Many women believe that since breastfeeding is natural, it will also be easy. However, the reality is that despite women having breastfed for centuries, it’s common to face challenges — especially if you’re a first-time mom.
Although it can be tempting to give up when problems arise, a breastfeeding expert —called a lactation consultant — can provide you with the education, support, and assistance you need to continue. Here are a few common breastfeeding concerns, and how a lactation consultant may be able to help.
1. Low milk supply
It’s common for mothers to worry about whether they are producing enough milk for their baby. If your baby is fussy after feedings or wants to nurse more often than every two hours, it could be a sign that they aren’t getting enough milk. A lactation consultant can help by determining whether your milk supply is low and troubleshooting feeding issues that could be contributing to the problem.
“Your baby should be back to their birth weight between 11-14 days of age and then gain approximately 1 ounce per day until approximately 3 months of age,” says Susan Orr, a pediatric physical therapist and lactation consultant at Torrance Memorial Health.
Torrance Memorial’s HealthLinks hosts the Lactation Center, which provides a number of services, including breast pump rentals, breastfeeding accessories and a “Mother’s Room” to weigh and feed your newborn.
2. Nipple or breast pain
Although some discomfort is normal as you adjust to breastfeeding, significant nipple or breast pain could be a sign of latching difficulty, infection, or sucking dysfunction of the newborn. Your lactation consultant will evaluate and assist with proper latch on, evaluate the baby’s suckling and observe you and your baby during feeding to check for signs of problems.
3. Latching challenges
Breastfeeding requires patience and practice — for both mom and baby. Remember this baby was fed by the umbilical cord for 9 months! If your baby continues to struggle with latching on to your breast after the first 24-48 hours, it may be time for an expert assessment by a lactation consultant.
4. Pumping questions
Many new moms will add pumping into their breastfeeding experience. Your health insurance may provide a free breast pump. Pumping is not as effective as a well-nursing baby in removing milk from the breast. Freezer storage is great way to prepare for returning to work. Lactation consultants can provide information and education on pumping — as well as recommendations on the best breast pumps, safe milk storage, and more.
Torrance Memorial lactation consultants are here for you and your baby throughout your breastfeeding journey — including before your baby’s birth, during your hospital stay, and throughout the postpartum period. To schedule an appointment with one of our lactation consultants, call 310-517-4743.
