New research reveals the top things UK mums wish they had known before starting breastfeeding, with a quarter admitting they felt unprepared for the reality. A poll of 1,000 mums highlighted the messy, exhausting aspects, from leaking boobs and constant hunger to the difficulty of feeding while out and about.
The findings, commissioned by Momcozy for a 2026 report on breastfeeding in the UK, also showed that many mums were not ready for the pain or the loneliness that can accompany the experience. One in ten said they did not feel supported during their breastfeeding journey.
Expert insight and key findings
Sophie Martin, author of The Infertile Midwife and lead midwife for an antenatal clinic, said: “Many mums expect breastfeeding to come naturally, but the reality can be physically, emotionally and mentally demanding. At the same time, breastfeeding can bring an incredible sense of connection and confidence. It’s important that parents are given honest, balanced information so that they feel prepared both practically and emotionally for the realities of breastfeeding. Education and preparation is key.”
The report, released for World Breastfeeding Week, found that 54% of mums found breastfeeding harder than expected, and 18% said it had a detrimental effect on their mental health. While 74% felt supported by their network, 11% did not, and 79% said it affected their relationship with their partner, impacting intimacy and causing feelings of resentment.
Public feeding and positive moments
Feeding in public was described as ‘difficult’ by 45% of respondents, due to lack of privacy, feeling self-conscious, and receiving unwanted attention. However, 96% experienced a “special moment” when feeding their child, most commonly seeing their newborn relax or fall asleep while feeding, or knowing they could comfort their child.
For 44%, breastfeeding helped them feel a stronger bond with their child, while 22% said it left them feeling empowered. It also led 19% of couples to work better together as a team and inspired 16% of partners to find other ways to bond with their baby.
Expert tips for new mums
Tara Cai, head of user research at Momcozy, added: “Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding parts of early parenthood, [and] it can also come with unexpected challenges that leave many mums feeling unprepared. But the results also highlight the importance of ensuring families have the resources, products and support networks they need to feel confident every step of the way.”
Sophie Martin’s top tips include: breastfeeding takes practice, as both mum and baby are learning; focus on good positioning and attachment to ensure a good latch; stay hydrated, especially in hot weather; expect feeding patterns to change as your baby grows; rest when you can to cope with night feeds; and be kind to yourself, celebrating milestones.
Top 20 things mums wish they'd known
- How tiring it can be
- How difficult it can be to tell if your baby is getting enough milk
- How difficult it is to feed with sore or cracked nipples
- How painful it can be
- How emotional it can feel
- How much pressure you can put on yourself
- How often a baby may need feeding
- How long feeds can take
- How important a good latch can be
- How much your breasts or nipples can change
- How hungry it can make you feel
- How difficult it can be in public
- How thirsty it can make you feel
- How much leaking can happen
- How lonely it can sometimes feel
- How often cluster feeding can happen
- Growth spurts and how they can affect feeding patterns
- Tongue tie and how it can affect feeding
- How rewarding it can be
- How illness affects feeding
