Those early hours and days of breastfeeding can feel new and overwhelming—but you’re not alone, and you don’t need to be perfect. Breastfeeding is a learning process for you and your baby, and every feed helps you both grow in confidence.
Here’s a gentle guide to help you through those first precious days.
🕰 When to Start Breastfeeding
- Try to offer your breast in the first hour after birth, if possible. This helps kick-start your milk supply and builds a special connection with your baby.
- Babies are usually very alert after birth and often ready to feed.
👶 NHS: The first few days of breastfeeding
💛 Colostrum: Your Baby’s First Superfood
- In the early days, your body produces colostrum—a thick, golden milk rich in antibodies and nutrients.
- It’s small in quantity, but perfectly suited to your baby’s tiny tummy.
💡 You may only see a few drops, and that’s okay—it’s powerful stuff!
📦 What to Expect in the Early Days
- Feeds may be short or long, frequent or spaced out—every baby is different.
- It’s normal for your baby to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours.
- Cluster feeding (lots of short feeds close together) is normal and helps build your milk supply.
🌼 Breastfeeding Network: Getting Started
🧘 Finding a Comfortable Position
There’s no one “right” position—what matters is that you and baby are both comfortable and relaxed.
- Laid-back or reclined breastfeeding
- Cradle hold or cross-cradle
- Rugby/underarm hold
- Side-lying (great for night feeds!)
Make sure:
- Baby’s head and body are aligned.
- They’re facing your breast with mouth wide open.
- Chin touches your breast and nose is clear.
🧷 Breastfeeding Support: Positioning and Attachment
⏳ When Will My Milk “Come In”?
- Around day 2 to 4, you may notice your breasts feel fuller as your milk changes from colostrum to more mature milk.
- This may come with engorgement—use frequent feeding and cool packs if needed.
🧭 How Do I Know It’s Going Well?
- You see regular sucking and swallowing.
- Baby comes off the breast looking content.
- Breasts feel softer after feeds.
- Plenty of wet and dirty nappies (by day 5: 6+ wet, 2+ dirty).
🔗 NHS: Breastfeeding and nappies
❤️ Tips for the Early Days
- Skin-to-skin contact helps milk supply and bonding.
- Rest when you can.
- Reach out for support early if needed.
🌼 Remember, You’re Learning Together
Every baby—and every feeding journey—is unique. Be kind to yourself. Support is always here when you need it.