Breastfeeding 101: Benefits, Challenges & Common Myths
A Gentle Beginning to Motherhood
The moment your baby arrives, one of the most natural instincts is to hold them close and offer nourishment. Breastfeeding is a powerful connection — physical, emotional, and biological — between mother and baby. Yet, many new mothers feel unsure or overwhelmed, especially with the flood of conflicting advice.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s maternity clinic in Lucknow, we help women navigate the first days of motherhood with compassionate postnatal support and realistic breastfeeding guidance. Here’s everything you need to know about breastfeeding — its benefits, common challenges, and the myths that can get in your way.
The Beautiful Benefits of Breastfeeding
💖 1. Nutrition Tailored for Your Baby
Breast milk contains:
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Ideal balance of proteins, fats, and antibodies
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Nutrients that evolve as your baby grows
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Natural protection against infections, colds, and diarrhoea
Colostrum (the first milk) is rich in antibodies and boosts your baby’s immune system right from birth.
💖 2. Helps Mother Recover
Breastfeeding releases oxytocin, which:
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Helps your uterus contract and shrink
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Reduces postpartum bleeding
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Builds emotional bonding with your baby
It also burns calories, supporting gradual weight loss after delivery.
💖 3. Long-Term Health Benefits
For babies:
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Lower risk of asthma, allergies, diabetes, and obesity
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Higher IQ scores in some studies
For mothers:
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Reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer
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Lower chance of type 2 diabetes and heart disease
Common Breastfeeding Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
🚩 1. Sore Nipples
Often caused by improper latch. Solutions:
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Ensure baby’s mouth covers the areola
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Apply breastmilk or lanolin to soothe skin
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Switch positions to reduce pressure on one side
We teach correct latching techniques during postnatal visits.
🚩 2. Low Milk Supply
It’s normal to worry, but often, supply is enough. Try:
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Feeding frequently (8–12 times/day)
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Staying hydrated
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Skin-to-skin contact
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Consulting a lactation expert if needed
Avoid formula unless medically recommended — more nursing = more milk.
🚩 3. Engorgement or Blocked Ducts
If breasts feel heavy, painful, or swollen:
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Use warm compresses before feeds
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Massage gently during nursing
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Express milk manually if needed
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Feed often to avoid buildup
Severe pain or fever may indicate mastitis, which needs medical care.
🚩 4. Baby Not Latching
This can happen due to:
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Prematurity
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Flat nipples
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Baby’s sleepiness after birth
Try different positions (like cross-cradle or side-lying), and get guidance early. Patience and support make all the difference.
Busting Common Breastfeeding Myths
❌ “Breastfeeding always comes naturally.”
🟢 Truth: It’s a learning process for both mother and baby. Most women need support, time, and practice.
❌ “You can’t breastfeed if you had a C-section.”
🟢 Truth: Absolutely false. With assistance, breastfeeding can begin soon after a C-section, even in recovery.
❌ “If the baby feeds too often, you don’t have enough milk.”
🟢 Truth: Newborns have tiny stomachs. Frequent feeding is normal and necessary for both nutrition and milk production.
❌ “You must stop breastfeeding when baby starts solids.”
🟢 Truth: WHO recommends breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond, alongside solid food from 6 months.
Tips for Breastfeeding Success
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Start breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth
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Offer both breasts during each session
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Avoid bottles and pacifiers early on
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Room in with your baby for better bonding
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Seek professional lactation help if struggling
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we offer one-on-one breastfeeding support, especially during the first 7–10 days, when most issues arise.
When to Seek Help
Call your doctor or lactation consultant if:
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Baby isn’t gaining weight
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Nursing is painful even after adjusting
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You suspect an infection or have fever
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Baby is too sleepy to feed or refuses the breast
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You’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed or anxious
You’re not alone — breastfeeding support is a part of postpartum care, and asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
