Challenges Faced By Moms Breastfeeding
Most healthcare experts opine that it is a good idea for moms to breastfeed their babies, provided the same is feasible. Breastmilk after all provides the baby with nutrition and fat as well as protein and vitamins. Breast milk also improves the immune system of the baby. However, there are a few challenges faced by moms who want to breastfeed their babies. Here is a look at a few of these challenges.

Pain And Soreness In The Nipples
Most moms quit breastfeeding their babies because of challenges such as sore nipples, pain in the nipples and irritation of the nipples. Since babies like to press their mouths close to the areola instead of the nipples, and if they are not able to latch properly, then it can cause pain in the nipples. To solve this problem, moms need to position their nipples correctly and they also need to ensure that their baby’s head is slightly titled backward when it is sucking the milk.
If the nipples itch or turn red or swell up, then moms are going to experience some burning sensations when their babies are being breastfed. This should warn you that you as well as your baby have developed thrush, which is a yeast infection of sorts. Be sure to have this condition treated immediately.

Milk Ejection Reflex
Milk ejection reflex is another challenge moms face when breastfeeding. This condition is otherwise known as forceful letdown. Babies that start sputtering or even choking when breastfeeding do so because their mom’s breasts are releasing too much milk. To solve this problem, moms need to make use of their hands or fingers to retard the pace at which milk flows from their breasts. Or, they can remove their baby’s mouth so that the extra milk is allowed to flow onto a piece of cloth. Another solution is to assume a side lying down position when breastfeeding the baby.

Soreness In The Breasts
Last but not least, moms also experience sore breasts. This condition is known as engorgement and occurs in the beginning when moms have just started breastfeeding their babies. To deal with this soreness, moms need to place a cool compress on their breasts and in addition, it helps if they hold the breasts with their hands during the breastfeeding as it helps to ease the pain.
These are the main challenges faced by moms when breastfeeding. Fortunately, these challenges are easy to overcome and the solutions mentioned here are sufficient in most cases.

Article Reviewed By Crystal Ibetoh MD, MBA reviews each article and ensures the accuracy of the health information. Dr. Ibetoh has strong medical interests in women's health and preventative medicine. She is also a mother of three and uses her medical expertise in addition to personal experience to provide advice about breastfeeding.

*The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding breastfeeding.*