Breastfeeding is an experience that changes significantly from the first day to the final feeding. The sensations involved are a mix of physical mechanics, physiological reflexes, and profound hormonal shifts. Understanding the range of these feelings, both typical and abnormal, can help set realistic expectations for the journey.
The Physical Experience of Latching and Routine
A proper latch should feel like a strong tugging sensation rather than sharp or painful pinching on the nipple. When the baby opens their mouth wide to take in a large portion of the areola, the tongue cups underneath the breast to compress the milk ducts. This action creates a vacuum as the baby draws milk. The baby’s lips should be flanged outward, similar to a fish, and the chin should be pressed into the breast.
In the first few days or weeks, temporary soreness or tenderness is common as the body adjusts to the frequency of nursing. This initial discomfort should feel minimal after the first few moments of the feed and disappear as the nipple toughens and the latch improves. If the pain is sustained, sharp, or lasts throughout the nursing session, it signals that the latch is shallow or incorrect. A shallow latch means the baby only sucks on the tip of the nipple, hindering effective milk transfer and causing discomfort.
Understanding the Let-Down Reflex
The milk ejection reflex (MER), or “let-down,” is the process where milk stored in the breast is released. This reflex is triggered by the hormone oxytocin, which causes muscle cells around the milk-producing alveoli to contract, pushing milk through the ducts toward the nipple. For many, the let-down is felt as a sudden, internal shift, often occurring about 30 seconds into the feed.
Sensations vary, including a pins-and-needles or tingling feeling, a rush of warmth, or sudden fullness or pressure. Some mothers also notice involuntary leaking from the opposite breast during the let-down. It is also normal to feel very little or no physical sensation at all, even when the milk is flowing effectively. Once milk flows, the baby’s sucking pattern shifts from fast, shallow sucks used to stimulate the reflex to a slower, deeper, rhythmic swallow pattern.
The Hormonal and Emotional Connection
Breastfeeding initiates hormonal responses. The release of oxytocin, which facilitates the let-down, produces feelings of relaxation, warmth, and reduced stress. This hormone promotes affection and security, aiding in mother-infant bonding.
Prolactin, the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production, is associated with drowsiness and relaxation. Mothers often feel a wave of sleepiness during or following a nursing session, encouraging rest. The hormonal surge can also cause a sudden feeling of thirst as the body replaces fluids transferred to the baby. In some cases, the let-down reflex is accompanied by a sudden wave of negative emotions, known as Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER).
Identifying Pain Signals and Abnormal Discomfort
Sustained or severe pain during breastfeeding signals that something is mechanically incorrect and is not a normal part of the process. Pain persisting beyond the initial moments of latching, or causing nipple damage, is often due to a shallow latch where the nipple is compressed instead of the areola. A nipple that looks flattened, wedged, or pointed after a feed suggests inadequate tissue intake by the baby.
Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain that radiates deep within the breast can indicate a fungal infection like thrush. Thrush pain may also present as severe itchiness or burning on the nipple surface and often affects both breasts. A plugged milk duct is characterized by a tender, sore lump or knot in a localized area, occurring when milk fails to drain properly.
Mastitis is a breast infection often presenting with flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and body aches. The affected breast area typically appears red, warm, and swollen. Any persistent pain, nipple damage, or systemic symptoms require immediate professional attention from a healthcare provider or certified lactation consultant.