In our present day society, we are saturated with the benefits of breastfeeding and breast milk.
Breastfeeding can often be portrayed as “effortless” and “natural,” without the true struggles depicted that so many moms experience.
From the time you are newly pregnant, everyone from your grandmother to your provider will discuss the advantages of breastfeeding for both you and your baby. Even though breastfeeding is natural, that doesn’t mean it isn’t difficult. After carrying a baby for nine months and experiencing labor and delivery, the thought of breastfeeding can be overwhelming and even scary for many new moms. Your body is not your own during pregnancy or while you’re breastfeeding. Various breastfeeding positions, bras, and a specific breastfeeding diet are always occupying your mind as you focus on giving your little one the best possible start.
Couple that with the exhaustion you experience as a new mom, and it becomes pretty obvious why breastfeeding can be challenging.
How, then, do you go about coping when breastfeeding becomes too difficult? Who do you turn to for support? First, always remember to reach out to your midwife or OB for a list of possible resources in your area. Many of them have a list of local doulas and IBCLCs (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants) that you can reach out to for help. If you used a doula for your birth and she has experience with breastfeeding, she would also be a great person to speak with. We’ve compiled a general list of resources and tips to help get you through the tougher times when breastfeeding seems difficult and overwhelming.
1. Seek professional help
Whether from an IBCLC or your midwife, remember that it’s encouraged to reach out for support. Lactation consultants are a great resource and can help with everything breastfeeding related, included optimal positions and weighted feeds.
They will be sure to have some great breastfeeding tips. Be sure to discuss prices, though, because some lactation consultants do not accept insurance.
2. Join a support group
Breastfeeding support groups, whether in person or virtual, can be lifesavers for new moms. If you have any issues, chances are that someone else has been there, too.
Many birth centers and hospitals have free weekly support groups, and your midwife is a great resource to learn more about which support groups are available in your area.
Surprisingly to some, virtual support groups can be a great resource for moms, too. Though you won’t get the same type of support you’d receive in person, they are a great way to meet other moms who have had difficulties with breastfeeding in the past.
3. Make a list
When breastfeeding gets tough, sometimes we feel as though we should just give up. If you read this before you have your baby, make a list of all of the reasons breastfeeding is important to you. It’s ok if you’ve already had your baby! Make a list now and keep adding to it as time passes. Every time you feel overwhelmed and think about quitting, pull out your list and refer to it for some motivation.
4. Have a back-up stash
Sometimes we all need a break. Having a stash in the fridge or freezer allows you to hand off your baby so that someone else can help.
Breast milk storage today is so versatile – you can use bottles, bags, and feeding systems that allow you to pump right into them! Take a nap, get a manicure, or just grab a hot coffee at a café – let someone else feed your baby so you can get some much-needed time to yourself.
5. Take a deep breath
Along the lines of needing a break, sometimes we just need a moment to collect ourselves and recharge. Motherhood is hard, and so is breastfeeding! It’s ok to admit that you need some emotional support.
If you are having difficulty breastfeeding, you are not alone. Know that there are many clinicians, doulas, and mothers out there rooting for you and who would love to help support you through this journey. Use your resources and never hesitate to recruit help when needed. You are giving your baby the best possible start and sacrificing so much to do so – keep on nursing, mamas!
Did you experience any hard issues while breastfeeding? How did you cope with this and were you able to continue breastfeeding successfully?
