Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences of motherhood, but it can also be one of the most challenging.
Over the years as a doula at the delivery room, I quickly realized that breastfeeding can take different paths. Some babies latch perfectly within the first two golden hours and continue to thrive. Others need more guidance, but eventually, both mom and baby figure it out. Then, there are those who struggle from the start and choose not to continue.
With my firstborn, I decided to stop breastfeeding early on. Was it due to a lack of support and information? Perhaps. As a young mom, I assumed it would be easy and natural, but it wasn’t. However, with my second and third children, I was better prepared, armed with knowledge and a natural determination.
Whether you're a first-time mom 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!
In this post, I’m sharing my knowledge and experience to help you know when you should seek breastfeeding support and where you can find it. Like 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 South Iceland!
When to Seek Breastfeeding Support
In my opinion the best time to seek support for breastfeeding is before your baby is born. Preparing in advance- learning how to recognize your baby's hunger cues, manage sore nipples, decide whether a breast pump is worth buying, and understand how much milk your baby needs as they grow- can boost your confidence on this journey. I highly recommend finding breastfeeding classes, reading books, or consulting a local doula to cover the basics and guide you from there.
The first few days after birth can be an overwhelming time for new moms, 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 need it (and we’ll talk more about those options in this blog post).
If you experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding
While some mild discomfort is expected as you and your baby adjust, ongoing or severe pain is a sign that something is not right.
If you're experiencing pain, soreness, or discomfort while breastfeeding, it's time to seek support. There are professionals who can assess your breastfeeding technique, check your baby's latch, and offer suggestions to improve your comfort while breastfeeding.
Delaying seeking help can lead to more severe pain or even infection. For the most part, breastfeeding should be a comfortable and enjoyable experience, and there is no need to suffer in silence!
In my prenatal classes, I often ask, "Are you ready to fight for breastfeeding if it becomes challenging?"
When I had difficulties with getting a good latch, I didn’t seek help. Although my milk supply was strong, I simply didn’t know how to breastfeed correctly. Combined with some medical issues and postpartum depression, I eventually gave up.
In Iceland, midwives visit your home 4-10 times after birth, offering guidance and support. Additionally, you can find lactation consultants at places like Fæðingarheimilið Reykjavík Edytha and polish midwife Alicja, or Ljosa.is to help you navigate breastfeeding challenges.
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 lose weight, that's a red flag that something isn't right.
Don't panic - there's help available! Additionally, you can find lactation consultants at places like Fæðingarheimilið Reykjavík Edytha and polish midwife Alicja, or Ljosa.is to help you navigate breastfeeding challenges.
Also you can fill out this form (Brjóstagjafavandamál) and see if your nearest hospital have lactation consultant.
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 - or how to know if baby is getting enough?
As a birth doula, I often see parents misinterpret their baby’s need to breastfeed. Newborns don’t just nurse for food; suckling is their natural way to calm, bond, and feel secure. Right after birth, babies instinctively seek their mothers, not only for nourishment but to feel warmth, smell, and closeness.
Breastfeeding also aids in emotional regulation and supports oral development. In the first three months, babies still feel like they are one with their mothers, and breastfeeding reinforces that connection. By following your baby’s cues—whether for hunger, comfort, or sleep—you can better meet their needs and foster a sense of security.
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.
Feel free to use my diaper guide, just click here.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed about breastfeeding
I wish someone had told me this!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed when it comes to breastfeeding, that in and of itself is reason to seek support! Breastfeeding can be a challenging and emotional journey, and it's totally normal to feel like you're struggling to keep up. Please talk to someone close. 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 moms who are seeking breastfeeding support.
During those tough moments as a new mom, I found so much comfort in an online new mom group. It was a reminder that I wasn’t struggling alone. Sharing experiences, getting advice, and simply knowing others were going through the same things helped me feel supported and understood. If you’re feeling isolated or overwhelmed, joining a supportive community can make all the difference. We’re never truly alone in this journey.
Here are some of the most common options:
- Healthcare provider
Your healthcare provider , like midwife who comes home visits after birth, 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.
Pros: Are free, convenient, reliable.
Cons: Limited time during appointments (4-10 appointments) , may not be specialized in lactation support
- Lactation consultants or breastfeeding counselors
Lactation consultants are highly trained professionals who can provide one-on-one support to help you overcome breastfeeding challenges. Some hospitals and birth centers have lactation consultants on staff, and there are also private lactation consultants available for hire. Breastfeeding counselors may not have the same level of training as lactation consultants, but they can still provide valuable support and guidance.
Pros: Highly specialized, personalized support, reliable.
Cons: Can be costly, or not available when you needed because of high demand.
- 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.
Pros: Convenient, accessible 24/7, free.
Cons: May not be reliable sources of information, may not be as personalized as other options.
- Breastfeeding support groups
There are many local or abroad breastfeeding support groups where you can connect with other breastfeeding moms and get support and guidance from a facilitator. These can be found through local mom groups, community centers, and other local organizations.
Pros: Free or low-cost, supportive community, reliable information.
Cons: May not be available in all areas, may not be as personalized as other options.
In Iceland we have three well known parent/mother groups. Icelands International parents group ; Maedra tips!; and polish group Islandia - ciąża, poród, połóg.
- 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.
Pros: Free, personalized support, convenient.
Cons: May not have the same level of expertise as other options, may not be available if you don't know anyone with breastfeeding experience.
When deciding on the best source of support for you, consider factors like cost, convenience, reliability, and the level of personalized 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.
Conclusion:
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. Don't hesitate to reach out and take advantage of the many resources available to you as a breastfeeding mom. You've got this!
