The Ultimate Guide to Breastfeeding in the First Week: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and What to Do About It
Breastfeeding in the first week? It can feel like a blur of cluster feeds, cracked nipples, and second-guessing everything. Whether you’re nursing your first or fifth baby, the early postpartum days (especially Days 2–7) are a whirlwind. Your hormones are shifting, your baby is figuring out how to eat, and you’re trying to figure out if breastfeeding is actually working.
Take a deep breath—you’re not alone. There’s a real learning curve to nursing, and it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you (or your baby) if it feels hard at first. Let’s break down what’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do about the tricky parts—so you can feel confident and calm feeding your newborn.
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What’s Normal in the First Week of Breastfeeding?
The truth is: normal can look a little chaotic, especially in the first week. Newborns don’t follow a strict schedule, and your body is adjusting by the hour. Things that feel messy, unpredictable, or even frustrating are often just part of how breastfeeding begins. Here’s what might surprise you—but doesn’t mean anything is wrong.
Cluster Feeding
Your baby might want to nurse every hour for a few hours in a row (hello, 9 PM–2 AM party). This is called cluster feeding, and it’s totally normal. It helps signal your body to make more milk and comforts your baby as they adjust to life outside the womb.
Short Feeds or Marathon Feeds
Some babies take just 5–10 minutes, others hang out for 45. As long as your baby is actively sucking and seems satisfied afterward, it’s okay. You’ll learn their rhythm with time.
Weight Loss
Most newborns lose a bit of weight after birth (up to 10% is considered within the normal range). Your pediatrician and lactation consultant will help monitor this and make sure baby is gaining by the time your milk transitions in.
The Colostrum-to-Milk Transition
Your milk won’t “come in” right away. For the first couple days, your body produces colostrum—a thick, nutrient-rich milk in small amounts. Around Day 3–5, your milk will shift to a more mature consistency and volume. This transition can be a little uncomfortable as your breasts adjust (engorgement is common), but it’s a good sign that things are moving in the right direction.
Some Discomfort
Early breastfeeding often comes with some tenderness or soreness, especially with initial latches. I love this nipple cream for those early days. However, this should improve quickly. If you’re wincing through every feed or dreading latching your baby, that’s not something you just have to “tough out.” More on that next.
What’s Not Normal—and What It Might Mean
Pain that doesn’t improve, damaged nipples, or a baby who’s constantly fussy at the breast are signs to pay attention to. These issues don’t mean you’re failing—they just mean you and your baby might need a little help getting aligned.
Nipple Damage
Bleeding, cracked, or scabbed nipples? That’s a red flag. While soreness is common, actual damage usually means the latch needs some adjusting. A proper latch should feel more like tugging than sharp pain—and your nipples should stay intact between feeds.
Popping Off or Clicking Noises
If your baby is constantly popping on and off or making clicking or squeaking sounds while nursing, that could indicate a shallow latch or a possible tongue tie. These sounds happen when your baby isn’t maintaining a strong seal at the breast. It’s also a sign they might not be transferring milk efficiently, which can lead to frustration for both of you and less milk intake for baby. A good latch should be quiet, rhythmic, and mostly hands-free once established.
Fussing or Falling Asleep at the Breast
Babies naturally get sleepy, but if your baby is falling asleep after just a minute or two of feeding—or fusses nonstop at the breast—they may not be latching deeply enough to get what they need.
None of these things mean breastfeeding is doomed. But they are signs you could benefit from some extra tools or support.
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What to Do Right Now
Even small adjustments can make a huge difference in your comfort and baby’s ability to feed effectively. Here’s what to try:
1. Laid-Back Positioning
Sometimes called “biological nursing,” this position uses gravity to help your baby latch deeply. You recline slightly, baby lays tummy-to-tummy with you, and they use their natural reflexes to find the breast and latch.
2. Skin-to-Skin Contact
Strip baby down to their diaper and cuddle chest-to-chest. Skin-to-skin regulates baby’s body temperature and cues their feeding instincts. It also helps your body produce more milk and calm stress hormones (for both of you).
3. Responsive Relatching
If the latch doesn’t feel good, don’t push through it. Gently break the suction with your finger and try again. A good latch shouldn’t cause pain, and it’s always okay to reset.
Want to Know What a Good Latch Actually Looks Like?
Words are great, but sometimes you need to see it to get it. That’s why we created The Latch Lookbook ($9.99)—a visual, no-fluff guide that shows you exactly what to look for in a good latch. You’ll see real photos and get simple explanations that make it easy to compare and adjust your baby’s latch with confidence.
Seriously, it could save you hours of pain and second-guessing.
Still Not Sure? You’re Not Alone.
If you’re worried something’s off—or just want a second opinion—a lactation consultant can make all the difference. Many insurance plans cover consults either in person or via Telehealth (check with your provider!). An expert set of eyes can help troubleshoot latch issues, assess for ties, and give you personalized strategies that work for your baby.
You’ve got this, mama. Breastfeeding isn’t always easy, but it’s totally learnable—with the right support and a little bit of practice. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Book that consult today!
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