Many first time mothers find themselves bewildered and frustrated during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Finding breastfeeding support can help to decrease the anxiety and stress that new mothers experience. Breastfeeding support is available from many different sources. Often times, other breastfeeding women band together and can be a great source of comfort, support and information for each other. Seeking out a local La Leche group or a local lactation consultant can also be a very effective way of obtaining breastfeeding support.

Many first time mothers develop sore nipples. This can be an especially difficult time for both baby and mother. Sore nipples can make every breastfeeding session excruciatingly painful for the mother. The resulting stress and anxiety can be sensed by the infant and can cause an infant to be fussy during feedings. Sore nipples can also be a health concern for the mother if the skin is not treated appropriately. Women who experience sore nipples should consult a lactation specialist or experienced breastfeeding mother for suggestions on topical lotions and home remedies to treat sore nipples before the skin becomes cracked and opens the mother up to infection.

Some mothers experience a slowing of their milk supply. Inadequate milk can make breastfeeding difficult and many women are tempted to give up breastfeeding when this occurs. Seeking the advice of a breastfeeding specialist can help mothers continue to breastfeed while supplementing with formula until their milk supply is restored. A slow milk supply does not have to mean an end to breastfeeding.

Lactation consultants are available through local La Leche Leagues as well as most hospitals. Many obstetricians will employ or recommend a few local lactation consultants for mothers who are new to breastfeeding or those who are experiencing problems during feedings. Lactation consultants are specially trained medical personnel who are passionate about breastfeeding. It is important to be honest about your lactation problems and questions in order for the lactation specialist to assist you and your baby properly.

Learning about breastfeeding can seem like an overwhelming task. Seeking breastfeeding support can greatly reduce stress and allow for a more pleasant breastfeeding experience for you and your baby. The more you know about breastfeeding the better. Joining a breastfeeding support group, online discussion forum or chat group can help you stay connected to others who share your enthusiasm for breastfeeding. Once you have learned the facts about breastfeeding you may find yourself offering breastfeeding support to other mothers struggling with breastfeeding difficulties. Helping others is a wonderful way to contribute to your community and providing breastfeeding support and advice for new mothers can help promote breastfeeding advocacy in your community.