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What to Expect When You’re Breastfeeding: Realistic Insights for New and Expectant Mums

By Penny Henderson – Breastfeeding Coach & McTimoney Chiropractor, Jersey

For many new and expectant mums, the idea of breastfeeding is filled with hope, but also a lot of unknowns. If you’re preparing to breastfeed your baby, it helps to understand not just the benefits, but also the realities. Knowing what’s normal can reduce stress, build confidence, and help you seek support early when needed.

As a breastfeeding coach and chiropractor in Jersey, I support mums who are navigating the early days of feeding, especially when things aren’t as smooth as expected.

Here’s what I wish every mother knew before her baby arrived.

1. Breastfeeding may be natural—but it’s very much a learnt skill

While breastfeeding is biologically natural, it rarely come easily. Both you and your baby are learning a brand-new skill together. Your baby’s instinctive reflexes help them root and latch, but positioning, attachment, and comfort take practice.

Realistic expectation: It’s okay if it takes time, trial and error, and support. Many mums need help with latch, supply worries, or baby fussiness in those early weeks.

2. Feeding “on demand” can feel like… a lot

In the early weeks, your baby may feed 8–12 times in 24 hours—or more. This is completely normal. Newborns have tiny stomachs and need frequent feeds to regulate their metabolism, comfort themselves, and stimulate your milk supply.

Realistic expectation: Feeding every 2–3 hours (or more frequently) is not a sign of low supply. Cluster feeding is normal, especially in the evening.

3. Supply and demand is the key to milk production

Your body makes milk in response to how often and how effectively your baby feeds. ‍The more milk is removed, the more your body produces. In the early days, this means unrestricted feeding, not stretching gaps between feeds.

The Hormones Behind Breastfeeding: Prolactin, Oxytocin & FIL (Feedback inhibitor of lactation)

Milk production is driven by two powerful hormones: prolactin, which tells your body to make milk, and oxytocin, which helps your milk flow during let-down. When your baby suckles often and effectively, prolactin levels stay high, supporting a strong supply. Prolactin is only released in response to direct stimulation of the nipple and areola, which is why I recommend that you allow your baby to feed as often as they wish with easy access to your breasts in skin to skin contact. Oxytocin also helps you feel calm, connected, and bonded with your baby, it's the “love hormone.” (this is why I recommed lots of skin to skin

Inside the breast, there’s also a protein called FIL (Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation), it builds up when milk stays in the breast too long and tells your body to slow down production. That’s why regular feeding or milk removal is so important in the early days—to keep prolactin high and FIL low, and to encourage a healthy, abundant milk supply.

Realistic expectation: Feed, feed, feed, expect to spend alot of time with babe in arms, top off, skin to skin and feeding. “Topping up” with formula too soon, skipping feeds, or delaying breastfeeding can reduce your supply. Early support helps you avoid this cycle.

4. Breastfeeding Is about more than nutrition

Breastfeeding supports your baby’s immune system, but it also helps their brain and emotional development. Skin-to-skin contact and feeding on cue release oxytocin, a bonding hormone that calms both baby and mum.

Realistic expectation: Your baby may want to nurse not just for food, but for comfort, connection, and regulation. That’s okay and is so beneficial to baby, you and your milk supply!

5. Some babies need a bit of help

Sometimes, babies experience feeding challenges due to:

• Birth strain or tension in the neck/jaw
• Tongue tie
• Difficulty opening their mouth widely
• A preference for one breast
• Wind, colic, or reflux

Realistic expectation: If feeding feels difficult, painful, or your baby is unsettled or struggling to latch, get help early. I offer expert breastfeeding support combined with gentle chiropractic treatment for babies to relieve underlying tension and improve feeding comfort.

The Bottom Line

Breastfeeding is a journey, not a race. It’s okay to need support. It's okay if it’s hard sometimes. And it’s okay to feed your baby responsively both day and night. With the right knowledge and support, you and your baby can thrive.

Need Support With Breastfeeding?

If you’re an expectant mum, I offer:
Power Hour Prep Sessions – Learn what to expect and get practical tools before baby arrives.

For new mums:
Newborn Breastfeeding Support Visits – Get hands-on help plus gentle chiropractic care for your baby if needed.

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