For most mamas, breastfeeding and pumping come with ups and downs, as well as mental, physical, and emotional challenges. The idea that breastfeeding is intuitive and that you will or should know how to handle all of these hurdles is simply another myth of motherhood. But don’t worry: we’re here to help you through the hard parts, and when you get through them (because you will), you’ll find many things to love about nourishing your baby at the breast. Here are three of the most common breastfeeding challenges new mamas experience, plus our best solutions.
Getting a handle on latching issues
You'll bring in your milk supply in the first few days of breastfeeding and help your baby learn to latch. Latching difficulties are common early on and can have a variety of causes. Getting help is essential because not fully expressing your milk can lead to other problems, such as under or oversupply or infection. Here’s what to do if your baby is struggling to latch.
Learn a deep latch: Many new mamas need help learning what a deep latch looks and feels like. It’s highly recommended that you work with a lactation consultant as much as necessary to master this critical skill.
Get close: Cuddling skin-to-skin with your baby can inspire your milk to flow and calm both mama and baby before feeding.
Use a nipple shield: Various anatomical differences (in you or your baby) can make a nipple shield a good idea. Talk to a breastfeeding specialist to find out if a nipple shield might be right for you.
Try new positions: Switching positions can help your baby latch on and stay attached through an entire feeding session. You might also find that certain positions are more comfortable and productive for both mama and baby.
Remember, if the latch is painful, if your baby is falling off and unable to complete a full feeding, or if your baby is simply not feeding regularly, call your doctor or seek help from a certified lactation consultant.
Working with breast pain and discomfort
It’s incredibly normal to have mild to moderate pain or discomfort at some point while you’re breastfeeding. This can be due to various causes, including engorgement (when your breasts are overly full of milk), mastitis (inflammation of the breast tissue), blocked milk ducts, or other infections. It’s essential to pay attention to your body and take your pain seriously so that minor issues don’t become major ones. Contact your doctor immediately if you have severe pain or concerning symptoms, like a fever.
Ways to alleviate breastfeeding pain and discomfort include:
- Using warm compresses (wet or dry) beforehand to help express milk
- Using cold compresses after breastfeeding to relieve swelling
- Taking the recommended dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Gently massaging painful areas or blocked ducts
- Wearing a supportive and properly fitting bra
- Pumping after feeding your baby, if they have not fully drained the breast
Techniques for Specific Discomfort:
Engorgement: The best way to relieve engorgement or keep it at bay is to express your milk fully. Taking a warm shower and expressing some of your milk by hand can help reduce some pressure and make it easier for your baby to latch. Feed your baby regularly, and ensure they feed until they are through.
Mastitis: If you think you may have mastitis, try to continue breastfeeding (don’t worry, it’s safe!). Clearing the milk from your breasts can help to clear the infection, so if you can, breastfeed on the affected side first. If your symptoms don’t improve within 24 hours, consult your doctor: you may need a course of antibiotics to resolve the infection completely.
Blocked milk ducts: A warm bath or soaking the breasts in warm water (add Epsom salts, if you like) can help with this issue. Massage and trying new breastfeeding positions can make it easier to drain the breast. If a clog does not seem to resolve, consult your doctor, so it doesn’t progress to full-blown mastitis.
Coping with breastfeeding exhaustion
A mom on one popular breastfeeding forum writes: My husband wants to know why I’m always mad. I tried to explain: if you hadn’t slept through the night for the last 4 months, if you woke up 2-8 times a night, if you had someone constantly touching you, you’d be mad too.
When your baby is brand new, going through a growth spurt, teething, and craving extra comfort, they may want to breastfeed often. This is called cluster feeding, and it’s generally only temporary, but even if your baby is not, it can be challenging. If you’re experiencing breastfeeding exhaustion, know you are not alone, and you will get better. Here are some ways to cope:
Practice breastfeeding self-care: Make sure you have a comfortable spot, snacks, water, and anything else that helps you get into a calm headspace. Try music, aromatherapy, candles, listening to podcasts, or anything that allows you to relax at the moment with your baby.
Get good nutrition: Feeding another human being is a lot of work for your body, and the exhaustion it can cause is real. Help yourself by eating well, staying hydrated, and working with your healthcare providers to ensure you are getting the nutrients you need.
Protect your sleep: Getting enough sleep seems nearly impossible for many mamas. Even so, there are things you can do to improve the quality of your sleep and make it more likely you’ll get some much-needed rest. These include practicing good sleep hygiene,
Exercise: No, we’re not talking about joining a Crossfit challenge, running 10 miles a day, or beating yourself up for not getting in a daily workout. But doing whatever you can to add a little bit of movement--a walk, a 10-minute stretching video on YouTube, or some light yoga--can help to lighten your mood and restore your energy so that you can be there for your baby.
Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially when you’re just getting started and during the natural stages of the breastfeeding process, but it doesn’t need to be a chore. If you’re feeling wholly exhausted or unable to cope with daily life with your baby, you may suffer from postpartum fatigue or depression. Reach out to your doctor or someone you trust immediately, and get help.
When it comes to feeding your baby breast milk on the go, you can rely on Bébé Bru’s remarkable service to help you live life simplified. Get started with one of our freeze-drying packages today.