If breastfeeding is such an integral, normal part of the childbearing cycle, then why is it a struggle for many women around the world? This remains the unsolved question. While some women’s breastfeeding journeys are without challenges, other women experience varying degrees of challenges when it comes to breastfeeding. For example, some women find that they are not able to breastfeed at all, others are only able to produce a small amount of milk, while others are able to breastfeed but do not enjoy it because it is uncomfortable (e.g. painful) for them.

As women, we need to try not to put ourselves under immense pressure to perfect breastfeeding. However, for those embarking on their breastfeeding journeys, here are some tips that could help:

• Breastfeeding is about supply and demand

That is to say, the more you breastfeed (or pump), the more your breastmilk supply increases. Doctors and nurses continually stress this point. It is important to breastfeed your newborn or pump at least every 3 hours in the early stages of the breastfeeding journey to get your supply up.

• Pump in between feeds to increase your supply

If you feel that your supply is not as much as you want it to be, try pumping between feeds to get your supply up. This can be a bit time consuming but, hopefully, if you do it for a few days or weeks then your milk supply will get to where you want it to be.

• The first 6 weeks after birth are crucial

It is important to get into your breastfeeding routines and habits as early as possible because the first 6 weeks help to set the tone for the remainder of your breastfeeding journey.

• Postpartum night sweats and fever while breastfeeding are normal

This is not talked about a lot but it really happens! It’s normal to experience excessive sweating at night for the first few weeks postpartum and you might also feel feverish while breastfeeding in the early days after giving birth. Try to wear comfortable clothes/PJs at night (to deal with the postpartum sweats) and try to relax (I know it’s hard!) while experiencing the fevers. The good news is that these symptoms usually only last for a few days or weeks.

• Drink lots of water

Some women feel extremely thirsty while breastfeeding and others don’t. Regardless of whether you feel thirsty or not, it is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and increase your breastmilk supply. A useful tip is to keep a large tumbler or bottle of water by your side during each of your breastfeeding sessions and as you move around throughout the day.

• Try lactation treats to increase your supply

There are many lactation treats – such as cookies, brownies, teas, juices, etc. – that are available for you to try out. You can try different treats from different brands to find the right fit for you as it is not one size fits all.

• Wear a bra!

This tip is more for vanity purposes than health reasons! Wearing a comfortable nursing bra 24/7 (except while showering) when breastfeeding can help reduce or prevent your breasts from sagging. Try it and thank me later, ladies!

Related topics: breastfeeding as a first time mother, benefits of breastfeeding, challenges involved in breastfeeding