Top tips for carrying on with breastfeeding

If you’ve been breastfeeding for a while but are worried you aren't doing it right, don't panic. Speak to your midwife or health visitor about different positions which you could try to make breastfeeding easier for you and your baby. You can also find out more in our how to guide on breastfeeding positions and correct attachment.

There are tons of ways you can make breastfeeding less noticeable when you're out and about, but don't feel you need to hide the fact that you're breastfeeding – in Scotland it is your legal right to breastfeed in a public space. However, if you don’t want to be noticed, our page on breastfeeding friendly clothes has some tips.

It’s your legal right to breastfeed wherever and whenever you want, no matter how old your child is. You can find out more about your rights at the Maternity Action website.

Some mums prefer to express milk to take with them when they're out and about, and that's fine too. Our page on expressing your breast milk is full of helpful information.

Mums often get very thirsty when they're breastfeeding so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and keep some water nearby when feeding.

Join a breastfeeding support group or a parent and toddler group. You'll be able to chat with other breastfeeding mums and your little one can play with new friends! You can find support groups in your area here.

Don't worry about having to buy a breastfeeding friendly wardrobe, just try breastfeeding in what you already have to see what you feel most confident in. Our page on breastfeeding friendly clothes has some tips.

Wearing a sling should allow you to breastfeed and do other things at the same time, like putting a wash on or playing with another child. The sling that comes in the Baby Box is perfect for this. 

Have a night out. Being a new mum is hard work, so make sure you take time to enjoy yourself!

If you drink alcohol, wait 2-3 hours before feeding so it has time to leave your system. Some mums choose to feed their baby expressed breastmilk for the first feed after a night out, but keep in mind that too long a gap between feeds can lead to engorgement and mastitis.

If you plan on returning to work at some point, consider getting your baby used to expressed breastmilk earlier, rather than later. That way you can be sure your baby is happy drinking from a cup or bottle.