Having Trouble Breastfeeding? Let's Talk About Solutions

You’re a believer that the breast is best, but breastfeeding isn’t going as you planned or hoped. The good news? You’re not alone. 

A shocking 70% of mothers have experienced at least one roadblock while breastfeeding; recent studies show that new moms are less likely to try it.

Dr. Caleigh Rodriguez and our team know that giving your baby the nutrients it needs is more important than the debate over formula feeding versus breastfeeding. However, we also understand that breastfeeding is a unique and beautiful experience to be cherished and protected. 

That’s why we help new and veteran moms navigate the many obstacles that can get in the way. This blog highlights some of the most common breastfeeding barriers and possible solutions. 

Nipple issues

Sore, cracked, bleeding nipples are one of the main reasons moms throw in the towel on breastfeeding, and for good reason. Breastfeeding can be painful, especially if it’s your first time attempting it.

Fortunately, there’s usually an answer to both soothing your nipples and making the experience more comfortable. 

First, it’s essential to understand that your nipples need a bit of a grace period after the baby is born. It might take a few weeks for your nipples to toughen up and adjust to the new demand. 

Over-the-counter products, like gel pads and nipple creams, are excellent for soothing your nipples between nursing sessions. 

If it's been a few weeks and you’re still in pain, we discuss the possibility of a latching problem. A proper latch should not be painful. We can work with you on improving your baby’s latch or direct you to an expert lactation consultant for continued care and support. 

Many latch issues work themselves out with practice, but sometimes your baby has a lip- or tongue-tie, a high or arched palate, a cleft palate or lip, or an exaggerated tongue thrust that keeps them from latching correctly. We leave no stone unturned and check your baby for a possible oral problem. 

Returning to work

More moms are returning to work after maternity leave — 55%, to be exact. One of the obstacles is figuring out how to keep up your supply when you’re away from your little one.

If you talk with us about your plans to return to work, we can help you develop a realistic pumping and feeding schedule to ensure your supply stays steady while you’re away. 

It’s also good to talk with your employer or supervisor about your need to pump regularly during work hours. You should invest in an excellent breast pump and plenty of storage bags.

Being left in the dark

Formula feeding and exclusively pumping have their advantages. You always know how much your baby is getting to eat. That’s not the case with breastfeeding. 

Many moms express concerns about whether their breastfed baby is getting enough nutrition. A good rule of thumb to help you know that your baby is getting enough is to check if they meet all their milestones, have regular wet and dirty diapers, and gain healthy weight. 

This concern is one of the main reasons we strongly encourage you to bring your baby in for regular wellness exams. We can detect a plateau in their development and help you devise a plan to increase your milk supply, adjust your feeding schedule, and supplement their nutrition to get them back on track. 

Supply issues

Breastfeeding is about finding the happy medium, but it can be tricky to find that perfect balance. 

Low reserve and oversupply can happen at any time during your breastfeeding journey. 

Your supply dips when you introduce solid foods, stretch the time between feeds, or drop a nursing session. Some women have underlying medical conditions that make it physically impossible to keep up with demand. 

The reverse is also true, particularly for first-time moms. Oversupply occurs when your body adjusts to your baby’s needs and accidentally makes and releases too much milk. Like low supply, underlying health conditions can make you a more active milk producer. 

Both supply issues can affect your baby’s nutrition and make breastfeeding a nightmare. 

Talk to us about everything you notice with your baby’s feeding habits to help us determine if you have a supply issue. It’s usually easy to fix with a few simple pumping hacks, adjusted schedules, and treatments for any underlying health problems getting in the way. 

Don’t let breastfeeding frustrations keep you from caring for your baby the way you want to. Make an appointment with Dr. Rodriguez to get answers to your questions and help with your breastfeeding problems. 

When you’re ready, call our friendly staff at 830-745-4631 or use our book online to schedule a consultation today. We proudly serve families in the New Braunfels, Texas, area.