Mums on what they need they knew earlier than breastfeeding – and skilled tricks to really feel ready
New research uncovers the breastfeeding challenges and realities UK mums wish they’d been prepared for, plus expert advice to help new mothers with breastfeeding support
Mums admit there are aspects of breastfeeding they weren’t prepared for (Image: Getty Images)
Mums have revealed the top things they wish they’d known before they began breastfeeding, with a quarter admitting they felt unprepared for what was to come. A poll of 1,000 mums lays bare the messy, exhausting reality, from leaking boobs and constant hunger and thirst, to how tricky feeding can be when you’re out and about.
But it’s not just physical, as many also said they weren’t ready for how painful it can be, or how lonely the experience may feel. The research was commissioned by Momcozy, which has produced a report looking into breastfeeding in the UK in 2026.
One in 10 didn’t feel supported when going through their breastfeeding journey(Image: Getty Images)
Sophie Martin, author of The Infertile Midwife and lead midwife for an antenatal clinic, said: “Many mums expect breastfeeding to come naturally, but the reality can be physically, emotionally and mentally demanding.
“At the same time, breastfeeding can bring an incredible sense of connection and confidence.
“It’s important that parents are given honest, balanced information so that they feel prepared both practically and emotionally for the realities of breastfeeding. Education and preparation is key.”
The report, released for World Breastfeeding Week, revealed a wide range of experiences for new mothers. It emerged 54% found breastfeeding harder than they expected, as such, 18% said it had a detrimental effect on their mental health.
While 74% of mums felt supported by their network during this stage of their baby’s life – just 11% didn’t feel this way, and 79% said it affected their relationship with their partner, impacting intimacy and feelings of resentment.
There were positives with 44% saying it helped them create a special bond with their baby(Image: Getty Images)
Feeding their newborn in public was also described as ‘difficult’ by 45% of respondents. This was due to lack of privacy, feeling self-conscious and receiving unwanted attention.
However, it hasn’t been all bad. The majority (96%) experienced a “special moment” when feeding their new child. The most special of these was seeing their newborn relax or fall asleep while feeding, followed by knowing they could comfort their child when they needed them.
For 44% breastfeeding helped them feel a stronger bond with their child, while 22% said it left them feeling empowered. And it led 19% of couples to work better together as a team and inspired 16% of partners to find other ways to bond with their baby.
Tara Cai, head of user research at Momcozy, added: “Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding parts of early parenthood, [and] it can also come with unexpected challenges that leave many mums feeling unprepared.
“But the results also highlight the importance of ensuring families have the resources, products and support networks they need to feel confident every step of the way.”
SOPHIE MARTIN’S TOP TIPS:
Breastfeeding takes practice
You have never fed this baby before, and this baby is learning to feed for the first time too. Like all skills, it takes patience and practice to perfect this.
Focus on good positioning and attachment
The fundamentals for good breastfeeding are maintaining a good latch. This will ensure effective milk transfer and a comfortable feeding experience.
Stay hydrated
Breastfeeding mums need lots of fluids so they can make enough milk. Particularly during this hot weather, don’t underestimate how much water you need, and make sure you have a drink nearby.
Expect feeding patterns to change
It can be hard to have a set feeding routine with a newborn baby, and as your baby grows and needs more milk, you will find their feeding pattern changes. All babies will have their own feeding pattern, so be responsive to your baby. Remember cluster feeding is normal too, although it can be hard work, so rest where you can.
Rest when you can
It’s very normal for babies to wake during the night for feeds, particularly at the newborn stage, but even beyond that. Make sure you get rest where you can so you can cope with the night feeds.
Be kind to yourself
Breastfeeding is both rewarding and challenging. Celebrate all those milestones, and remember that your body is doing an incredible job nourishing your baby.
TOP 20 THINGS MUMS WISH THEY’D KNOWN BEFORE BREASTFEEDING
- How tiring it can be
- How difficult it can be to tell if your baby is getting enough milk
- How difficult it is to feed with sore or cracked nipples
- How painful it can be
- How emotional it can feel
- How much pressure you can put on yourself
- How often a baby may need feeding
- How long feeds can take
- How important a good latch can be
- How much your breasts or nipples can change
- How hungry it can make you feel
- How difficult it can be in public
- How thirsty it can make you feel
- How much leaking can happen
- How lonely it can sometimes feel
- How often cluster feeding can happen
- Growth spurts and how they can affect feeding patterns
- Tongue tie and how it can affect feeding
- How rewarding it can be
- How illness affects feeding
