The First Days of Breastfeeding: What to Expect and How to Prepare as a Migrant Mother in Germany

1. Explore your birth options

In Germany, you can choose between several birth settings:

• Hospital (Krankenhaus): Access to medical teams and support in case of complications.

• Birth center (Geburtshaus): A more natural approach, attended by Hebammen (midwives).

• Home birth: An option if you feel comfortable, with the support of a Hebamme.

Each option has its own characteristics, but what matters most is that you feel safe and supported. Research what’s available near you, ask whether they encourage immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth, and how they support the start of breastfeeding. This truly can make a difference.

2. Prepare a birth plan to support breastfeeding

During my first pregnancy, I wasn’t aware of how many factors could influence the start of breastfeeding. Later, I realized that many aspects of my birth experience made it harder for my baby and me to begin breastfeeding smoothly.

How birth unfolds affects how breastfeeding begins, and a birth plan can help you start in the way you hope. Think of it as a roadmap that reflects your wishes and preferences for that moment, including key points such as:

• Immediate skin-to-skin contact: Encourages your baby’s natural reflexes to seek the breast, regardless of birth type.

• The golden hour: Prioritizing breastfeeding within the first hour, when your baby is most alert.

• Calm environment: Supports oxytocin release, essential for milk production.

• Continuous support: Ensuring your partner or a doula is present to support your comfort and confidence.

• Pain management: Knowing your options and discussing them with the healthcare team.

• Avoiding unnecessary supplements: Stating your wish for exclusive breastfeeding unless medically indicated.

In Germany, birth plans are a recognized tool and can be created with your Hebamme or gynecologist. You submit it to the hospital or birth center in advance. While it’s not legally binding, professionals usually try to respect it whenever medically safe.

3. Find a Hebamme early

In Germany, Hebammen (midwives) play a central role during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They also visit you at home after birth to check on you and your baby. Look for one as early as possible—they fill up quickly. If you find one who speaks Spanish, even better.

Tips to find a Hebamme:

• Start searching early (ideally in the first trimester).

• Use platforms like Hebammenverband to find one near you.

• Many offer support in English, and with some luck, in Spanish too.

  
  

4. Learn about breastfeeding before birth

Breastfeeding may seem instinctive, but it’s actually a learning process for both you and your baby. Prenatal breastfeeding classes can help you understand how milk production works, how to achieve a good latch, and what challenges you may face. Make sure you also have access to downloadable materials and resources in your own language.

Learn about:

• How milk is produced and how to stimulate supply

• Proper latch to avoid pain and cracked nipples

• Baby hunger cues

• Common challenges and solutions

📥 Download my free guide on achieving a good latch and avoiding common mistakes. Click here to get it.

5. Find your support tribe

As a migrant mother, it’s easy to feel isolated. Being far from home and your usual support system can be tough—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Look for mom groups in your language, locally or online. Familienzentren and local Stillgruppen are great places to meet other mothers in similar situations. You can also join online communities, such as Hispamamis in Germany. Sharing experiences builds confidence and reminds you that you’re not alone.

I’ve created a WhatsApp group specifically for migrant mothers in Germany—a safe space where we share experiences, ask questions, and support each other through breastfeeding and motherhood. It’s a place to connect with women who truly understand what you’re going through.

6. Learn key phrases in German

Breastfeeding is highly valued in Germany, but support styles may differ from what you’re used to. Learning a few key phrases can help:

• “Ich möchte stillen.” (I want to breastfeed.)

• “Bitte kein Fläschchen oder Schnuller.” (Please, no bottle or pacifier.)

• “Kann mir jemand beim Stillen helfen?” (Can someone help me with breastfeeding?)

If you don’t feel understood, remember that you always have the right to seek additional support.

7. Trust yourself—and ask for help when you need it

Doubts are normal in the early days. Remember: you are not alone. Many migrant mothers face similar challenges, and seeking support is key. Online or local lactation consultants who understand your context can help you move forward with confidence.

A final word of encouragement

Breastfeeding is not just a biological act—it’s a deep connection between you and your baby. As a migrant mother, your effort carries even more meaning. You’re building a bond that goes beyond borders and cultures. Every drop of milk is an act of love, strength, and dedication.

Prepare yourself, trust your body, and remember that even far from home, you are never alone on this journey. You and your baby can do this.

If you’d like to feel more confident and prepared during pregnancy, I invite you to join my prenatal breastfeeding workshop. You’ll learn everything you need to start with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and face challenges with evidence-based information.

Reserve your spot and begin this journey with calm and support. I’m here to walk it with you. 🤍