5 Reasons to Seek Lactation Support

Choosing to breastfeed your baby is a wonderful decision that provides health benefits for both you and your child. However, despite being a natural process, breastfeeding has its fair share of challenges. 

If you find yourself struggling, you’re not alone. Lactation support can significantly impact your breastfeeding journey, helping you and your baby thrive.

At The Center for Advanced Pediatrics in Darien and Norwalk, Connecticut, our board-certified pediatricians are dedicated to supporting breastfeeding mothers. 

That’s why we’ve teamed with Tiny Tummies Lactation Consultants to offer comprehensive care and personalized breastfeeding guidance as you navigate any challenges that arise. 

Whether you’re a new mom or have been breastfeeding for a while, understanding when to seek help can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some reasons you might consider seeking lactation support.

1. Difficulty with latching

One of the most common reasons to seek lactation support is difficulty with latching. A good latch is necessary to ensure your baby gets enough milk and prevent sore nipples. 

If your baby struggles to latch on or breastfeeding is painful, a lactation consultant can provide the guidance you need to achieve a proper latch. Signs of latching problems include:

• Your baby is fussy or frustrated when nursing
• You hear clicking or smacking sounds while nursing
• Your nipples appear misshapen or damaged after feeding
• You experience persistent nipple pain during and after breastfeeding

Lactation consultants at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics can offer techniques to improve your baby’s latch, such as adjusting feeding positions, using breast compression, and guiding you through the latching process.

2. Concerns about milk supply

Many mothers worry about whether they are producing enough milk for their babies. While it’s common to feel uncertain about your milk supply, most women produce more than enough to meet their baby’s needs. 

Signs you might have a low milk supply include:

• Your baby isn’t gaining the expected amounts of weight
• Your baby seems hungry even after frequent feedings
• You don’t feel a let-down reflex during nursing

Lactation consultants provide strategies to increase your milk supply, such as frequent nursing, pumping between feeds, and incorporating foods that support lactation into your diet.

If you’re worried about your supply, lactation support at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics helps you understand your baby’s feeding patterns and how to boost milk production if necessary.

3. Pain and discomfort during nursing

Experiencing pain during breastfeeding is a sign that something might be wrong. Common causes of pain include incorrect latching, nipple infections, and engorgement. 

Some common causes of breastfeeding pain include:

• Sore or cracked nipples from a poor latch or incorrect positioning
• Engorgement, where your breasts become overly full and painful
• Mastitis, a breast infection that causes swelling, redness, and flu-like symptoms

Seeking help early can prevent more serious issues and make breastfeeding more comfortable. Your provider helps identify the cause of your pain and recommends treatments such as nipple creams, warm compresses, or adjusting your breastfeeding technique.

4. Challenges with feeding your baby in public

Nursing in public can be daunting for many mothers, leading to anxiety and discomfort. 

If you feel self-conscious or unsure about breastfeeding outside of your home, seeking support can build your confidence and provide you with practical tips for nursing on the go.

Here are some quick tips for public nursing:

• Practice at home with different nursing covers or outfits
• Learn breastfeeding techniques that you’re comfortable with
• Identify breastfeeding-friendly locations where you feel relaxed and supported

Support groups or one-on-one sessions with a lactation consultant can give you the encouragement and advice you need to feel confident nursing wherever you are.

5. Managing breastfeeding and returning to work

Balancing breastfeeding with returning to work is a common challenge many mothers face. 

Planning ahead and seeking support can help you manage this transition smoothly, ensuring that your baby continues to receive the benefits of breast milk even when you’re away.

Some strategies for balancing work and breastfeeding include:

• Developing a pumping schedule that matches your baby’s feeding times
• Learning how to store and transport breast milk safely.
• Communicating your breastfeeding needs with your employer, so you have a suitable space and time for pumping at work

Your lactation consultant can help you create a breastfeeding plan that works for you and your baby, making the transition back to work as stress-free as possible.

Get personalized breastfeeding support

At The Center for Advanced Pediatrics, we understand that every breastfeeding journey is unique. 

Our team of experienced pediatricians and lactation consultants offers personalized support to help you overcome any challenges and make the most of your breastfeeding experience. 

If you’re a breastfeeding mom, schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics in Darien or Norwalk, Connecticut.