The first week of breastfeeding can only be described as one thing… a whirlwind. In one moment, you’ll be wrapped up in the deepest form of love you've ever known, but at the same time, you're overwhelmed, exhausted, questioning everything and perhaps even miserable. As your emotions run wild, it’s important to understand that breastfeeding is a learning process, for both you and your baby. To help make this transition smoother, here are a few things to expect over the next 7 days.
Colostrum is the first milk your baby will receive, but it comes in drops. It’s only natural that any mom would worry “Is this really enough?”. Rest assured, these tiny drops pack a big punch, so the answer to your question is yes. Colostrum is loaded with nutrients and protective antibodies, making it perfectly designed for your baby’s tiny stomach, which on day 1, is only the size of a marble. You can expect to feed your baby within the first hour after birth, but then don't be surprised when they want to sleep for the next 24 hours. Keep waking that sleepy baby and keep giving those precious drops. Trust me, your body and your baby will thank you for this.
Frequent feeding on day 2 helps boost your milk supply and is completely normal.
On day 2, your baby will wake up from their 24 hour slumber, and when they do, they will be ready to eat (welcome to cluster feeding). They may want to nurse constantly, every hour or more, which can be exhausting and relentless, and will leave you questioning those tiny drops now more than ever. Cluster feeding on day 2 (and sometimes into day 3) is completely normal, and yes, it is still really enough. Your baby is actually boosting your milk supply with these frequent feedings, so it’s important to power through, remind yourself that this is temporary and know that you will sleep again.
Expect fuller breasts and mood swings as your body adjusts hormonally.
By now, your breasts should be feeling fuller and warmer, and you may experience a temporary rise in temperature known as a “milk fever”. Your milk supply has ramped up and your baby should be more satisfied after eating, but your hormones may be in complete chaos. The “Baby Blues” typically start to peak around day 3, as your hormones are literally plummeting back down to their pre-pregnacy levels. You may sway between feelings of happiness and sadness, all in a matter of minutes. It is important to acknowledge your feelings, trust the process, and seek support when needed.
Your mature milk is coming in—frequent but not excessive feeding, ice, and massage can help.
Your breasts may be unrecognizable at this point. Somehow, a pair of misshapen boulders has now attached itself to your chest. By day 4, your mature milk is starting to come in and your breasts may be filling more than what the baby is eating. During this time, it is important to feed frequently, but don’t overdo it. Emptying your breasts too much, too often can make things worse and could trigger you into an oversupply. If you are using a pump to relieve pressure, it is helpful to understand how much milk to pump without signaling your body to produce an excessive surplus. Ice and massage will be your best friend right now. Apply ice to calm down that inflammation, and massage your breasts often.
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Your body is learning your baby’s needs and adjusting production accordingly.
The transition to mature breastmilk is nearly complete, and things should be starting to level out. Those misshapen boulders are still there, but should be more manageable. By now, your body has a better understanding of your baby’s needs, and the supply and demand process has started to take effect. Your body has learned that your baby is the one in control, telling you exactly what to produce, based on how much they eat. Things are finally starting to click.
By now, your mature milk is established and feeding feels more natural. Your milk will be pure white with a hint of blue, and loaded with a perfect balance of fat, proteins and carbohydrates. Your supply will be stabilizing, engorgement will be less intense, and your baby should be feeding more efficiently. Things should be feeling more natural, and you are settling into a rhythm. If you ever notice the color or consistency looks different, you might wonder why breastmilk is watery, but this is usually just the thirst-quenching foremilk that precedes the creamier hindmilk.
Celebrate completing the first week and get ready for upcoming growth spurts.
Day 7 marks a huge milestone. Not only have you made it through your first week of breastfeeding, but you’ve made it through your first week of motherhood, which deserves a huge pat on the back. While you are likely exhausted, many moms wonder when milk supply regulates more predictably; while this first week is a huge hurdle, your body will continue to fine-tune production over the coming month. By the end of week 1, your baby will be more alert and engaged, just in time for their first growth spurt. Cluster feeding will come back, but not for long. I promise you, once that growth spurt passes, you’ll get back to your rhythm and find your groove again.
Just remember, that everyone’s breastfeeding journey is unique. What matters most is finding what works best for you and trusting your instincts. The first week of breastfeeding is just the beginning, but you are laying the foundation for the journey to come.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Momcozy is not responsible for any consequences arising from the use of this content.
