5 Unexpected Ways to Support Your Breastfeeding Journey (That Actually Help)
Breastfeeding Tips for New Mums | World Breastfeeding Week
When I first started breastfeeding, I thought I was prepared — I’m a midwife, after all. But the reality still threw me. The long nights, the cluster feeds, the emotional highs and lows… and the afterpains. I quickly realised that having a few solid tools (and the right kind of support) made a world of difference.
In honour of World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August), we’re shining a light on some of the lesser-known ways you can support yourself while breastfeeding — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Whether you’re navigating cluster feeds, blocked ducts, or just trying to find your rhythm, these five simple tools and tips (including our much-loved Your Birth Weapon™ can help you feel a little more grounded, a little less sore, and a lot more supported.
1. Hold something grounding during long or stressful feeds
Cluster feeding can be intense — and sometimes overstimulating. Some mama's also experience pain or lightning sensation with the letdown.
Holding a sensory tool like Your Birth Weapon ™ in your hand can offer a sense of focus and regulation. It’s subtle, but powerful for calming the nervous system, especially if you experience nursing aversion or anxiety while feeding.
2. Try gentle stimulation to encourage letdown
Struggling with letdown? You’re not alone.
The massage ball from YBW can be gently rolled over the breast or nipple area to support milk flow, especially before pumping or when your baby is fussing. A simple tool to ease some pressure.
3. Massage blockages to help prevent mastitis
Blocked ducts hurt — and they can escalate quickly.
Use the massage ball in the shower to work out lumps and encourage drainage. It’s one of our favourite ways to naturally prevent mastitis and keep milk moving freely.
4. Soothe your shoulders and neck after feeding
Let’s be real — breastfeeding posture is brutal.
Use a massage ball or firm pressure tool to roll out your upper back, shoulders, and neck after feeding. Even 30 seconds can release tension and help reset your posture.
6. Ease afterpains triggered by feeding
One thing many people aren’t told?
Breastfeeding can trigger afterpains — especially in the early days. That’s because when your baby latches, your body releases oxytocin, which helps your uterus contract back down to size. It’s a clever design, but it can also feel like intense cramps — especially if this isn’t your first baby.
Holding your Birth Weapon™ during these moments can give you something physical to focus on, helping to redirect the brain’s pain signals (a technique often used during labour too). A gentle tool for a very real sensation.
5. Honour the emotional side of feeding
Breastfeeding isn’t just physical — it’s deeply emotional.
We’ve found the simple act of holding something grounding can help regulate sensory overwhelm, bring you back to your body, and offer a tiny moment of calm in the chaos.
🧡 Bonus: Our Go-To Breastfeeding Essentials
Pair these practices with a few of our midwife-approved favourites:
Your Birth Weapon™ — not just for birth. For letdown, massage, grounding, and self-regulation during feeds.
Mother’s Gold Colostrum Collection Kit — everything you need to express, store, and transport colostrum before baby arrives
Mere Nipple Cream — soothing support in the early days
Bare Mum Warm & Cool Insert Pads – soothing support for afterpains, engorgement, or mastitis
Lila Jasmine Lactation Bars– nourishing, wholesome and designed to naturally support milk supply
Explore the full breastfeeding collection here
With love
Jess & Mikaelah