Breastfeeding: What really matters in the first few days
Vita Tanousi
September 15, 2026
4 min
Breastfeeding is a natural process, yet it is not always straightforward. Especially in the first few days, mum and baby need to get to know each other and find their own rhythm together. How often should a baby be breastfed? How can you tell if they’re hungry or getting enough breast milk? And what can you do if breastfeeding is painful? Our breastfeeding counsellor offers guidance on getting off to a good start with breastfeeding and shares her everyday experiences.
Breastfeeding is a learning process
Some babies quickly find their way to the breast, whilst others need a little more time. Breastfeeding is a new experience for the mother too. Finding a comfortable breastfeeding position, latching the baby on correctly and recognising their cues – much of this only develops over time.
Right from the first few hours after birth, mother and baby are supported in getting to know one another. Close skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding and can make the first latch easier. The first breast milk, known as colostrum, is produced during pregnancy and is available to the baby in small quantities after birth.
So, especially at the start, remember: it doesn’t all have to work straight away. Breastfeeding is a learning process for both mother and baby.
Tips from our breastfeeding counsellor
Vita Tanousi, breastfeeding counsellor
What advice would you give to mums if breastfeeding doesn’t go as they’d hoped in the first few days?
“I’d like to say to mums: be patient with yourselves and your baby. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to go perfectly right from the start. It’s a learning process for both of you, and sometimes it just takes time and support. Be kind to yourselves and seek...Vita Tanousi, breastfeeding counsellor
What concerns do you find mothers express most frequently, and what advice would you like to give them on this?
“One concern I come across particularly often among mothers is the question: ‘Am I doing everything right?’ When it comes to breastfeeding in particular, many mothers compare themselves with others and worry that their baby isn’t getting enough milk ...Vita Tanousi, breastfeeding counsellor
What practical advice do you most often give to mums to help them get off to a good start with breastfeeding?
“I recommend that mums set aside as much time as possible in the first few days for skin-to-skin contact and getting to know their baby. The baby should be breastfed frequently and on demand. It’s not important to breastfeed on a schedule, but rather...Vita Tanousi, breastfeeding counsellor
When would you advise a mother to seek professional support with breastfeeding?
“I recommend that mothers seek support at an early stage if they are unsure or feel that something isn’t quite right with their breastfeeding. Professional support is particularly useful in cases of pain, sore nipples, difficulties latching on, insuf...
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How often should I breastfeed my baby?
This is a question that preoccupies many parents in the first few days. As a rule, there’s no need for a fixed feeding schedule. It’s much more important to pay attention to your baby’s needs and cues.
Crying is usually a late sign of hunger. Even before that, a newborn often shows that they want to feed: they become restless, move their head from side to side as if searching, open their mouth or bring their hands to their mouth.
Even if a baby wants to feed very frequently at times, this does not necessarily mean that there is not enough breast milk. Particularly in the first few weeks, there may be periods when babies want to feed at short intervals. This so-called ‘cluster feeding’ is normal behaviour and, amongst other things, helps to stimulate milk production.
Is my baby getting enough breast milk?
Another common concern is whether the baby is actually getting enough milk whilst breastfeeding. After all, it is not easy to tell how much they have drunk just by looking at the breast.
Whether a baby is getting enough cannot therefore be judged solely by how long or how often they feed. Discharges, weight gain and the child’s general condition provide important indications.
If you’re unsure, it’s worth consulting a midwife, nurse or breastfeeding counsellor at an early stage. Together, you can observe and assess how breastfeeding is going.
Crying is usually a late sign of hunger. Even before this, newborns show that they are hungry by becoming restless, making searching movements, keeping their mouths open or bringing their hands to their mouths.
Latching your baby on correctly: Small changes can make a big difference
A good breastfeeding position and correct latching are essential for ensuring that the baby can feed effectively and that breastfeeding is comfortable for the mother.
The best breastfeeding position varies from person to person. The most important thing is that both mother and baby are comfortable and that the baby can latch on properly. Sometimes even small adjustments to the latch can make a big difference.
Breastfeeding can feel unfamiliar, particularly in the first few days, and the nipples may be sensitive. However, severe or persistent pain should not simply be put up with.
Pain whilst breastfeeding: When should I seek help?
Sore nipples, blocked milk ducts or mastitis can make breastfeeding difficult. If the pain gets worse or persists, if sores develop, or if the breast feels painful, hard or overheated, it is advisable to seek professional advice.
It is worth not waiting until the symptoms become very severe. A breastfeeding counsellor can assess your individual situation, identify possible causes and work with you to find a suitable solution.
Every breastfeeding journey is different
Breastfeeding is as individual as the mother and baby themselves. Whilst it goes smoothly from the start for some, others may need more time or support. Partial breastfeeding, expressing milk or weaning later on can all be part of a mother’s personal breastfeeding journey.
Not every mother can or wants to breastfeed. The key is to find a feeding solution that ensures the baby is well nourished and that suits the family’s individual circumstances.
Breastfeeding doesn’t have to conform to any ideal. What’s far more important is that mother and baby receive the time, support and guidance they need to find their own way.
Personalised support for all aspects of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding advice at Zollikerberg Hospital
Whether during pregnancy, after the birth or later at home: our breastfeeding advisers are on hand to offer you personalised support with any questions or challenges you may have regarding breastfeeding.
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