You’ve probably heard the basics of breastfeeding and pumping, but what about the things no one talks about? We’re sharing five things we wish someone had told us sooner from moms who've been there –– think of this as your welcome to the club.
1. Your Milk Doesn’t Come in Right Away
Here's one that surprises a lot of new moms: your milk doesn't fully come in right after your baby is born. In the first few days, your body produces colostrum, a thick, nutrient- and antibody-rich milk made in small amounts that’s just right for a newborn's tiny tummy.
What breastfeeding moms usually mean when they talk about their milk "coming in" is the start of transitional milk — the creamier milk that comes after colostrum. Transitional milk typically starts anywhere from about two to five days after birth and continues until around ten to fourteen days after birth, when your body settles into mature milk production.
If your supply feels like it's still finding its rhythm in those first days or weeks, that's expected — your body is right on schedule, even if it doesn't feel like it yet.
2. Breastfeeding and Pumping Are Learned Skills
Despite what you see on TV, breastfeeding isn't automatically easy for everyone (or really anyone). Like most new skills, it takes practice, patience, and time — for both you and baby- to get the hang of latch, positioning, and timing, and for your body to build up milk supply.
The same goes for pumping. Beyond learning your pump, getting the right flange size and fit makes a big difference in comfort and output — something that often takes a little trial and error to figure out. If it doesn't click right away, that's not a sign you're doing something wrong. It's just part of the learning curve.
3. Leaking Happens (to Breastfeeding and Pumping Moms)
Here's something that catches a lot of moms off guard: when one breast releases milk, the other one usually does too. For some moms — especially those with an oversupply — that can mean leaking anywhere from a few drops to a couple of ounces from the "off" side during every feed or pumping session.
A couple of things can help:
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A silicone milk collector worn on the opposite breast can catch that milk before it ends up on your shirt (bonus: it's milk you can actually save and use).
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Nursing pads are a simple, reliable way to stay comfortable and leak-free between feeds.
Either way, leaking is common, not something to feel embarrassed about, and easy to manage once you know it's coming.
4. Pumps Can Help Breastfeeding Moms Too
Pumping isn't just for moms who exclusively pump — it can be a valuable tool for breastfeeding moms as well. A few common reasons breastfeeding moms also rely on a breast pump:
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When you’re building or maintaining milk supply, especially during growth spurts or if your supply needs a boost
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When you’ve created a combo feeding routine that works for your family
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When you’re taking a break, whether that's a full night's sleep, a date night, or just an hour to yourself
Breastfeeding and pumping aren't an either-or — for a lot of moms, they work together.
5. D-MER Is a Real Thing
If you've ever felt a brief wave of sadness, dread, or unease right before your milk lets down, you're not imagining it — and you're not alone. This is called Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex, (D-MER), and it's a real, recognized experience for some breastfeeding and pumping moms.
Research on exactly how common D-MER is has varied — one study found a prevalence of about 9%, while other studies have reported rates as high as 28%. What is consistent across the research is that D-MER is a physiological response, not a reflection of how you feel about breastfeeding or your baby. If you're experiencing it, it's worth mentioning to your doctor or a lactation consultant, because you deserve support, no matter what.
You’ve Got This, Mama
Breastfeeding and pumping come with a learning curve, a few unexpected moments, and sometimes feelings no one warned you about. None of that means you're doing it wrong. It just means you're human, and you're doing something hard.
And here's the good news: you don't have to figure it all out on your own. Our Customer Care Team has been where you are — many of them are moms too — and they're here to answer questions, talk through what you're experiencing, and help however they can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for breastfeeding or pumping to feel hard at first?
Yes. Latch, positioning, timing, and milk supply all take time to develop, and it's common for things to feel challenging in the early days or weeks. This doesn't mean something is wrong — it usually just means you're both still learning.
Why do I leak from the breast my baby isn't nursing on?
This happens because letdown often affects both breasts at once, even though your baby is only feeding from one side. It's especially common for moms with a more abundant milk supply.
Can pumping affect my milk supply if I'm also breastfeeding?
Pumping alongside breastfeeding is generally fine and can even help maintain or build supply, especially during growth spurts or when you're away from your baby. If you have specific supply concerns, a lactation consultant can help you figure out the right routine for your body and baby.
