MAMBA Preparing to Breastfeed Course
Module 3
Overcoming breastfeeding challenges
Step 1: Enjoy the module video below
In this final module we have looked at the essential (and not so essential) things you may want to start to get together for your breastfeeding journey, as well as some vital insight into how breastfeeding can throw Mums the occasional curve ball!
We talked a lot about the different problems you can encounter whilst breastfeeding and how you can help yourself, as well as how and where to seek help when needed.
Step 2: Homework!
Below are loads of great sources of information from videos to links and infographics on many of the breastfeeding challenges that may or may not cause bumps in the road for you. So have a look through now and keep the link to this page for future reference!
So lets get started with the videos by looking at nipple pain and some really practical advice and products to help heal damaged or protect sore nipples whilst addressing the root cause.
There are great products on the market for helping damaged nipples to heal quickly and they include Lanolin based nipple balms as well as compress healing pads. You can find some good reviews here.
Two products that I always hear good reviews for are:
Ultimately sore nipples are most often caused by a bad latch, which also leads to poor milk extraction, which may lead to your baby not getting enough milk. One good way to monitor your baby’s intake in the early days is by looking at their output. This infographic should help as a guide.
Moving on, we’re going to look at some of the deeper tissue problems that can arise such as blocked ducts, engorgement, mastitis and thrush.
Find out more about preventing and treating mastitis, as well as so much more, from La Leche League. Do jump over to their website and explore as it’s one of the foremost resources for professionals and parents alike.
Thrush is something that is often mis-diagnosed or mis-treated, so if you suspect you or your baby may have it please do read this comprehensive review from Becky Flora IBCLC (and even take it with you) to see your GP ASAP.
Lucy Webber’s back again below talking about BLEBS and how to get your milk flowing again.
We discussed some of the baby led challenges that can also present, such as tongue tie and allergies. If you’d like to dive into these subjects further please jump on over to the webpages below.
Tongue Tie Division information and Video from Sarah March IBCLC
On a final note we talked about how taking different medications can affect your breastmilk, and at times it may be preferable to stop feeding for a while. You can use these three great resources to find out more about different medications and how safe they are whilst breastfeeding.
I hope you have all enjoyed the MAMBA Preparing to Breastfeed Course, if you have any further questions or need any further support during your breastfeeding journey do not hesitate to drop me a line.
It would be great to hear your feedback and if you wanted to write a review on the Trustpilot site, or refer me to any of your expecting friends I would be so grateful.
Wishing you all the best over the coming weeks and months as you welcome your little one into the world.
Nicola
