What Nobody Tells You About Breastfeeding: The Honest Guide Every New Mum Needs

Breastfeeding is often described as one of the most natural and beautiful experiences a mother can have — but what nobody tells you is that it can also be one of the most challenging and emotional journeys. From sore nipples to supply worries, breastfeeding isn’t always as easy as the books make it sound. Whether you're a first-time mum or preparing to breastfeed again, knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and supported.

In this honest guide, we'll share what nobody tells you about breastfeeding — the highs, the lows, and the tips that can truly make a difference.

1. The First Few Days Can Be Tough

In the early days, your body is still adjusting, and milk supply takes time to come in. For many mums, it can take up to 3-5 days for their milk to fully arrive. During this time, your baby will be feeding on colostrum — a thick, nutrient-rich milk that’s essential for their immunity.

What Helps:

• Skin-to-skin contact helps trigger your milk supply.
• Feed on demand to encourage your body to produce more milk.
• Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods to support your milk production.

2. Breastfeeding Can Be Painful (But It Shouldn't Be for Long)

One of the biggest surprises for many mums is that breastfeeding can hurt at first. Cracked nipples, engorgement, and incorrect latch are common issues in the early days.

What Helps:

• Use lanolin nipple cream to soothe soreness.
• Ensure your baby is latching correctly – their mouth should cover both the nipple and the areola.
• Try different feeding positions like the laid-back position or rugby hold to find what’s most comfortable.

3. Your Baby Will Want to Feed ALL the Time

Cluster feeding (when your baby feeds frequently for several hours) is completely normal, especially in the early weeks. It's your baby's way of increasing your milk supply.

What Helps:

• Accept that it’s temporary — usually lasting only a few days during growth spurts.
• Stock up on snacks and water bottles to keep yourself fuelled during long feeding sessions.
• Netflix and comfy pillows will become your best friends!

4. Your Mental Health Matters Too

Breastfeeding can take a huge emotional toll. The pressure to breastfeed combined with sleep deprivation and hormone changes can leave many mums feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or even experiencing postpartum anxiety.

What Helps:

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help — whether from a lactation consultant or supportive family members.
• Take time for yourself when you can, even if it’s just a hot shower or a 10-minute walk.
• Natural supplements like Pure Journey Mood & Sleep Capsules with saffron and omega-3 can support mood balance and anxiety during the postpartum period.

5. Low Milk Supply is More Common Than You Think

One of the biggest worries for new mums is whether they’re producing enough milk. The truth is, many mums experience low milk supply at some point — and it’s often temporary.

What Helps:

• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in oats, leafy greens, and nuts.
• Try natural milk-boosting foods like fenugreek, flaxseeds, and fennel.
• Our Pure Journey Breastfeeding Support Supplement contains Choline, Omega-3, and B vitamins — key nutrients to support milk production and mood.

6. Leaking, Engorgement & Let-Down Reflex

Nobody tells you that your breasts might leak at random times or that the let-down reflex (when milk starts flowing) can feel like pins and needles! Engorgement (when your breasts become painfully full) is also common in the early days.

What Helps:

• Use breast pads to protect your clothes from leaks.
• A warm compress or gentle massage can help relieve engorgement.
• Express a little milk before feeding to make latching easier.

7. You Might Not Love It Right Away — And That’s Okay

Not every mum falls in love with breastfeeding straight away — and that’s completely normal. Whether you're finding it painful, overwhelming, or just not what you expected, give yourself time to adjust.

What Helps:

• Be kind to yourself — breastfeeding is a learning curve for both you and your baby.
• Celebrate small wins, like a pain-free feed or a longer stretch of sleep.
• Remember that any amount of breastmilk is beneficial, whether you breastfeed for 2 weeks or 2 years.

How Pure Journey Supports Your Breastfeeding Journey

At Pure Journey, we know that breastfeeding is a unique and personal experience — which is why we've created supplements designed to support both mum and baby.

Our Breastfeeding Support Supplement contains:

• Choline: Supports brain development in babies.
• Omega-3: Helps with mood balance and cognitive function.
• Vitamin B Complex: Supports energy levels and milk production.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Journey

Breastfeeding is one of the hardest — yet most rewarding — things you'll ever do. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, mixed feeding, or pumping, remember that you're doing an incredible job. Every drop of milk counts, and your mental health is just as important as your baby’s nutrition.

If you're struggling, reach out to a lactation consultant or a fellow mum. And if breastfeeding isn't working for you, that's okay too — a happy, healthy mum is what matters most.