Follow your instincts and breastfeeding will be a breeze. It’s natural and instinctual. HA!
This is not the case for many mothers, including myself. I really had no idea how hard nursing was going to be for me. I prepared myself mentally and physically for a natural birth but didn’t put much thought into nursing.
For the first month I had to pump. I also had my son’s tongue clipped unnecessarily. The next year included more than TWENTY clogged milk ducts, multiple bouts of mastitis, leaky boobs, and of course a whole lot of crying in the shower. The whole thing was a milky mess.
I’ve learned a lot along the way. If you are struggling with your nursing journey you are NOT alone. Talk to your friends, family, other moms and don’t be afraid to reach out to a lactation consultant.
Tips for Pregnant Moms
If you are currently pregnant I highly recommend you take some time to educate yourself on breastfeeding. I read Ina May’s Guide to Breastfeeding after my first son was born and of course I wish I would have read it sooner. I reread it again during my second pregnancy. It truly is the Bible for breastfeeding and I can’t recommend it enough. When it comes to breastfeeding, you and your new baby both have to learn a new skill and there are bound to be setbacks. If you have a little bit more knowledge beforehand, you might be more equipped to help guide your baby, who unfortunately can’t read yet.
Leaky Boobs
Even with all the knowledge under your belt, you might come across other challenges. Perhaps your boobs leak at the grocery store when someone else’s baby cries in the distance. While it is totally normal it still can be utterly embarrassing if you are not prepared. You could always carry a water bottle around with you that you pretend to accidentally spill on yourself to mask the nipple stains, or you can invest in some nursing pads.
Bamboobies have a variety of nursing essentials, but I LOVE their line of washable nursing pads. They are discreet, soft, and comfortable and are super absorbent to soak up those leaks like a charm. I love that you can wash and reuse them over and over again! They come in a super cute heart design which just makes me love them more.
If while you are nursing or pumping you notice your opposite breast is dripping then the Haakaa is for you! This seriously genius silicone breast pump suctions to your breast but does not actually suckle. It collects the letdown of your opposite breast so that precious liquid gold doesn’t go to waste. If you’ve ever cried over spilt breast milk (I have) you will surely appreciate this.
Oversupply Boobs
If you have leaky boobs, you might be also dealing with an oversupply issue. Some babies struggle with the rapid flow that comes as a result of an overabundance of milk. It can also be super uncomfortable for moms. There are a lot of hormonal adjustments in the first few weeks/months after having a baby, so it does take some time for your milk production to regulate based on your baby’s requirements. If you are worried about oversupply, I recommend you first talk to a lactation consultant. You don’t want to diminish your supply prematurely. For some discomfort relief try using heat on your breasts. Sometimes warm water from the shower will do the trick and other times you might want a little extra relief, these 3 in 1 Therapy Packs that can be used cold or hot. Warmed up it can help encourage milk let-down, which will help relieve that uncomfortable engorgement feeling.
If you are certain you want to ease up on your supply or if you are ready to wean your baby off your breast you can try No More Milk Tea by Earth Mama Organics is a great option. It is formulated to help reduce the production of breast milk. If you have suffered from the loss of a baby, this tea can help decrease the milk supply and help relieve the physical discomfort during the intensely emotional time.
Low Supply Boobs
What if your boobs just don’t seem to be producing enough. Again, if you are worried about this, it is a great idea to go see a lactation consultant. They can give some great tips, tricks, and supplements to get your milk flowing.
Many moms don’t realize how important hydration is when nursing and sometimes simply upping your water intake will be the only change needed. If you need a little more help to increase your supply there are lots of options. If you enjoy a cup of tea, Milkmaid Tea by Earth Mama Organics is a comforting blend that is filled with organic herbs that help support healthy lactation and milk production. If you are more of a foodie, try some delicious Boobie Bars. They come in yummy flavors like peanut butter, blueberry muffin, and oatmeal chocolate chip. If you just want to take a supplement and not worry about brewing or chewing check out Motherlove MORINGA herbal supplement.
Sore Boobs
If you’ve breastfed for a week a month, or a year, you’ve likely at some point dealt with some discomfort along the way. If not, tell us, what’s your secret?
Nipple cream like Motherlove, Earth Mama Nipple Butter or Lansinoh Lanolin is essential for discomfort from sore or cracked nipples and if you don’t use it all you can always use it instead of chapstick on your lips!
Frida has an amazing Breast Care Self Care Kit that is stocked with helpful tools to help ease the discomforts associated with breastfeeding. The pack includes a 2-in1 lactation massager, instant heat breast warmers, and breast masks for lactation and hydration.
Pumping Boobs
For all those pumping mamas out there, investing in a hands-free pump bra is seriously worth it. I got mine from Simple Wishes and it was an absolute game-changer for me. It is SO much easier to pump hands-free! If you are interested in other recommendations for nursing and pumping bras check out our previous post on Best Nursing and Pumping Bras.
Breastfeeding is amazing and wonderful and has so many benefits, but it can be so difficult too. The challenges you face as a new mom, or even as a veteran breast feeder can sometimes arise without warning. I hope that this post will help you with some issues you may face.
Don’t forget to ask for help and to talk about your challenges. Reach out to a lactation consultant, talk to your midwife, doula, or friend. You are never alone and you are stronger than the suction on a double electric pump.
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Are you currently pregnant or planning to conceive? If so, make sure to download my FREE resource — How to Prepare Your Pelvic Floor & Core for Childbirth + 8 Must-Dos for C-Section and Vaginal Deliveries.
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