The first few hours with your baby can feel overwhelming, emotional, and a little surreal. Breastfeeding on the first day is not about performing or achieving a specific pattern. It's about calm, closeness, and getting to know each other. Your baby is brand new to the world, and you are new to the role of a mother. It's okay to take your time.

What happens when breastfeeding on the first day?

During the first 24 hours, your baby receives colostrum, also known as first milk. It is the initial, concentrated milk, perfectly suited for a newborn's tiny stomach. Only small amounts are produced at a time, but this is normal and precisely adapted to the baby's needs.

Many newborns are tired after birth and can sleep for long periods. Others will seek the breast often. Both scenarios can be completely normal. A healthy, full-term baby is typically offered the breast at least 4-5 times within the first 24 hours of life, but feel free to follow your baby's cues rather than the clock.

How to get off to a good start?

Skin-to-skin contact is a great starting point whenever you and your baby have the opportunity. Let your baby lie skin-to-skin against your chest, warmly covered, and without too many disturbances. Here, your baby can often show small signs that they are ready to seek the breast.

Early hunger cues can be subtle. It is often easier to help the baby latch before crying takes over.

• Baby smacks lips, licks lips, or sticks out tongue.
• Baby turns head and searches with mouth.
• Baby brings hands to face or mouth.
• Baby becomes more restless and awake.

When you see these signs, you can bring the baby close to you, with their entire body facing yours. Their nose should be level with your nipple, and the baby should take a large mouthful of the breast. You can gently support your breast, but avoid pressing on the back of the baby's head, as this can make it harder for the baby to lean back and get a good latch.

Does breastfeeding hurt on the first day?

It can feel unfamiliar when the baby sucks, especially if your nipples are sensitive. But persistent pain, pinching, or a sharp sensation is often a sign that the baby needs help getting a deeper latch. Gently try to break the suction with a clean finger at the corner of their mouth and re-latch.

You don't have to struggle through pain alone. Ask your midwife, maternity staff, or later your health visitor to observe a feeding. Small adjustments in position and latch can make a big difference, and it's always easier to get help early.

What if the baby is sleepy or won't latch?

Some babies are sleepy, nauseous, or need a little more time after birth. If your baby doesn't latch right away, it doesn't mean that breastfeeding can't get off to a good start. Keep your baby skin-to-skin, offer the breast again, and ask for help if you are unsure.

Hand expressing a few drops of colostrum can be helpful in some situations. The drops can be given under guidance from staff while you continue working on getting the baby to the breast. If you and your baby are separated after birth, it is particularly important to get guidance on hand expressing and how to stimulate milk production.

Practical comfort for the first feeds

Your body has just been through childbirth, and everything should be as simple as possible. Choose clothes that allow easy access to the breast and don't constrict. A soft, seamless sleeping and nursing bra for pregnancy and breastfeeding can feel comfortable if you want light support and easy nursing, even when resting. Avoid bras with underwires while breastfeeding, as they can put pressure on the breast and milk ducts.

You don't need to have the entire breastfeeding journey figured out now. Just focus on the next feeding, the next rest, and the next small connection between you and your baby.

When should you ask for help?

It's always okay to ask. Seek help from your midwife, maternity staff, health visitor, or doctor if you are concerned that your baby isn't getting enough, if your baby is very difficult to wake for feedings, or if breastfeeding causes persistent pain.

• Ask for help if the baby repeatedly cannot latch onto the breast.
• Ask for help if you develop sores, cracks, or severe pain in your nipple.
• Ask for help if you feel uncertain, regardless of whether you can precisely articulate why.

Dear one, the first day doesn't have to look a certain way to be a good start. Closeness, repeated attempts, and support around you mean more than perfection. You and your baby are learning something new together, and you are not alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a newborn be breastfed on the first day?

A healthy, full-term baby is typically offered the breast at least 4-5 times in the first 24 hours of life. Some babies nurse more often, which is also completely normal.

Is it normal for only a few drops of milk to come out?

Yes. Colostrum comes in small, concentrated amounts that suit the baby's tiny stomach in the first few days.

Should I wake my baby to feed?

A newborn can be very sleepy after birth. Ask the maternity staff or your midwife what applies specifically to your baby, especially if the child does not wake up and seek feedings on their own.

When does the mature milk come in?

For many, the mature milk comes in after a few days, often around day 3-5. The timing can vary, and frequent stimulation at the breast helps support the process.