Articles (EN)

Breastfeeding in the first days after childbirth

2026-05-27 12:00 Childbirth
In short: in the first days, the breast produces colostrum - the ideal food for a newborn. Frequent application (8-12 times a day) triggers milk production. Correct latching is the basis for painless and successful feeding.

Colostrum: the first milk

In the first 2-5 days after childbirth, the breast produces colostrum - a thick yellowish substance in small quantities (only 10-100 ml per day). This does not mean that milk is "scarce": a newborn's stomach is the size of a cherry, and colostrum is the perfect food for him.
Colostrum is rich in antibodies, immune factors and "lazy" intestinal cells - it forms a protective layer in the baby's digestive tract. The WHO and AAP call colostrum the "first vaccine" of a child.

Why it is important to apply often

The breast works on the principle of "demand creates supply". The more often the baby sucks, the greater the milk production. In the first days, it is recommended to attach the baby 8-12 times a day, including night feedings.
Night feedings are especially important: the level of prolactin (lactation hormone) is at its maximum between 2 and 6 am. Refusal of night feedings in the first weeks is one of the main reasons for a decrease in lactation.

Correct latch

Correct latch is the basis of painless feeding:
  • The baby's mouth should be wide open (like a "fish").
  • Not only the nipple is captured, but also most of the areola.
  • The baby's lower lip is turned outward.
  • The chin touches the chest, the nose is free.
  • You hear rhythmic swallowing, not clattering.
If feeding is very painful and the pain increases, most likely, the latch is incorrect. Gently insert the little finger into the corner of the baby's mouth, interrupt the sucking and offer the breast again. Do not endure pain: this is a signal to correct the grip, and not to "endure the first days".

Feeding positions

  • Cradle: classic position, the baby lies on his arm, facing the chest.
  • From under the arm ("soccer ball"): the baby is under the arm, the head is at the chest – comfortable after a cesarean section.
  • Lying on the side: comfortable at night and with painful sutures on the perineum.
There is no "one right" posture. The main thing is that you are comfortable, the baby grasps the breast, his ear, shoulder and thigh well in one line.

Signs of adequate nutrition in the first days

Many mothers worry: "Is there enough milk?" Focus on these signs:
  • The baby wets the diaper at least 6-8 times a day (after 4-5 days).
  • The stool is yellowish, granular, eats several times a day (after 4-5 days).
  • The baby gains weight after physiological loss (returns to the birth weight by 10-14 days).
  • After feeding, the baby looks happy and relaxed.

Typical difficulties of the first days

Breast engorgement (milk rush on day 3-4): the breasts become heavy and hard. Frequent latching, a warm shower before feeding and a cold compress after.
Cracked nipples: usually a consequence of improper latching. Correct the attachment, lubricate the nipple with a drop of hind milk or lanolin cream.
The baby falls asleep at the breast: tickle the baby on the cheek or sole, change the breast more often, try to feed a half-dressed baby (without swaddling).

When to see a doctor or lactation consultant

Seek help if:
  • the baby does not gain weight by 10-14 days;
  • jaundice increases or does not go away after 2 weeks;
  • the breasts are hot, hard, with redness and temperature (signs of mastitis);
  • feeding is very painful, despite the correction of the grip;
  • You doubt the sufficiency of milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to give water to a breastfed newborn?

No. Breast milk is 88% water. Supplementation with water in the first 6 months reduces milk intake and can disrupt lactation. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for up to 6 months.

Is it necessary to "keep the regimen" and feed by the hour?

No. The first months are feeding on demand. Hours and schedules will appear later, when the mature rhythm of lactation is established (usually by 6-8 weeks).

Can a nursing mother drink coffee?

Moderately - yes. 1–2 cups per day (no more than 200 mg of caffeine) are considered safe. More - and the baby can be restless and sleep poorly.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is a skill that both mother and baby learn. The first days can be challenging, but the right support and perseverance make all the difference. Do not hesitate to ask for help from a midwife, pediatrician or lactation consultant – this is your right.

Bibliography

  1. WHO. Breastfeeding. 2023. https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding
  2. AAP Policy Statement. Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk. Pediatrics. 2012. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22371471/
  3. NICE guideline CG37. Routine postnatal care. 2006. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241506649
  4. Riordan J, Wambach K. Breastfeeding and Human Lactation. 4th ed. Jones & Bartlett; 2010.
  5. Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Clinical recommendations: Normal delivery. 2021. https://cr.minzdrav.gov.ru/
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for medical advice. If a child's sleep is accompanied by alarming symptoms, a pronounced deterioration in health, problems with breathing, feeding or weight gain, it is necessary to consult a qualified medical specialist as soon as possible, and not rely only on information from the Internet.