Breastfeeding is often portrayed as something instinctual and effortless—a motherly superpower that just clicks the moment your baby arrives. But the truth? For many parents, it takes time, learning, and more than a few tears. If you’re finding breastfeeding harder than expected, you’re not alone.
That’s where the 3 Ps come in: Patience, Practice, and Persistence. These are the real cornerstones of a successful breastfeeding journey—more so than any fancy nursing pillow or lactation cookie.
Let’s break them down.
Breastfeeding doesn’t always start smoothly. It can be physically uncomfortable, emotionally draining, and full of self-doubt—especially in the beginning. You may be dealing with a sleepy baby, a shallow latch, cracked nipples, or simply feeling overwhelmed.
This is where patience matters most.
🍼 Your baby is learning.
🤱 You’re learning.
💛 Your body is adjusting.
It takes time for both of you to find your rhythm. So take a deep breath. Rest when you can. And don’t be hard on yourself. Every feed is a new opportunity, not a final exam.
Despite what Instagram or that one friend makes it look like, breastfeeding is a learned skill—just like walking, talking, or riding a bike. And every baby is different.
The only way to get more comfortable? Practice.
And yes, some feeds might be frustrating. That’s okay. Keep showing up. Every attempt helps both of you get better at it.
The early days of breastfeeding are often the hardest. Many new parents feel pressure to quit when things aren’t going smoothly—but if breastfeeding is something you want to do, know that persistence pays off.
It’s okay to struggle and still want to keep going. It’s also okay to supplement, combo-feed, or switch to formula if that’s what’s right for your family. Feeding your baby with love is what matters most.
But if your heart is still in it, don’t give up just because it’s hard. Reach out, rehydrate, regroup, and keep going.
Breastfeeding is a journey, not a single moment. And while it might not always look the way you imagined, it can be deeply rewarding with time and support.
Remember:
Patience gives you grace.
Practice builds your confidence.
Persistence helps you push through.
Whatever your breastfeeding journey looks like, you’re doing an amazing job. You’ve got this—and you’re not alone.
Your local lactation consultant, supporting York Region (Markham, Stouffville, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Woodbridge, Newmarket, Aurora), and Durham region (Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa, Whitby)
