Breastfeeding basics: practice makes perfect

It is unfair to "gloss over" the initial awkwardness of breastfeeding to make a stronger argument for the practice. It's no secret that advocates for breastfeeding are working very hard these days to dispel myths and misinformation that make formula feeding seem like a more comfortable choice. As a result, information regarding less comfortable aspects to early breastfeeding is lost among all the positive aspects that are being promoted instead. Women can find themselves frustrated and confused when they try to nurse their babies for the first few weeks, and experience pain and discomfort by engaging in what is supposed to be a "natural talent". It's not unusual for a new mother to experience these issues and fear that she has somehow done something wrong, or that her problems mean that she is not physically able to breastfeed. It doesn't help that worried new mother to hear "breastfeeding experts" tell her things like "if it hurts, you're doing it wrong" without further explaination, nor does it help her to hear "I told you so" from friends or family who have not gone through the adjustment to breastfeeding themselves. 

 

While breastfeeding is a natural, biological process, mother and baby will both be learning how to do it together. In any process of learning, participants can make small mistakes. When breastfeeding, uncertainty about positioning and latching on can result in sore nipples, engorgement, and even mastitis. These issues can usually be alleviated by making minor adjustments to breastfeeding technique, and should not deter women from nursing their babies.

 

With that in mind, it's more helpful to explain common issues that affect most women who breastfeed, than to pretend nothing will ever go wrong in an effort to discourage formula feeding. Toward this end, patient education is key during immediate maternal health care after delivery. If breastfeeding information is not readily provided by nurses and doctors after her baby is born, she must ask questions and request help if she feels she needs it. 

 

The most important thing to remember about early nursing difficulties is that they are both temporary and common. It cannot be emphasized enough that these problems happen early, and most often are resolved with proper education about breastfeeding. It helps new mothers to know that what they are feeling and experiencing is not unusual, can be alleviated, and is temporary. Any discomfort that lasts more than two or three days or is intolerable to the point that the mother dreads breastfeeding should be discussed promptly with a doctor or lactation consultant.

 

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to click "like" or "share" on the Facebook link at the left, and click here to see Melanie Nowlin's entire resource article collection on the subject of breastfeeding. You can also follow her on Twitter for links to new articles, breastfeeding Q&A, and daily updates. Ms. Nowlin also manages a Facebook community, "Breastfeeding Support and Advocacy", to which she posts article updates and helpful links for breastfeeding and expecting mothers.