Sore or cracked nipples
Usually a latch problem. Correct the position; a little breast milk on the nipple after feeds helps healing.
Patient, practical help with latching, milk supply and feeding worries – so you and your baby can feed with confidence. With pediatrician and neonatologist Dr. Neha Garg Jaiswal.
Breast milk gives your baby complete nutrition for the first 6 months, plus antibodies that protect against diarrhoea, pneumonia and ear infections. Breastfed babies have lower risks of obesity and diabetes later in life.
For mothers, breastfeeding helps the uterus recover after birth and lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth if possible. The thick yellow first milk, colostrum, is small in amount but rich in protection – exactly what your newborn needs.
Milk usually “comes in” on day 2 to 4. Feed on demand, 8 to 12 times a day, including at night.
Pain throughout the feed usually means a shallow latch. Dr. Neha can watch a feed in the clinic and correct positioning.
Milk works on supply and demand: the more milk removed, the more is made. Frequent feeding and evening cluster feeding are normal – not a sign of low milk.
True low supply is less common than mothers fear; a weight check confirms it.
Usually a latch problem. Correct the position; a little breast milk on the nipple after feeds helps healing.
Hard, full breasts. Feed often and express a little to soften before latching.
A tender lump. Keep feeding from that side and massage gently.
Most babies can still latch well with help and the right position.
Start expressing and storing milk 2–3 weeks before returning to work. Warm stored milk in a bowl of warm water – never in a microwave. Feed with a cup or paladai if your baby refuses a bottle.
| Where | How long it keeps |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | About 4 hours |
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Around 6 months |
Myth“Give ghutti or water in summer.”
FactBreast milk contains all the water a baby needs, even in hot weather.
Myth“Mothers must avoid many foods.”
FactA normal balanced diet is enough; very few babies react to foods in the mother’s diet.
Myth“Small breasts make less milk.”
FactBreast size does not decide milk supply.
Myth“Stop feeding when the mother is ill.”
FactFor most common illnesses, breastfeeding continues safely.
Some babies need formula for medical reasons, and some mothers choose mixed feeding. Dr. Neha helps you choose a suitable formula, prepare it safely, and protect breastfeeding alongside if you wish – without judgement.
In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital straight away. For guidance, call or WhatsApp +91 98184 07725.
Short, clear answers to the questions parents ask Dr. Neha most often. Your own child’s situation is always best discussed in person.
Ask on WhatsAppExclusively for 6 months, then with other foods until 2 years or beyond.
Every 2 to 3 hours, or 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, including at night.
Yes, in most cases. Wash your hands and consider a mask. Ask your doctor before taking medicines.
Cluster feeding in the evening is normal, especially during growth spurts, and helps build your supply.
Yes – many feeding questions can be handled by video, with a clinic visit for a weight check or a watched feed.
MBBS, MD (Paediatrics) · Pediatrician & Neonatologist
Dr. Neha is a pediatrician and neonatologist with 15+ years of clinical experience, including newborn and paediatric care at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, ESIC Hospital Noida, Cloudnine and Yashoda. She consults at her clinics in Noida Sector 76 and Greater Noida West, and online.
Latching, supply and feeding plans – in Noida Sector 76, Greater Noida West or by video.
