Natural Remedies for Breastfeeding Challenges: Tips for New Mums
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience for both mother and baby, but it’s not always smooth sailing. Many new mums face common breastfeeding challenges, from low milk supply to sore nipples, engorgement, or difficulty with baby latching. While these challenges can feel overwhelming, the good news is there are natural remedies that can provide relief and help you navigate this journey with more ease.
Here are some natural remedies and tips to support you through breastfeeding challenges.
1. Boosting Milk Supply Naturally
Low milk supply is a common concern for new mums, but several natural remedies can help increase your production of breast milk.
Galactagogue Foods: Certain foods are known as galactagogues, which help promote milk production. These include oats, barley, flaxseeds, fennel, and brewer’s yeast. Incorporating these into your diet can help naturally boost your supply.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day and consuming water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Herbal Teas: Many mums turn to herbal teas like fenugreek or blessed thistle, which are believed to increase milk supply. These herbs can be found in specialised lactation teas and are generally safe for breastfeeding mums.
Nursing on Demand: The more frequently you nurse or pump, the more milk your body is likely to produce. Try to nurse on demand and avoid rigid feeding schedules.
2. Relieving Sore or Cracked Nipples
Sore, cracked nipples are a common challenge, especially in the early days of breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can provide soothing relief.
Lanolin Cream: Lanolin is a natural, safe option that helps moisturise and heal cracked nipples. Apply a small amount after each feed to help with healing.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is another natural, antibacterial option that can soothe sore nipples and keep the skin moisturised. It’s safe for both mum and baby.
Breast Milk: Your own breast milk contains healing properties. After feeding, express a few drops of milk and gently rub it over your nipples, allowing it to air dry for natural relief.
Proper Latch: Ensuring your baby has a proper latch can reduce nipple pain and prevent soreness. If you’re unsure about your baby’s latch, consider working with a lactation consultant who can help you find a comfortable and effective feeding position.
3. Managing Engorgement
Engorgement, when your breasts become overfilled with milk, can be painful and make it difficult for your baby to latch. Here are some natural ways to ease the discomfort of engorgement:
Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress or a chilled cabbage leaf to your breasts can help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Cabbage leaves are a traditional remedy that many mums swear by for reducing engorgement.
Warm Showers: Standing under a warm shower or applying warm compresses before feeding can help soften the breasts and make it easier for your baby to latch.
Frequent Feeding: Nursing or pumping frequently can help relieve the pressure of engorged breasts. Try to feed or pump as often as possible to prevent milk from building up.
4. Improving Baby’s Latch
Sometimes breastfeeding challenges arise from difficulties with your baby’s latch. A poor latch can lead to pain for mum and frustration for baby.
Nipple Shields: Nipple shields are silicone covers that can help babies latch more easily while protecting sore nipples. They can be especially helpful if your baby is struggling to latch properly.
Different Positions: Experimenting with different breastfeeding positions can help your baby latch more effectively. The cradle hold, football hold, or side-lying position can provide different angles and comfort for both you and your baby.
Consult a Lactation Specialist: If your baby consistently has trouble latching, a lactation consultant can provide expert advice and hands-on support to help you and your baby find a comfortable routine.
5. Preventing and Treating Blocked Ducts
Blocked milk ducts can lead to painful lumps in the breast and, if untreated, can sometimes cause mastitis. To prevent and treat blocked ducts, try these natural remedies:
Warm Compresses: Before feeding, apply a warm compress to the affected area to help soften the blockage and encourage milk flow.
Massage: Gently massage the blocked duct area towards your nipple while nursing or pumping. This can help break up the blockage and promote milk flow.
Frequent Nursing: Continue nursing or pumping frequently on the affected breast to keep milk flowing and reduce the risk of further blockages.
6. Supporting Your Mental Health
Breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally challenging, especially for new mums. It’s important to care for your mental health as you navigate this journey.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice deep breathing or meditation to help manage stress and anxiety during breastfeeding. Keeping calm can also promote a better milk let-down reflex.
Rest and Self-Care: Prioritise rest and self-care whenever possible. Even small acts of self-care, like taking a few minutes to yourself or asking for help from your partner or family, can make a big difference.
Breastfeeding is a unique journey for every mum, and it’s okay to encounter challenges along the way. By turning to these natural remedies and tips, you can manage common breastfeeding issues and enjoy a more positive experience.
For additional support, consider using Breast Elixir. This natural product helps reduce toxin storage pockets, balance hormones, and support lymphatic drainage, promoting overall breast health, especially while breastfeeding. Another product that can be helpful is the Postnatal Underarm Detox to Release Old Hormones for Lymphatic Drainage, which helps release stored hormones from the underarms and breasts, aiding in postpartum recovery and overall lymphatic health.
If you’re looking for personalised breastfeeding support or advice tailored to your needs, contact Kate at Mothered Health. She can help guide you through your breastfeeding journey with care and expertise.
Reach out to Kate today for one-on-one support in overcoming breastfeeding challenges naturally.
