How to Survive Week One of Breastfeeding: Tips for New Moms

Breastfeeding is a personal journey filled with challenges and joys. For new moms, the first week can feel overwhelming as you and your baby learn to bond and adapt to each other’s needs.

During this time, your baby will feed frequently, guided by hunger cues like rooting or sucking on hands. Initially, you’ll produce nutrient-packed colostrum, and by day 3 or 4, your milk supply will increase, signaling the start of a more predictable feeding pattern.

Patience is key as you adjust to this new rhythm. Mistakes are normal, and with time and support, you’ll grow more confident. In this blog, we will cover:

Addressing common challenges like soreness, engorgement, and low supply.
Creating a routine that works and finding comfortable positions.
Understanding your milk supply and its early changes.

Creating a Routine that Works

One of the most important things to remember during the first week is that your baby is learning as much as you are. The key to success during this time is to remain flexible. Experts like Hills-Bonczyk et al. (1994) note that many new moms find it best to nurse on demand, without adhering to a strict schedule. Your baby’s cues will guide you on when to nurse and how long to nurse for.

While you might feel pressure to establish a routine, know that it’s normal for newborns to feed irregularly. One feeding may be long and spaced out, while another may be short and close together. Pay attention to your baby’s signals rather than trying to set specific times or limits for each session.

It’s also helpful to explore different breastfeeding positions to find what feels most comfortable. The most common position is the cradle hold, where the baby lies across your lap with their head supported in the crook of your arm.

Another popular position is the football hold, where the baby is tucked under your arm, head at breast height. The side-lying position, where you and your baby lie on your sides facing each other, can be great for nighttime feeds or when you’re feeling especially tired.

A proper latch is key to effective breastfeeding and reducing nipple pain. You want your baby’s mouth to cover not just the nipple but also the areola—the darker area surrounding the nipple. If your baby’s latch is shallow, it can cause sore nipples, which is one of the most common issues moms face in the first week.

If you’re unsure about the latch, a lactation consultant can provide guidance and tips to ensure that feeding is comfortable for both you and your baby.

Understanding Your Milk Supply

Your body is designed to adjust to your baby’s needs, so your milk supply will gradually increase based on how often your baby nurses. In the first few days after birth, you’ll produce colostrum, a thick, golden-yellow substance that’s incredibly nutrient-dense. Colostrum is rich in antibodies that help protect your baby from infections and illnesses during those crucial early days.

By day 3 or 4, your milk will transition from colostrum to a more fluid and plentiful supply. You may notice your breasts feeling fuller, which can be uncomfortable for some moms. This increase in milk supply is often referred to as the “milk coming in” and is a normal part of the breastfeeding process.

In these early days, your baby may nurse very frequently, sometimes every 1-2 hours. This is known as “cluster feeding” and is completely normal. Cluster feeding is how your baby helps to stimulate milk production. Though it can feel tiring, it’s important to remember that frequent nursing is a good thing—it signals your body to keep producing milk.

If you’re worried about your milk supply or your baby’s feeding frequency, don’t hesitate to ask for help. A lactation consultant or pediatrician can offer guidance, as can support groups where moms can share their experiences.

Addressing Common Challenges

The first week of breastfeeding can come with some bumps in the road, but most challenges are temporary and can be managed with a little extra support.

Sore Nipples

Sore nipples are one of the most common breastfeeding issues, especially in the early days. This pain is often caused by a poor latch, so double-check that your baby is latched properly. If the pain persists, try using lanolin or nipple creams that can soothe and protect your skin. Some moms find relief from warm compresses or using breast pads to avoid friction from clothing.

If the soreness doesn’t improve, consider seeing a lactation consultant to evaluate your latch and explore other potential causes.

Low Milk Supply

While low milk supply is a common concern, it’s important to understand that frequent nursing is usually the best remedy. The more your baby nurses, the more your body will respond by producing milk. If you’re concerned about your supply, monitor your baby’s weight gain and diaper output, as these are good indicators of whether they are getting enough milk.

If you’re still unsure, a lactation consultant can help you assess your situation and give tips for boosting milk production, such as ensuring the baby is fully emptying your breasts during each feeding.

Engorgement

Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly full and swollen, making them hard and painful. This can happen when your milk comes in and your baby’s demand is still adjusting. To relieve engorgement, try hand expression or using a breast pump to express a little milk, which will relieve the pressure. Make sure your baby is nursing frequently, as this is the best way to avoid engorgement in the long run.

Fussy Baby

It’s normal for babies to be fussy, especially during the early days as they adjust to breastfeeding. If your baby seems fussier than usual during feedings, it might be due to gas or an issue with your milk flow. Ensure that you are comfortable, the latch is correct, and that your baby is not swallowing too much air. Sometimes, a burp break mid-feed can help alleviate any discomfort.

Staying Hydrated and Eating Well

You’ll need extra energy to meet the demands of breastfeeding, and staying hydrated is crucial. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keep a water bottle by your side during feedings to stay hydrated and replenish fluids lost while nursing.

A balanced diet will support both your health and your milk supply. Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Healthy fats, like those found in nuts, seeds, and avocado, are especially important for maintaining energy levels.

Some moms also find that foods like oats, fenugreek, and brewer’s yeast can help boost milk production, although evidence is mixed. Be sure to talk with a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your routine.

Final Thoughts

Surviving week one of breastfeeding is all about patience, support, and flexibility. You are learning, and so is your baby. While challenges like sore nipples or cluster feeding might arise, remember that these are all part of the journey and will improve with time.

The most important thing is to listen to your body and your baby’s cues. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant, pediatrician, or trusted support group if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Keep in mind that every feed is a step forward in building your breastfeeding relationship with your baby.

With time, breastfeeding will become more natural and comfortable. In the meantime, take care of yourself, seek help when needed, and trust that you are doing an incredible job.