Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences of motherhood, but it can also be one of the most challenging.

Breastfeeding is a full time job and it has its ups and downs, but I fully believe it is completely worth the initial (and sometimes continuous) struggles.  As a mother who has been breastfeeding my baby boy, Lake, for the last 3 months, I have learned a lot along the way and want to share my tips and advice with all of you.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that every breastfeeding journey is unique. What works for one mom may not work for another, and that’s okay. Don’t compare yourself to others or feel like you’re doing something wrong if things don’t go as smoothly as you hoped. Trust your instincts and know that you are doing the best you can for your little one.

Now, let’s dive into some helpful tips for breastfeeding success!

Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, there may come a time when you need a little extra help and support with breastfeeding and there’s no shame in that!

In this post, I’m sharing my knowledge and experience to help you know when you should seek breastfeeding support and where you can find it. Like I said, this is my knowledge and experience so if you have any questions about if you should seek support scroll down to Where to Find Breastfeeding Support below and reach out to a professional in Milwaukee Wisconsin!

When to Seek Breastfeeding Support

The first few days after birth

The first few days after birth can be an overwhelming time for new moms, and this is when seeking breastfeeding support is crucial. In these early days, it’s common for both mom and baby to be learning the ropes and adjusting to the new experience of breastfeeding.

When I came home from the hospital, my husband Caleb was a huge help in getting Lake to latch properly. I have such an amazing support system at home and I really think that’s why we were able to get through those early days without any major issues. Thanks, Caleb!

Common Challenges in the First Few Days

Many new moms experience challenges in the first few days of breastfeeding, such as difficulty with latching, sore nipples, or low milk supply. These issues can be frustrating and overwhelming, but with the right support and guidance, they can be overcome.

Helping your baby achieve a proper, strong latch can be challenging—especially when you’re exhausted and recovering from childbirth. For me, having Caleb assist by holding Lake and guiding him to my breast made all the difference. It allowed us to achieve a wide, deep, and pain-free latch, which was incredibly helpful in those early moments.

If you’re experiencing:

• Difficulty latching your baby
• Potential low milk supply
• or you think your baby isn’t getting enough milk…

Seeking professional support can make a world of difference in your breastfeeding journey. Experts can guide you with proper positioning, latch techniques, and practical tips to help ensure success.

Addressing concerns early can prevent more significant challenges later, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you need assistance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many support options available to help you along the way.

If you experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding

While some mild discomfort is expected as you and your baby adjust, ongoing or severe pain is a sign that something is not right.

If you’re experiencing pain, soreness, or discomfort while breastfeeding, it’s time to seek support. There are professionals who can assess your breastfeeding technique, check your baby’s latch, and offer suggestions to improve your comfort while breastfeeding.

Delaying seeking help can lead to more severe pain or even infection. For the most part, breastfeeding should be a comfortable and enjoyable experience, and there is no need to suffer in silence!

If your baby isn’t gaining weight or is losing weight

If your baby isn’t gaining weight or is losing weight, it might be time to seek some breastfeeding support. While it’s normal for babies to lose a little weight in the first few days after birth, if they’re not gaining it back or continue to lose weight, that’s a red flag that something isn’t right.

Don’t panic – there’s help available!

If you’re struggling with milk supply

If you’re worried that your milk supply isn’t keeping up with your baby’s demands, it might be time to seek some help.

But before you do, let’s make sure you’re actually struggling with milk supply.

Are you getting fewer than six wet diapers a day? Is your baby fussy and seems like they’re still hungry even after a feed? If so, it’s time to seek some help from a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if your milk supply is the issue or if there’s something else going on. And if it is a milk supply issue, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to boost your milk production and keep your little one well-fed.

To keep my milk supply consistent I’ve been eating a lot of red meat, drinking plenty of fluids, and making high protein lactation cookies in bulk.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed about breastfeeding

Feeling overwhelmed or stressed about breastfeeding? That alone is a great reason to get some support—you don’t have to go through it alone.

I’ve been there. I used to stress so much about my milk supply, constantly wondering if I was doing something wrong. But after chatting with a lactation consultant, I realized there’s a lot that can affect milk supply, and most of it isn’t even in your control. Hormones, certain medications, or even genetics can play a role. So, if you’ve been blaming yourself, take a breath. It’s not your fault, and there’s help out there.

On top of reaching out for professional advice, there are also small steps you can take to support your milk production. For starters, focus on eating a balanced diet. Foods rich in protein—like red meat, beans, and nuts—can go a long way in keeping your supply healthy. Little changes can make a big difference.

 

You’ve got this, and there’s no shame in asking for help. You and your baby deserve all the support in the world!

Breastfeeding can be a challenging and emotional journey, and it’s totally normal to feel like you’re struggling to keep up. Use the resources below to reach out to either a professional or a friend.

Sometimes, all you need is a listening ear and a little encouragement to help you through the tough times. You’re doing an amazing job providing for your baby, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it!

Where to Find Breastfeeding Support

There are a lot of resources both online and offline for new moms who are seeking breastfeeding support.

I personally have reached out to other moms, it helps  to know that you’re not alone in your struggles and that other women have gone through the same challenges. I also have had deep amazing conversations with my clients during our sessions and have found that just talking about our experiences can be incredibly helpful.

Here are some of the most common options:

Healthcare provider

Your healthcare provider can be a great resource for breastfeeding support. They can provide guidance on common issues like latching and positioning, as well as refer you to a lactation consultant if necessary. Some hospitals offer lactation consultants on staff who can provide one-on-one support during your hospital stay.

I delivered Lake at Columbia Saint Mary’s hospital and an amazing lactation specialist visited our room before we were discharged and answered all of our questions and really helped teach us how to help Lake get a strong latch.

• Pros: Covered by most insurance plans, convenient, reliable.
• Cons: Limited time during appointments, may not be specialized in lactation support.

Lactation consultants or breastfeeding counselors

Lactation consultants are highly trained professionals who can provide one-on-one support to help you overcome breastfeeding challenges.Many hospitals and birth centers have lactation consultants on staff, while private consultants are also available for hire. Although breastfeeding counselors may not undergo the same level of training as lactation consultants, they still offer valuable support and guidance to nursing parents.

• Pros: Highly specialized, personalized support, reliable.
• Cons: Can be costly, may not be covered by insurance (in the US).

La Leche League

La Leche League is a global organization dedicated to supporting mothers through breastfeeding education and guidance. They offer local meetings, online forums, and a 24-hour helpline.

• Pros: Free or low-cost, supportive community, reliable information.
• Cons: May not be available in all areas, may not be as personalized as other options.

Online breastfeeding communities and forums

There are many online communities and forums where you can connect with other moms who are breastfeeding. These groups offer valuable support and encouragement while providing a space to address your breastfeeding questions with confidence.

• Pros: Convenient, accessible 24/7, free.
• Cons: May not be reliable sources of information, may not be as personalized as other options.

Breastfeeding support groups

Local breastfeeding support groups offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with other breastfeeding mothers while receiving valuable guidance from experienced facilitators. These groups are often hosted by hospitals, community centers, and local organizations, providing a welcoming space for advice, encouragement, and shared experiences.

• Pros: Free or low-cost, supportive community, reliable information.
• Cons: May not be available in all areas, may not be as personalized as other options.

Friends and family members who have breastfeeding experience

Finally, don’t discount the value of support from friends and family members who have breastfed before. They can provide encouragement, empathy, and practical advice based on their own experiences.

• Pros: Free, personalized support, convenient.
• Cons: May not have the same level of expertise as other options, may not be available if you don’t know anyone with breastfeeding experience.

When choosing the right source of support, take into account factors such as cost, convenience, reliability, and the level of personalized care you require. Explore different options confidently until you discover what works best for both you and your baby.

Conclusion

Remember, seeking help or support with breastfeeding is never something to be ashamed of.

Reaching out to a professional or joining a support group can significantly enhance your breastfeeding experience. Don’t hesitate to explore the many resources available to you as a breastfeeding mom. With the right support, you can confidently navigate this journey—you’ve got this!

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