The Latch and Learn Blog

When you’re preparing for a new baby, the list of things to do can feel endless—buy the gear, decorate the nursery, pack the hospital bag, and figure out how to install the car seat. But one essential item often gets pushed to the bottom of the list: learning how to breastfeed. Many new parents assume that breastfeeding will come naturally, or that they'll figure it out once the baby arrives. But the truth is, breastfeeding is a learned skill—for both the parent and the baby—and preparing ahead of time can make a world of difference.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open conversations, and connecting people with the resources and support they need. While mental health affects everyone, one area that is often overlooked or misunderstood is postpartum depression (PPD)—a condition that affects 1 in 7 new mothers, and in some cases, new fathers as well.

Breastfeeding is a natural process, but that doesn’t mean it always comes naturally! Many new parents have questions about nursing their babies, from concerns about milk supply to finding the right latch. Here, we answer some of the most common breastfeeding questions to help you feel more confident on your journey.

The moments after birth are incredibly special, filled with awe as a newborn takes their first breaths and makes their first movements outside the womb. One of the most remarkable instincts a baby has is the ability to find their mother’s breast and latch on their own—this is known as the breast crawl. It is a natural, reflexive behavior that allows babies to initiate breastfeeding on their own within the first hour of life.

Breast milk is often called "liquid gold" for a reason—it's a dynamic, living substance that adapts to meet your baby’s nutritional and immune needs. Many people assume that this adaptability only applies when directly nursing, but that’s not the case! Even if you’re exclusively pumping, your breast milk continues to change in response to your baby’s growth, health, and environment.

Unmedicated childbirth is a deeply personal and empowering experience that many birthing people choose for a variety of reasons, including a desire for minimal medical intervention, a more connected birthing experience, or a preference for natural pain management techniques.

Returning to work after having a baby can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re committed to continuing your breastfeeding journey. Many parents worry about how to maintain their milk supply, find time to pump, and ensure their baby gets enough breastmilk while they’re away. The good news? With the right preparation and mindset, balancing work and breastfeeding is absolutely possible.

Why do women stop breastfeeding?

A Lactation Educator is a trained professional who provides education and support to breastfeeding parents. They help with general breastfeeding knowledge.