While many people assume breastfeeding comes naturally, it is actually a learning process for both the mother and the baby. New mothers who have never breastfed might encounter difficulties; however, most of these situations can be remedied with the right help.
The Early Weeks
From low milk supply to nipple pain, new mothers can face several challenges in the first weeks of breastfeeding.
Pamela Allyn, an international board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), says a common complaint from new mothers during the early weeks of breastfeeding is nipple pain. “Mothers need to know that if they experience pain with feeding, there is something wrong,” Allyn says. She finds that the cause of the pain is usually a poor latch.