Solving Breast feeding Woes

So you gave birth, making your body go through one of the hardest physical situations it could possibly go though. However, now you face yet another obstacle, one that was probably in the back of your mind but didn't come into play until that precious little being was placed on your chest to eat...breastfeeding.

There is rarely ever a time you hear a mother flat out say "I refuse to try Breastfeeding". Most moms always go in with the best of intentions because of all the amazing information known about the health benefits of breast milk. However, from painful feeding to not producing enough milk, some mothers become flustered and quit altogether. But I am going to ask you not to give up just yet.

I know it can become frustrating. I have had nursing issues with all 4 kids. The biggest issue always happens at the beginning. The infamous  loosing weight after birth. Ranging from  8#2oz-9#1oz All of my four kids have been on the larger side weight wise at birth. As soon as they are born I  begin with my first struggle, getting them to not loose too much weight, and keeping my cool while my milk comes in. Living in the society we live in bigger and more is always better right? Well not in the case of nursing. We think that because we aren't producing gallons of milk our baby isn't getting fed. That however is not the case. Check out the size of your baby's stomach....

Because at birth your baby's stomach is so small only a little bit will fit at a time. Your colostrum is not only amazing,magical food for them, but it is the perfect quantity needed. It may seem like your child isn't getting enough, especially when they start loosing weight the first few hours, so remember this size guide to give you a little peace of mind. Because a new mother feels frustration and fear they may resort to good old formula feeding because well...my baby just isn't getting enough food.   Remember though, your milk will still take a couple of days to come in and each ounce that comes out of you is specific for your baby's growth period.


Another major problem women deal with when they first begin nursing is tender and cracked nipples. Lanolin is a wonderful natural and safe product you can use to sooth the pain. It soothes and protects the nipple between feedings,because yes the nipples will hurt no matter how many times you've nursed before. One of my favorite brands is Lansinoh. Which can be found at your local drug store and even supermarket. If however that doesn't work and your breast really begin to ache and hurt it might be time to see a Lactation Consultant to help see if maybe the baby's latch is whats causing the pain.

Don't fret though, because of amazing organizations like your local La Leche League, Lactation consultants at your hospital or amazing Mother/family education centers like The Gathering Place here in S.Florida (You can find something similar in your area) you can get the help needed to overcome feeding obstacles the first few weeks.

If you successfully jump on the breastfeeding bandwagon and you get a few hiccups along the road like upping your milk supply,there are many things you can do to help improve it.


Things that help with Milk production:

Nurse as Often as possible: The More you nurse the more milk you produce. If you need to produce more milk than you need to work at it. Whether it's the baby that does the nursing or you pump the milk, it is essential that you Nurse away!

Fenugreek: This is an herb that can be found in most health food stores and in many teas like Mother's Milk tea.

Dark Ales:This advice was given to me by my mother and to her by her mother. Funny thing is my kids pediatian also recomended it. I advise within reason of course and you really don't need a lot maybe half a cup a day. I always find it interesting that I begin to crave beer as soon as I hit the third trimester and that makes total sense when you think about the wheat and barley that help with milk production.

Drink Lots of Water: When Lo was born I remember a lady from my church telling me, Drink when he drinks. Meaning, Drink water when he does. If you are dehydrated chances are your milk production will suffer so keep the water handy.

Did I say Pump? If you are really struggling with your supply pump,pump and then pump some more. Especially after baby eats.

Relax/Don't stress!: There is nothing worse for milk production than stress and worry. It WILL affect your production, so if you're having issues. Heck,go drink that dark Ale and while you're at it lay out by the pool (of course make sure you got a babysitter.lol) but in all seriousness relax!

If you stick to your guns and have patience you can be a success at breastfeeding. It won't be easy but neither was childbirth. Your milk has all the nutrients needed to help your little one grow and flourish and even the AAP says exclusive breastfeeding until at least 6 months is recommended and then add complementing foods but continue on even past 12 months, WHO recommends at least 2 years. Meaning you can give your little one an amazing start in life by breastfeeding them for a long duration.

 I know for many breastfeeding may have complications such as anatomical issues with the mother, but for most a little bit of patiences will go a long way. Enjoy this time, enjoy nursing your precious little gift. Realize that the time spent nursing is a time you will never get again and is part of the greatest bonding experience between two human beings. Cherish it, Appreciate it and remember that next to the great gift of life you gave your little one, breastfeeding them is the second.