Breastfeeding Essentials: Latch, Supply, Pumping, Storage, and Red Flags

Breastfeeding should not feel like guesswork. You need clear signs that your baby is getting enough, simple latch rules, and a plan for common problems like pain, low supply worries, and cluster feeding.

Latch basics (the 20-second checklist)

• Baby’s mouth opens wide (not small “nipple-only” latch)
• More areola visible above the top lip than below
• Chin touches breast, nose close but not buried
• You hear swallowing after the first minutes
• Pain should be mild and improve quickly (persistent sharp pain is not normal)

Signs your baby is getting enough milk

• Regular wet diapers (increasing over the first week)
• Stools transitioning from dark meconium to yellow (for most newborns)
• Baby settles after feeds (not always, but often)
• Steady weight gain over time

Cluster feeding: what it means and how to handle it

Cluster feeding is common, especially in the early weeks and growth spurts. It can look like “constant feeding.” It does not automatically mean low milk supply.

• Feed on demand during cluster periods
• Hydrate and rest when possible
• Use support positions to reduce back/neck strain

Pumping: when it helps

• If baby struggles to latch or transfer milk
• If you need to build a freezer stash slowly
• If you are returning to work and need a plan
• If you are managing engorgement (with guidance)

Milk storage (simple system)

Common breastfeeding problems (and what to do next)

1) Painful feeds

• Check latch first (most common cause)
• Try different holds: cradle, cross-cradle, football hold
• Consider tongue-tie assessment if pain persists

2) Engorgement

• Feed more frequently
• Use gentle hand expression to soften areola before latch
• Cold compress after feeds for comfort

3) “Low supply” worries

• Confirm using wet diapers + weight trend
• Increase frequency before adding supplements
• Address latch and transfer first

Red flags: when you should seek help quickly