24 hours, sometimes more.

Learn to recognize the signs of hunger before your baby cries (crying is a late sign):

They become restless and move their eyes under their eyelids.

They turn their head and open their mouth searching (rooting reflex).

They bring their hands to their mouth and start sucking on them.

They make small sounds.

Responding to these early signs allows for calmer and more effective feedings for everyone.

Overcoming Challenges: Solutions to Common Difficulties

Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it is not always instinctive and obstacles may arise. Know that you are not alone and that most of these challenges have solutions. This section is your toolbox to identify and overcome the most common difficulties, so you can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful breastfeeding experience.

Managing Pain: Cracked Nipples, White Nipples, and Engorgement

Pain is not inevitable during breastfeeding. It is most often a signal that an adjustment is needed.

Cracked nipples: These painful cracks on the nipples are almost always caused by a poor latch or poor positioning of the baby.

• Solution: The priority is to correct the latch (refer to the previous section). Make sure the baby opens their mouth wide. After feeding, apply a few drops of your milk on the nipple and let it air dry. Using purified lanolin creams or silver nursing cups can also greatly help healing.

• Solution: The priority is to correct the latch (refer to the previous section). Make sure the baby opens their mouth wide. After feeding, apply a few drops of your milk on the nipple and let it air dry. Using purified lanolin creams or silver nursing cups can also greatly help healing.

White nipples (vasospasm): Just after feeding, your nipple turns white and intense pain, similar to burning, may appear. This is due to poor blood circulation, often caused by nipple compression (incorrect latch) or cold.

• Solution: Check the baby’s latch again. As soon as the baby lets go of the breast, immediately apply a warm, dry compress to the nipple to restore circulation.

• Solution: Check the baby’s latch again. As soon as the baby lets go of the breast, immediately apply a warm, dry compress to the nipple to restore circulation.

Engorgement: It often occurs during milk let-down. Your breasts are tight, hard, swollen, and painful, making it difficult for the baby to latch.

• Solution: The key is to drain the breasts. Offer very frequent feedings to your baby. Before feeding, apply heat (hot shower, warm compress) to help the milk flow. If your breast is too hard for the baby to take the areola, express a little milk by hand to soften it. After feeding, apply cold (cold compresses, cabbage leaves) to reduce inflammation.

• Solution: The key is to drain the breasts. Offer very frequent feedings to your baby. Before feeding, apply heat (hot shower, warm compress) to help the milk flow. If your breast is too hard for the baby to take the areola, express a little milk by hand to soften it. After feeding, apply cold (cold compresses, cabbage leaves) to reduce inflammation.

Complications: Blocked Milk Duct and Mastitis

It is important to react quickly to these complications to prevent them from worsening.

Blocked milk duct: You may feel a hard and painful area in the breast, sometimes accompanied by localized redness. This is a “plug” of milk obstructing a duct.

• Solution: Keep breastfeeding, starting with the affected breast and positioning your baby’s chin towards the blocked area to help drain it. Before feeding, apply warmth and gently massage the area towards the nipple. Rest is also essential.

• Solution: Keep breastfeeding, starting with the affected breast and positioning your baby’s chin towards the blocked area to help drain it. Before feeding, apply warmth and gently massage the area towards the nipple. Rest is also essential.

• Solution: Keep breastfeeding, starting with the affected breast and positioning your baby’s chin towards the blocked area to help drain it. Before feeding, apply warmth and gently massage the area towards the nipple. Rest is also essential.

Mastitis: This is an inflammation of a blocked duct, which may be infectious or not. Symptoms include a red, hot, and very painful area on the breast, along with flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, body aches).

• Solution: It is essential to consult a doctor promptly. In the meantime, the same approach as for a blocked duct applies: drainage, warmth, rest. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and, if necessary, antibiotics compatible with breastfeeding. Above all, do not stop breastfeeding on the affected side, as it is the best way to heal.

• Solution: It is essential to consult a doctor promptly. In the meantime, the same approach as for a blocked duct applies: drainage, warmth, rest. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and, if necessary, antibiotics compatible with breastfeeding. Above all, do not stop breastfeeding on the affected side, as it is the best way to heal.

Specific Cases: Tongue Ties and Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER)

Oral restrictive ties: If despite a good latch, your baby struggles to feed effectively, clicks their tongue, and you suffer from persistent cracks, they might have a tongue or lip tie that limits their movements.

• Solution: This diagnosis must be made by a trained professional (lactation consultant, ENT specialist, pediatrician). If the tie is indeed restrictive, a minor procedure (frenotomy) can be offered to free the baby’s tongue and transform breastfeeding.

• Solution: This diagnosis must be made by a trained professional (lactation consultant, ENT specialist, pediatrician). If the tie is indeed restrictive, a minor procedure (frenotomy) can be offered to free the baby’s tongue and transform breastfeeding.

Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER): Just before your milk lets down, you experience a wave of intense, brief negative emotions (sadness, anxiety, anger). This is not psychological, but a physiological reflex caused by a drop in dopamine.

• Solution: The first step is to know that it exists and that you are not “crazy.” Putting a name to it is already a huge relief. Distraction techniques, staying well hydrated, and support from discussion groups can help you cope better.

• Solution: The first step is to know that it exists and that you are not “crazy.” Putting a name to it is already a huge relief. Distraction techniques, staying well hydrated, and support from discussion groups can help you cope better.

Concerns about milk production: tips to boost lactation

The fear of “not having enough milk” is one of the most common anxieties. However, a true decrease in milk supply is rare. Most of the time, it is a misinterpretation of the baby’s cries or evening cluster feedings.

The real signs that your baby is getting enough milk are:

They wet at least 5 to 6 diapers every 24 hours.

They gain weight steadily.

They are generally alert and active.

If you need to boost your milk production, here are the key points:

Increase the frequency of feedings. Stimulation is the engine of lactation. Offer the breast more often.

Ensure effective suction. A good latch is essential to properly empty the breast and signal the body to produce more.

Practice skin-to-skin contact. It promotes the release of beneficial hormones.

Rest, drink, and eat enough. Stress and fatigue are the enemies of lactation.

Consider “super-nursing” or “power pumping” over a short period if a boost is needed, after consulting a professional.

The Daily Life of a Breastfeeding Mother: Nutrition and Well-being

Breastfeeding is a gift of yourself that demands your body and energy. Putting your own needs first is not selfish; it’s essential to go through this period with strength and serenity. Here are our tips to take care of yourself, from your diet to your emotional balance.

Nutrition: What to Eat to Support Lactation?

Good news: you don’t need to follow a strict diet to breastfeed! The priority is to eat in a balanced, varied way and according to your hunger. Your body is incredibly well-designed and will produce quality milk even if your diet isn’t perfect.

Caloric needs: Breastfeeding consumes energy. Listen to your hunger, which will likely be greater than usual. An additional intake of 300 to 500 calories per day (equivalent to a good snack) is often enough.

“Galactogenic” foods: Some foods are known to support lactation. Include them in your meals for their nutritional benefits: oatmeal, almonds, fennel seeds, hummus (chickpeas and sesame), leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale…).

Foods to watch (without panic):

• Caffeine: Moderate consumption (1 to 2 cups of coffee per day) is generally safe.
• Alcohol: It passes into the milk. The recommendation is to wait about 2 to 3 hours per drink before the next feeding. Moderation is key.
• Allergens: It’s not necessary to eliminate foods from your diet “just in case.” Only a very small percentage of babies react to allergens (notably cow’s milk proteins). If you suspect a reaction, talk to your doctor before starting an elimination diet.

Hydration: The Importance of Drinks and Herbal Teas

Breast milk is made up of more than 80% water. It is therefore crucial to stay well hydrated. The rule is simple: drink when you’re thirsty. Always keep a bottle of water or a large cup within reach when you sit down to breastfeed.

Pure water is your best ally, but you can mix things up with broths or infusions. Specially formulated herbal teas, such as our Milky Daisy Organic Nursing Tea, can be a pleasant way to hydrate while enjoying the benefits of plants known to support lactation, like fennel, anise, or caraway.

Dietary Supplements: A Helpful Boost?

A balanced diet covers most of your needs. However, some nutrients are especially important during breastfeeding:

Vitamin D: Supplementation is often recommended for the mother and almost always for the breastfed baby.

Iron: In case of postpartum anemia, your doctor may prescribe it.

Vitamin B12: Essential if you follow a vegan diet.

For supplements aimed at boosting lactation (fenugreek, brewer’s yeast, etc.), their effectiveness varies from woman to woman. The golden rule is always to ask your doctor, pharmacist, or midwife before starting any supplementation.

Health and Intimacy: Taking Care of Yourself

Managing fatigue: This is the number one challenge. Accept lowering your standards on chores and perfection. Your top priority is rest. Adopt the mantra “baby sleeps, mama rests” (no need to sleep, just lying down is enough). Don’t hesitate to ask for help and delegate.

Emotional well-being: Hormonal rollercoasters and fatigue can be tough. Talk about your feelings, don’t stay alone. Be attentive to signs of postpartum depression and consult a professional if you feel the need.

Libido and intimacy: A decrease in desire is very common and normal. Between fatigue, hormones (prolactin that maintains lactation tends to lower libido), and a body that has changed, it’s normal not to be in the mood. The key is communication with your partner. Reinvent intimacy with tenderness, massages, and quality moments, without pressure on sexuality.

Routine care: You can safely visit the dentist (even for local anesthesia) or take care of yourself. Just always mention that you are breastfeeding.

Routine care: You can safely visit the dentist (even for local anesthesia) or take care of yourself. Just always mention that you are breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding and Social Life: Getting Organized Daily

Breastfeeding doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up at home. On the contrary, with a bit of organization and confidence, your baby can join you on all your adventures. This section provides you with keys to breastfeed with peace of mind when out and about, prepare for your return to work, and master the art of the breast pump.

Tips and Tricks to Breastfeed in Public with Confidence

The idea of breastfeeding in public can be intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. It is your absolute right to feed your child whenever and wherever they need.

Preparation is key: Before going out, think about your outfit. Specific nursing clothes are practical, but the “two t-shirts” technique (a tank top under a loose top) is just as effective and discreet. Slip a muslin cloth into your bag; it can serve as a screen if you want more privacy.

Practice at home: To feel more comfortable, practice in front of a mirror. You’ll realize that you actually can’t see much once the baby is settled.

Find your comfort spot: Look for a place where you feel good: a bench in a park, a café booth, a waiting room… Once seated, you can turn slightly to position your baby discreetly, then face your surroundings again.

Know your rights: In France, no law prohibits breastfeeding in public spaces. Preventing a mother from feeding her child is considered an act of discrimination. Breastfeeding is a natural act, not a spectacle.

The more you do it, the more confident and at ease you’ll become.

Balancing Breastfeeding and Returning to Work

Ending your maternity leave doesn’t mean you have to stop breastfeeding. With proper planning, you can continue this journey while resuming your professional activity.

Know your workplace rights: French labor law protects breastfeeding mothers. During your baby’s first year, you are entitled to one hour per day to breastfeed or pump milk, usually split into two 30-minute breaks (unpaid unless a more favorable collective agreement applies). Companies with more than 100 employees must also provide a dedicated, decent, and hygienic room.

Talk to your employer: Before returning, have an open discussion with your employer or HR. Explain your needs (a clean space with an outlet, access to a fridge, regular breaks) to find the best arrangement together.

Plan ahead and build a stockpile: Start pumping and freezing your milk a few weeks before returning. Having a small reserve will bring you great peace of mind during the first days.

Organize yourself at the office: Block your “pumping” times on your calendar like meetings. Bring a cooler with ice packs to safely transport your milk.

The Role of the Breast Pump: Choosing and Using Your Equipment

The breast pump becomes a mother’s best ally when returning to work or simply needing to be away for a few hours.

Which model to choose?

• Manual: Ideal for occasional use, discreet, and easy to carry.
• Simple or double electric: Essential for daily use. A double pumping model will save you valuable time (10-15 minutes per session) and is more effective for maintaining good lactation.

Consider renting: In France, you can rent a hospital-quality electric breast pump at a pharmacy with a prescription from your doctor or midwife. It’s a very economical and efficient option.

Tips for effective pumping:

• Choose the right flange size: This is essential to avoid pain and to drain the breast well. It should match the diameter of your nipple.
• Make yourself comfortable: Stress blocks the let-down reflex. Sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and look at a photo or video of your baby to stimulate oxytocin production.
• Follow hygiene rules: Wash your hands thoroughly before each use and clean all parts that come into contact with milk after each session. Strictly follow recommendations for storing breast milk.

Equipment and Comfort: The Essentials of Breastfeeding

While breastfeeding theoretically only requires you and your baby, certain well-designed accessories and clothing can transform your experience, making it gentler, simpler, and more comfortable. Let’s explore how to equip yourself without being weighed down.

Breastfeeding Clothes: Combining Style and Practicality

Feeling good in your clothes is important for your morale. Fortunately, fashion for new moms has evolved a lot and offers pieces that are both beautiful and functional.

The nursing bra: This is your top priority investment. Choose one without underwires to avoid compressing the milk ducts, made of soft and breathable material. The clip system on the straps, which allows you to release the cup with one hand, is a must-have. Wait until the end of your pregnancy to buy it, as your chest will still change.

Tops and dresses: They feature discreet openings (hidden zippers, fabric panels to lift, wrap styles…) that make breastfeeding easy without needing to undress.

The economical alternative: The “two t-shirts” method remains an excellent option. Wear a fitted tank top under a looser top. You lift the outer top and lower the tank top to access the breast, while keeping your belly and back covered.

Accessories That Make Everyday Life Easier

These small items can make a big difference in your daily comfort.

The nursing pillow: It’s your best friend to prevent back, arm, and neck pain. It helps raise your baby to the right height effortlessly. Its U-shape makes it versatile for many nursing positions.

Nursing pads: Essential for absorbing unexpected milk leaks and keeping your clothes dry.

• Disposable: Convenient and highly absorbent, perfect for outings or the early days.
• Reusable (cotton, bamboo…): Cost-effective, eco-friendly, and often gentler on the skin. Having several pairs allows for proper rotation.

Silicone nipple shields: These are therapeutic tools to be used in specific situations (severe pain, difficulty latching, flat nipples…). Warning: their use must be strictly supervised by a lactation consultant or healthcare professional, as improper use can harm milk supply.

Nursing shells: These are worn inside the bra. Some collect milk leaking from the non-nursing breast during feeding. Others, especially silver ones, are used to protect sore nipples from fabric friction and promote healing thanks to their antibacterial properties.

Create Your Comfortable “Nursing Nest”

You will spend many hours feeding your baby. You might as well do it in a pleasant space! Set up one or two “nests” around the house (on the couch, in an armchair…).

Your ideal nursing station should include:

A comfortable seat with good back support.

Pillows or your nursing cushion to help you settle in.

A small table within reach with:

• A large bottle of water.
• Healthy snacks (dried fruits, cereal bars…).
• Your phone and its charger.
• A book, a remote control…
• Spare muslin cloths and nursing pads.

Having everything within reach will allow you to fully relax and enjoy these precious moments.

Resources to Go Further

This guide is a solid foundation for your breastfeeding journey, but every experience is unique. Knowing who to turn to for personalized advice or simply to share your experience is essential. Here is a directory of reliable resources to support you.

Breastfeeding Professionals: When and Who to Consult?

When facing persistent difficulties, don’t wait. Professional advice can quickly resolve the situation.

The Lactation Consultant: She is the breastfeeding specialist par excellence. The IBCLC certification (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) ensures thorough medical training and international recognition. Consult her for complex issues: recurring pain, poor baby weight gain, tongue tie, preparation for returning to work, etc.

The Midwife: She is often your primary contact in the postpartum period. She can assist with getting started, monitoring your baby’s weight, and answering basic questions.

The Doctor or Pediatrician: They are essential for your child’s medical follow-up and for diagnosing and treating complications such as infectious mastitis.

Peer Support: Groups and Communities

Connecting with other mothers who are going through or have gone through the same experience is an invaluable source of moral support. Feeling understood and less alone makes all the difference.

Specialized associations: Organizations like La Leche League France or Solidarilait offer meetings (in-person or online) led by volunteers trained in listening and breastfeeding support. It’s an excellent way to ask your questions in a caring environment.

Online communities: Forums and groups on social media provide support at any hour. They are a great resource to share tips and feel connected. However, be cautious: always critically evaluate the advice you find there, especially if it concerns medical matters. Always prioritize the opinion of a healthcare professional.

Recommended Reading and Reference Sites

To deepen your knowledge with reliable, science-based information, here are some suggestions:

Must-read books: The book “The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding“ by La Leche League is considered the breastfeeding “bible.” Books by renowned pediatricians like Dr. Jack Newman or Dr. Marie Thirion are also treasure troves of valuable information.

Trusted websites:

• La Leche League France: A database of clear and comprehensive articles on virtually every topic related to breastfeeding.
• Information Pour l’Allaitement: Dr. Marie Thirion’s site, a very rich and scientifically rigorous resource.

These resources will help you become even more empowered in your breastfeeding journey, making informed choices and always feeling well supported.

Conclusion: Your Journey, Your Pace

You have reached the end of this guide. We hope it has provided you with clear answers, practical solutions, and above all, a good dose of confidence.

The journey of breastfeeding is an intimate and unique story, written every day between you and your baby. There will be moments of pure joy and deep connection, and perhaps also moments of doubt and fatigue. This is completely normal.

Remember three essential things: trust yourself, be kind to yourself, and never hesitate to ask for help. Perfection is not the goal; the precious bond you build with your child is.

Whatever your path, every feeding, every drop of milk, every cuddle is a victory. At Milky Daisy, we are proud and honored to support you in this extraordinary adventure. We wish you a wonderful breastfeeding journey.