WHEN BREASTFEEDING ISN’T GOING WELL
Breast milk is the optimal nutrition source for babies. We know this. Despite this being the case, breastfeeding can be difficult for a million different reasons, and many struggle with this alone because they don't know where to turn, or they are embarrassed that they are "failing." There is no failure in breastfeeding or motherhood! The postpartum period is exhausting even if breastfeeding is going well. Throw lactation problems into the mix for parents of a newborn baby and you've got a recipe for overwhelming exhaustion and even postpartum mood disorders. Read on to learn what you can do if you find yourself as a new parent struggling with meeting your feeding goals.
EXPECTATIONS AS A FIRST TIME MOM
Being prepared to be unprepared when you are going to have a baby is probably the best approach. Get used to the idea that things won’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Don’t feel alone. Seek support—there are so many ways to get it. Some you may not realize you will need, but some kinds of support are universal. Line up people to bring you meals or do your grocery shopping for you.
What's it Really Like to Be a First-Time Mom?
Expect the unexpected. This is my best advice going into the experience of being a first time mom. Knowing that things may not look how you picture ahead of time can make a world of difference in how you feel about your new parent journey.
ARE YOU STUCK IN TRIPLE FEEDING PRISON?
Triple feeding can be a complex and exhausting routine. The postpartum period is hard no matter what. When you add on extra steps to already exhausting newborn care, your breastfeeding journey may start to feel untenable. It's essential to have the support of a lactation professional, your pediatrician, and/or a perinatal mental health professional to monitor your progress, provide YOU with support, and make necessary adjustments. They can provide guidance tailored to your unique situation and personal experience, ensuring both you and your baby thrive.
DEALING WITH A FAST FLOW OR FORCEFUL LETDOWN
A forceful letdown occurs when milk flows from the breast faster than the baby can handle. This can be overwhelming for your little one and may require seeking the professional help of a lactation consultant.