Overcoming the Common Breastfeeding and Breast Pumping Challenges

Breastfeeding and breast pumping can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby. However, the journey presents some challenges along the way.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common challenges breastfeeding and breastfeeding moms face, and provide some tips and tricks to overcome them.

Challenge #1: Shrinkage

One of the most common challenges for breastfeeding mothers is engorgement, which occurs when your breasts are overfilled with milk. This can be painful and uncomfortable.

If you are breastfeeding, it may be difficult for your baby to latch on properly. If you are pumping, fitting the flanges and pumping can be very uncomfortable.

Solution:

To manage the swelling, try using warm compresses or taking a bath before feeding, and massage your breasts to encourage milk flow. You can also try expressing a little milk by hand or using a breast pump before feeding to help soften your breasts and make it easier for your baby to latch on.

Challenge #2: Sore and cracked nipples

Sore and cracked nipples are another common challenge that breastfeeding mothers face. This can be caused by a number of factors, including an improper latch, a child being tongue-tied, or an infection such as thrush.

Solution:

To cope with nipple pain and cracking, make sure your baby is latching on properly. You can also use a breastfeeding-safe nipple cream to soothe sore nipples.

Nipple rashes can be caused by moisture in the area. You can try blowing air out of your nipples after feeding. The best way is to use chest pads to soak up any dampness and keep the area clean and dry. It also helps prevent the risk of rashes and infections.

Challenge #3: Low milk supply

Some mothers may struggle with low milk supply. This can be caused by several factors including stress, dehydration, or certain medications. Common symptoms of a low milk supply are if your baby is always hungry, not gaining enough weight, not enough wet diapers, or doesn’t seem full after feedings.

Solution:

To cope with a low milk supply, try to drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats. You can also try using a breast pump to stimulate milk production and consider taking supplements like fenugreek or blessed thistle to boost milk supply.

Usually, the problem of low milk supply resolves on its own while the baby is still nursing. Breast milk supply depends on demand. And as long as your body gets signals that your baby needs more milk, your supply adjusts.

If you don’t breastfeed often, an electric pump that mimics the movements of breastfeeding can help. Keeping a picture of your baby close to you if you are pumping at work can be a good idea to improve breast milk supply while pumping. Breastmilk production is linked to the love hormone oxytocin which is secreted when you feel love.

Challenge #4: Finding time to pump

Breast pumping can be a great way to provide breast milk for your baby when you are not around to breastfeed. However, finding time to pump can be a challenge for busy moms.

Solution:

To combat this, try to pump at the same time each day, and consider using a hands-free pumping bra so you can multitask while pumping. You can also pump in the car during your commute or during work breaks. Consider using a portable breast pump if you need to pump on the go.

Challenge #5: Balancing breastfeeding and work

Balancing breastfeeding and work can be a challenge for working mothers, especially if their workplace does not provide adequate support for pumping.

Solution:

To cope with this, try to talk to your employer about your needs, and consider advocating for better pumping facilities or flexible work arrangements. If your work schedule allows you to take time off to breastfeed, this can be a big help.

If you can’t be with baby for all breastfeeding sessions, you might consider storing pumped breastmilk that can be given to baby in your absence. You can also try pumping during your lunch break or other breaks throughout the day, and consider using a hands-free pumping bra so you can continue working while pumping.

Challenge #6: Breastfeeding in public

Breastfeeding is a natural process to feed the baby. However, some women may feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public places.

Solution:

Nowadays, many public places like airports and shopping centers have nursing rooms that you can use (Check out the Top 8 nursing rooms in Singapore). You can also use a nursing cover breastfeed or pump in public. It helps create a private bubble for you on the train ride, in restaurants, or by the beach so you can comfortably nurse the baby or use your breast pump.

Final thoughts

Breastfeeding and pumping can present many challenges, but with the right approach, it is possible to overcome them and enjoy the many benefits of breastfeeding.

Remember to take care of yourself, seek support from loved ones or a lactation consultant, and be patient with yourself and your baby as you navigate this new experience.