How to Get Breastfeeding Established

The Mama Aroha app provides information about many aspects of breastfeeding. It includes information on the importance of breastfeeding, support for breastfeeding skin to skin, supply and demand feeding, what to expect, feeding cues, latching and positioning, hand expressing and milk storage. Check out how to use the app (PDF, 1.73 MB). 

This app provides information about various aspects of breastfeeding - from how to prepare for breastfeeding during pregnancy, through to the first few days and the early weeks. In provides guidance on common issues such as latching and positioning your baby, hand expressing and breast care. In addition, the app has information on more unusual issues such as breastfeeding twins and early babies (premature), and frequently asked questions around breastfeeding such as medicines, contraception and smoking when breastfeeding.

Check SmartStart to find breastfeeding support services in your area.

For most mothers, breastfeeding can become natural and easy if you know what to expect and have informed support.  La Leche League provides information and support to women wanting to breastfeed their baby. Find your nearest La Leche League breastfeeding support group and check the 'I want to know ...' section.

If you are worried about how your baby is breastfeeding, ask for a breatfeeding assessment. Your midwife or lead maternity carer (LMC) will know who to refer you to in your area. You can also talk to a PlunketLine nurse on 0800 933 922. Calls are free and PlunketLine is available 24/7. They'll do an assessment and can book you an online appointment with one of Whānau Āwhina Plunket's lactation consultants. These breastfeeding consultations are free and available for all breastfeeding women - even if Whānau Āwhina Plunket isn't your WellChild provider.

Te Reo Māori 16 page booklet on breastfeeding. From La Leche League New Zealand and the Ministry of Health. 

Food information for breastfeeding women. Includes nutrition, healthy food for mother and baby, dietary variety, drinking plenty of fluids, foods low in fat, salt and sugar, healthy weight, losing weight gained during pregnancy, daily activity or exercise, taking time out, alcohol, and being smokefree. 

There are some common problems that women have when breastfeeding. Find out about sore nipples, engorged breasts, blocked milk ducts and your milk supply, with tips to manage them.

Breastfeeding can be challenging and it can be tiring. Support from dads/partners, whānau and friends can really help. Find out the things that you can do to support mothers to breastfeed.

Food information for babies and toddlers from birth to 2 years old.