Starting your breastfeeding journey can feel overwhelming, but getting a good latch early on sets the stage for a successful and comfortable experience. As a mom of five and an experienced IBCLC, I know how challenging those early days can be. Here are five essential tips to help you navigate the first week postpartum and breastfeeding with confidence.

1. Why a Good Latch Is So Important for Pain-Free Breastfeeding

A good latch is the cornerstone of pain-free breastfeeding. When your baby latches deeply and effectively, milk flows easily, and nipples stay protected. But when the latch isn’t right, it can lead to pain, nipple damage, and even milk supply issues.

If breastfeeding hurts—even if you’ve been told your baby has a good latch—it’s worth exploring deeper. Issues like tongue tie, shallow latch, or a high palate can make breastfeeding painful even when the latch looks fine.

If you’re struggling, my "Secrets to a First Latch Without Pain" workshop breaks down effective latching techniques so you can nurse confidently from the start.

2. Creating a Flexible Breastfeeding Routine in the First Week

Many new moms wonder whether to follow a strict schedule or feed on demand. The truth? Follow your baby’s cues and your instincts. In the first week, feeding every 2-3 hours—yes, even waking a sleepy newborn—helps establish your milk supply and keeps your baby well-fed.

But if birth interventions left your baby extra sleepy, keep an eye on feeding frequency. If your baby isn’t waking to eat, gentle techniques like diaper changes or skin-to-skin contact can help rouse them.

3. Managing Breast Engorgement and Ensuring a Good Latch

Engorgement can make latching painful and difficult. When your breasts are too full, your baby might struggle to latch deeply, leading to a shallow, painful latch. Preventing engorgement by feeding frequently is ideal, but if it happens, relief methods include:

• Hand expression or gentle pumping before feeding

• Cold compresses after feeds

• Lymphatic drainage massage

If you want to learn more about how to manage engorgement, latching challenges, and set yourself up for successful breastfeeding, check out my on-demand online breastfeeding class here.

4. Trust Your Instincts: You Know What’s Best for Your Baby

New moms are often flooded with conflicting advice. Trust yourself—your instincts are powerful. Your baby was designed to breastfeed, and you were designed to nurture. Filter out the noise and lean into your intuition. It’s okay to question well-meaning but outdated advice.

5. The Truth About the Perfect Latch: It’s a Learning Curve

Breastfeeding isn’t always picture-perfect from the start. It can take practice and support. The first week is a time for you and your baby to learn together. If breastfeeding feels painful, that’s a sign something needs adjusting—whether it’s positioning, latch technique, or support from an expert.

My free workshop, "Secrets to a First Latch Without Pain," gives you the tools to handle common issues and build your confidence. You can feel empowered and prepared to navigate breastfeeding challenges.

Jaimie Zaki is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and mom of 5! Jaimie has volunteered as a La Leche League Leader, and has worked as a nurse, doula, and birth photographer, is the current host of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast and founder of the Confident MamaBear Society. Jaimie provides holistic breastfeeding advice for pregnant & new moms to prevent and overcome unexpected latching trouble and milk supply issues when breastfeeding. Jaimie inspires mothers to make decisions from the place where intuition & information intersect. It is Jaimie's goal to help you shut out the toxic whispers of the world, embrace your God-given intuition, and unleash your inner fierce MamaBear!

Breastfeeding Resources Available:

• Free Online Breastfeeding Workshop

• Online Breastfeeding Class

• 1:1 Breastfeeding Support (Virtual)

• Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast