They say breastfeeding is something natural, but that’s not true for some. But breastfeeding is just like any other activity like swimming or cycling that can be learned and mastered.
A mom who is unable to breastfeed might feel guilty, sad, and frustrated. And people sometimes make it worse by their unsolicited advice that does not help much. If you know someone who is struggling to breastfeed their baby, here is what you can say to them.
I am here if you need to vent
In some cases, a struggling mother needs to know that she is not alone. Tell her that you are there if she needs to vent. Sometimes just sharing what you are going through is of great help in dealing with the situation. You just listen, do not try to solve the problem, until she asks for it. Sometimes people just want someone to listen and understand them.
You are right! It’s damn hard
Sometimes you just need to acknowledge someone’s feelings. If she is hurt, frustrated, guilty and wants to quit, just acknowledge her feelings. Tell her that, yes you understand and it’s not easy.
You are doing a great job
If a mother is unable to breastfeed the baby, she is surely trying really hard to make that happen. She might even be learning pieces of it, but many parts might be left to be learned. Just tell her, that she is doing a great job and it takes so much courage.
It’s normal to feel touched out
Feeling touched out is a thing and it’s normal to feel that. Assure her that, this feeling of skin-crawling feeling will not happen every time.
How can I help?
Ask her if they are anything you can do to help. Offer suggestions for professional help or maybe just help her with some regular work like laundry and dishes.
The best thing one can do for a mom who is having a hard time breastfeeding is just to reach out to her. Ask her, how she is doing and let her know you are there for her.