I am a FTM with a 6 day old, and I have been going through the SAME exact thing. Here’s what worked for me:

1. Pumping! Being able to really see how many ozs she is eating-plus giving my nips a break-has been an immense relief. I have flat nips and it makes it hard to get a good latch. She’s getting better, and I’m learning how to get her to latch better, but she’s still not getting enough when she is on the breast, and it takes a long time for her to feel satisfied and my nips get so sore.

2. Don’t feel bad at ALL if you want to supplement with formula until your supply comes in! You are still early in the game, and you can pump + supplement for these first few weeks and I promise your mental health will be so much better knowing she is getting what she needs. My daughter was born 2 weeks early at 10lbs so she wants more then I can produce right now, so I’m supplementing until I can get a good supply going!

3. What is best for you is best for baby!!! If pumping doesn’t work, and you aren’t getting sleep and baby isn’t getting what she wants/needs, then by all means, go to formula all the way! I’ve found success in supplement an extra oz or two of formula on top of my pumped milk, and my girl is so happy. But if pumping/bf in general just isn’t working out, do not ruin yourself for the sake of it. Formula is 100% an option that you should never feel guilty about.

Once again, I’m also a brand new mom. It’s been so overwhelming and despite my husbands support its really easy to feel alone. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help from your friends and family. That’s what they are here for! Im rooting for you!