The Top Breastfeeding Challenges You Might Face When You First Arrive Home

Bringing your new baby home is such a tender, exciting time—but if we’re being honest, it can also feel overwhelming. In the hospital, you probably had nurses or lactation consultants nearby. But once you’re home, it’s just you, your baby, and all the newness of figuring things out together.

If you’re finding that breastfeeding isn’t as simple as you hoped, please know you’re not alone. So many of us have been right where you are—wondering if it’s supposed to hurt, if baby is eating enough, or if you’ll ever sleep again. Let’s talk about some of the most common breastfeeding challenges families run into when they first arrive home.

1. Latch Struggles

Sometimes getting baby to latch feels natural, and sometimes it feels like an Olympic event. If nursing hurts, baby seems frustrated, or you’re hearing clicking noises, chances are the latch needs some adjusting. You and your baby are both learning, and it takes time.

2. Engorgement

When your milk first comes in, your breasts can feel rock-hard and uncomfortable. This fullness can even make it harder for your baby to latch. Feeding often, using hand expression, or applying a little cold in between can bring relief as your body finds its rhythm.

3. Sore Nipples

A little tenderness is common in the beginning, but cracked, painful nipples usually mean something needs to shift. With the right latch, positioning, and support, you don’t have to suffer through painful feeds.

4. Worrying About Milk Supply

It’s natural to wonder if your baby is getting enough milk—especially since you can’t see exactly how much they’re drinking. Instead of watching the clock or stressing over every feed, focus on diapers, weight gain, and your baby’s cues. Those are the best signs your baby is thriving.

5. Cluster Feeding

There will be evenings (and sometimes whole days!) where it feels like your baby just wants to nurse nonstop. This is usually normal and actually helps boost your supply during growth spurts. It doesn’t mean you’re not making enough—it means your baby is doing exactly what they’re supposed to do.

6. Exhaustion

The middle-of-the-night feeds are no joke. Between your recovery and the constant care a newborn needs, it’s easy to feel run down. Lean on your support system, nap when you can, and remember: this phase is intense, but it’s temporary.

7. Big Emotions

Breastfeeding is as emotional as it is physical. Joy, frustration, guilt, pride—they can all show up in a single day. Hormones, healing, and exhaustion make everything feel bigger. Give yourself grace, and remember you don’t have to do this alone.

You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

At Thrive Feeding Therapy, we know those early days at home can feel like a whirlwind. Our team is here to walk alongside you—whether it’s helping with latch, easing pain, making sure baby is getting enough, or just giving you the reassurance you need. We’ve helped countless families move from stress and struggle to confidence and connection at the breast.

So if you’re sitting at home right now, sore, tired, and wondering if you’re doing it “right”—please reach out. You deserve support, and we’d be honored to be part of your journey. 💛