Feeding your baby in the early weeks—especially if you’re nursing—can be one of the most physically and emotionally demanding parts of postpartum. Between the steep learning curve, the hormonal rollercoaster, and the ongoing recovery from birth, it’s no wonder so many parents find the first few weeks especially challenging.
At Brood, we believe that how you feed your baby should be based on what works best for you—your body, your goals, and your life. Whether you’re planning to nurse, pump, bottle feed, or supplement, this post will walk you through the basics of lactation support, what’s normal, and how to navigate feeding with confidence.
For even more guidance, we recommend checking out our Feeding & Your Baby Course or check out this Blog archive for more helpful tips and educational resources on this topic!
The First Weeks of Feeding
The early days can feel like a blur. Feeding may take longer and require more energy than expected, especially when you’re also healing from birth. Most lactation-related issues resolve around six weeks, but until then, consider this your permission slip to ask for help, eat snacks constantly, and drink more water than you thought humanly possible. Postpartum doulas are a game-changing support during this stage—they can help you with latching, pump setup, night feeds, and making sure you’re nourished, too.
Supporting Milk Supply: Oxytocin + Prolactin
To make milk, your body needs two key hormones: prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin is stimulated when your chest is emptied—either by your baby or a pump. It peaks at night, so if you’re exclusively pumping or not nursing overnight, continuing to empty your chest at night is still important. Oxytocin, on the other hand, is the “love hormone”—it thrives when you feel relaxed, safe, and supported. Creating a calm feeding environment, reducing stress where you can, and asking for help from your partner or doula can go a long way in supporting your supply.
Engorgement Happens—Here’s What to Do
Engorgement is common in the first few weeks, especially for folks who had an IV and/or oxytocin during their labor. As water retention occurs and your milk comes in — your chest may feel swollen, rock hard, or painfully full. To manage this:
- Peek at our lymph massage video and try doing it before every feed
- Nurse or pump frequently—but only based on your baby’s needs to avoid overstimulating supply
- Use warm compresses before feeding, and cold ones after
- Keep medication on hand — Advil for inflammation and Tylenol for pain
- Watch for signs of oversupply, like strong let-downs or baby pulling off the chest—laid-back positions or hand expression before feeding can help
Nipple Pain and Healing Tips
Your nipples go through a lot in the early weeks. Some discomfort is normal, but consistent pain or cracking means something needs to shift! Keep nipple butter, MediHoney, and saran wrap nearby for healing. Speak to a lactation consultant if you’re experiencing pain, latch issues, or recurring damage—they can help with positioning, flange sizing, and checking for tongue or lip ties.
Finding the Right Nursing Position
Every baby-parent duo is unique, and so are your ideal feeding positions. Larger chested folks often prefer laid-back, football, or side-lying positions. Smaller-chested parents may find cradle and cross-cradle more comfortable. Need support figuring it out? A postpartum doula or lactation consultant can guide you through positioning until it feels natural.
Overactive vs. Underactive Supply
An overactive supply can lead to latching struggles, baby reflux, and frequent engorgement. Focus on gentle chest massage, warm showers, and minimizing additional milk removal. Don’t pump “just in case”—this tells your body to make more milk and become even more engorged. If you’re facing low supply, increase skin-to-skin time, hydrate often, and consider herbal lactation blends. Techniques like power pumping and triple feeding may be helpful, as well as prescription medications—these are all covered in our Feeding & Your Baby Course.
Feeding and the Rest of Your Body
Nursing can affect more than your chest. Common secondary symptoms include vaginal dryness, low libido, carpal tunnel, back pain, and bruising—from the hormones that support lactation. Your provider or doula can suggest remedies, supports, or referrals as needed. Many of these symptoms improve with time or when weaning begins.
When Feeding Plans Change
It’s normal for your feeding plan to evolve. If nursing or pumping no longer feels sustainable, or your needs have shifted, you can wean safely with support. A lactation consultant can help you transition to bottle feeding, donor milk, or formula—and make sure the process is comfortable for both you and your baby.
Weaning should be slow and gentle. If you move too quickly, you risk clogged ducts, mastitis, and emotional distress. Make sure you’re ready with:
- A plan to reduce one feeding/pumping session every few days
- Herbal supports like sage or peppermint tea
- Cold cabbage leaves (crushed and chilled) to ease inflammation
- Ice packs, Advil/Tylenol, and a solid support team
- A backup plan in case you develop symptoms like fever, redness, or flu-like feelings—signs of mastitis that warrant medical attention
Feeding Beyond Nursing
There are many ways to feed your baby with love and connection. Consider:
- Bottle feeding with formula or pumped milk
- Supplemental nursing systems (SNS) for bonding or combination feeding
- Cup or spoon feeding in the early days, especially when working on supply or colostrum delivery
Remember: There’s No One Right Way
Feeding your baby is a physical act and an emotional journey. It’s deeply individual, and no path is more valid than another. Whether you nurse for two days, six months, or not at all—what matters is that you’re supported, informed, and cared for. If you need help at any point, Brood’s postpartum doulas and lactation consultants are just a click away.
