The Top 5 Challenges with Breastfeeding
We wanted to take the opportunity during National Breastfeeding Month to address some common challenges (to let you know you’re not alone) and provide general recommendations, as many of these early challenges can be overcome with the proper guidance and resources.
As medical professionals, we are proponents of breastfeeding and recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Babies who are breastfed have improved nutrition and decreased risk of infection and illness. Women who breastfeed have lower rates of breast and ovarian cancer and, the longer they stick with it, it also lowers the rate of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
However, as parents who have experienced breastfeeding or have gone through the experience with our partners, we also know that it is one of the most difficult and labor-intensive commitments - physically, mentally and emotionally - that a woman can make. Some women cannot breastfeed due to medical reasons, and others can’t or make other feeding choices for personal reasons. We support you no matter what you decide.
Here are some of the top challenges:
2. Persistent pain or nipple injury
Experiencing pain during breastfeeding is common. Feeding your baby every few hours can result in sore (even cracked or bleeding!) nipples. However, if the pain persists for more than a week, we recommend seeing a doctor or lactation consultant. An examination will best help health providers determine the specific cause of your pain and determine appropriate treatment. There are many amazing lactation consultants in our area, and we are happy to provide referrals. If you have questions about lactation or would like a referral, please contact us!
4. Concerns regarding medication use during lactation
Many medications are safe while breastfeeding, and there are excellent resources available based upon current research. It is important to discuss with your doctor which medications are approved for breastfeeding moms.
1. Perceived or actual low milk supply
Your milk supply is considered adequate if the average feeding frequency is 8–12 times per day (some infants need more frequent feedings), steady weight is gained by day four or day five, and 6–8 wet diapers occur on average per day. If you see signs of jaundice, insufficient wet or soiled diapers, lethargy, inconsolability, unchanged stool color (not bright yellow by day five), and a lack of steady infant weight gain by day four, then you should contact your doctor.
3. Returning to work
If you work for an employer with five or more employees, the Virginia Pregnant Workers Fairness Act gives you a right to a reasonable accommodation for lactation or medical conditions related to lactation, which includes breaks and a private place, other than a bathroom, for expressing breast milk or pumping.
5. Mental health
Postpartum depression and anxiety can augment many of these challenges. About 2-3 days after childbirth, some women begin to feel depressed, anxious, upset and even angry. They may cry for no clear reason, have difficulty eating and sleeping, and question their parenting skills. The good news is that most of these “baby blues” symptoms subside within 1-2 weeks. However, if they persist longer or intensify, please contact your doctor. Do not wait for your postpartum checkup to seek help.
Interested in more breastfeeding information and resources? Visit the Feeding page under the Third Trimester page on the Obstetrics section of our website.
