The First Week of Breastfeeding: What No One Tells You (And Why Support Matters)
The first week of breastfeeding can feel like a whirlwind. Amidst the joy of welcoming your newborn, you might also be navigating sleepless nights, learning how to care for your baby, and—perhaps most unexpectedly—discovering that breastfeeding isn’t always as easy as you thought it would be.
Many new parents find that the first week is full of surprises, and that’s okay. What no one often tells you is that breastfeeding is a skill that both you and your baby are learning together. There will be ups and downs, and having the right support can make all the difference in those early days.
Here are some things you might not expect during the first week of breastfeeding and why getting expert support early on can make your journey smoother.
1. It Might Feel Unnatural at First
Despite what we hear about breastfeeding being the most “natural” thing, it doesn’t always feel that way in the beginning. You and your baby are both trying to figure it out—finding the right latch, adjusting positions, and getting used to feeding on demand.
Why Support Matters: As an IBCLC, I can help you with hands-on assistance and guidance to ensure your baby is latching correctly. Sometimes, small adjustments in positioning can completely change the way breastfeeding feels, making it more comfortable for you and more effective for your baby!
2. Frequent Feeding Can Feel Overwhelming
In those first few days, newborns often want to feed frequently—sometimes every 1-2 hours! This can leave you feeling like all you do is breastfeed! It’s normal, but it can also be physically and emotionally draining, especially if you’re worried about your milk supply. I promise it won’t always be like this!
Why Support Matters: I can help you understand your baby’s feeding patterns, identify signs of adequate milk intake, and ensure that your body is responding well to the frequent feeding. With expert guidance, I’ll help you build confidence that your baby is getting what they need, how to tell if they aren’t and what to do next.
3. Engorgement and Discomfort Can Catch You by Surprise
Once your milk transitions to “mature milk” (usually around day 3 or 4), you might experience engorgement—where your breasts feel heavy, full, swollen, and sometimes painful. This can make latching difficult for your baby and is one of the number one sources I see for nipple pain and trauma!
Why Support Matters: I can show you techniques to relieve engorgement, such as lymphatic drainage, hand expression or using warm and cold compresses. We’ll also work on ensuring your baby is able to latch effectively, which helps prevent further issues like blocked / compressed milk ducts or even mastitis.
4. You May Doubt Yourself
Breastfeeding and new parenthood sometimes comes with moments of doubt—whether it’s worrying if your baby is getting enough milk, questioning your breastfeeding position technique, or simply feeling exhausted from the all the new demands. It’s easy to feel uncertain during such a vulnerable time, especially when there is so much different advice and information online!
Why Support Matters: As your lactation consultant, I provide reassurance and education. I’ll help you recognize the signs that your baby is feeding well, what to watch out for and how to get help. I’m here to answer any of those nagging questions that can pop up in the middle of the night! (why is my baby SO GASSY at 4AM!?) You don’t have to go through this alone!
5. It’s Okay If It’s Not “Perfect” Right Away
Breastfeeding is a marathon, not a sprint. The first week is all about learning and adjusting—both for you and your baby. Don’t expect perfection, and don’t feel discouraged if things feel tricky at first. The goal is progress, not perfection. Feeding your baby is a relationship, regardless of how or what you feed them.
Why Support Matters: I work with you to set realistic expectations and celebrate small wins along the way. Whether you need help with a tricky latch, adjusting feeding positions, or just a little encouragement, my job is to help make this experience as positive as possible.
Why Early Support Can Make a Difference
If you're struggling or just want reassurance, booking an appointment with a lactation consultant can make a huge difference. Together, we’ll address any challenges you’re facing, and I’ll be there to guide you through each step—so you can focus on bonding with your baby and enjoying these precious early days.