For some Mamas, breastfeeding comes so naturally. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle which has been already finished for you. For others, it can take more time, more help and more adjusting to make all the pieces fit together.
Below are some common challenges and a few of our favourite tips to help make both yours and your babies breastfeeding journey a relaxed one.
LATCHING PROBLEMS - If your baby isn’t latching correctly it can cause all sorts of issues such as cracked nipples, weight loss in your baby, blocked ducts and an irritable fussy baby.
Helpful tips -
SORE CRACKED NIPPLES - This can be incredibly painful. You will hear hundreds of times, “if it hurts remove and attach bubs again because it’s not meant to hurt”. This is true. If your little one isn't attached properly this can lead to sore cracked nipples. Keep in mind in the beginning, this is new to your nipples. The initial pain should wear off as you and bubs both become more established at breastfeeding. If you don't find this is the case, always seek professional help.
Helpful tips -
LOW MILK SUPPLY - During the duration of breastfeeding your milk supply can change based on your babies demand and need for milk. You may get to a stage where you feel like your little one just isn’t getting enough milk. It is always a good idea to take your bub to get checked out and make sure they are gaining weight as this is a great indicator of your milk supply. If you do need to boost your supply there are plenty of ways to do so.
Helpful tips -
MASTITIS - This can occur from a blocked milk duct or via an infection passed through a cracked nipple. Mastitis is an infection which causes soreness and lumps in your breast and can cause you flu-like symptoms of aching and feeling run down. Whilst infected you may also experience vomiting, nausea and it can leave your breast feeling hot to touch in the affected area. Sometimes these infections can fix themselves within 24 - 48 hours and in other cases, they need medication depending on the severity. At the first sign you feel these symptoms, or think you may have an infection, please do not try to be a tough warrior Mama, go and get checked out right away. Mastitis is something you don't want to leave too long to tend to!
Helpful tips -
These are just a few common problems some Mamas run into during breastfeeding. If you are having any problems with breastfeeding, your maternal health nurse will be able to point you in the right direction to find many helpful services. You never need to feel alone in this journey, there is so much help out there if you feel your baby is not feeding properly or you are struggling with breastfeeding. Sometimes all we need is a few little reminders or hints to get everything back on track.
Always remember that even on the hardest days, you’ve got this Mama!
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