Breastfeeding is known to have benefits for both mother and child. There are so many benefits that the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend a newborn breastfeed until it is six months old. But, the reality is that many Women aren’t prepared for what Breastfeeding really entails.

Before getting into some of the more common issues about breastfeeding, let’s talk about the benefits. Breastmilk provides a baby with nutrients and healthy bacteria for its digestive system. It also can build a child’s immunity system by transferring antibodies and maternal cells. Breastfeeding can also benefit the mother, breastfeeding is known to help contract the uterus, dissolve gluteal-femoral fat that will help with weight loss, and it can also reduce the risk of breast cancer.

It’s no wonder that many expectant mothers plan to breastfeed for some amount of time. However, for some women, the entire process can feel unnatural and become a challenge that ultimately leads to discouragement. Let’s clear up the confusion, here are three common issues women face when breastfeeding and tips on how to solve them.

1. Many Women Have Trouble

Breastfeeding may not come naturally to most women. In fact, 92 percent of women report having trouble breastfeeding. That’s the vast majority, so women should not feel alone. It’s true that the baby’s rooting reflex is natural and will happen right after birth, but latching is another story. Even stimulating breastmilk can be hard work. Women commonly report pain, trouble latching, and not having enough milk. There are methods that can help; classes are available, and so are special nipples that can feel more like breasts for when the child must bottle feed. Talk to your pediatrician and just remember it’s common.

2. The Dreaded “Pump and Dump”

Ask your doctor, but according to studies like this one in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, most women can have one to two drinks occasionally while breastfeeding. Now that’s only 2 ounces of liquor, or two beers, or 8 ounces of wine. The study does recommend to wait a few hours after drinking to nurse or pump.  This research shows as little as 5% of alcohol consumed enters breast milk. Obviously, heavy drinking and frequent drinking while breastfeeding is never a good idea, but there seems to be little reason to dump breast milk over one glass of wine.

3. Breast Milk and Cow Milk Formulas are Not Equal

Because of the natural benefits mentioned before, breast milk and cow milk-based formula are clearly not the same. Formula made from powdered cow’s milk does not have the fatty acids available to nourish the baby’s brain nor the same antibodies and cells. Also, many formulas add vegetable oils and sugars to the mix.

However, none of that means cow milk-based formula is bad for a baby.  Consider looking for organic formula from pasture-raised cows. This will be higher in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Just remember, if you have to use formula, it’s common, and your child will be just fine. Talk to your pediatrician about the best options.

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