breastfeeding challenges

Here is a discussion of some specific roadblocks that may come up for you when you're breastfeeding, along with effective ways of dealing with these. I use the term “roadblocks” because they are just that – challenges that can be overcome, not insurmountable obstacles that mean you must wean your baby.

If you are Mom to a brand new baby, I urge you not to invest too much energy worrying about whether you’ll have some of the challenges mentioned here. If you focus on getting breastfeeding off to a good start, arm yourself with good information and rally that all so important family support, you may not even have to deal with these concerns.

Some women have few, if any challenges. Some Moms will experience one or more challenges while breastfeeding their babies however, so this will be a good reference for you in case you do.

• breastfed babies with excess gas
  Some breastfed babies seem to have excess gas. What is causing the problem and what can I do to help my baby feel better?
  
  
• milk supply
  Most nursing mothers worry about their milk supply at one time or another. How can you tell if your milk supply is adequate for your baby?
  
  
• breastfeeding strike
  When a breastfeeding baby suddenly refuses to nurse, that's called a nursing "strike". Here is what to do if your baby goes on a breastfeeding strike.
  
  
• diary of a nursing strike
  One mom's story of a nursing strike and dealing with the resulting mastitis, as well as how she and her daughter resumed breastfeeding.
  
  
• plugged milk duct
  What is a plugged milk duct, and how do I treat it?
  
  
• mastitis
  What is mastitis? How do I diagnose and treat it at home?
  
  
• baby biting - what to do if your nursing baby bites
  Ow! My nursing baby is biting me. How do I stop her?
  
  
• breastfeeding and yeast infection
  Thrush, a yeast infection, can infect the breast, causing pain and suffering for mom and baby. Here's how to diagnose it and kick it.
  
  
• stress and breastfeeding - does being stressed out affect my milk?