Overcoming Breastfeeding Problems

Breastfeeding is the most appropriate way of providing nutrition to  a baby. It protects him from various infections and allergies and promotes physiological, motor-mental and psycho-social growth and development. Breast milk also provides the initial nutrition required to strengthen the immune system.

The World Health Organization recommends that an infant must be exclusively breastfedfor about six months. This can be followed by additional diet as per the country you belong to. However, many new mothers face breastfeeding problems in the first few days of nursing. These can range from no milk supply to gorged breasts and latching problems.

Though most problems such as low milk supply or gorged breasts get resolved in about a week after delivery, some women might face these breastfeeding problems for a longer duration. There are several ways of overcoming breastfeeding problems. If you are not able to feed your baby every 2-3 hours due to low milk supply, cracked or sore nipples, gorged breasts or infection in breasts, it is the best to  consult an experienced lactation expert. Some tips to overcome breastfeeding problems include:

• Prepare for breastfeeding: Learn about breastfeeding problems from a lactation consultant beforedelivery  You can also talk to some nursing mothers and gain more knowledge from their experiences. This way you will also be able to avoid the mistakes they made. For instance, it is recommended to initiate breastfeeding in the first half hour afterdelivery. However, many new mothers do not know about this and tend to feed the baby whenever they wish to. Low milk supply: Milk production is a demand and supply process, so the more frequently you feed your baby; more the milk production. Feeding your baby regularly, say every 2-3 hours will regulate the milk production.
• Suckling problems: In the initial months, the production of milk may be higher in some mothers leading to breast engorgement, leading to latching problem for the baby. This may even result inflatten the nipples. Express some milk, so that your breasts are not too full. This will help your baby suckle better and breastfeed comfortably.
• Breast problems: Redness, itchiness or inflammation on any part of your breasts, indicates an infection in the breast. The only way of overcoming breastfeeding problems like these is to get appropriate medical attention and medication.

Consult your lactation expert or doctor if particular breastfeeding problems persist for a long time. Low weight gain by your baby is one of the signs of breastfeeding problems. This often means your baby is not getting adequate milk. It’s best to take professional help, so that your baby gets proper nutrition and you are comfortable while feeding your baby.

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