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What to Expect When You Start Breastfeeding

The First Few Days: What to expect when you start breastfeeding.
You have just welcomed your baby into the world, a beautiful, emotional, life changing moment, and now comes something that’s often described as “natural” breastfeeding.
But here is the truth many new mothers wish they heard earlier, while breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally.
At LAUMCSJH, we support mothers every step of the way. The first few days of breastfeeding can be filled with questions, doubts, and learning curves, and that’s completely normal. If you’re preparing for breastfeeding or just getting started, here is what you can expect.

• Learning Takes Time, For Both of You.
  You and your baby are both learning something brand new, your baby is figuring out how to latch and suck, and you’re learning how to hold them, how your body responds, and what “normal” even feels like. It is okay if it’s not perfect right away. Some moms experience discomfort at first. Others wonder if their baby is feeding enough. Be patient. Give yourself grace. Ask for help from a nurse, a lactation consultant, or a medical expert. You are not supposed to figure it all out alone.
• Colostrum: Your Baby’s First Superfood
  In the first few days, your body produces a thick, golden yellow milk called colostrum. It might not seem like much, but it is packed with nutrients and antibodies, exactly what your baby needs to build a strong immune system. It’s normal to feel like there is not “enough milk” in the beginning, but don’t worry. Your baby’s stomach is tiny at birth and colostrum is all they need at first. As your baby continues to feed, your milk supply will gradually increase.

Your Baby Will Want to Feed Often, Very Often
Newborns feed frequently, sometimes every 1-3 hours. This is called Cluster feeding, and while it can feel exhausting, it’s totally normal. Frequent feeding helps your milk come in and builds your supply. You might feel like all you are doing is feeding, especially during the first few nights. That’s okay. This early stage won’t last forever, and every feed brings comfort and connection between you and your baby.

It’s Okay to Ask for Support
Breastfeeding can be emotional. Between the hormones, the tiredness, and the pressure to “get it right,” many moms feel overwhelmed. If you are frustrated, in pain, or unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for support.

At LAUMCSJH, our team of nurses and lactation specialists are here to help with positioning, latching, and answering any questions you have.
Breastfeeding is a journey, not a one-time achievement. It may take days or even weeks to feel confident, and that is okay. Every mom and every baby is different.

Breathe. Trust your body. And remember, whether it is one drop of milk or one hour of feeding, you’re doing something amazing. You are not alone, and you are doing better than you think.