Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience that most mothers look forward to after giving birth.
It was also my dream to be able to nurse and cradle my little baby in my arms.
However, I had no idea that breastfeeding is not the simplest or easiest thing to do as a first-time mother.
When I first tried to nurse, I struggled to get my baby on correctly.
The thought of not being able to properly feed my baby made me extremely frustrated.
Plus, the people around me were saying things like “the baby isn’t getting enough milk”, “feed the baby formula”, and other negative comments that made me want to scream.
Then I was overjoyed because my baby began sucking. I thought it was great that my baby was getting milk.
However, during her check-up, she was diagnosed with high jaundice and it was discovered that she wasn’t getting enough breast milk because my nipple was clogged.
I only knew after letting the nurse check my breast and see if there was anything wrong. My milk started flowing as soon as the nurse cleared the clog (and boy, does it hurt!).
Breastfeeding complications are sometimes unavoidable.
Other common breastfeeding issues include:
- Low milk supply
- Sore nipple
- Engorgement
- Fungal infection
- Exhaustion
- Clingy
If any of this sounds like something you’re going through while breastfeeding, don’t be concerned.
Here are some suggestions to help you overcome the challenges of nursing your child:
Consult a Breastfeeding Professional
I was grateful that the hospital where I gave birth had a lactation specialist who demonstrated proper breastfeeding techniques.
The specialist taught me proper latching, different nursing positions, and many other things about making the experience as comfortable as possible.
Even if one is not provided or offered to you, you can request one from the hospital. If they don’t have one, they may be able to direct you to one that does.
As a new mother struggling to nurse on her own, this assistance from an expert is extremely beneficial.
Avoid Nipple Confusion
Babies can easily become attached to things that become routine or the norm for them.
Having said that, I was told to give my baby breast milk in a bottle so that it would be easier for me to return to work.
However, one of my friends told me that her baby no longer wants to breastfeed directly because she was given a bottle far too early.
The baby prefers the bottle, which can be inconvenient because my friend has to pump frequently.
So, what are your options?
According to Healthline, the best way to avoid nipple confusion is to wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing bottles.
This typically takes between four and six weeks. That seems like a good time to introduce your baby to a bottle.
Find the Right Breastfeeding Position
Several positioning and attachment methods can be used to hold your baby and breastfeed.
It is important to find one that is comfortable for both you and your baby during the breastfeeding session.
Furthermore, some positions will be more appropriate for, say, if you just had a caesarean and it is still painful to sit or lie down in certain ways.
Make sure to experiment with different ones until you notice your baby is nursing well and you find it comforting too.
Nipple Cream is a Lifesaver
That crack on your nipple can cause a meltdown. Especially when trying to nurse your baby causes excruciating pain.
That is why you should always keep nipple cream on hand because it will help treat the crack and moisten your nipple.
Make sure it’s safe for your baby so you don’t have to wipe it off every time you want to breastfeed.
This was extremely beneficial to me during the first few weeks.
Massage Can Be Helpful
This is especially useful when your milk supply is running low.
I tried going for a massage to increase my milk supply the first month after I felt I wasn’t producing enough milk.
It truly works for me, and I now have more breast milk in the freezer.
However, keep in mind that you should not go to just anyone for a massage.
In my case, my mother-in-law was the one who introduced me to the masseur. That is why I am confident and secure in going for that massage.
Remember to read reviews, ask around, and don’t just go to a stranger for a massage because it could worsen your condition.
So, exercise extreme caution.
It’s Okay to Ask for Support
Don’t be afraid to ask your spouse or other family members to help you care for the baby.
That is when you should thaw that frozen breast milk and enlist the help of someone to feed your little sunshine.
Resting will also benefit you because stress and anxiety can significantly reduce your milk supply.
So, try to get some help and sleep to keep your breast milk and mental health in check.
Enjoy the Benefits of Breastfeeding to the Fullest
Yes, breastfeeding is difficult, but if you have the opportunity to do so, you should.
Take advantage of every opportunity to bond with your child. The advantages are numerous for both the baby and you as the mother.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) highlighted five major benefits of breastfeeding, which are as follows:
- Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies – As the baby grows, the mother’s breast milk will change to meet her baby’s nutritional needs.
- Breastfeeding can help protect babies from some short- and long-term illnesses and diseases – Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfed babies are also less likely to get ear infections or stomach bugs.
- Breast milk transmits antibodies from the mother to the baby – These antibodies help babies develop a strong immune system and keep them healthy.
- Mothers can breastfeed anytime and anywhere – Mothers can feed their babies while on the go without having to mix formula or prepare bottles. Nursing can also provide comfort to babies whose normal routine has been disrupted while travelling.
- Breastfeeding can lower the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure – Breastfeeding is also beneficial to the mother’s health! Breastfeeding women are less likely to develop certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Remember that while breastfeeding is the healthiest and best way to feed a baby, it can be more difficult than expected when your baby arrives.
However, it is something that both you and your baby can learn, and it usually becomes easier after a while.
With that, I wish all new mums the best of luck on their breastfeeding journey!
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