3 Challenges To Overcome While Breastfeeding
Many things can happen during breastfeeding that make it challenging to complete the activity. Not everything is pink at this stage, even though we agree that it is wonderful. A woman’s body is prepared to face most of the challenges of motherhood, but is sometimes pushed to the limit.
Since breastfeeding is the natural and exclusive way to feed the baby, it is not something that we can avoid so easily. However, sometimes certain challenges that arise, lead the mother to abandon breastfeeding prematurely. It is not just a skill that we learn through practice, or it is something innate. We don’t really know how our body is going to react and what problems may arise.
It is known that during breastfeeding, the mother can suffer some setbacks. However, all obstacles must be overcome in order to continue feeding the little one. Among the main challenges to overcome, we have the following.
The challenges to overcome in breastfeeding
Low milk production
It is a fairly common challenge. Although the body has been preparing for this work for months, the time comes when it is possible for us to produce the desired amount of milk. It is important to overcome this obstacle in time, as the baby can suffer from nutritional deficiencies.
To increase the amount of milk we produce, it is necessary to adjust to the demand of the baby. We may not be feeding the little one often enough. In this regard, it is understood that the signal that the body receives to produce more milk is when the breasts are empty.
When using the pump, the breast is not completely empty. For this reason, the best way to reactivate production is by breastfeeding the baby more. Sometimes, you need to boost this production much more. In such a case, nutritional supplements may be indicated.
Between the first 3 and 6 weeks, the body is adjusting to the baby’s needs. Therefore, it is common for a breast to be softer and less full. This may be cause for concern in the mother, however, it is a normal adjustment process.
It can also happen that the use of certain contraceptives reduces milk production. In this case, it is recommended to change the contraceptive method, for a non-hormonal one, such as the condom or the diaphragm.
Congestion
Engorgement occurs when the breast is very full of milk. Usually this process occurs in the first week of breastfeeding. The cause of congestion is the lack of supply adjustment, which is regulated according to the baby’s need.
However, this challenge can occur at any stage of breastfeeding. For it to occur, we just need to stop pumping our breasts for a long time. Stopping breastfeeding for a long time causes the breasts to become engorged with milk, causing much pain and hardening of the breast.
To alleviate the process, it is convenient to pump as soon as possible, either through the pump or breastfeeding . This challenge is not only painful, it can also cause complications. For example, milk supply may decrease over time or the ducts may become clogged.
Avoiding engorgement is easy, just with frequent breastfeeding. To do this, you need to plan this task in advance. In the event that we need to separate from the baby for a long time, let us take the pump with us. It is recommended to use the device at the time we are used to breastfeeding, without waiting for the breast to fill.
Similarly, avoid breastfeeding when it is too congested. If the breast is round and hard, the little one may have trouble grasping the nipple. When this happens, please try to pump a little before you start breastfeeding.
Sore nipples
Pain in the nipples is a challenge that usually occurs in the first week of breastfeeding. In most cases, the nipple hurts from a problem with the suction mechanics. For example, if the baby is not taking much of the areola, it can cause more pain.
The nipple may be hurt or injured if the little one only sucks on the sharper end. A correct position avoids the main damages and pains. To check that the baby is opening his mouth sufficiently, it is necessary to insert the clean finger and place it in the correct position.
In the event that cracks appear or some type of bleeding occurs, it is advisable to use gel pads, to prevent the bra from sticking to the nipple. The milk itself has the components that help the nipple heal. However, it is possible to use products intended for this purpose.
The main challenges of breastfeeding occur in the first few weeks. Over the days, the process becomes easier. In case of doubts, do not forget to go to the specialists.
