Breastfeeding isn't always a pleasant experience for you and your baby; although our bodies know what to do, it’s common to experience pain and discomfort while nursing your child. Whether you are a new mom or a mom who has previously breastfed, here are several tips that can help you!

Finding a comfortable couch or chair to sit on while feeding your baby is so important! Supporting your own body is essential to a healthy and pleasant feeding. Try to make sure that your baby is elevated enough so that you’re not putting any extra strain on your upper body. After all, breastfeeding is enough work! 

If you can't seem to find a comfortable position to work with, a breastfeeding pillow could be something to look into. Many moms already have a Boppy pillow for their baby which can also be used to relieve stress on your shoulders, neck and back. If you don't have either, a regular pillow can work perfectly!

Be sure to also support your breasts when preparing to breastfeed your child. They will naturally be heavier when producing milk, and you definitely don't want to add that to your list of discomforts. You can try the “Hamburger Hold,” which, let's be real, is a great name for it! To do this, you put four fingers underneath your breast and your thumb on top—just like you’re holding a burger.

When breastfeeding, a good latch should feel comfortable. It shouldn't feel like it's pinching your skin, and your baby won't have to turn their head excessively while drinking. Your entire nipple should be in his or her mouth, as well as some of the surrounding areola. Be patient with yourself and with your baby; not everyone immediately gets a good latch. 

I can't even tell you the amount of times that I've heard stories of sore and cracked nipples during breastfeeding! It's extremely common, and your nipples are taking some trauma while feeding your baby. Investing in some soothing creme and massaging the area will really help soothe your skin. Try to keep them as moisturized as possible.

The most natural thing that a mother can do is breastfeed her baby, and there is absolutely no shame in nursing in public. It's completely legal to breastfeed your child whenever and wherever they need to be fed. While some mothers may feel completely fine doing so — as they should! — others might have a different level of comfort with public breastfeeding. It's important to know your own boundaries and do what feels best for you. If you can't find a private place to nurse or to pump, try to relax and breathe. Be sure to bring a sling or wrap with you if you feel uncomfortable, since this will provide you with some privacy. If you still feel weary, you can opt out of public feeding and bring your Ceres Chill Breastmilk Chiller to ensure that your milk is safe to consume and use the cup as a baby bottle! 

Keeping yourself hydrated is not only extremely important to your own health, it's also important for your baby. Being slightly dehydrated won't affect your milk supply, but it will affect your mood and energy levels. You definitely don't want to feel sluggish while nursing or it will increase your discomfort during the feeding session.

Unfortunately, we can't always stay in the comfort and convenience of our own homes when breastfeeding. If you have a long errand to run or you're going back to work, you're probably going to need to pump. Clothes that have easy access take away some of the fuss of the situation. They don't have to be maternity clothes or tops that were specifically made for pumping or feeding, but try to find something that provides comfort and a quick way to get access to your breasts. If you're bringing your Ceres Chill Breastmilk Chiller with you, you can pump right into it!

It's important to note that while some mild discomfort does occur when breastfeeding, severe pain might be a sign that something isn’t right. It could be due to an infection or your child having a problem latching. If this is the case, be sure to speak to your doctor or schedule a consultation with a lactation consultant. Rest assured, there are professionals who can guide you and your baby towards a more comfortable breastfeeding routine. 

The most important thing during the breastfeeding process is to care for yourself and your baby. Do what makes you feel the most comfortable. Good luck mamas, you got this!

Share your own breastfeeding tips with us on our instagram at @Cereschill