Breastfeeding: The First Week

The first week of breastfeeding is a in journey in itself, and often one of discovery, adjustment, and, for many, perseverance. It’s can be harder than expected, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Your body and baby are learning to work together in harmony, and understanding what’s happening each day can help make the experience feel less overwhelming.

Here’s a look at what to expect during your first week and a bit, postpartum breastfeeding.

Day 1: Colostrum—the First Milk

• Until a few days after birth your breasts produce colostrum, a thick, golden yellow milk packed with nutrients and antibodies. It’s small in quantity but mighty in impact, designed to meet your newborn’s tiny stomach capacity (about the size of a cherry).
• Newborns instinctively want to nurse, often within the first hour. This is called the “golden hour,” and it’s a critical time to establish breastfeeding. Expect frequent feeding attempts as your baby learns to latch.

Day 2–3: Feeding Frenzy

• Your baby will likely feed constantly during these first few days, a behavior known as cluster feeding. This frequent nursing signals your body to increase milk production.
• Expect some soreness as your nipples adjust. If latching is painful, seek help early to ensure your baby is latching correctly.

Day 3–4: Milk "Comes In"

• Around this time, your breasts may feel fuller (MUCH fuller) as your milk transitions from colostrum to mature milk. This change can lead to engorgement, which might make latching tricky.
• Your baby’s stomach is growing, and they’ll drink more milk at each feed. Aim for 8–12 feeds per 24 hours to establish supply.

Day 5: Changing Stool and Confidence

• Your baby’s stool will transition from dark meconium to a mustard-yellow colour, a sign that they’re receiving enough milk.
• You might start feeling more confident, but fatigue can set in. Prioritise rest and hydration.

Day 6–7: Settling into a Rhythm

• By now, your milk supply should be well underway, and your baby will likely be learning to feed more efficiently.
• You’ll notice differences in your milk at different times of the day—hormones like melatonin in night milk promote better sleep, while morning milk tends to be richer in proteins to energize your baby.

Day 8–9: Adjusting to Patterns

• By now, both you and your baby are starting to settle into a rhythm. You’ll notice your baby’s cues for hunger and fullness more clearly—rooting, sucking on their hands, or becoming more alert are common hunger signs.
• Milk production is in full swing, and your breasts may start to feel softer after feeds, signalling effective milk removal. If engorgement persists, ensure your baby is latching well or try gentle hand expression.

Day 10: Feeling More Confident

• You may notice growth spurts starting soon, often signaled by more frequent feeding sessions. This is normal and helps signal your body to produce more milk as your baby grows.
• Emotional shifts might become more noticeable. Breastfeeding hormones like oxytocin can enhance bonding but may also make you feel emotional. Always seek support if you’re experiencing significant mood swings or challenges.

The Magic of Milk: How It Changes

Day And Night Variations 

Milk changes composition based on the time of day. Night milk contains higher levels of melatonin to help your baby sleep, while daytime milk provides nutrients to keep them alert and growing.

Morning And Afternoon Variations 

For most mothers, breastmilk gradually becomes higher in fat content as the day goes on. In the evening, young babies often cluster feed, taking in frequent feeds of this richer milk, which can help satisfy them enough for longer stretches of sleep. Often softer 

Nutritional evolution 

Colostrum evolves into transitional milk (thinner and whiter) and then mature milk, which balances fats, proteins, and water to meet your baby’s growing needs.

Blue Breastmilk 

Breastmilk at the beginning of a feed (also termed ‘foremilk’) can have a blueish hue. This is normal and indicates that your milk is thinner, is higher in electrolytes and contains less fat than the milk toward the end of a feed (the foremilk) which is creamier in colour and higher in fat content.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Breastfeeding can be tough, and challenges in the first week are common. Here’s a few tips to help you navigate through the more common issues.

• Sore Nipples: Use nipple cream after every feed, even if you’re not sore. Let nipples air-dry and avoid harsh soaps. If pain persists, consult a lactation consultant to check for proper latch.
• Engorgement: Hand express a little milk before feeding to soften the breast and help your baby latch. Use cold compresses after feeds to reduce swelling.
• Low Milk Supply: Whilst low milk supply is a common concern, only a small percentage of lactating mothers have an actual low supply issue. Soft breasts, an unsettled baby, frequent feeds or short feeds can lead to supply concerns. The best indicator of a healthy supply is regular wet nappies and 3 or more stools a day.  Frequent nursing is the best way to boost supply if you are concerned. Make sure your baby is latched well and draining the breast effectively.
• Overwhelming Fatigue: Rest whenever possible and ask for help with other tasks. Drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-dense snacks.
• Latch Issues: Seek support early. A poor latch can lead to pain and low milk transfer, so getting help from a lactation consultant can make a big difference.

7 Tips to Surviving the First Week

1. Apply Nipple Cream: After every feed, regardless of soreness, to prevent and heal cracks.
2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Breastfeeding is demanding. Drink water at every feed and keep healthy snacks handy.
3. Set Up a Comfortable Feeding Spot: Use pillows for support, and keep essentials (like water, snacks, and burp cloths) within reach, especially for those evenings of cluster feeding.
4. Skin-to-Skin Contact: This calms your baby and boosts milk supply. Do it often, especially in the first few days.
5. Seek Support: Reach out to lactation consultants, midwives, or breastfeeding support groups early. Many issues can be resolved quickly with the right guidance.
6. Take Breaks: It’s okay to ask for help and take time for yourself. A short walk, shower, or nap can recharge you.
7. Prepare for Night Feeds: Keep the lights low, and focus on keeping the atmosphere calm.

Exclusive Pumping

For mothers who choose or need to exclusively pump, this first week is about getting into a routine. Pumping every 2–3 hours, mimicking a newborn’s feeding schedule, helps to build and maintain supply. There are various pumping options available, ranging from electric pumps to manual hand pumps, or simply hand expressing. Exclusive pumping is a valid, commendable and rewarding choice, allowing your baby to receive the benefits of breastmilk while accommodating different circumstances.

You’ve Got This!

The first week of breastfeeding is hard, but it’s also a time of incredible growth for both you and your baby. Remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. Seek support, be kind to yourself, and know that every effort you make is a gift to your little one. Whether breastfeeding, pumping, or supplementing, you’re doing an amazing job.

All content and media on the Mother Natal website are created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

FAQs About Breastfeeding

1. How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
   Look for 6–8 wet nappies and 3 or more mustard-colored stools per day by the end of the first week. Wee should be clear or pale in colour. 
2. What should I do if breastfeeding is painful?
   Pain isn’t normal—reach out to a lactation consultant to check the latch and rule out issues like tongue tie.
3. Can I breastfeed if I’m tired or stressed?
   Yes! Breastfeeding hormones can actually help you relax. Prioritise rest when possible and ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
4. What if my baby falls asleep at the breast?
   Try gentle stimulation like tickling their feet or rubbing their back. If they’re still sleepy, hand-express milk and offer it with a spoon or syringe.
5. My baby didn’t breastfeed when we were in hospital. Is it too late? Sometimes breastfeeding doesn’t unfold as expected in the first few days, but it’s never too late to begin. Spend time holding your baby skin-to-skin as often as you can to help stimulate milk-producing hormones. Your baby still has natural instincts to find and latch onto your breast.
6. My milk hasn't come in. What can I do? For some mothers, the transition from colostrum to mature milk can take a bit longer or happen more gradually. Spending time holding your baby skin-to-skin is a great way to stimulate the hormones that promote milk production. Offer feeds frequently, whenever your baby is awake or showing signs of hunger. If your baby isn’t nursing directly, try expressing milk regularly to help encourage your supply.