Breastfeeding and Special Conditions

There may be some situations where new mothers may have some more apprehensions about breastfeeding their babies.

If the new mother has delivered twins or multiple babies, then it may be a problem initially to set a feeding routine. But once the mother gets a hang of it, most of them find breastfeeding easier than any other feeding method because there is nothing to be prepared beforehand. Only minor adjustments are required and a new mother is good to go with some family support.

Mothers of twins or multiples may worry if they are making enough milk for their babies. There is nothing to worry. The female breast makes as much milk as much is required even after continuous removal. Lactation is in fact a hormonal reaction to the nursing of the baby. Pumping out your milk often will help you make more milk. It is also advisable to switch breasts while feeding twins or multiples so that each gets sufficient nutrition as well as a different view.

New mothers are apprehensive about breastfeeding if they have had breast surgery. Women who have incisions in the fold under the breast usually have no problem in breastfeeding. However, those women who have incisions around or across the areola may not be able to breastfeed at all for their milk ducts and nerves may be cut. Women with breast implants have no trouble breastfeeding. It is always best to consult a lactation expert if one has any questions.

It is possible to breastfeed an adopted child with some help but would need to be supplemented with infant formula. A doctor and a lactation consultant can help you prepare for breastfeeding by setting a routine of pumping your breast every three hours round the clock for two to three weeks before the baby arrives. But the baby would still need supplements so as to get proper nutrition for a good growth.

In rare cases, a mother is unable to breastfeed her baby because she may be on medication which may be harmful to the baby. A mother may also be suffering from an illness like HIV or active tuberculosis or maybe undergoing radiation therapy- all of which prevent her from breastfeeding her baby. In such cases, formula is recommended by her doctor. But the baby may be allergic to formula due to some rare health problem. In such cases, donor human milk available at milk banks is given but only on doctor’s prescription. Some mothers casually share their milk with parents of babies in need but this may not be a safe option all the time and therefore, it is advised against.

Breastfeeding your baby is a natural progression after birth. However, some special situations perplex young mothers. No question is foolish enough to ask your doctor. Always consult your doctor / Nutritionist in case of any problem and follow through his recommendation to make your and your baby’s life easier.

About the author: Avni Kaul is India’s most trusted nutritionist and wellness coach. She is a certified nutritionist as well as Diabetes Educator and specializes in weight management, child nutrition, skin and beauty health, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular health, diabetic management, wedding nutrition, sports nutrition, and corporate wellness.