The moment your baby is born, everything shifts. You’re finally face-to-face with this little person you’ve been waiting to meet—and whether this is your first time breastfeeding or you're already a pro, those first 24 hours can feel like a whirlwind of emotions, questions, and brand-new beginnings.

Breastfeeding is natural, yes—but that doesn’t always mean it comes naturally. The first day can bring unexpected moments, and it’s okay if you’re not sure what’s normal. Let’s walk through what to expect in those early hours, and how to feel more confident as you and your baby learn together.

The Golden Hour: Why Timing Matters

In the hour after birth—what we call the Golden Hour—your baby is typically placed skin-to-skin on your chest. This isn’t just a sweet bonding moment (though it is that, too)—it’s a powerful time when your baby’s instincts kick in. You might notice them bobbing their head, licking, or trying to latch. These are early feeding cues, and they’re amazing to watch.

Quick tip: Skin-to-skin helps regulate your baby’s temperature, breathing, and blood sugar. It also encourages more frequent feedings, which helps your body start making more milk.

Colostrum: The First Milk

You might be wondering, “Is my milk even in yet?” The answer is yes—it just looks a little different at first. Your breasts start off producing colostrum, a thick, golden-yellow milk that’s full of immune-boosting goodness. It’s often called liquid gold for a reason.

And don’t worry if it doesn’t seem like much—your newborn’s tummy is only about the size of a marble on day one. Just a few drops are plenty in those early feeds.

Feed Early, Feed Often

In the first 24 hours, aim to nurse around 8 to 12 times, even if your baby seems sleepy. That might feel like a lot, but each time your baby latches, your body gets the signal to keep producing milk—and it helps keep their blood sugar stable, too.

Watch for early hunger cues like:

Rooting or turning toward your chest
Bringing hands to their mouth
Sucking noises or smacking lips
Gentle wiggling or fussing

If your baby is super sleepy, try skin-to-skin time, gently tickling their feet or back, or a quick diaper change to help wake them up for a feed.

What a Good Latch Looks (and Feels) Like

A deep latch makes all the difference in the early days. It helps your baby get colostrum more easily and protects your nipples from soreness.

Here’s what you’re looking for:

Baby’s mouth is wide open
Their chin and cheeks are snug against your breast
You see more of your areola above the top lip than below
It feels like a gentle tug—not a pinch or sharp pain

If it doesn’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to break the latch and try again. That’s not failure—that’s learning. And if you need help, that’s what we’re here for.

Common Worries (And Why You’re Not Alone)

Let’s ease some of the most common concerns new parents have:

“My baby keeps falling asleep while feeding.”
That’s normal, especially after birth. Keep offering the breast, do skin-to-skin, and try gentle stimulation to help them stay awake long enough to feed.

“I’m not sure they’re getting anything.”
Colostrum comes in small amounts, but it is there—even if it’s hard to see. Listen for soft swallowing, and watch for at least one wet diaper in those first 24 hours.

“It hurts—should I tough it out?”
Nope. Some tenderness can be normal, but sharp pain is a sign something needs adjusting. A quick fix in positioning or latch can make a big difference. Reach out—we can help.

Experiment and find what works best for you and your baby!

You’ve Got This—and We’ve Got You

The first 24 hours with your baby are filled with tiny feeds, big feelings, and plenty of unknowns. But you don’t have to figure it out all by yourself.
At LatchLine, we’re here to support you—whether it’s your very first latch or your baby’s tenth feed of the day. We offer virtual lactation consults, breastfeeding classes, and judgment-free guidance from experienced IBCLCs who get it.

Your baby was born to breastfeed. You were made to nurture. And we’re here to walk this path with you—one latch at a time.

Need help in those early hours (or anytime)?
Book a consult today, or check if your insurance covers it. Let’s make feeding feel easier—together. 💕

Need personalized guidance? Virtual lactation consultations are available!

Abigail Miles, RN, IBCLC
Founder, LatchLine: Virtual Lactation Support
Expert breastfeeding support—anywhere, anytime.

Breastfeeding in the First 24 Hours: What to Expect and How to Feel Confident