Starting breastfeeding can be a rewarding but challenging experience for new parents. It’s easy to make mistakes along the way, especially when you’re learning something new and important. Knowing about these common mistakes can help make breastfeeding easier and better for both you and your baby. Here’s a deeper look into some frequent mistakes and how to avoid them.

Misunderstanding Pediatricians’ Training

Pediatricians are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable in many areas related to child health. However, their training in breastfeeding is often quite limited. Most pediatricians receive only a few hours of education on breastfeeding during their residency, which may not be sufficient for addressing more complex breastfeeding issues. While they are excellent for general health advice, they might not always be the best resource for specific breastfeeding challenges.

For extra help, you might want to talk to a lactation consultant. It’s especially good to choose one who is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). These professionals have extensive training and experience in breastfeeding support and can provide the specialized help you might need.

Breastfeeding can be compared to learning to ride a bike: reading about it and watching videos can only take you so far. The real learning happens when you try it yourself. Many new parents struggle with getting their baby into the right position, achieving a comfortable latch, and ensuring the baby is feeding effectively.

This is where the expertise of a lactation consultant becomes invaluable. An IBCLC can offer hands-on guidance, address any issues with breastfeeding techniques, and provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. They can also offer virtual consultations if in-person visits are not feasible, making their support accessible no matter where you are.

Assuming There’s Only One Way to Breastfeed

One of the biggest misconceptions about breastfeeding is that there is only one correct method. In reality, breastfeeding can be adapted to fit your family’s needs and lifestyle. You might choose to breastfeed directly from the breast, use a breast pump to provide milk in bottles, or even combine breastfeeding with formula feeding.

Each family’s situation is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. The key is to find a feeding strategy that suits both you and your baby. Remember, any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial, so don’t feel pressured to adhere to a single method or approach.

Expecting Breastfeeding to Be Pain-Free

It’s normal to experience some level of discomfort when you first start breastfeeding. However, the pain should be mild and temporary. If you find that breastfeeding is extremely painful or the discomfort doesn’t improve after a few days to a week, it could indicate a problem with the latch or other issues.

Proper latch technique should significantly reduce pain, so if you’re experiencing severe discomfort, it’s essential to seek help from a breastfeeding expert. They can help you adjust your technique and address any issues that might be causing the pain.

Worrying About Milk Supply

Many new parents worry about whether they’re producing enough milk for their baby. Since you can’t measure exactly how much milk your baby is getting, this concern is understandable. However, babies are generally very good at signaling their hunger and satisfaction. In the early days, you can expect your baby to feed frequently, about 8-12 times a day. Monitoring your baby’s weight and diaper output can also give you clues about whether they’re getting enough milk.

Typically, newborns lose some weight initially but should return to their birth weight by about 10-14 days. After that, steady weight gain is a good sign that your baby is getting adequate nutrition. If your baby seems consistently hungry or is not gaining weight as expected, it’s a good idea to consult a lactation consultant to assess your milk supply and feeding practices.

Using Formula as a Supplement

Some parents give their babies formula and breast milk if they’re worried they don’t have enough milk. But if your baby is growing well, giving formula might actually make your milk supply go down. The more your baby drinks milk, the more milk your body will produce.

When you supplement with formula, your baby might feed less often, which can lead to a decrease in milk production. To maintain a good milk supply, try to breastfeed frequently and only use formula if it’s necessary for your baby’s health or specific circumstances.

Expecting Babies to Sleep Through the Night Too Soon

Another common expectation is that babies should sleep through the night quickly after birth. In reality, it’s normal for babies to wake up during the night to feed.

This pattern can continue for several months and is actually beneficial for maintaining a healthy milk supply. Many breastfeeding parents find that their milk supply peaks during the early morning hours, making nighttime feedings a natural part of the breastfeeding process.

If your baby is sleeping through the night, you might even need to wake up and pump during the early hours to keep your milk supply steady. It’s important to understand that nighttime feedings are a normal and necessary part of breastfeeding and can continue well into the baby’s first year.

Conclusion

By being aware of these common mistakes and seeking the right support when needed, you can navigate the breastfeeding journey with more confidence and ease. Remember, every breastfeeding experience is unique, and finding what works best for you and your baby is key to a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding relationship.