Surviving the First Week of Breastfeeding: What to Expect and How to Thrive
- Rebecca McCann
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
The first week of breastfeeding can feel overwhelming, even if you've done all the research and taken a class (or read the books!). Between recovering from birth, adjusting to life with a newborn, and figuring out how breastfeeding works, it's normal to feel uncertain. The good news? Your body and your baby are built for this - and with a little guidance and support, you can get through this critical first week feeling more confident and comfortable.
Here's what to expect and how to set yourself up for success during those early days:
Skin-to-Skin: Your Secret Weapon
In the first hours and days after birth, skin-to-skin contact helps regulate your baby's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing - and it encourages breastfeeding. Holding your baby skin-to-skin (with just a diaper on) helps trigger baby's natural feeding instincts, promotes a good latch, and increases your milk supply.
Try This: Spend as much time as possible skin-to-skin in the first few days. It's calming for both you and your baby and helps establish a strong breastfeeding connection. Think about skin-to-skin as your baby's natural environment - the place they should hang out the most!
Your Baby Will Want to Feed A LOT
Newborns have tiny stomachs - about the size of a marble at birth - so they need to feed frequently, often every 1-2 hours. This constant feeding helps stimulate your milk supply and ensures your baby is getting the nutrients they need.
What's normal:
Cluster feeding (feeding many times in a row) is common - especially in the evenings or at night.
Feeling like you're constantly feeding is normal! Frequent nursing is helping lay the foundation for a strong milk supply.
When to be concerned: If your baby shows any of these signs, reach out to a healthcare provider or lactation consultant:
Fewer than the expected number of wet and dirty diapers (your healthcare provider should let you know what's normal - I also talk about this in my prenatal breastfeeding class!)
Baby's stool is still dark on day 4.
Baby never seems to be satisfied after feeding or cries excessively.
Baby is very sleepy or lethargic and hard to wake for feeds.
Milk Supply: Small but Mighty
In the first few days, your body produces colostrum - a thick, nutrient-rich milk that's perfectly designed for your newborn's tiny stomach. It may not seem like much, but it's exactly what your baby needs. The average feeding on day 1 is only 2-10 ml (about a teaspoon!).
By Day 3-5: Your milk supply will start increasing, and your breasts should feel fuller. Let your baby nurse often to promote a good supply.
By the end of the first week: Your baby should be taking about 30-60 ml (1-2 ounces) per feed. Their stomach grows quickly along with your milk supply!
Getting a Comfortable Latch
A deep latch is key to preventing nipple pain and helping your baby get enough milk. Here's how to encourage a good latch:
Make sure you and your baby are comfortable and well-supported before you start feeding.
Start with your baby's nose in line with your nipple.
Snuggle your baby close so their chin touches the breast.
Wait for baby to open wide (like a yawn).
Aim the nipple toward the roof of their mouth, not straight in.
The chin should press into the breast while the nose is tilted back and free to breathe.
Signs of a good latch:
Strong, rhythmic tugging sensation (no pain or pinching).
Baby's cheeks are full (not dimpled).
Mouth is open wide.
No clicking or smacking sounds.
For more latch tips check out my free latching guide.
Protect Your Sleep (As Much As You Can)
Newborns feed around the clock, but you still need rest to recover. While long stretches of sleep might not happen right away, you can protect your energy with these strategies:
Rest During the Day When You Can: The old advice to "sleep when the baby sleeps" isn't always realistic - you still need to eat, bathe, and handle other tasks. Try to aim for at least one nap a day.
Share the Load: If you have a partner (or helpful friend or family member), take shifts with baby care to maximize everyone's sleep:
For the first 3-4 hour stretch at night, your partner handles all baby care except for breastfeeding. They might even stay to support you during feeds and ensure baby's safety in case you are feeling drowsy. You stay in bed during this entire stretch.
For the next 3-4 hour stretch, you take over all baby care while your partner sleeps.
Set Up a Comfortable Feeding Spot: Keep snacks, water, a phone charger, and diaper supplies nearby so you don't have to get up as often.
Limit Visitors: Everybody wants to meet the baby (it's understandable!), but hosting visitors shouldn't take priority over your rest. Now...if visitors want to hold the baby while you nap - or bring a meal - maybe that's a win!
Keep the Lights Low at Night: Use a night light (one with warm red or orange tones is optimal). This will help your baby develop their circadian rhythm and help everyone get back to sleep faster after night wakings.
You've Got This
The first week of breastfeeding is about learning together with your baby, stimulating your milk supply, and building confidence. It's normal to have questions, some doubts, and maybe even a few tears (I was already a lactation consultant when I had my first baby, and I still doubted myself and called my mom in tears - so do not feel bad if you struggle, too!)
But here's the thing - you don't have to figure it out all alone. Trust your body and follow your baby's cues, but don't hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. You're already doing an amazing job.
Need more guidance? I offer virtual lactation consultations and home visits in my local area
to help you navigate the early days with confidence. Reach out anytime - I'm here to support you!