Finding Breastfeeding Support Can Help

Many new mothers seek out breastfeeding support during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Getting advice and encouragement and sharing stories can help a new mom feel better about breastfeeding. Breastfeeding support can be obtained from other breastfeeding mothers, lactations consultants and healthcare practitioners. Breastfeeding support can help a struggling mother continue to breastfeed during feeding difficulties.

Many first time mothers develop sore nipples. This can be an especially difficult time for both baby and mother. Sore nipples can make every breastfeeding session excruciatingly painful for the mother. The resulting stress and anxiety can be sensed by the infant and can cause an infant to be fussy during feedings. Sore nipples can also be a health concern for the mother if the skin is not treated appropriately. Women who experience sore nipples should consult a lactation specialist or experienced breastfeeding mother for suggestions on topical lotions and home remedies to treat sore nipples before the skin becomes cracked and opens the mother up to infection.

Some women experience a sudden decrease in her milk supply. This can cause frustration and discouragement as a mother struggles to continue breastfeeding her baby. Consulting a lactation specialist to help pinpoint the cause of a weak milk supply is often necessary. A mother with a weakened milk supply does not have to give up breastfeeding altogether. She can mix breast milk with formula to ensure that her infant gets the proper nourishment until her milk supply returns to normal.

Lactation consultants are available through local La Leche Leagues as well as most hospitals. Many obstetricians will employ or recommend a few local lactation consultants for mothers who are new to breastfeeding or those who are experiencing problems during feedings. Lactation consultants are specially trained medical personnel who are passionate about breastfeeding. It is important to be honest about your lactation problems and questions in order for the lactation specialist to assist you and your baby properly.

Learning about breastfeeding can seem like an overwhelming task. Seeking breastfeeding support can greatly reduce stress and allow for a more pleasant breastfeeding experience for you and your baby. The more you know about breastfeeding the better. Joining a breastfeeding support group, online discussion forum or chat group can help you stay connected to others who share your enthusiasm for breastfeeding. Once you have learned the facts about breastfeeding you may find yourself offering breastfeeding support to other mothers struggling with breastfeeding difficulties. Helping others is a wonderful way to contribute to your community and providing breastfeeding support and advice for new mothers can help promote breastfeeding advocacy in your community.