Breastfeeding Perspectives

Breastfeeding Difficulty: 5 Common Issues That Mothers Face

breastfeeding-difficulty
The breastfeeding journey always leads to a lot of bumps along the way but with the right practices, resources, and support, it can be a much more convenient experience for you and your child.

Breastfeeding Difficulty is A Common Issue That Mothers Face

Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding experience between mother and child that offers numerous natural health benefits, but at the same time it can also lead to a lot of challenges along the way. These challenges can be both frustrating and overwhelming but they don’t have to be. Also, you are not alone in this journey. These issues can always be overcome with the right support and information. In this article, we’ll look at 5 common breastfeeding difficulties that mothers face and provide you with guidance on how you can address them. Please remember that every mother is unique and every baby is unique, so please speak to a lactation consultant today to properly address your unique situation.

5 Forms of Breastfeeding Difficulty

breastfeeding difficulty engorgement

1.) Engorgement

A lot of new mother’s struggle with engorgement issues. Engorgement occurs when the breasts become full of too much milk and this causes them to feel hard, painful, and swollen. This usually happens in the early days after childbirth when milk production is still regulating. Engorgement can make latching difficult for the baby and this also leads to further discomfort for the mother.

As a mother, you can address this issue by nursing more frequently. By encouraging the baby to breastfeed more frequently, you can prevent engorgement that is caused by excessive breastmilk. Also, by applying warm compresses to the breasts before nursing, you can soften the breast tissue and make it easier for the baby to latch. If the breasts are too engorged for the baby to latch then hand expression or gentle pumping can provide relief while softening the breasts.

breastfeeding difficulty nipple pain

2.) Nipple pain & soreness

Nipple pain and soreness are common breastfeeding challenges, especially in the early days. This discomfort is often caused by improper latch, friction, or sensitivity. Even a tight shirt can rub against your sensitive nipples and irritate them.

In order to prevent nipple pain and soreness, you need to ensure that the baby is latching onto the breast correctly. By speaking with a lactation consultant, you will receive guidance so that you can develop a proper latch. Try applying lanolin or a breastfeeding-friendly cream after each feeding so that you can soothe sore nipples. Also, by allowing your nipples to air dry after each feeding, you can prevent moisture-related irritation.

3.) Low milk supply

A lot of mothers worry about having a low milk supply, but it’s important to remember that breast milk production is a supply-and-demand process. Stress and inadequate nursing sessions can contribute to a perceived low supply. So how frequently are you nursing your child?

By nursing your baby more frequently and allowing them to feed as long as they want on each breast, you can avoid issues with low milk supply. Remember that a balanced diet with good hydration is key to healthy milk production. But It is still important to seek support. By consulting with a lactation consultant about your milk supply, you can receive the right guidance and support that you need to solve these issues.

breastfeeding difficulty with mastitis

4.) Mastitis

Around 10% of women in the US have had to deal with mastitis. Mastitis is a painful inflammation of the breast tissue that is often accompanied by fevers and flu-like symptoms. It can be caused by a blocked milk duct or bacterial infections. A lot of mothers may also feel concerned about breastfeeding with mastitis.

The truth is that it is safe to breastfeed with mastitis, and it can actually help clear the infection that you may be experiencing. But the baby needs to be nursed effectively on the affected breast. If you are dealing with mastitis then it is also important for you to get plenty of rest and stay well-hydrated. If your mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection then speak with a lactation consultant today to receive the right antibiotic prescription.

breastfeeding difficulty in public

5.) Concerns About Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding in public can be challenging for some mothers due to societal norms and feelings of discomfort. Many mothers feel self-conscious or worry about what other people may think or they may react to seeing them breastfeeding in public.

As a mother, it is important to know your rights. Many states have laws that protect your right to breastfeed in a public space or in a workspace. So have you taken the time to understand your legal rights? Also, If you’re uncomfortable with breastfeeding in public without a cover, then consider using a nursing cover or shawl for more privacy. Remember that breastfeeding is an essential part of motherhood. So the more you practice breastfeeding in public, the more comfortable you will feel.

Final Thoughts

If you found this blog post helpful then please don’t forget to share it with someone you know. Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience, but it still comes with its challenges. Many mothers encounter difficulties such as engorgement, nipple pain, low milk supply, mastitis, and concerns about breastfeeding in public. But with the proper guidance, support, and patience, most of these issues can be overcome to ensure a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding journey for both you and your baby.

Kathy

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Are you experiencing breastfeeding difficulties? For more support, please schedule a consult to speak with a lactation consultant today.

"Milk.. It does a baby good!

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Kathy Parkes

Kathy Parkes

Breastfeeding Perspectives | MSN-Ed, BSPsy, RN, IBCLC, RLC, FILCA, CHC, CAHPE

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About Kathy

Kathy Parkes is a registered nurse, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a Fellow of the International Lactation Consultant Association.

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