As an expectant mother, there are so many decisions to make. One of the most important is how you’ll feed your baby: breastfeeding or formula feeding. If you’ve chosen breastfeeding, congratulations. You’re about to begin a truly special journey. And like any new adventure, it’s completely normal to have questions along the way.
At Suavinex, we’re here to support you at every step. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to breastfeeding!.
How Does Breastfeeding Work?
Breastfeeding is instinctive in many ways, but a successful start often depends on achieving a good latch. Here are a few key tips to help you feel comfortable and confident from the beginning:
Get comfortable
Choose a relaxed, supportive space; an armchair, your bed, or the sofa. Nursing pillows can be especially helpful to bring your baby up to breast level and reduce strain on your arms and shoulders.
Baby’s position
Your baby should be tummy-to-tummy with you, their body fully facing yours. Make sure their ear, shoulder, and hip are aligned, and their nose is level with your nipple.
The deep latch
This is the foundation of comfortable breastfeeding. When your baby opens their mouth wide, like they’re about to take a big bite, bring them quickly to the breast. Ideally, they’ll latch onto not just the nipple, but a good portion of the areola as well.
Signs of a good latch
Your baby’s chin touches your breast, their lips are flanged outward (like a little fish), and while you may feel a strong pulling sensation at first, you shouldn’t feel sharp pain. You’ll hear swallowing, not clicking sounds.
Feed on demand
Offer the breast whenever your baby shows hunger cues, such as rooting, turning their head, or opening their mouth. Try not to watch the clock, your baby knows what they need!
Remember: the first few days are a learning period for both of you. If breastfeeding feels painful or you’re unsure about the latch, don’t hesitate to reach out to a midwife or certified lactation consultant. Support can make all the difference.
How Long Should You Breastfeed?
How long you breastfeed is a deeply personal decision. From a health perspective, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends:
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Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (no water, teas, or foods—unless advised by your pediatrician.)
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Continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond, as long as both mother and baby wish.
There’s no maximum time limit or “right” duration; whether it’s three months, one year, or longer. The best choice is the one that feels right for your family.
What Are the Benefits of Breastfeeding?
Breast milk is often called a living or intelligent food. It adapts to your baby’s changing needs and provides perfectly balanced nutrition at every stage.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Babies
Breast milk is considered the ideal nourishment for newborns in most cases. It contains the precise balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, hormones, and enzymes your baby needs to grow and develop.
It also delivers powerful antibodies that help strengthen your baby’s immune system, reducing the risk of common childhood illnesses. Babies who are breastfed, whether directly or with expressed milk, tend to experience fewer infections and may have a lower risk of developing certain allergies, including food and environmental sensitivities.
Breast milk is also easier to digest, which can significantly reduce discomfort and help lower the likelihood of colic.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers
Breastfeeding can support your wellbeing, too. In the postpartum period, breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of postpartum depression. This is largely due to the release of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” during your baby’s sucking reflex. Oxytocin promotes bonding and can have calming, mood-boosting effects that help ease anxiety and emotional stress.
Breastfeeding may also help you sleep longer and more restfully. Some studies suggest that exclusively breastfeeding mothers get up to 45 extra minutes of sleep per night compared to those who formula feed.
Long-term, breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as lower chances of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Breastfeeding can also delay ovulation, sometimes leading to lactational amenorrhea (a delay in the return of menstruation). This can help replenish iron stores, which are often depleted during pregnancy and childbirth.
Products That Can Support Your Breastfeeding Journey
One of the many advantages of breastfeeding is its simplicity, there’s no need to buy, prepare, or store formula unless you choose mixed feeding with a breast pump.
At Suavinex, we thoughtfully design products to support you from the very beginning. Our Breastfeeding-Friendly Newborn Starter Set, which includes a bottle and a Zero.Zero™ pacifier, is designed to meet the needs of newborns and help support a smooth combo feeding experience.
Breastfeeding is about so much more than nourishment. It’s a unique bond, filled with closeness, comfort, and connection. Whatever feeding journey you choose, know that there is no single “right” way. Trust your instincts, be gentle with yourself, and reach out for support whenever you need it. At Suavinex, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Sources:
Breastfeeding prevents cancer | ABC Medical Center
Benefits of breastfeeding | MedlinePlus medical encyclopedia