Common challenges mothers may face during breastfeeding

Breastfeeding your baby gives the best start to the child’s life.

It is not only the most natural way of feeding but also the best source of nutrition for the baby. The phase of breastfeeding is rewarding for both the mother and the baby.

The phase of lactation is a critical time to monitor and manage maternal health in terms of nutrition, emotions and medical issues.

Here are some key considerations for a mother to always be mindful of:

Diet and nutrition while breastfeeding

Mother’s nutritional status is very important for successful breastfeeding. A well balanced diet is not only important during pregnancy but also during breastfeeding.

After delivery, most of the focus shifts to the baby and his/her nutrition. However, it is important to keep in mind that the mother needs to be equally nourished with wholesome foods and balanced meals.

Also read: When will breastfeeding in public become acceptable?

There is an increased requirement of energy, vitamins and minerals during breastfeeding. For instance, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for women is 1,900kcal/day; for pregnant women, RDA is +300kcal/day and for lactating women, it is +600 kcal/day (0-6 months).

There is also additional vitamin and mineral requirement during the breastfeeding phase. This has to be managed with appropriate foods like plenty of whole grain cereals, fruits and vegetables.

In most cases, having a balanced diet with the correct choices of food is sufficient to meet the increased nutritional requirements.

However there are some exceptions, such as DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid, and iodine, which play an important role in brain and brain-related activity. 

These have to be supplemented to ensure sufficient stores for the mother and baby.

While moderate weight loss occurs when breastfeeding, the mother should ensure that she does not go on a "diet" while she is breastfeeding. Reducing the required energy and nutrients from foods would also adversely impact the breast milk.

Drinking alcohol and smoking is not recommended during breastfeeding.

The quality and quantity of breast milk is dependent on the mother’s diet. Hence, eating wholesome nutrients while breastfeeding is key.

Medical issues mothers need to watch out during breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is initiated with the baby latching within the first couple of hours after birth. It is an important time for both the mother and the baby and should be carefully managed.

Some medical issues associated with breastfeeding for the mother include:

1. Swelling of the breasts

This may be associated with painful swelling and discomfort in the breasts during the initiation of breastfeeding. Regular and proper emptying of the breasts is essential to address this issue.

2. Breast Engorgement

This refers to the blockage of mammary duct. This usually occurs if the breasts are not being emptied properly while feeding.

Massage and warm compressions may help address this issue.

3. Mastitis

This refers to inflammation or bacterial infection in the breasts. Regular emptying of the breasts can help relieve pressure and prevent this situation.

You must consult your doctor for any advice and treatment related to medical issues that arise during breastfeeding.

Emotional and psychological ups and downs

Breastfeeding is associated with emotional changes for the mother.

The first few weeks post-delivery may be associated with a lot of changes including lack of sleep, fatigue and the nervousness to fulfil all the responsibilities of the new born.

Levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone fall after delivery and may impact the mood of the mother.

Some women may also feel anxiety about breastfeeding and this may impact breast milk production.

Remember that breastfeeding is a time for bonding between the mother and the baby, and this bond gets stronger as time progresses.

Overall, breastfeeding is a critical time for a lot of reasons. A baby’s birth is associated with many changes in the mother's life and her routine.

A well balanced diet, appropriate management of breastfeeding and associated medical issues, and keeping a strong optimistic emotional front are key elements during this phase.

Monitoring and taking care of the mother’s health is equally important and should not be compromised.