The majority of mothers frequently consider breastfeeding to be an instinctive and natural process. However, this is not always the case for all new mothers. In India, breastfeeding is common practice and a cultural norm. In India, approximately 95% of children are breastfed, according to statistics. However, between 55% and 63.7% of infants receive exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. This could be due to difficulties breastfeeding and a lack of support. Let’s take a look at the most common issues with breastfeeding and learn how to fix them.
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Common Obstacles and Solutions for Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both the baby and the mother. Your body gets used to the rhythm of your baby’s feedings in the first few weeks, and your baby learns to latch and suckle. During this phase, a number of issues that could hinder successful breastfeeding may arise.
These are some: Feeding in pain and with sore nips One of the most common concerns is sore nipples while breastfeeding. Sharp or persistent pain may indicate a poor latch, friction, or even a fungal infection, despite the fact that some tenderness is normal at first.
What can help: Make sure that the baby’s mouth covers the entire areola, not just the nipple. Cracked skin can be soothed by applying lanolin-based cream or expressed breast milk. Reduce pressure on sore areas by switching breastfeeding positions. Don’t ignore persistent nipple pain; it often indicates that the baby isn’t latching properly and can be fixed early to avoid other problems.
Low Milk Supply
Concern over low milk supply is normal, but most mothers produce sufficient milk for their infant. Infrequent feeding, poor latching, maternal stress, and medical conditions can all result in true low supply. What can be done: Always feed on demand, which means between eight and twelve times per day. Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy diet.
Unless otherwise directed by a physician, do not supplement formula. To increase milk flow, apply compression to the breasts and switch sides. If issues persist, a lactation consultant can assist in determining if your baby is latching correctly and how to boost supply.
Engorged Breasts and Clogged Ducts When the milk “comes in,” breast engorgement typically occurs in the early postpartum period. Latching will be difficult due to the weight, swelling, and sensitivity of the breasts. What can be done: Feed the baby more often and do not miss night feeds.
For relief, apply warm compresses before feeding. Massage the breast lightly during feeding to facilitate milk flow.
If left untreated, clogged ducts can manifest as tender lumps and lead to mastitis. If the symptoms get worse, continue feeding from the affected side and see a doctor. Baby Isn’t Properly Latching One of the main causes of most breastfeeding issues, from sore nipples to insufficient milk supply, is improper latching. When the latch is done right, the baby gets enough milk and the mother doesn’t have to feel any pain. What can be done: sound like clicking or smacking The lips are pressed inward. After the feed, the baby looks frustrated or unsatisfied. An experienced maternity professional or lactation consultant will be able to show proper positioning and assist in checking for anatomical problems such as tongue-tie.
Breast Infections (Mastitis)
Redness, fever, and flu-like symptoms are all signs of mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue. It can be brought on by bacterial entry through cracked nipples or blocked ducts. What can help:
Pumping or breastfeeding should not stop. Rest and stay well hydrated.
Consult your doctor if antibiotics are needed.
Untreated mastitis can progress quickly, so don’t delay seeking care.
How to Help Mothers Who Are Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is a personal journey and unique for every mother. It also depends on the mother’s mental and physical health as a whole.
Support at Home
By sharing household duties and ensuring that the mother has uninterrupted time to rest and nurse, partners, family, and support staff can ease the journey. Expertise from the Healthcare Sector It is extremely helpful to receive timely guidance regarding feeding positions and latching strategies from trained lactation consultants, nurses, and doctors. Assistance in the Workplace Maternity leave that is sufficient, flexible working hours, designated nursing rooms, and understanding coworkers all help mothers continue breastfeeding. Acceptance in Society and Public Spaces Breastfeeding can be done in public places like malls, airports, and hospitals in comfort and cleanliness, making it easier for mothers to do so while they are on the move. Peer and Community Support Social media breastfeeding support and peer groups facilitate the sharing of shared experiences, as well as emotional reassurance and breastfeeding advice for new mothers.
Breastfeeding Support at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Although breastfeeding is a natural process, it does not come without effort. The majority of issues with breastfeeding are brief and treatable with the appropriate assistance. Early intervention can help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a healthy start for both you and your baby. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Our hospital’s Centre for Mother and Child provides new mothers with expert-led, individualized lactation support. We provide both inpatient and outpatient guidance tailored to each mother’s needs and challenges.
It includes: individual counseling with licensed lactation consultants Classes for postnatal education Support for returning to work while continuing breastfeeding
Guidance on breastfeeding, pumping and storage techniques
At Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, you can talk to the best maternity specialists for help with your breastfeeding journey.
