I'm a midwife – here's my top tops for new mums to make breastfeeding easier

Scottish Sun

2 days ago

'I always say, trust your instincts as you know your baby best. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek support'
BREAST ADVICE I'm a midwife – here's my top tops for new mums to make breastfeeding easier
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NEW research has discovered that three quarters of Scots mums experience breastfeeding difficulties.
Baby lifestyle brand Munchkin has uncovered the significant physical, emotional and practical challenges that lead to nearly half of mums in the UK to stop breastfeeding prematurely.
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Marley has come up with advice to encourage continued breastfeeding.
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Marley Henry believes that the Flow Nipple Shield + can help mums see that their baby is getting enough breastmilk.
While 90 per cent of women who stopped breastfeeding within the first six weeks did not want to, but did so due to issues such as latching difficulties, low milk supply, and uncertainty about milk flow.
Chief Features Writer MATT BENDORIS speaks to midwife Marley Henry about steps that can be taken to help mums breastfeed their babies for longer.
THE benefits of breastfeeding are universally accepted and well known - but not every mother has success feeding their newborn in the most natural way.
This can lead to feelings of shame and failure especially but Marley Henry believes that every mum's 'breastfeeding journey' is different.
She said: 'There is no shame in finding breastfeeding challenging.
'The most important thing is that you are doing your best for your baby in whatever way works for you.
'I always say, trust your instincts as you know your baby best. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek support from a healthcare professional or an infant feeding specialist who can work with you to address any challenges.
'Remember, seeking advice or help isn't a sign of failure, it's a sign of strength and commitment to your baby's well-being.'
The research by Munchkin found that the number one reason mums across the UK stop breastfeeding earlier than planned is due to concerns that they were not producing enough milk
But there are new products on the market including the innovative Flow Nipple Shield + which is the first-ever nipple shield with a see-through channel.
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This enables mums to see their milk flow in real-time and continue their breastfeeding journey with confidence.
Marley said: 'As a midwife with 16 years of experience, I'm not surprised by what Munchkin has uncovered.
'Their findings that 90 per cent of mums stop breastfeeding due to the challenges they face reflects what I've seen firsthand.
'One of the biggest reasons mums stop breastfeeding before they're ready is the belief that they don't have enough milk, an age-old concern likely stemming all the way back to the 1950s when formula and bottle feeding became the norm.'
She adds: 'Today the UK has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world, worsened by limited support for mums who wish to continue breastfeeding.
'Many mums often face latch problems, painful nipples, or feeding challenges with premature babies.
'But Flow Nipple Shield provides a real-time visual of milk flow, which not only addresses latch issues but can also build confidence in milk production, which is a key concern that often causes mums to stop breastfeeding prematurely.
Another reason cited by mums is a worry about how others will view them when breastfeeding in public - that's despite breastfeeding being protected under the Equalities Act.
Marley said: 'A lack of public breastfeeding-friendly spaces and social stigma often leave mums feeling judged and self-conscious about breastfeeding in public.
'Legislation surrounding breastfeeding has significantly improved, meaning that there is greater access to spaces where mums can feed comfortably.
'For instance, it's now illegal to ask a mother to leave a public space simply because she is breastfeeding.
'However, societal attitudes still have room for growth. We need to keep championing the idea that breastfeeding is not something that needs to be hidden or tolerated, it's a completely normal and natural way to feed a baby.
'Encouraging open conversations, cultural shifts, and better community support will help ensure that all mums feel confident and comfortable breastfeeding, wherever they choose to do so.'
The findings also revealed that only 12 per cent of mums in Scotland breastfeed for the first year while the World Health Organisation is working to increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months up to at least 50 per cent by the end of 2025.
And Marley believes that 'education is the key'.
She explains: 'Expectant mothers should start learning about breastfeeding before their baby arrives to build confidence and understanding it works.
'Your body produces small quantities of colostrum in the first few days, which is packed with nutrients and antibodies, but this is normal, and it's important to know that you won't see dozens of wet nappies right away like you might with formula feeding.
'From a medical standpoint, breastfeeding has immense benefits. It provides your baby with essential antibodies and nutrients that boost their immune system.
'While for mums it supports recovery, lowers the risk of certain cancers and supports post-pregnancy recovery by helping the uterus contract and burning extra calories.'
She adds: 'But breastfeeding is a beautiful way to bond with your baby. Skin-to-skin contact during feeding releases the 'love hormone' oxytocin, which strengthens your connection and promotes a sense of calm for both of you.
'While breastfeeding is an incredible way to nourish and connect with your baby, preparation and the right support can make all the difference.
'So, don't wait until after your baby arrives, educate yourself while you're pregnant and seek guidance from experts when needed.'