Surviving the First Two Weeks of Breastfeeding
Surviving the First Two Weeks of Breastfeeding
Embedded Files
By Karina C. Martinez, RN, IBCLC, CLC, CD(DTI)
August 28, 2025
The first two weeks of breastfeeding can feel like the longest, hardest stretch of your journey. All at once, you’re learning how to nurse your baby, healing from birth, and settling into a new rhythm with your family. It’s no wonder so many parents describe this time as overwhelming.
The good news? It doesn’t stay this hard. With guidance and a little grace, you’ll make it through these early weeks. Here are some gentle reminders and practical tips to help you survive (and even thrive during) those first two weeks of breastfeeding.
1. Grab some pillows
1. Grab some pillows
A good latch is essential, and you’ll find it’s easier to achieve when both you and your baby feel comfortable and relaxed. Baby’s mouth should cover more than just the nipple, with their chin pressed into the breast and much of the areola in their mouth. Try different positions, stack pillows in creative ways, and don’t hesitate to adjust until you find what works. In the beginning it may feel like you need six hands just to get settled, but it gets easier with time. If something feels off, gently unlatch and try again.
A good latch is essential, and you’ll find it’s easier to achieve when both you and your baby feel comfortable and relaxed. Baby’s mouth should cover more than just the nipple, with their chin pressed into the breast and much of the areola in their mouth. Try different positions, stack pillows in creative ways, and don’t hesitate to adjust until you find what works. In the beginning it may feel like you need six hands just to get settled, but it gets easier with time. If something feels off, gently unlatch and try again.
2. Celebrate colostrum
2. Celebrate colostrum
When people talk about their “milk coming in,” they’re usually referring to the transition from colostrum to mature milk. But the truth is, you already have milk. Colostrum, often called liquid gold, is present from around the second trimester of pregnancy. This thick, nutrient-dense milk is rich in antibodies and provides everything your baby needs in the first days. Amazingly, your baby only requires 1–2 teaspoons per feed in those early days. By day 3–5, your milk increases in volume to match your baby’s needs.
When people talk about their “milk coming in,” they’re usually referring to the transition from colostrum to mature milk. But the truth is, you already have milk. Colostrum, often called liquid gold, is present from around the second trimester of pregnancy. This thick, nutrient-dense milk is rich in antibodies and provides everything your baby needs in the first days. Amazingly, your baby only requires 1–2 teaspoons per feed in those early days. By day 3–5, your milk increases in volume to match your baby’s needs.
3. Take a class
3. Take a class
Surviving the first two weeks often comes down to confidence, and one of the best ways to build confidence is with preparation. A good breastfeeding class can give you practical skills, realistic expectations, and reassurance when you need it most. If you didn’t take one during pregnancy, it’s never too late. Even in the first weeks postpartum, you’ll benefit from learning new strategies and getting answers to your questions. Register for class here.
Surviving the first two weeks often comes down to confidence, and one of the best ways to build confidence is with preparation. A good breastfeeding class can give you practical skills, realistic expectations, and reassurance when you need it most. If you didn’t take one during pregnancy, it’s never too late. Even in the first weeks postpartum, you’ll benefit from learning new strategies and getting answers to your questions. Register for class here.
4. Nourish yourself, too
4. Nourish yourself, too
You can’t survive these early days if you’re running on empty. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, and it’s normal to feel hungrier and thirstier than usual. Aim for three balanced meals plus quick, easy snacks you can grab with one hand. A simple way to stay hydrated is to drink an 8oz glass of water every time your baby nurses (and more as needed, of course!). Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s one of the best ways to take care of your baby.
You can’t survive these early days if you’re running on empty. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, and it’s normal to feel hungrier and thirstier than usual. Aim for three balanced meals plus quick, easy snacks you can grab with one hand. A simple way to stay hydrated is to drink an 8oz glass of water every time your baby nurses (and more as needed, of course!). Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s one of the best ways to take care of your baby.
5. Find your people
5. Find your people
Survival in these first two weeks depends on support. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you when things feel hard. Make sure your family understands and respects your goals, lean on trusted breastfeeding friends, and find a local support group (have you heard of La Leche League?!). A supportive community can be the difference between giving up and pushing through those tough first days.
Survival in these first two weeks depends on support. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you when things feel hard. Make sure your family understands and respects your goals, lean on trusted breastfeeding friends, and find a local support group (have you heard of La Leche League?!). A supportive community can be the difference between giving up and pushing through those tough first days.
The first two weeks of breastfeeding can feel like learning a brand-new dance with a partner who has no rhythm. There may be stumbling, flailing, stepping on your toes, and maybe even some tears. But with practice, you’ll both find your groove. With time, patience, and the right support, breastfeeding can become not only manageable but deeply rewarding. You've got this!
More articles you may like:
Report abuse