Breastfeeding can be a powerful bonding experience and a brilliant source of nutrition for your baby. It also benefits parents, too. Supporting postpartum recovery, helping to regulate hormones, and encouraging calm.
We understand the highs, lows and in-betweens of every feeding journey, and we know that every parent’s experience looks a little different. You know your baby best, so don’t forget to trust your intuition. With the right tools, tips and trusted guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to make breastfeeding work for you (and your baby).
In this post, we’ll walk you through the key do’s and don’ts of breastfeeding. We’ll cover the practical tips that can help, and some common pitfalls to avoid.
The do's of breastfeeding
Here are some things you can do to help make breastfeeding feel more manageable and more comfortable for both of you.
Do prioritise comfort
Breastfeeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience and your comfort matters.
Finding a breastfeeding position that works for you and your baby can make all the difference.
Whether it’s side-lying, cradle hold, or using a cushion for extra support, take the time to try different options until it feels right. Your body’s doing a big job, so don’t be shy about shifting, stretching or propping yourself up. A calm, comfy parent helps create a calm, contented feed.
While feeding on demand works well in the early days, gently building a routine can help bring some structure to your day. Tune in to your baby’s natural rhythms and hunger cues and use them as a guide.
A flexible routine can support your breast milk supply, help your baby feel more settled, and give you a clearer sense of what to expect.
{"fields": {"internallink": ["/"], "externallink": [""]}}Do stay hydrated and nourished
Your body needs extra fuel to produce breast milk, so staying well-fed and properly hydrated is key. Keep a glass of water handy during feeds and aim to eat little and often, focusing on simple, balanced meals and snacks that keep your energy up.
The don'ts of breastfeeding
Just as important as what to do is knowing what to avoid when breastfeeding. Here are a few common pitfalls.
Don't ignore breastfeeding discomfort
Some tenderness is normal in the early days, but ongoing pain when breastfeeding is a sign something’s not quite right.
Cracked, sore nipples, sharp pain during latching, or a baby who seems unsettled while breastfeeding can all be caused by latching or positioning issues.
Try adjusting how you and your baby are positioned and use nipple cream for relief.
If breastfeeding continues to hurt, don’t just push through it, speak to a midwife, health visitor or lactation consultant.
Don't stress over milk supply
It’s completely normal for your breast milk supply to change over time, and stressing about it can sometimes make things feel even harder.
Worry, lack of sleep, or not looking after yourself can all impact how much breast milk you produce. Try to rest where you can (easier said than done, we know), stay hydrated, and make time to eat well.
Skin-to-skin contact and regular breastfeeding or expressing can all help support supply too.
Don't hesitate to seek support
If you’re ever unsure and feel like you need support with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to speak to other parents, your midwife, health visitor or an expert lactation consultant for reassurance and guidance.
Remember, breastfeeding is very personal, and no two feeding journeys are the same. No matter what your feeding routine looks like, we’re here to support you and your baby with expertly designed breast pumps and breastfeeding accessories.
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Can you have paracetamol when breastfeeding?
Yes, you can take normal doses of paracetamol if you're breastfeeding.
Always read the instructions that come with the medicine if you’re taking paracetamol and breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding parents should avoid codeine and aspirin.
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Can I take ibuprofen during breastfeeding?
Yes, you can take ibuprofen when breastfeeding, and it is safe if you take it at the normal adult dose.
Always read the instructions that come with the medicine if you’re thinking about taking ibuprofen and breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding parents should avoid codeine and aspirin.
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Can you drink alcohol while breastfeeding?
Yes, in moderation.
An occasional drink is generally considered safe while breastfeeding, as only a small amount of alcohol passes into breast milk.
It’s best to feed your baby before having a drink, then wait a couple of hours before the next feed to give your body time to process the alcohol.
There’s no need to pump and dump, but if you’re feeling tipsy, it’s a good sign to hold off. As always, if you’re unsure, chat with your midwife or health visitor.
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Can you get a tattoo while breastfeeding?
No, it’s best to wait until your baby is no longer solely reliant on breast milk, usually around 9 to 12 months.
Most reputable tattoo artists won’t tattoo someone who’s pregnant or breastfeeding, and for good reason.
Your body’s already working hard to recover and care for your baby, so adding extra stress (and potentially risk infection, which could impact both you and your baby) isn’t advisable.
When in doubt, speak to a healthcare professional and always choose a licensed, experienced tattooist who’ll talk you through any risks and ask you to sign a waiver.
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Can you mix breast milk and formula?
Yes, you can mix breast milk and formula. Whether you’re topping up, transitioning, or just figuring out what’s right for you and your baby, combining the two is safe when done properly.
- Chat to your health visitor or GP, especially if you're just starting to mix feed, or if your baby has any health concerns.
- Make formula safely and always sterilise bottles and teats.
- Watch what your baby prefers. Some babies take to mixed feeding easily; others might need a bit of time or tweaking with ratios.
- Breast milk and formula have different storage rules. Once mixed, use the bottle straight away and never reheat leftovers.
Combination feeding is all about finding what works for you, your baby, and your routine. And if that’s a bit of breast and a bit of bottle? That’s absolutely fine. You're doing great.
Related Articles
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Sources
- Food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding - Start for Life - NHS
- Tattoos and Breastfeeding - La Leche League International
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking paracetamol for adults - NHS
- Cough and cold remedies and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network
- How to combine breast and bottle feeding - NHS
