Why does breastfeeding suck so much?

I know firsthand that breastfeeding can be tough. From painful nipples to engorgement, there are a variety of obstacles that can make it difficult for new moms/lactating parents. But have you ever stopped to consider why breastfeeding is so challenging in the first place? It's not just a matter of individual circumstances; societal structures also play a significant role.

Let's start with maternity leave. In the United States, many new parents are only offered a few weeks of unpaid leave (if any at all). This means that many birthing parents return to work shortly after giving birth, which can make establishing and maintaining a breastfeeding routine incredibly difficult. This is a stark contrast to other developed countries, where new parents are provided with several months of paid leave to bond with their babies and establish breastfeeding routines.

In addition, there is often a lack of support for breastfeeding parents once they are back in the workplace. Many employers do not understand or proactively accommodate a parent's need for time to express milk. Parents often experience negative or insensitive comments from managers and coworkers, which can be incredibly stressful and uncomfortable. This can in turn impact milk supply and overall breastfeeding success. And the lack of support for lactation in the workplace can have emotional effects on new parents as well.

Another factor is the lack of public support for breastfeeding. While breastfeeding is legal and encouraged in many places, it is still not widely normalized in public spaces. Many breastfeeding parents feel shamed or uncomfortable when attempting to breastfeed in public, which can discourage them from continuing to breastfeed altogether.

All of these factors can make it incredibly challenging for new parents to establish and maintain a breastfeeding routine. It's not a matter of willpower or dedication; it's a matter of societal structures and support.

As a lactation consultant, my goal is to help new parents navigate these challenges and establish successful feeding. I want to reassure you that it's okay to struggle with breastfeeding, and it's not a reflection of your ability to be a good mother.

If you're struggling with breastfeeding, I encourage you to reach out to a lactation consultant or other breastfeeding support group in your area. There are also resources available if you're struggling with your mental health. You don't have to do this alone! And remember, you're doing the best you can with the resources and support available to you. So keep going! You're doing an amazing job.