Practical Breastfeeding

'An absolutely fabulous book' - Cathy Monaghan, senior paediatric dietitian

'A much-needed resource for parents' - Sheena Byrom, OBE, midwife

Practical Breastfeeding is the calm, evidence-based companion new parents need for the first weeks and beyond.

International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Caoimhe Whelan guides you step-by-step through latch and positioning, the golden hours after birth, pumping, mastitis and blocked ducts, low milk supply, mental health, safe sleep, and gentle weaning-beautifully illustrated by Lauren Rebbeck for instant "I can do that" clarity.

She answers key questions such as how to latch, how often to feed a newborn, whether you can drink alcohol and what is best to eat to produce breastmilk.

Inside you'll find:

• Clear, picture-led instructions for latch, holds and troubleshooting

• Day-by-day expectations for the first week 

• Relief strategies for sore nipples, engorgement, blocked ducts and mastitis

• Pumping plans and return-to-work logistics

• Low-supply pathways 

• Postpartum mental health support (baby blues, anxiety, intrusive thoughts)

• Safe-sleep guidance that protects attachment and milk supply

• Special circumstances: prematurity, tongue-tie, reflux, jaundice, medication safety

• Gentle weaning plans-partial or complete-with scripts and checklists

Warm, non-judgemental and practical, this book helps you sleep more, stress less and feed your baby with confidence-whatever your starting point, birth story or goals. Plus: how to deal with social media as a new parent.

Perfect for: New mothers and partners, baby-care gift lists, antenatal classes, postnatal teams, health visitors, IBCLCs and peer supporters.