“Breastfeeding is a natural thing” is one of the most flawed statements when it comes to motherhood. Just ask the mother who sits with bleeding nipples or a baby that refuses to latch. It can be very very easy if the stars align but it is most definitely not the most natural thing in the world – otherwise, there would not be so many articles on the internet on how to resolve breastfeeding issues!

We compiled a little easy-to-use guide to keep at hand to help you navigate your breastfeeding journey and troubleshoot if you are experiencing issues. The basic advise would always be to go and see a lactation consultant or the clinic sister if your options are limited. Join the La Leche League South Africa group on FB as they have great advise too.

As a disclaimer I want to highlight that exclusively breastfeeding is not the alpha and the omega. Look after your mental health and if breastfeeding is starting to affect your sanity … look at alternatives. Formula is not the only alternative, there are many inbetweens. Exclusively pumping is an option, mixed feeding (not for HIV positive mothers though), top-up feeding are all alternatives. Keep this in mind: would you rather remember the firs few months of your baby’s life as a great bonding time OR as a tearful and frustrating time because breastfeeding just wasn’t working out? Look after yourself mama, you are a great mother regardless of how you birth or feed your baby(ies).