In theory, breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world and should be simple and instinctive, right? The reality is more complicated. Many mamas and their babies face some obstacles that can be confusing and frustrating.
Baby is too weak
If a baby had a difficult birth, was born prematurely, or was exposed to anesthetics or other medicines, they may not feel strong enough yet to grasp the breast and feed [1]. They may be sick, so they will not suck on the nipple, or he may vomit immediately after feeding.
While not necessarily harmful, this can lead to a loop in which the baby does not eat, feels weak, and then does not eat because they feel weak. The cure is straightforward: express milk directly into the baby’s mouth for a while, or feed it to them using a spoon or syringe. They will gradually gain strength, and their appetite will return to normal.
Baby doesn’t seem to know how to feed
It is standard practice to place the baby on mama's breast to nurse within an hour of birth. If this doesn't happen, the baby may not comprehend what to do with the breast when fed later [2]. Just like with a weak baby, extract milk into the baby’s mouth until they understand the feeding ritual; gradually introduce the baby to the breast after they associate it with milk.
Baby has signs of tongue-tie
The frenulum is the tissue that links your tongue with the bottom of your mouth. In some babies, it is extremely short, limiting the tongue's ability to suck or latch. When this happens, the baby stays on the breast but does not receive adequate milk. Mama may feel discomfort and fractured nipples as the baby hovers and hovers. In certain cases, your doctor may conduct a simple clipping procedure to resolve the issue [3].
Mother has too much milk
If there is too much milk in the breast, the nipple stretches and the baby is unable to grasp it properly. Even if they can, the milk comes out in such a strong stream that the baby chokes and, naturally, throws the breast. A simple solution: express some milk before feeding your baby. This obstacle normally disappears when mother and baby understand each other's rhythms.
A lactation consultant's advice can be helpful in any of these scenarios. She of he can assist you in determining the underlying issue and a workable solution to set you and your baby up for successful bonding and feeding.
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