Hi! I'm Arushi Agrawal, a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) and a certified Infant Massage Instructor (IAIM). Having worked at La Femme, Surya Hospital, and Cocoon Hospital in Jaipur, I have extensive hands-on experience and a passion for empowering lactating mothers. 

I hope my insights are sure to inspire and make every mother's breastfeeding journey a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Beyond nourishment, breastfeeding provides a unique opportunity for the mother to bond with her child. It also offers a comforting presence and a sense of security and reassurance to the baby.

But with this bonding come challenges that are difficult but not impossible to overcome. A lactation consultant can play a significant role in the motherhood journey by acting as a bridge between a doctor and a nurse. Breastfeeding is a biological function but because of medical interventions in which mom and baby are separated, it doesn't come naturally to everyone.

A lactation consultant can provide evidence-based advice tailored to the mother's specific situation, helping her navigate through medical interventions and find solutions to breastfeeding difficulties. We offer much-needed emotional support, education, and guidance to build confidence and ensure successful breastfeeding.

Common breastfeeding concerns include latching difficulties, low milk supply, engorgement, nipple pain, and mastitis. Other concerns may include breastfeeding in public, feeding multiples, and balancing breastfeeding with work.

In this era of information overload, a new mother gets so confused and overwhelmed as to what's right for her and the baby. Some moms give up due to inadequate support and choose to go for formula and get stuck in the top-feed trap.

Here are some tips and tricks that will help you to resolve the main concerns that new moms face now and then: 

1. Latching Difficulties: Ensure a proper deep latch by bringing your baby to the breast, aiming their chin towards the breast, and allowing their mouth to open wide before latching.

2. Low Milk Supply: Nurse frequently, stay hydrated, and consider using breast massage or pumping to stimulate milk production.

3. Engorgement: Apply warm compresses before feeding to encourage milk flow, hand express or use a pump to relieve pressure, and seek consistent feeding to prevent engorgement.

4. Nipple Pain: Ensure proper latch and positioning, use lanolin cream or nipple shields to soothe sore nipples, and seek help from a lactation consultant to address any underlying issues.

5. Mastitis: Continue breastfeeding or pumping to empty the breast, apply warm compresses, rest, and consult a healthcare professional for antibiotics if needed.

6. Different feeding positions: Experiment with different feeding positions to find one that is comfortable for both you and your baby. Football hold, cradle hold, or side-lying positions may offer relief or better latch control.

7. Balancing Breastfeeding with Work: Plan for pumping or expressing milk while at work, invest in a high-quality breast pump, and communicate with your employer about a designated pumping space and breaks for feeding or pumping.

8. Self-care: Take care of yourself by getting enough rest, managing stress, and practicing self-care. Breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding, so prioritize your well-being.

Remember, each breastfeeding journey is unique, and it's normal to encounter challenges along the way. Don't hesitate to seek help and be patient with yourself and your baby as you navigate any breastfeeding issues.

Once, you have mastered the art of breastfeeding, it's time to cut loose from the fears that have been prevailing in society, the baseless myths that makes mom sweat just too much:

1. Myth: "Breastfeeding comes naturally and should be easy for all mothers."

Reality: While breastfeeding is natural, it can be challenging and requires practice and patience for both mother and baby.

2. Myth: "Small breasts produce less milk than larger breasts."

Reality: Breast size does not determine milk production. Milk supply depends on factors like hormonal signals and effective milk removal.

3. Myth: "Pain during breastfeeding is normal."

Reality: Pain is your body’s way to tell that something's not right. Either you need to work on your latch or get your baby’s oral examination. Seek help from a professional to address the pain and ensure breastfeeding is comfortable.

4. Myth: "If my baby nurses frequently, I must not have enough milk."

Reality: Frequent nursing can be a sign of a healthy milk supply and an effective way for babies to meet their nutritional needs. This cluster feeding is normal and helps establish milk production.

5. Myth: "I can't breastfeed if I have a cold or take medication."

Reality: In most cases, breastfeeding can continue even if the mother has a common cold or takes certain medications. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider who can provide information on safe medications during breastfeeding.

Remember, all these tips and tricks are generalized, if you are facing any pain, discomfort, or uneasiness anytime during your breastfeeding journey always consult a healthcare professional or lactation specialist for accurate information and guidance on breastfeeding.

Another challenge that mothers face is weaning off babies from breastfeeding. It can present several challenges, as it involves a significant transition for both the mother and the child.

Weaning can be baby-led or mother-led. If the mother decides to stop breastfeeding it's a mother-led approach and hence there will be resistance from the child. Seeing the baby cry can put the mother in a lot of guilt, making the process hard. Choosing the right window i.e. when you choose to wean is very crucial for the process. Also depending on the temperament of the baby, understand a step-by-step approach from your LC so that the process is smooth for both you and your baby.

1. Make sure the baby is not unwell when weaning

2. Make sure you do not have a lot on your plate as weaning can be emotionally and physically draining

3. Take the support of family. Because out of sight out of mind works wonders. If the baby is taken care of by someone else he might not demand for the feed.

4. Let the father rock the baby to sleep to avoid breast sleeping and have a new association with sleep

By acknowledging and addressing these challenges head-on, mothers can be empowered to navigate the complexities of breastfeeding with confidence and resilience.

By working with a lactation consultant, mothers can overcome these concerns and establish a positive breastfeeding experience for themselves and their babies.