Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is different. Some women are unable to breastfeed at all, some for only a few weeks and others to ‘natural term’ which may be months or even years. The World Health Organisation recommends every mother be encouraged to exclusively breastfeed (ie, breast milk only, no food or drink for the baby) for a minimum of 6 months, and to breastfeed on demand, ie as much and as often as the baby demands. In Australia, we have a lot of support for breastfeeding mothers, resulting in 90% of mothers initiating breastfeeding and 84% continuing for at least 6 months (http://www.health.gov.au/breastfeeding).

As I am about to embark on a new breastfeeding journey, shortly after World Breastfeeding Week next week, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on some of the things that surprised me about breastfeeding the first time around.

1. It hurts, a lot (but not for long).

   I was surprised at the toe-curling pain of initiating breastfeeding! It wasn’t quite what I expected, but the pain only lasted a minute or so (every feed!) and there was no more pain after 7-10 days. This is normal. However if you experience pain longer than this please seek help from a qualified lactation consultant or the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA).

2. Blocked ducts and mastitis

   I was fortunate enough not to develop mastitis, however I did get blocked ducts that were painful. I was able to clear them before they became infected using a warm compress, massaging the duct and feeding more from the blocked side. You will know if you develop mastitis if you have a raised temperature, shivers and aches - similar symptoms to getting the flu. For more information about how to avoid and treat mastitis, read this article from the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

3. Breastfeeding makes you hungry!

   Remember that you really are feeding the two of you while breastfeeding, so don’t be surprised if your appetite increases I was hungry all of the time! Ensuring you have nutritious snacks is the key to maintaining your health and energy levels while breastfeeding. Consider having a stockpile of veggie sticks, hummus, boiled eggs, nuts & seeds, healthy sweet treats like these bliss balls, or these spiced apple muffins that you can make up as a batch and store in the freezer. Even a smoothie that has added vegetables can make a huge difference to your overall health and wellbeing, (although this might be more appetising when the weather gets warmer!).

4. And thirsty.

   When breastfeeding you are producing and giving out around one litre of fluid per day! This means ensuring you are drinking enough to keep both you and your baby hydrated. I found having a 1 litre glass bottle really helped remind me to stay on top of my fluids. I would fill it up in the morning, make sure I drank it by lunchtime, again across the afternoon and again across the evening/overnight. Having a full glass of water to sip at while you are feeding really helps to keep up the pace. Despite what you may think, you won’t be running to the toilet every 5 minutes. :)

5. It is convenient and the public is generally accepting of it

   Not all of my friends were able to breastfeed. Hats off to them for managing to bottle-feed their babies, which involves some extra preparation and hassle especially when going out. Being able to go out without having to carry around formula and bottles and find somewhere to heat them up is certainly easier - if you are comfortable feeding in public. Much is made in the media of women reportedly ‘shamed’ for breastfeeding in public. However it is important to keep in mind that the media loves to focus on scandal, even if it is only in the minority of cases. I didn’t experience any negative reaction to breastfeeding in public. I found most people and venues supportive of it, with many shopping centres and some community spaces well set-up with breastfeeding rooms. . Have confidence and don’t let concerns about what others MAY be thinking deter you from feeding your baby when it is needed. If you are confident and focused on your baby, others will (hopefully) mind their own business.

6. Not everyone loses weight while breastfeeding

   While breastfeeding does help your uterus contract back to its ‘normal’ size following the birth of your baby, not everyone will lose weight while breastfeeding. This is due to a combination of genetics, hormones, diet and lifestyle. While having an increased appetite is healthy and normal, reaching for the chocolate bar or sugary snacks will not help sustain your energy levels, nor will it do you (or your baby) any favours in the long term. It will also make it harder to lose weight. That said, it took nine months to put on that baby weight so don’t expect it will be back off in a matter of weeks. Give yourself some time - at least the time it took to put on. The important thing is to eat healthily and gradually resume an active lifestyle. Walking gets you and bub out of the house, while E exercise classes like Kanga-training, mums & bubs yoga and some personal trainers will also provide opportunities for you and your baby to work out together.

7. Its OK to follow your own advice (and ignore others)

   When you have a baby, it seems everyone has advice they must share. Be confident in your own breastfeeding journey. That said, if something doesn’t feel right, seek help from a qualified professional (eg. your maternal health nurse, lactation consultant, ABA or other relevant health professional). While family and friends have your best interests at heart, they may not be up to date with the most current information on what’s safe and appropriate for you and your baby.

If you’re not sure about breastfeeding, or are currently breastfeeding but having difficulties, please seek help. The Australian Breastfeeding Association has lots of information on their website. They also have a free helpline available on 1300 686 268. Sometimes all it takes is a reassuring chat or consultation with a health professional who is used to dealing with similar concerns to yours. It is easy to get discouraged and many women experience doubts and difficulties in the very early stages. Hang in there! If you are having difficulties losing (or gaining) weight following the birth of your child, please book a consultation with a qualified naturopath or nutritionist for more support.

---

For information and support specifically tailored to your needs, book an appointment today

Resources:

Australian Breastfeeding Association: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/your-baby-arrives/breastfeeding-faqs

World Breastfeeding Week: http://worldbreastfeedingweek.org

World Health Organisation: http://www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/topics/newborn/nutrition/breastfeeding/en/

Back