Three Common Breastfeeding Challenges (and How to Solve Them!)
May 31, 2022Breastfeeding is the natural course of nature to provide nourishment for babies since the beginning of time. It is a journey for both the mother and child that goes beyond just feeding. But for many new and first-time mothers, the breastfeeding journey isn’t smooth or straightforward, but rather it’s hard fraught, and full of unexpected challenges.
Yes, some new mothers achieve a perfect latch right away, but others find themselves struggling particularly in those first few weeks. Whether it’s an inability to latch, insufficient supply, or a fussy feeder, difficulty with breastfeeding can become highly stressful for new mothers – which isn’t good for mom or baby.
Instead of falling victim to societal claims that breastfeeding is something we are simply supposed to be hardwired to know, consider breastfeeding a learning experience, one you and your baby embark on together. Like many new skills, sometimes we need a little help learning the ropes.
Breastfeeding Clinics in Burnaby: Offering Support and Solutions to Breastfeeding Difficulties
Breastfeeding support can come from many places. Some mothers turn to community groups, family members, or the internet, but the best help often comes from trained professionals. Lactation consultants and breastfeeding clinics are widely available in Burnaby and can help with various breastfeeding concerns.
Here are a few of the most common breastfeeding challenges mothers face and tips on how to resolve them.
Incorrect Latch
Getting your baby to latch correctly can be tricky initially, but it’s important to get it right to ensure your baby is getting enough milk and your supply comes in. When your baby is correctly latched, they should be drinking from the breast and not only the nipple. You can tell that you’ve nailed it if their chin is touching your breast, their lips are flared out (not sucked in), and they settle into a rhythmic sucking, swallowing, and breathing pattern.
Clicking noises and nipple pain are two common signs that your baby may not be latching properly. You can help the baby out by bringing them to your breast (instead of the other way around) and squeezing your areola and letting go as your baby begins rooting for the breast.
This can take a little trial and error but if you still struggle to get a good latch, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local breastfeeding clinic for expert help.
Low Milk Supply
Production issues can be frustrating and freighting for mothers trying to ensure their babies get the necessary nutrition. But the good news is that in many cases, milk supply can be increased with a few simple changes.
The first step is to ensure your baby is latching correctly; if your baby isn’t latching effectively, try visiting a breastfeeding clinic for support. If your latch is good, breastfeeding longer and more often can help spur production and increase supply. Keep baby actively feeding for at least 10 minutes on each side (if they nod off, try tickling their toes). Pumping in-between feeding can also help boost supply.
Herbal supplements and lactation cookies are also frequently suggested in mom forums but it’s best to consult with a location consultant before trying either.
Sore Nipples
Painful breastfeeding is one of the most common causes of breastfeeding abandonment and with a baby that needs to feed every few hours, that’s not surprising. At first, it can be expected for nipples to feel tender after feeding but the nipples will eventually toughen up over time.
However, if the pain from breastfeeding is persistent or you’re left with cracked or bleeding nipples, there could be an issue with the way your baby is latching. For immediate relief, try feeding off the least sore breast and use a warm compress. Then, rub a bit of expressed breastmilk on your nipple and allow your nipples to air dry. For assistance, book yourself an appointment at a breastfeeding clinic to get some expert help with your latch and your baby and your breasts will thank you.