Successful Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is hard. There is no denying that fact. Even people who are lucky enough to have very few issues, like myself, can admit that it’s hard. Breastfeeding is emotional, and often times painful. It is lonely and exhausting. But it is also the most wonderful thing in the world. With persistence, dedication, and the right support breastfeeding can become a bit more feasible than you’d think. According to the CDC, 83.2% of babies born in 2015 received breastmilk at one point, however, only 24.9% of those babies were exclusively breastfed through 6 months old and only 35.9% were breastfed through 12 months old. I think it is amazing that breastfeeding rates are climbing, but I can’t help but notice how many mothers quit because it is too difficult or they don’t receive the support or education they need. That is why I am writing this. I have heard from many women that they wanted to breastfeed their babies but couldn’t due to low milk supply, tongue tie, postpartum depression, and pain. Here are some of the common problems women face with breastfeeding and advice to help overcome them.

Low milk supply

        Low milk supply seems to be one of the most common reasons for women to give up breastfeeding in the early days. A lot of women don’t know that breastmilk takes a few days to come in and they get discouraged thinking they aren’t producing enough. Other women have complications with child birth or premature babies, which can have a massive effect on milk supply.  The most important thing for moms who want to breastfeed  to remember is to not be bullied into supplementing with formula and don’t get discouraged. It is important to know that in the first few day it is completely normal for your baby to lose a little. This doesn’t necessarily mean your supply is low. Watch your baby’s urine output to get a clearer picture.  
If you do have a low supply contact a certified lactation consultant. A lactation consultant is a great resource for all breastfeeding issues. Most hospitals with a maternity ward will have a lactation consultant on staff.

If not, your doctor should be able to help you find one. The next thing you should do is check your baby’s latch. The next thing you can try is using galactogogues. These are herbs that help to boost supply. I personally, used Mother’s milk Tea, but herbs like fenugreek and blessed thistle are easy to come by. Oatmeal is also great for boosting supply and there are several recipes online for lactation cookies. Pumping is also helpful. Pumping can be difficult in it’s own ways, but once you get the hang of it pump both sides after offering your baby the breast. It’s extremely important to continue offering your baby the breast at the first sign of hunger and to offer both sides.

Latching Problems

   Incorrect latching is a huge problem with breastfeeding. Here is what a correct latch should look like.

To get a correct latch, grasp your breast with one hand at the areola and squish your breast into a ‘c’ shape. Aim to get as much of the breast into baby's mouth as you can. Ensure the baby's lips are flared out by using a finger on the bottom lip first. For fussy and irritated babies try letting them suck on a clean finger before offering the breast, or squeeze a drop of milk onto their lip. This will help calm them so they fully open their mouth. The key is to get as much of your breast tissue in your baby’s mouth as you can. Being comfortable is vital for  proper latch. Experiment with different positions, so you and your baby can be as comfortable as possible.

LIP AND TONGUE TIE

Babies with lip or tongue tie often have problems latching and breastfeeding. If you suspect it may be a problem be sure to have your baby examined. The sooner the problem is addressed, the sooner your baby can relearn how to eat. Cranio-sacral therapy can be effective in improving your baby’s latch. Don’t give up on your breastfeeding relationship. Be patient as you and your baby relearn together.

BREASTFEEDING PAIN

As I said earlier, breastfeeding can hurt. It is common for women to experience nipple pain, cracked nipples, and sometimes bleeding. Ensure your baby has a proper latch, as most pain is related to other issues. Keep your nipples clean and allow them to air dry to prevent infections and thrush. It is also helpful to use a non-lanolin nipple cream. Mastitis is another very common problem. Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue, usually caused by a clogged duct. There are several remedies for this extremely painful problem. Try taking warm showers and alternate hot and cold compresses. Nurse your baby as often as possible and if you can have your baby's chin point towards the clog. Dangle feeding is also helpful, as you relieve the pressure and let gravity pull the milk down. Use gentle massages down toward the nipple and be sure to rest. Mastitis can be very taxing on the body, so rest is crucial.

There are many great resources for breastfeeding moms to get help. If you want to have a breastfeeding relationship with your baby don’t give up. It's possible with the right help and support. Below are my favorite resources to answer all breastfeeding questions.

   

Le Leche League
Kellymom
AAP