Motherhood is filled with many moments that are unique and precious. One such is when the mother nourishes her baby, it is a beautiful moment that creates a bond of affection and unconditional love between them. However, during the breastfeeding phase, you may run into several problems. Here are some of the common breastfeeding challenges that many new mothers face and solutions to overcome them.

Engorgement or swelling problem

Engorgement or swelling commonly occurs when new mothers start lactating. During this condition, the breasts can hurt as they become engorged. Although this condition goes away after a few days, it can be very painful for mothers, because it can result in infection or plugged duct. Here are some ways in which new mothers can get relief from this problem.

Solutions

Apply moist heat compress to the breast area, and then massage the area just before feeding time that is every 2-3 hours
After every feeding session, applying ice in the area for 20 minutes can heal the inflammation and help to get relief from the discomfort.

Make sure to avoid applying ice or moist heat to the nipple area.

Inadequate milk supply

Many new mothers stay concerned about inadequate milk supply. So, if you are facing this issue then know that you are not alone. Experts say the problem of insufficient milk production happens rarely, it is due to many other reasons the supply is impacted. A mother’s body generally produces the amount of milk that the baby exactly needs.

Some reasons for inadequate milk supply

• Not feeding baby frequently
• Ineffective latch
• Supplementing with formula and not pumping
• Due to some medications
• Pregnancy triggered high blood pressure
• Premature birth of baby

Solutions to increase the milk supply

Breastfeeding must be done frequently, at least you should breastfeed your baby every 2 to 3 hours. When you have just given birth to your baby, you will need to feed your baby 12 times every day. Don’t ignore feeding/pumping, whenever your baby needs food feed them.

Avoid feeding your baby using baby bottles. Also, don’t let your baby use pacifiers in the early weeks.

If you are taking some medications, then make sure to consult with your doctor, and convey to them your concerns.

Always make sure to take care of yourself. Know that if you don’t eat well, and rest well it can impact your body adversely and may result in less milk production and supply. Also, avoid smoking, and drinking, and keep yourself hydrated.

Know that if you are still facing the problem of inadequate milk supply, then it is best to consult a lactation consultant. So, if you are searching for a lactation consultation near me, always make the effort to contact the best specialist in this field.

Fungal infection

Another problem that new mothers can face while breastfeeding is a fungal infection called Mastitis. This condition occurs from a damaged nipple. Such a condition can make the breast hard, read and painful. Later the new mother can develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, red streaks etc.

However, according to the experts, mothers can still breastfeed their babies in this condition after consulting with their breastfeeding consultants, and getting an oral antibiotic. With the help of breastfeeding, the infection can clear up, and the clogged duct can get removed.

Thrush is another type of fungal infection that is caused by yeast overgrowth. This condition can trigger achy breasts, sore nipples, and even white spots inside the baby’s cheeks, gums or tongue.

So, if you are facing such problems, then make sure to get in touch with your breastfeeding specialists to understand the problem.

Baby experiencing gassy problem after feeding

After feeding your baby if you find that he/she is having gassy issues, then there are high chances that your baby is gulping air when breastfeeding. And, this occurs due to poor latching problems. It is natural for babies to swallow air during breastfeeding, however, the best way to ensure that they are not swallowing a lot of gas during feeding time is to get a good latch.

Solutions

• At the end of the feeding session burp your baby
• Never overfeed your baby
• Make sure you are eating healthy
• Also, learn the effective way of latching your baby

Sensitive and sore problems

Generally, when new mothers start breastfeeding babies, in the initial period they can have a problem with sensitive nipples. This may stay till the baby gets well-adjusted to feeding. Otherwise, breastfeeding should not be a painful experience.

Tips to reduce the pain

• Always ensure that your baby is latched properly
• You can try and change positions
• If the pain remains, make sure to consult a good breastfeeding specialist

Conclusion

New mothers can come across several other breastfeeding challenges, and for all challenges, it is best to consult a good breastfeeding specialist. One thing as a new mother you should always keep in mind is that a lot of opinions and suggestions will come your way, however, pay heed to only what your breastfeeding specialist will tell you and what you think is best for you. In case you are searching for a well-qualified breastfeeding specialist near me, then make sure to get in touch with Ritah Maternity Care. They will provide you with all the guidance required, and help you with techniques that can make your breastfeeding experience smooth and stress-free. Want to contact us?

Then, dial +447477662103 or send us a mail at info@ritahmaternitycare.com. For more information, visit www.ritahmaternitycare.com