Breastfeeding is best for you and your baby, but it isn't always easy. It takes time and practise. It can take up to six weeks for you and your baby to learn the skill of breastfeeding.
There are many support services that can help you.
Transcript: Breastfeeding - good things take time
The Australian Breastfeeding Association runs the National Breastfeeding Helpline.
Call the Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 686 268 to speak with a qualified breastfeeding counsellor.
Free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also download the Mum2Mum app for:
Child and Family Health Services and Building Strong Foundations are run by qualified health professionals to help families. It will cost you nothing to visit.
They can give you advice and tips about helping your child grow up strong and healthy, including help with breastfeeding and how to settle your baby to sleep. Anyone caring for a child who has yet to start school can make an appointment and get free help.
Other support services can also help you, such as online breastfeeding clinics.
The Breastfeeding your Baby book is a must-read for every new mum. It has useful information, such as:
If you need an interpreter to use the Breastfeeding Helpline, you can use the free, 24-hour Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS).
You can also find translated resources:
Breastfeeding with COVID-19 or flu has information on breastfeeding if you have these illnesses.
