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.

 At Bed and Baby Ltd, we support and encourage both breastfeeding and bottle feeding because we believe We're all doing our best, and our best is enough! So don't EVER doubt yourself because mama you're doing amazing!