Overcoming Unexpected Challenges
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural aspects of motherhood there is, but that doesn’t mean it’s either easy, or without its unexpected features. Some mothers really struggle to breastfeed, and there can be best practices which alleviate that struggle. Following we’ll briefly explore a few different tips to help you breastfeed more consistently.
1. Production Complications
Milk production will be most likely when you’re eating right and generally healthy. Psychological issues can impact production or expression capability. If your diet doesn’t have enough oats, nuts, or grains, you might have production issues. Eating disorders such as anorexia also contribute to a lack of breastmilk production.
If you’re having trouble, try pumping your breasts when your baby is done while they are still expressing; this teaches your body to produce more for each feeding. Store the milk in the fridge for a week, or in the freezer for several months. Train yourself to express regularly. You and your baby can sync up; though it may be a challenge at first.
2. Milk Duct Issues
Sometimes mastitis or other issues may contribute to issues which make nursing difficult or impossible. Here’s a link to a lactation specialist who can help with clearing a clogged milk duct. Definitely, when you’re having breastfeeding issues involving your milk ducts, you want professional help. Consequences of avoiding this can impact your newborn.
3. Raw Nipples
Your nipples will very likely get raw if you’ve never nursed before. Even if you have, there is still a period where you have to re-acclimate yourself. The good news is, your nipples will toughen; but depending on your pain tolerance, this can be quite the irritant. Lanolin helps, so does petroleum jelly. Breastmilk can also soothe sore nipples.
However, there are situations where a baby may be born with a tooth or two. Even if you’re used to nursing, this can be too much. What you can do is get in the habit of pumping your breasts and feeding the child that way. When paps are sore, pump until they toughen up a bit.
Experts indicate that it is can be healthy for mothers to breastfeed babies as long as two years. In that time, your paps will definitely become strong enough to handle feeding with less discomfort. Keep in mind that the discomfort, however severe it is, is only temporary.
Getting Over Common Breastfeeding Difficulties
Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to nourish your newborn, but even so, it may not be easy for you. Raw nipples, milk duct issues, and production complications are all likely issues you’ll encounter as a mother. Even if you’ve had many children, that doesn’t guarantee your body will continue to act as it has before. Bodies change over time.
When you understand the issues you could encounter, and you take advance measures in terms of securing tools like breast pumps, or augmenting your diet, you’ll have less difficulty with breastfeeding.
