It’s often called natural—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Many new mums face barriers to breastfeeding and tips on getting it right can make all the difference when things feel tough. From pain to supply worries to pressure from others, breastfeeding can come with challenges. But with the right support and gentle guidance, it can also become a deeply rewarding experience. Written by Burgie Ireland.
It’s that time of the year when breastfeeding is in the spotlight: World Breastfeeding Week. You may want to skip this blog because, despite learning about the multitude of benefits of breastfeeding for mom and baby, it just didn’t pan out for you. Many first-time moms feel guilty, lamenting that their breastfeeding experience is riddled with painful memories. But why is it that some women get it right – first time, every time – but others don’t?
One mom who came to my ante-natal classes and was dead against breastfeeding (mostly because she didn’t like wearing a bra), promised that she would breastfeed, providing her baby was a girl (she had two boys). I reassured her (with fingers crossed) that her baby was a girl. It turned out I was right and she breastfed for a year.
Another first-time mom, who is visually challenged, told me that breastfeeding was so much easier than sterilising bottles and preparing formula. She also breastfed for a year.
Is breastfeeding only a mindset? How doable is it?
Many women worry that their breasts are too small.
Actually, small-breasted women breastfeed exceptionally well, and cope better than their big-breasted counterparts, who often have a harder time.
“I don’t have enough milk” is another common concern.
Babies need only about 1 teaspoonful (5 mls) of colostrum every two to three hours for the first two days. This is because colostrum is rich and thick as condensed milk. Its sugary sweet with enough calories to help the baby survive from feed to feed, until mature breast milk is made.
We think that breasts are like bottles that fill up between feeds.
Many women believe that when breasts feel soft, there’s no or very little milk in them. But the reality is that most milk production happens during, and not before or after, breastfeeding. The more often mom feeds, the more milk she makes.
Moms often tell me that their milk is too weak.
This is understandable when MOM (Mom’s Own Milk) is expressed because breastmilk looks watered-down with a blueish tinge to it. This is foremilk or water-milk that quenches a baby’s thirst. When the ‘let-down’ reflex releases the hindmilk or fat milk, this richer milk satisfies a baby’s appetite.
“My baby doesn’t like to breastfeed and pulls away after feeding for a short while.”
I explain that this may be because the baby is only thirsty, and not hungry. The baby will pull away and protest when the fat milk is released. “When this happens, let your baby drink the water-milk from your other breast, and stop feeding when she pulls away,” is my advice.
Unless a woman is severely undernourished, dehydrated or ill, her breastmilk is perfectly custom-made for her baby.
Breastmilk also changes according to a babies age and needs. For example, breastmilk for a premature baby differs from that for a full-term baby. The same goes for older babies.
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Barriers to breastfeeding
Society is not breastfeeding friendly. Where do you find breastfeeding facilities in a mall or public venue? People say, “You’re not breastfeeding here, are you?” Breasts have become sex objects, not nurturing appendages. Many an embarrassed mom has been asked to leave a restaurant because other patrons (mostly men) have objected to her breastfeeding – even if she has ‘covered up’ with a shawl as big as a circus tent! Breastfeeding women are expected to ‘hide away’, and miss out on all of the fun.
Women are given conflicting advice about breastfeeding – even from doctors and midwives.
Many more women are having c-sections. The trauma of this major abdominal surgery is undermined with painkillers for the first few days. When mom goes home, she is expected to cope on her own at a time when her milk is ‘coming in’, her baby waking up more often and more likely to show signs of ‘baby jaundice’, and she’s inundated with visitors.
Little girls are not breastfeeding orientated. They grow up with dolls that come with bottles and dummies – they never see women breastfeeding.
How-to tips for breastfeeding: Getting it right
- I recommend ordering a copy of La Leche League’s Breastfeeding book called “The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding”. It is an excellent reference book and the best investment I ever made.
- Speak to your doctor/midwife about skin-to-skin bonding immediately after birth (even if you have a c-section).
- Allow your baby to instinctively find your nipple on his/her own. Don’t push or shove your baby’s head into your breast.
- Don’t stress if, at first, you don’t feel an overwhelming love for your baby and a willingness to breastfeed. Midwife Riva Rubin, who made a close study of a mother’s behaviour after birth, found that during the first 48 hours, mom is ‘taking in’ her birthing experience, and is more focused on her physical and emotional needs than those of her baby.
- Some hospitals provide a lactation consultant. Use them and the services of a private midwife when you go home.
- Have a ‘breastfeeding-buddie’.
- Eat healthy, rest when baby sleeps, and drink lots of water.
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BabyYumYum FAQs: Barriers to Breastfeeding And How to Overcome Them
What are the most common barriers to breastfeeding?
Some common challenges include latch difficulties, sore nipples, low milk supply, lack of support, returning to work, and cultural or societal pressures.
What should I do if my baby has trouble latching?
Seek help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counsellor. Trying different positions, ensuring baby’s mouth is wide open, and staying calm can all help improve the latch. Further reading: Proper latch breastfeeding: How to get your baby to latch.
How can I relieve sore or cracked nipples?
Check your baby’s latch and positioning, let nipples air-dry after feeds, and apply lanolin or breast milk to soothe the skin. If pain persists, seek professional guidance. Take a look at: Overcoming the breastfeeding challenge of cracked nipples.
What if I’m worried about low milk supply?
Feed frequently, offer both breasts, and avoid unnecessary top-ups with formula. Skin-to-skin contact and expressing milk between feeds may also help increase supply. Discover more: Lactation cookies: how to boost milk supply and bonding.
Can breastfeeding work if I’m going back to work?
Yes. Many mothers express milk and store it for feeding while at work. A supportive workplace and planning ahead can make the transition easier.
What if I don’t have support from family or friends?
Look for local breastfeeding support groups, online communities, or speak to a midwife or lactation consultant. Positive support can make a huge difference.
Is it normal to feel overwhelmed in the early days?
Absolutely. Breastfeeding can be emotionally and physically demanding, especially at the start. It’s okay to ask for help and take breaks when needed.
Can flat or inverted nipples affect breastfeeding?
Yes, they can sometimes make latching more difficult, but many babies adapt. Nipple shields or expressing may help, and professional support can guide you through it.
How do I manage breastfeeding in public if I feel nervous?
Practice at home, wear comfortable breastfeeding-friendly clothing, and remind yourself that feeding your baby is natural and your legal right in most places. Find out more about: Let’s support public breastfeeding.
What if I need to take medication while breastfeeding?
Always check with your GP or pharmacist. Many medications are safe while breastfeeding, but it’s important to get professional advice.
Are there cultural or social barriers to breastfeeding?
Yes. Pressure to formula feed, lack of breastfeeding role models, or misinformation can all affect confidence. Education and community support can help overcome these barriers.
What if breastfeeding just isn’t working for me?
You’re not alone. Sometimes, despite best efforts, breastfeeding may not work out. What matters most is that your baby is fed, loved, and thriving—however you choose to feed them.
Disclaimer: This content is for general guidance only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a midwife, GP, or certified lactation consultant for personalised breastfeeding support.
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