The Ultimate Reading List for Breastfeeding Tips + Support
Breastfeeding is the most natural way to nourish your baby—but let’s be honest, that doesn’t always mean it’s easy. From mastering the perfect latch to navigating cluster feeding, every breastfeeding journey looks a little different. Whether you’re a new mom looking for practical advice or a seasoned parent wanting reassurance, the right resources can make all the difference.
Check out what March of Dimes has to say on why Breastfeeding is best.
That’s why I’ve rounded up The Ultimate Reading List for Breastfeeding Tips + Support. These books are written by lactation experts, pediatricians, and fellow moms who’ve been in the trenches. They cover everything from boosting milk supply to safe weaning practices, giving you the confidence to feed your baby with love and support.
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1. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League International
This book is the classic guide to breastfeeding—and for good reason. Written by La Leche League International, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding has been supporting moms for decades. The newest edition includes updated research, practical tips for pumping, managing challenges like mastitis, and even balancing breastfeeding with work.
You can also refer to La Leche League International for online breastfeeding support! They have online support groups, articles you can refer to, and a “find local support” map to find local breastfeeding support groups all over the world. Check it out here!
This book is both encouraging and informative, giving you the perfect mix of technical advice and emotional support. Honestly, if you buy just one breastfeeding book, this should be it.
When I was pregnant with my first daughter, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to breastfeed successfully. One of my midwives recommended this book to me, and it changed everything. Instead of feeling worried, I felt informed and confident that my body was made for this. It empowered me with the knowledge and advice from generations of breastfeeding women before me. One of my favorite things about this book is their section on troubleshooting tips--I referred to this section so many times, both for myself and for my friends who were in the same season of breastfeeding their little ones. In fact, 3 years later I referred to it again to see if it had any advice go cow's milk protein allergy in breastfed babies for my 4 month old who has tummy troubles, and sure enough it did! I recommend this book to every breastfeeding mama and am forever thankful my midwife recommended it to me those years ago.
2. Latch: A Handbook for Breastfeeding with Confidence at Every Stage by Robin Kaplan, M.Ed., IBCLC
This practical guide takes you through common breastfeeding struggles—like sore nipples, low milk supply, or tongue ties—and helps you troubleshoot with confidence. Robin Kaplan, a board-certified lactation consultant, breaks everything down in a relatable, easy-to-digest way.
I especially love that this book encourages moms to trust their instincts while also leaning on science-backed advice.
3. Breastfeeding Made Simple: Seven Natural Laws for Nursing Mothers by Nancy Mohrbacher & Kathleen Kendall-Tackett
If you love the idea of simplifying breastfeeding into actionable steps, this is your book. It walks you through the “seven natural laws” of breastfeeding, like how supply and demand really works, why babies nurse so often, and how to make nighttime nursing easier.
It’s a calming, confidence-building read that helps you relax and enjoy the process.
4. Work. Pump. Repeat.: The New Mom’s Survival Guide to Breastfeeding and Going Back to Work by Jessica Shortall
Are you heading back to work while breastfeeding? If so, this book is a lifesaver. It’s filled with practical pumping tips, time-saving hacks, and real-life encouragement to help you protect your milk supply and still succeed in your career.
So many moms have called this book their “work pumping bible,” and I couldn’t agree more.
5. The Nursing Mother’s Companion by Kathleen Huggins
First published over 30 years ago, this guide has stood up to the test of time. It’s a go-to reference for everything from positioning your baby to handling engorgement. The book is organized in a way that makes it super easy to flip to the section you need in the middle of a 3 a.m. feeding crisis.
This book is a wonderful gift to new moms who like having a trusted manual on hand.
6. Mother Food: A Breastfeeding Diet Guide with Lactogenic Foods and Herbs by Hilary Jacobson
If you’re curious about how nutrition impacts breastfeeding, this book dives into the connection between food and milk supply. It covers lactogenic foods, safe herbal remedies, and how to nourish your body for both recovery and long-term health.
This book is perfect for moms who want a holistic approach to breastfeeding support.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding is a journey that requires patience, support, and the right tools. Books like The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding and Latch can be a lifeline when you’re feeling unsure, while others like Work. Pump. Repeat. offer targeted advice for specific stages of motherhood like returning to work.
No matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey—whether you’re preparing during pregnancy, nursing a newborn, or pumping at work—these books provide both practical breastfeeding tips and the emotional reassurance that you’re not alone.
At the end of the day, every drop of milk you provide your baby is a gift. With the right resources, encouragement, and support, you can feel empowered to make the best decisions for yourself and your little one.
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