Breastfeeding is often presented as something natural and instinctive. And it is, in fact, a moment of great closeness between mother and baby. But the truth is that, for many women, the first days and weeks are also a period of intense learning, doubts, tiredness, and constant adjustments.
Talking about it openly is important. Not to scare, but to honestly prepare those who are about to experience this for the first time.
The first days: colostrum and adaptation
In the first few days after birth, breast milk has not yet come in. What the baby receives at this stage is colostrum, a thick, yellowish liquid, produced in small quantities but extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies.
Many mothers worry that they don't have enough milk. In most cases, colostrum is exactly what the baby needs at this stage. Milk usually comes in between the second and fourth day after birth.
The correct latch makes all the difference
One of the biggest challenges of breastfeeding, especially at the beginning, is ensuring a correct latch. An incorrect latch can cause pain, cracked nipples, and a feeling that the baby is never satisfied.
Some signs of a good latch:
- The baby's mouth is wide open, covering not only the nipple but also a large part of the areola
- The baby's chin touches the mother's breast
- The feeding is not painful after the first few seconds
- The baby nurses rhythmically and calmly
If you experience persistent pain, it's worth asking a lactation consultant for help. Their support can completely change the experience.
How often should the baby nurse?
In the first few months, the baby nurses on demand, meaning whenever they ask. This can mean 8 to 12 feedings a day, including during the night. It's normal, expected, and precisely what stimulates milk production.
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