Your Top Breastfeeding Questions Answered

Author: Melanie McGrice, Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian

Firstly, congratulations on becoming a mumma!
Whether your journey into motherhood has been smooth or filled with surprises, one thing’s for sure — feeding your bub quickly becomes one of your biggest concerns. If you’re like most mummas, you’ve already started tracking every poo, burp, and feed, and wondering endlessly: Am I giving my baby enough? Too much? Should I introduce formula?

We get it — this time is beautiful, but also overwhelming. So in this article, Melanie McGrice, one of Australia’s leading pre- and postnatal dietitians, answers the most common breastfeeding questions mums ask during those precious early weeks. With over 20 years of experience, Melanie has supported thousands of women through the nutritional side of motherhood — and she’s here to support you too.

🍼 What Are the Health Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mum and Bub?

Breastmilk is miraculous — it’s truly living nutrition.
It evolves as your baby grows, adjusting its composition not only by age but also by the time of day and even within the same feed. For example, hindmilk (the milk that comes at the end of a feed) is higher in fat, giving your baby that satisfying fullness.

Breastmilk contains:

Macrophages, cytokines, and antimicrobial compounds that boost your baby’s immune system
Nutrients that protect against gut infections, respiratory illnesses, and allergies
A perfect macronutrient balance for your baby’s age and developmental needs

And it’s not just bub who benefits. Breastfeeding supports maternal recovery and has been linked with:

Reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers
Faster postpartum weight loss due to high energy demands (around 2000kJ/day)
Lowered risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Plus — it’s always ready, the perfect temperature, and absolutely free.

🧬 What Are the Health Consequences of Not Breastfeeding?

Let’s be honest — not everyone can breastfeed, and that’s okay. Formula companies invest heavily to create safe, nutritious alternatives. However, epidemiological data tells us that babies who are not breastfed may have a higher risk of:

Infectious diseases
Obesity and type 1 and 2 diabetes
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Childhood leukemia

Mothers who don’t breastfeed also face:

Higher likelihood of premenopausal breast cancer
Greater retained pregnancy weight
Increased risk of metabolic conditions

That said, choosing to formula feed doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It simply means a different path — and one that deserves just as much support and guidance.

🤧 Is There a Link Between Early Formula Introduction and Allergies?

Yes, there is growing evidence to suggest that early introduction of formula may increase the risk of allergies and eczema. Breastmilk contains protective antibodies and beneficial bacteria that help your baby’s immune system develop a healthy response to allergens.

That said, if formula is needed, it’s not a failure — it’s just about balancing your baby’s needs with the best guidance available. Talk to your GP or dietitian before making changes to feeding plans.

🧷 How Common Are Breastfeeding Issues?

You are not alone.

In Australia, 96% of mums initiate breastfeeding — but by 3 months, fewer than 39% are exclusively breastfeeding. Why? Often because of:

Confusion or concern that bub isn’t getting adequate calories
Latching issues
Sore nipples or mastitis
Time constraints or return to work

The takeaway? It’s common to struggle. And it’s okay to need help.

🧑‍🏫 What Kind of Education and Support is Available?

Support is available — but many mums don’t know where to look.
If this is your first baby, breastfeeding might feel foreign. You might wonder: Am I doing it right? Why is it taking so long?

Here’s what to know:

Lactation consultants are gold — get in touch early if you’re unsure.
It’s normal for babies to feed frequently or for long stretches.
Frequent feeding doesn’t mean low supply — it could mean bub’s growing and needing more.

Ask questions. Book an appointment. Reach out — support can make all the difference.

😖 What Are the Most Common Breastfeeding Challenges?

Some of the most common concerns include:

Latching difficulties (can lead to painful nipples or low milk transfer)
Cracked, sore nipples
Engorgement or blocked ducts
Mastitis — painful inflammation, often requiring medical attention
Oversupply or undersupply

The key? Don’t ignore the signs. Early support can prevent small issues from becoming overwhelming ones.

🧴 What Products Can Help with Breast Care and Comfort?

When breastfeeding, comfort matters.
These can help:

Lanolin-based nipple creams for cracked skin
Cooling gel pads
Supportive nursing bras
Breastfeeding pillows

Also, certain strains of probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus salivarius) may help reduce the risk of mastitis. Always consult your health professional before starting supplements.

⏳ How Long Should I Breastfeed?

Ideally:

Exclusively breastfeed for 4 to 6 months
Continue breastfeeding alongside solids until at least 12 months

But every baby is different — and so is every mum’s journey. What matters most is what works for your family, your lifestyle, and your health.

🍼 When Should I Introduce Formula?

Formula is only necessary if you are unable to breastfeed or choose not to.
If you’re struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Speak to a lactation consultant or a postnatal dietitian who can assess your situation and recommend next steps — whether that’s mixed feeding, expressing, or introducing formula.

🧃 How Do I Choose the Best Formula?

There are many types: cow’s milk-based, goat’s milk-based, soy-based, hydrolysed for allergy-prone babies, and more.
There’s no one-size-fits-all. A postnatal dietitian can assess your bub’s needs and recommend a formula that suits their digestion, development, and allergy risk.

🍽️ How Many Extra Calories Do I Need While Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding burns roughly 2000 kilojoules (about 480 calories) per day — the same as a brisk two-hour walk!
This means:

You may feel hungrier — listen to your body
Nutrient-dense snacks (nuts, smoothies, eggs) can help
Avoid ultra-processed “empty” calories that don’t nourish you or your bub

💊 Should I Take Supplements While Breastfeeding?

Yes — many women benefit from iodine and vitamin D supplementation during breastfeeding.
Look for formulas specifically designed for breastfeeding mums and check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

🥚 Should I Avoid Allergenic Foods?

No — unless you or your baby has a diagnosed allergy.
In fact, exposing your baby to common allergens via breastmilk may actually help build tolerance and prevent allergies later on. These foods include:

Cow’s milk
Eggs
Wheat
Nuts

As always, speak to your doctor if you notice any reactions.

🥩 Do I Need More Protein?

Surprisingly, you actually need less protein while breastfeeding than during pregnancy.
As long as you’re getting:

2 serves of meat or meat alternatives
2–3 serves of dairy per day

…you’re most likely meeting your protein requirements.

💬 Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Amazing

Feeding your baby — breast, bottle, or both — is one of the most emotionally charged parts of new motherhood. There’s no one perfect way. There’s just your way.

Whether you breastfeed for two weeks or two years, you are nourishing your child with love, attention, and connection. That matters more than any label.

So take a deep breath. Ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this, mumma. 💛

Need support?
Visit Australian Breastfeeding Association or connect with a local lactation consultant.

Check out www.youtube.com/NourishWithMelanie or book a consultation with a postnatal dietitian. See www.nutritionplus.com.au.

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