What breastfeeding mums wish they'd known before starting

A new survey of 1,000 mums has revealed the key things they wish they'd known before starting to breastfeed, with a quarter admitting they felt unprepared for the experience.

Surprising realities

Leaking breasts, increased hunger and thirst, and the difficulty of breastfeeding away from home were common surprises. Emotionally, many mums wished they had known more about the potential pain and loneliness.

The research, commissioned by Momcozy for its 2026 report, found that 54% of mums found breastfeeding harder than anticipated, and 18% said it had a detrimental effect on their mental health.

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Support and relationships

While 74% felt supported by those around them, 11% did not. For 79%, breastfeeding impacted their relationship with their partner, affecting intimacy and causing resentment.

Breastfeeding in public was described as "difficult" by 45% of respondents, citing lack of privacy, self-consciousness, and unwanted attention.

Positive moments

Despite the challenges, 96% experienced a "special moment" while feeding, such as watching their baby relax or fall asleep. This led 19% of couples to work better as a team and inspired 16% of partners to bond in other ways.

44% said breastfeeding strengthened their bond with their child, and 22% felt empowered.

Expert tips

Sophie Martin, author of The Infertile Midwife and lead midwife, 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."

She emphasised the importance of honest, balanced information so parents feel prepared practically and emotionally. "Education and preparation is key," she added.

Tara Cai, head of user research at Momcozy, said: "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."

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Sophie Martin's top tips

Breastfeeding takes practice: You have never fed this baby before, and this baby is learning to feed for the first time too. Like all skills, it takes patience and practice to perfect this.
Focus on good positioning and attachment: The fundamentals for good breastfeeding are maintaining a good latch. This will ensure effective milk transfer and a comfortable feeding experience.
Stay hydrated: Breastfeeding mums need lots of fluids so they can make enough milk. Particularly during this hot weather, don't underestimate how much water you need, and make sure you have a drink nearby.
Expect feeding patterns to change: It can be hard to have a set feeding routine with a newborn baby, and as your baby grows and needs more milk, you will find their feeding pattern changes. All babies will have their own feeding pattern, so be responsive to your baby. Remember cluster feeding is normal too, although it can be hard work, so rest where you can.
Rest when you can: It's very normal for babies to wake during the night for feeds, particularly at the newborn stage, but even beyond that. Make sure you get rest where you can so you can cope with the night feeds.
Be kind to yourself: Breastfeeding is both rewarding and challenging. Celebrate all those milestones, and remember that your body is doing an incredible job nourishing your baby.