Becoming a new mom is an exciting time, filled with new experiences and so much to learn! The first three weeks of breastfeeding can feel like a steep learning curve for both you and your baby. But don’t worry—this guide is here to help you navigate these early days with confidence. You’ll find tips on what to expect and how to make this time as smooth and comfortable as possible. Take it one day at a time, and soon you’ll feel like an expert on your baby!

Feeding Your Baby: How Often^1,2,3

• Most newborns need to nurse at least 8-12 times a day.
• Most feedings will be 1.5-3 hours apart, from the beginning of one feeding to the beginning of the next.
• If your baby is breastfeeding well and has plenty of wet and dirty diapers, it’s okay to let them go a bit longer between feedings, up to 4-5 hours, once a day. Take this opportunity to nap yourself!

Strive for a Deep Latch^2,3

• A deep latch is key to comfortable and effective breastfeeding. Make sure your baby’s mouth covers a good portion of the areola (the darker area around the nipple) and not just the nipple.
• Try alternating breastfeeding positions to find what works best for both you and your baby.
• If the latch is painful, break the suction with your finger and try again until it is comfortable. Often, the second or third try is better!

Offer Both Breasts at Each Feeding^1,2,3

• Offering both breasts at each feeding is a great way to make sure your baby is getting enough milk and also helps stimulate your milk supply.
• If your baby is sleepy and doesn’t seem interested in the second side, try changing their diaper or giving them a quick burp in between to help wake them up.

Diaper Output: What to Expect^1,2,3

• Tracking your baby’s diaper output in the first week can help you make sure they’re getting enough milk. Here’s a guide to what you should look for:
  • Day 1: At least 1 wet and 1 dirty diaper (black or dark green)
  • Day 2: At least 2 wet and 2 dirty diapers (black or dark green)
  • Day 3: At least 3 wet and 3 dirty diapers (brown, green, or yellow)
  • Day 4: At least 4 wet and 3 dirty diapers (brown, green, or yellow)
  • By Day 5 and onward: At least 6 wet and 3 large, soft, seedy yellow poops each day.

Baby Weight: Loss and Gain^1,2,3

• It’s normal for babies to lose weight in the first few days after birth—about 7% of their birth weight is average. 
• From Day 4 onward, your baby should gain 2⁄3 to 1 1⁄3 oz per day (20 to 40g).
• Your baby should regain his or her birth weight by Day 14.

Engorgement and Relief^1,2,3

• Engorgement (breast fullness) is common between Days 3-5—your breasts will feel heavier and fuller as your milk supply increases. 
• Your milk supply will grow from 1-2 teaspoons per feeding on your baby’s birthday to 1-2 ounces per feeding by the end of their first week! 
• Your breasts will be fuller before feedings and softer after your baby nurses. This is a good sign that your baby is transferring milk well. 
• Here’s how to ease the discomfort of engorgement:
• • Apply cold packs to your breasts in between feedings to reduce inflammation.
  • Ibuprofen, if prescribed, can also help reduce swelling and pain.

What to Do if You’re Having Trouble^2,3

• If your baby is struggling to latch effectively, initiate hand expression or pumping after feeding attempts to make sure your baby is getting enough milk. This will also help to ensure your milk supply is well stimulated. 
• Contact your Lactation Consultant as soon as possible. They can provide invaluable support in helping you overcome any breastfeeding difficulties you may be having. 

Take Care of Yourself³

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Birth & Breastfeeding
• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Pumping 101

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References