Don’t Struggle Alone: Discover Where to Find Breastfeeding
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Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences of motherhood, but it can also be one of the most challenging. Whether you’re a first-time mum or a seasoned pro, there may come a time when you need a little extra help and support with breastfeeding, and there’s no shame in that! As a newborn photographer near Epsom and Surrey, I am sharing my knowledge and experience to help you know when you should seek breastfeeding support and where you can find it. As I said, this is my knowledge and experience, so if you have any questions about if you should seek support, scroll down to Where to Find breastfeeding support below and reach out to a professional in Epsom, Surrey and SW London.
When to Seek Breastfeeding Support
A few days after my baby was born was I was feeding around the clock, and one morning I woke up with painful engorgement that made latching nearly impossible. I cradled her and tried to guide my daughter to the breast, but the pressure was so intense that we both ended up frustrated and teary. Feeling overwhelmed, I called the on-call midwife, who calmly talked me through using warm compresses and hand-expressing just enough milk to soften the area. Within a short time, my baby latched more easily, and I felt the ache ease. As she settled into latching correctly and smoothly, I felt grateful for the help that turned a difficult moment into a manageable one.
The first few days after birth can be an overwhelming time for new mums, and this is when seeking breastfeeding support is crucial. In these early days, it’s common for both mom and baby to be learning the ropes and adjusting to the new experience of breastfeeding.
If you’re experiencing:
● Difficulty latching your baby
● Potential low milk supply
● or you think your baby isn’t getting enough milk…
Don’t hesitate to seek out professional help. Experts can help you with proper positioning, latch techniques, and other tips to ensure successful breastfeeding.
Support can often prevent more significant breastfeeding challenges down the road, so don’t be afraid to reach out for help as soon as you
If your baby isn’t gaining weight or is losing weight
If your baby isn’t gaining weight or is losing weight, it might be time to seek some breastfeeding support. While it’s normal for babies to lose a little weight in the first few days after birth, if they’re not gaining it back or continue to loseweight, that’s a red flag that something isn’t right. Don’t panic – there’s help available!
If you’re struggling with milk supply
If you’re worried that your milk supply isn’t keeping up with your baby’s demands, it might be time to seek some help.
But before you do, let’s make sure you’re actually struggling with milk supply. Are you getting fewer than six wet diapers a day? Is your baby fussy and seems like they’re still hungry even after a feed? If so, it’s time to seek some help from a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if your milk supply is the issue or if there’s something else going on. And if it is a milk supply issue, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to boost your milk production and keep your little one well-fed.
Breastfeeding can be a challenging and emotional journey, and it’s totally normal to feel like you’re struggling to keep up. Use the resources below to reach out to either a professional or a friend. Sometimes, all you need is a listening ear and a little encouragement to help you through the tough times.
You’re doing an amazing job providing for your baby, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Where to Find Breastfeeding Support
There are a lot of resources, both online and offline, for new mums who are seeking Breastfeeding support.
Here are some of the most common options:
1. Healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can be a great resource for breastfeeding support. They can provide guidance on common issues like latching and positioning, as well as refer you to a lactation consultant if necessary.
2. Lactation consultants or breastfeeding counsellors
Lactation consultants are highly trained professionals who can provide one-on-one support to help you overcome breastfeeding challenges. Some hospitals and birth centres have lactation consultants on staff, and there are also private lactation consultants available for hire. Breastfeeding counsellors may not have the same level of training as lactation consultants, but they can still provide valuable support and guidance.
Lactation Consultant SW London
Online breastfeeding communities and forums
There are many online communities and forums where you can connect with other moms who are breastfeeding. These can be a great source of support and encouragement, as well as a place to get answers to your breastfeeding questions.
Peanut app – breastfeeding support and chats
5. Breastfeeding support groups
There are many local breastfeeding support groups where you can connect with other breastfeeding moms and get support and guidance from a facilitator. These can be found through hospitals, community centres, and other local organisatins
6. Friends and family members who have breastfeeding experience
Finally, don’t discount the value of support from friends and family members who have breastfed before. They can provide encouragement, empathy, and practical advice based on their own experiences.
When deciding on the best source of support for you, consider factors like cost, convenience, reliability, and the level of personalised support you need. Don’t be afraid to try out different options until you find the one that works best for you and your baby.
Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help or support when it comes to breastfeeding. Seeking assistance from a professional or a support group can make all the difference in your breastfeeding journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and take advantage of the many resources that are available to you as a breastfeeding mom.
If you are looking for a newborn photographer near Epsom and Surrey, serving Epsom, Sutton, Carshalton, Richmond Upon Thames and Kingston Upon Thames, feel free to take a look at my portfolio.
