12 Aug Common Breastfeeding Problems
Breastfeeding has numerous benefits, not only for the child but also for the mother. However, some challenges might come along the way, especially if you are a first-time mom.
When you breastfeed your baby, they have a lower risk of:
- Infections, such as respiratory and ear
- Bacterial meningitis
- Asthma
- Infant mortality and Sudden Infant Syndrome (SIDS)
- Childhood obesity
- Eczema
- Type 2 diabetes
- Leukemia
- Cavities
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Meanwhile, mothers who breastfeed their babies are found to experience the following benefits:
- May help with weight loss
- May help the uterus to contract
- Have a lower risk for depression
- Have lower risk for:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Arthritis
- More bonding time with the baby
Despite the many benefits of breastfeeding, there are also breastfeeding problems that mothers encounter.
Common Breastfeeding Problems
Every mother experiences the challenges of breastfeeding as it takes time and practice to perfectly do it without any problem.
Here are some common concerns when you are a breastfeeding mom:
Sore nipples
It happens when your baby is not positioned and attached properly to your breast. It can cause some discomfort and pain. Contact your health care provider if you experience sore nipples while breastfeeding.
Low milk supply
Know the cause behind your low milk supply. It can be a cause of stress for you worrying whether your baby is getting the milk they need.
Some causes of low milk supply include:
- Lack of bonding
- Worry and stress
- Tiredness
- Poor attachment
- Delay in initiating breastfeeding
- Delivery complications, diabetes, or other illnesses
Breast engorgement
When your breasts are full of milk, breast engorgement might occur. It can feel hard, tight, and painful
You can prevent breast engorgement by:
- Pumping or breastfeeding frequently
- Start breastfeeding as soon as after delivery
- Check if your baby is latching properly
- Allow unrestricted breastfeeding
Blocked milk ducts might happen if breast engorgement is not addressed right away.
What If You Cannot Breastfeed?
Several causes might affect your ability to breastfeed. Sometimes, it might be because of a medical condition, illness, or effects of surgery. It can also be because of your schedule, especially if you are a working mom.
Talk to your health care provider to know what the best formula for your baby is to get the nutrients they need.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your partner and other loved ones for support.
Get a reliable partner when it comes to taking care of your baby. Know more about iCare’s Maternity Care here https://shop.insularhealthcare.com.ph/maternity-care
SOURCE:
National Health Service. (n.d.). Breastfeeding problems. NHS. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding-problems/common-problems/
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Benefits of breastfeeding. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15274-benefits-of-breastfeeding
UNICEF. (n.d.). 5 common breastfeeding problems. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://www.unicef.org/parenting/food-nutrition/5-common-breastfeeding-problems