Q: I’m a new mother and I’ve chosen to breastfeed my baby. But it’s been a lot harder than I thought. My baby is having trouble latching on and I’m worried that she’s not getting enough milk. What’s worse is that the poor latch is starting to become really painful. I’m beginning to think that it may be easier to switch to formula. What would you recommend?
A: This is a very common question and many new mothers are surprised to find breastfeeding so challenging. While the idea that “breast is best” is very much promoted, unfortunately, many new mothers aren’t well-supported in the early stages of breastfeeding. Add sleep deprivation, hormone fluctuation and the sometimes overwhelming feelings of being responsible for a tiny human being to the mix, and it’s no surprise that formula can sometimes seem to be an easier and more comforting alternative.
Breastfeeding isn’t as straightforward as it appears–some babies are real “naturals” while others need a little extra help. It’s just important to remember that breast milk provides your baby with all the important nutrients they need so it’s worth giving it your best shot.
If you’re having difficulty getting your baby to feed, speak up now! The sooner you get support—from a public health nurse, lactation consultant, midwife, doula or even an experienced mom friend—the sooner you and your baby will start to enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding. Many local hospitals also offer breastfeeding clinics where you can learn more about getting a good latch and are able to weigh your baby to ensure he or she is getting enough milk.
In the meantime, the tips below can help you improve your breastfeeding technique:
Latching:
Sore nipples or a poor milk supply may start to develop if your baby is latching onto your nipple and not the areola (the dark circle around the nipple).
To help your baby latch on correctly:
- Sit tummy-to-tummy with your baby.
- Make sure your baby’s ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line and that her baby’s nose is level with the nipple.
- Bring your baby close to your breast.
- Touch your nipple to your baby’s lips.
- Quickly pull your baby into your nipple when her mouth opens wide (you can even try and catch your baby yawning!)
You may find it helpful to support both the weight of your breast and your baby’s head at the base of the neck. Many mothers worry about suffocation, but your baby will still be able to breathe even though her nose is pressed into your breast.
After your baby has latched on make sure that:
- Your baby’s mouth is about one inch away from the tip of your nipple and around the areola.
- Your baby’s lips are turned outward against the breast.
- The motion of the suck is along the jaw and not in the cheeks.
- You adjust the position if needed. If the latch is painful, take the baby off immediately by sticking your pinky finger in the baby’s mouth to de-latch and then try to get a better latch. Leaving your baby on when the latch is painful will only cause damage to your nipple (cracking or bleeding) and can cause you to start dreading feed times.
Many new mothers think that they don’t have enough breast milk. With some exceptions, most mothers can produce enough milk, so be confident that your baby is getting all the nourishment she needs. Weigh your baby regularly—at a breastfeeding clinic or the doctor’s office—and look for 5-7 wet diapers per day to make sure that she’s getting enough milk.
If, after seeking support, breastfeeding is still not working out for you, or you need to supplement feedings with formula, don’t despair. While exclusive breastfeeding is highly recommended for babies until six months of age, every case is unique and should be treated as such.
VHA Home HealthCare offers Newborn Assistance services for new parents. Visit our website (http://www.vha.ca/our-services/child-a-family-care.html or contact us at 416-489-2500 for more information.
For online support visit the Le Leche League Canada at: www.lllc.ca
