The first week of breastfeeding can feel overwhelming — but you’re not alone. Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating a new feeding journey, it’s normal to feel uncertain in these early days. This blog post is here to give you a realistic look at what to expect during the first week of breastfeeding — from the emotional ups and downs to the physical changes and practical challenges. Every parent and baby is different, but there are common patterns and milestones that can help you feel more prepared and supported.
1. Day 1–2: Colostrum and the First Latch
In the first few days after birth, your body produces colostrum — a thick, yellowish substance often called “liquid gold.” Though it comes in small amounts, colostrum is packed with vital nutrients, antibodies, and immune-boosting properties that help protect your newborn from infections. It’s perfectly designed for your baby’s tiny stomach and plays a crucial role in jump-starting their digestive system and overall health.
In the first 24–48 hours, newborns need to feed every 2 to 3 hours, including overnight — aiming for 8–12 feedings in 24 hours. Even if your baby seems sleepy, it’s important to wake them regularly to feed. Offer both breasts at each feeding, starting with one and switching to the other once your baby slows down. This encourages good milk production and helps ensure your baby gets enough nourishment early on.
Getting a good latch in the early days is key to successful breastfeeding, but it often takes practice. Look for signs of a deep latch: your baby’s mouth should cover more of the areola underneath the nipple, and their lips should be flanged out. If breastfeeding is consistently painful, your baby seems frustrated, or feedings feel ineffective, it’s a good time to reach out to a lactation consultant for personalized support and guidance.
During the first few days of breastfeeding, it’s common to face a few hurdles. Many newborns are very sleepy, especially in the first 24–48 hours, which can make it hard to wake them for feeds. Others may have a shallow latch, leading to ineffective feeding and sore nipples. Speaking of soreness — tender nipples are normal at first, but sharp or ongoing pain can be a sign of an issue that needs adjustment. These early challenges are common, and with a little patience (and support), things often improve.
2. Day 3–4: Milk Comes In
In the first few days after birth, your milk will transition from thick, yellowish colostrum to thinner, whiter mature milk. This change usually happens around day 3 to 5 and can be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or warmth in the breasts. The milk may flow more quickly during feedings, which can sometimes cause a strong let-down sensation or mild coughing in the baby. Recognizing these changes helps you understand your body’s natural progression and signals that your milk supply is establishing.
When your milk “comes in”, you may experience breast engorgement — when your breasts feel very full, firm, and sometimes tender. This is a normal sign that your milk supply is increasing, but it can be uncomfortable. A few ways relieve engorgement, hand express prior to baby latching, cold compress between feedings, frequent milk removal, or get your breast moving with gentle lymphatic drainage massage. If you continue to have issues with engorgement, seek help from a lactation consultant to ensure proper care and prevent further complications.
You may also notice your babies feeding patterns often start to increase as they adjust to their growing appetite. You might notice periods of cluster feeding, where your baby wants to nurse frequently in a short span of time. This is normal and helps boost your milk supply while keeping your baby satisfied. Though it can feel intense or exhausting, cluster feeding is a natural part of your baby’s development and helps establish a strong breastfeeding routine.
The first week of breastfeeding isn’t just physical—it can be emotionally intense, too. Hormonal shifts after birth can trigger the “baby blues,” causing mood swings, tearfulness, and feelings of overwhelm. These emotions are common and temporary, but they can feel especially strong during this time of adjustment. Remember, it’s okay to ask for support and take time for self-care as you navigate both the joys and challenges of early motherhood.
3. Day 5–7: Finding a Rhythm (Kind Of)
Most babies continue to feed every 2 to 3 hours, including during the night. Regular, frequent feedings help maintain your milk supply and ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment for healthy growth. Although the schedule may feel demanding, keeping up with these feedings supports your breastfeeding journey and your baby’s development.
It’s common to experience some breast and nipple soreness in the early days of breastfeeding as your body adjusts and your baby learns to latch. Mild tenderness or slight discomfort is normal, especially during the first few minutes of feeding. However, if you notice sharp, persistent pain, cracks, bleeding, or signs of infection like redness and swelling, it could indicate a poor latch or a condition such as thrush or mastitis. Seeking help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider can ensure proper care and prevent complications.
One of the best ways to know if your baby is feeding well in the first week is by tracking their diaper output. We want to see a pee/poo for everyday of life the first 4 days of life. Regular, ample wet and dirty diapers are good signs that your baby is getting enough milk and staying hydrated. Keeping an eye on this can provide reassurance and help you spot any potential feeding issues early.
In the first week, it’s important to learn your baby’s hunger cues. Early hunger signs include rooting (turning their head and opening their mouth), sucking on hands, lip-smacking, and restlessness. Crying is actually a late hunger cue and can make latching more difficult. After feeding, signs that your baby is full may include relaxed hands, turning away from the breast, or falling asleep calmly. Learning to read these cues early helps create a smoother feeding experience and supports your baby’s natural feeding rhythm.
4. Common Concerns and How to Handle Them
Is baby getting enough milk?
Many new parents worry about whether their baby is getting enough milk. To ease this concern, watch for signs like consistent weight gain, regular wet and dirty diapers, and your baby’s contentment after feeds. Frequent feeding and observing your baby’s swallowing can also help. If you’re still unsure, consulting a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and peace of mind.
What if it hurts every time?
If breastfeeding hurts every time, it’s a signal that something may be wrong, such as a poor latch, tongue tie, or infection. While some initial discomfort can be normal, persistent pain isn’t. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider who can assess the cause and offer solutions to make feeding more comfortable and effective. Your comfort is important for a positive breastfeeding experience.
What’s normal spit-up or poop?
It’s common for new parents to worry about their baby’s spit-up and poop. Mild spit-up after feedings is normal and usually not a cause for concern, as long as your baby is thriving and not showing signs of distress. Baby poop can vary in color and consistency—early on, it’s often thick and dark (meconium), then transitions to softer, yellowish stools. Tracking these changes and frequency helps you know your baby is feeding well. If you notice excessive vomiting, blood, or a sudden change in bowel habits, it’s best to consult your pediatrician or lactation consultant.
When to call a lactation consultant or pediatrician.
It’s normal to have questions or concerns during your breastfeeding journey, and knowing when to seek help is important. Reach out to a lactation consultant if you’re struggling with persistent pain, latch difficulties, or concerns about milk supply. Contact your pediatrician if your baby shows signs of dehydration, poor weight gain, excessive vomiting, or unusual changes in feeding or behavior. Early support can make a big difference in ensuring a healthy and comfortable breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.
5. Self-Care for the Breastfeeding Parent
Nutrition and Hydration tips:
Staying well-hydrated and nourished is essential for breastfeeding moms to support milk production and maintain energy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day—listen to your thirst—and focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid excessive caffeine and limit processed foods. Eating regular, nutritious meals and snacks helps keep your body fueled so you can care for yourself and your baby.
Sleep strategies (or at least rest!):
Getting enough sleep can be challenging during the early breastfeeding days, but rest is crucial for your health and milk supply. Try to rest or sleep when your baby sleeps, accept help from others, and set boundaries (say no to unnecessary visitors or activities that interfere with your rest), stay hydrated and nourished (proper nutrition supports your energy and sleep quality), consider sleep shifts (If possible, take turns with a partner or caregiver to share nighttime duties),be kind to yourself (understand that perfect sleep isn’t realistic now; rest is progress, not perfection). Prioritizing rest whenever possible helps you recharge and better enjoy your breastfeeding journey.
Emotional support: asking for help, talking to your partner or doula.
Breastfeeding can bring a mix of emotions, and it’s important to seek support when you need it. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends—whether it’s with household tasks or simply having someone to talk to. Sharing your feelings with a trusted person like your partner or a doula can provide comfort and encouragement during challenging moments. Remember, emotional support is a key part of a positive breastfeeding experience.
Conclusion
The first week after birth can feel overwhelming and challenging, but remember—it’s temporary. These early days are full of learning and adjustment for both you and your baby. Every feeding, no matter how small or challenging, is a step forward in your breastfeeding journey. You and your baby are learning together, building a special bond with each feed. Celebrate these moments of progress—they’re signs of growth and connection that will strengthen over time. With time, patience, and support, breastfeeding and your new routine will become easier and more comfortable. Hang in there—you’re doing an amazing job!
