Hey Mom,
So… you’ve made it through pregnancy and childbirth. And now you’re holding this little person who depends on you for everything, especially feeding. First, let’s take a second to acknowledge how much you’ve already done. You’re amazing.
That first week of breastfeeding? It’s a wild ride. Some moments might feel magical… and some might think like, “Wait, am I doing this right?”
Here’s what I wish someone had gently whispered to me during those early days:
1. It’s normal to feel unsure
You might think your baby isn’t getting enough or that the latch looks off. That doesn’t mean you're failing—it just means you're learning. You and your baby are figuring it out together.
2. It can hurt at first, but it shouldn’t stay that way
Tenderness? Totally normal. Cracked, bleeding nipples that make you wince every latch? That’s your cue to call in backup. Reach out to a lactation consultant or WIC peer counselor. They want to help and can often make a huge difference.
3. Cluster feeding is real
Your baby might seem like they want to nurse all. the. time. Especially in the evening. It’s exhausting, but it’s also how they build your supply. If your baby wants to camp out at the boob, you’re not doing anything wrong. That’s biology doing its thing.
4. Track how you feel, too
You matter just as much as your baby. Rest when you can. Eat something nourishing. Cry if you need to. You’re recovering, too, and that deserves care.
5. You’re not alone
One of the best things I did in my first week was connect with other moms through WIC, local support groups, and online spaces like NevadaBreastfeeds.org. There’s something powerful about hearing, “Me too.”
That first week is a blur. But trust yourself. Ask questions. Celebrate the tiny wins (like figuring out a comfy position or getting a good burp!). You’re doing something beautiful and hard and life-giving. And you don’t have to do it perfectly.
You just have to keep showing up. And you are.
With you every step,
Milky Way Maman
No comments:
Post a Comment