Mental Health Effects of Inclusive Breastfeeding.
Over the course of our lives, and especially during pregnancy, most women will hear about the benefits of breastfeeding. While this information is important, constant reiteration can leave women feeling pressured, guilty and feeling inadequate. This is even sharper when new mothers experience difficulties breastfeeding. Instead of feeling supported, women who struggle to breastfeed or just do not want to, tend to feel pressure. There can be a lot of judgement about choices made in this realm. Such tensions can negatively affect mental health and self-esteem during this already vulnerable time. This piece looks at the challenges that come from struggles with breastfeeding as well as insight into inclusive and exclusive breastfeeding. We also aim to share tools by which mothers navigate guilt in this arena.
Before you dive in, remember that our professionals are always here to help
Is It Ok Not To Breastfeed?
There is no shortage of reasons why a baby cannot be breastfed. There can be difficulty with latch, pain upon feeding. Additionally, there can be supply issues which further complicate the breastfeeding relationship.
Other things can affect a mom’s ability to continue a breastfeeding relationship. After a few weeks post birth, there may be increasing pressure to return to work or attend to other family members and other children. Medical conditions and slowed childbirth recovery, delayed or complicated healing can also make this difficult.
While making decisions around feeding is a personal decision, many women are ashamed to be open about their decisions if they aren’t exclusively breastfeeding. Most new moms have heard the term, “breast is best” which does not leave room for nuance.
The Pressure To Breastfeed
In truth, most women at some point will during their early infant months, struggle with the pressure to breastfeed. Adding in associated lack of sleep due to feeding at night and growing feeding demands can mount stress. The result is that many new mothers find themselves feeling overwhelmed by this. They are left exhausted and have to struggle with stigma, managing their own and other people’s expectations as well as their own physical and mental health. Women instead should feel empowered to make decisions that work for them. A range of formula options are available for growing infants, and are a good alternative to breastmilk.
The World Health Organization states that breast milk has all the important nutrients for a developing baby. Breastfeeding protects against diarrhea and reduces risk of other childhood problems. This includes reduced chances of pneumonia and early childhood obesity. The benefit to the immune system and bonding effects are encouraging. The range of challenges around the realities of nursing however are not communicated or discussed as openly. And women who struggle to breastfeed can feel as if they have failed. But it is important to remember that breastfeeding does not need to be binary.
Exclusive vs Inclusive Breastfeeding
Exclusive breastfeeding is only feeding breast milk. The child receives no other liquids or solids. Inclusive breastfeeding is when there are a variety of modalities which might include breastfeeding, using donor milk, using formula with a combination. Many mothers opt to the combined or inclusive approach which can reflect a balance of recommendations and practicality.
Open up to friends and family
The pressure to constantly breastfeed can have harmful effects on a new mother’s health. It can also add to mental issues that new mothers are already prone to, such as postnatal depression. To avoid this, new mothers should surround themselves with a helpful support system of trusted friends and family. It is essential we talk about how we feel. New parenthood can not only be difficult, it can be an isolating time without the right support. This is particularly true if you are struggling with feeding. If no one around you is easily available, antenatal and baby groups are a good place to vent with like-minded people, share tips and gain advice.
Seek professional support
If you are worried about your baby and how they are feeding, don’t hesitate to speak to your midwife, health visitor or doctor. Postnatal depression is common as well, and can be triggered by a lot of stress and pressures. It is also important to speak to your doctor whenever you are struggling with your mental health during or after pregnancy. Nursing may come easily to some new mothers. Yet, for a large number of others, breastfeeding can be a struggle. Either way, carefully considering what will work well for you, taking into account mental and physical wellness for both mom and baby is important.
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