The Honest Truth About Breastfeeding
Your first pregnancy can be a magical and exciting time. However,
preparing for a newborn can also be incredibly overwhelming. One thing you
might be considering is how to feed your new bundle of joy once he or she is
born. Here is everything you need to know about the ups and downs of
breastfeeding.
Breast vs Bottle
There is scientific proof that a mother’s milk is superior
to anything that can be made in a lab. It contains the perfect nutrient balance
for your child, giving them everything they need to grow strong and healthy. It
helps to build their immune system and creates an incredible bond between the
two of you. Best of all, it is completely free and is always available when
your child is hungry.
Having said that, the breastfeeding journey can be a
difficult one and the pressure to do what others think is right can be intense.
Almost all new mothers struggle at first and the support is not always
available for those who need it. .
Bottle feeding has its own benefits for mother and baby – it
allows all members of the family to help with a hungry child and it is easier
to keep an eye on how much milk your baby is consuming. Some mothers do not
feel comfortable breastfeeding in public and there can be other emotional
barriers too. While all experts agree that breast is best, you cannot be the
best possible mother if you are not looking after yourself too. If you find
breastfeeding is putting more strain on your body than you can reasonably
handle, then bottle feeding is a fantastic alternative that will ensure your
baby is well-fed.
Common Barriers to Breastfeeding (And How to Overcome Them)
If you do decide to breastfeed, you will find it takes
around six weeks for a healthy mum and baby combo to really get to grips with it.
Even then, issues can arise. Some of the problems that can occur include:
·
Sore nipples: Nipples often become
painful in the first few weeks as the tender area adjusts to some intense
suckling! It can also occur due to poor latching technique, incorrect use of a
breast pump or infection. There are hundreds of treatments for sore nipples on
the market, with some working better than others. Lanolin creams work well, as
do gel pads. Another good tip is to simply squeeze a little extra milk out after
feeding and rub it into the nipple.
·
Engorgement: This occurs when your
breasts are full of milk and can usually be relieved by feeding your baby or
using a breast pump to drain them. If neither option is available, there are
other ways to take away the pain. A warm shower can help with let-down and a
cold compress can help reduce swelling.
It is worth mentioning that engorgement is
a normal occurrence around three days after giving birth. This is when your
milk supply comes in and is something that both breastfeeding and
bottle-feeding mothers experience. It lasts for around 24 hours and is nothing
to worry about. In order to prevent it happening again later in your
breastfeeding journey, make sure to alternate breasts each feed and experiment
with different baby positioning in order to drain milk from every gland.
·
Blocked milk ducts: These are sometimes
painful and can be itchy, but usually present themselves as a small lump on
your breast. Soaking your breasts in Epsom salts can help relive the pressure,
as can a warm towel. However, the best solution usually comes from adjusting
your baby’s position when feeding, so that their nose points towards the
blocked duct – this can help drain the affected area.
·
Mastitis: This can occur as a result of
blocked ducts or when the breast hasn’t been fully drained. Tight fitting bras
and cracked nipples increase your chances of getting it. Mastitis causes the
breast to become sore, hot and red. If you think you have it, feed on that side
more often and massage and air the breast wherever possible. If it doesn’t
clear up within a day, you may need antibiotics.
Sometimes the only problem is that you just haven’t got your
baby in the right position. Experiment holding them in different ways until you
both feel comfortable and don’t be shy to ask for help – health visitors and
midwives are a fountain of advice. You might also be lucky enough to have a
breastfeeding support group in your area which can be an invaluable resource
for you.
Breastfeeding might seem daunting, but once you get to grips
with it, it can be one of the most special things you can ever do with your
baby. Those quiet moments alone with your gorgeous little one will strengthen
your bond and give you the chance to really appreciate the life you have
brought into the world.
