Many people think breastfeeding just comes naturally. Although this might be true for some, a lot of women face several challenges and difficulties when it comes to nursing their own child. However, one thing is for sure — you do not have to be alone!
With the increasing advocacy for breastfeeding, many women now have the opportunity to get support in their communities and environment.
What Breastfeeding Problems You May Need Support With?
- Fixing your baby’s latch. Perfecting the latch is essential for a painless breastfeeding experience. Knowing the best position and how to get the baby to latch well can help fix a lot of your breastfeeding issues.
- Relieving sore nipples and breast engorgement. There are several techniques you can do to help relieve you from breast and nipple pains. Lactation consultants can offer you the best tips to soothe your pain away.
- Maintaining and improving your milk supply. Many moms have issues with their milk supply. Breastfeeding experts can teach and advise you on the best methods to keep your milk supply up.
Who Can Give You Breastfeeding Support?
There are many healthcare professionals are specializing in helping breastfeeding women. In general, they are grouped in the following categories:
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). IBCLCs are highly-skilled and knowledgeable lactation experts that can help you with a wide range of breastfeeding problems. IBCLCs are certified by first earning a medical or health-related education and have extensive breastfeeding-specific education and experience. Then, they take an exam to claim their certifications.
- Certified Breastfeeding Educators (CBEs) and Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs). CBEs and CLCs have general experience and knowledge with breastfeeding. They can help you with your basic breastfeeding questions like learning how to latch or finding good positions. In order to be certified, they usually take a week-long course on the basics of breastfeeding.
Where Can You Find Breastfeeding Support Groups?
Having other breastfeeding moms to bond with your nursing experiences can be one of the greatest support you can have. Find these support groups through the following:
- Connect with your doctor or the hospital you gave birth at. Usually, they have regular breastfeeding support group meetings with an IBCLC or lactation expert leading the group.
- Find a breastfeeding peer counselor through the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs.
- Look up the internet for the nearest breastfeeding center. Here are some helpful links:
- Breastfeeding support groups have gone online as well! MOBI: Motherhood International is an online support group targeted for mothers experiencing breastfeeding problems.
- You can also connect with the national breastfeeding helpline. OWH Helpline (800-994-9662) consists of breastfeeding peer counselors that can answer common breastfeeding questions. They also have people that can speak other languages and connect you with other resources if you need additional help. The OWH Helpline is staffed Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. The Helpline is closed on federal holidays.
